Coach Bob Huggins
West Virginia University men’s basketball coach Bob Huggins has resigned and announced his retirement following his arrest for driving under the influence in Pittsburgh. Huggins released a statement acknowledging that his recent actions were not representative of the university’s values or the expected leadership in his position. He expressed remorse for letting down the university community, particularly the student-athletes, coaches, and staff in the program. Huggins plans to focus on his health and family in the coming months.
The Pittsburgh Police reported that they found Huggins in a black SUV blocking traffic with a flat and shredded tire. Suspecting intoxication, the police conducted field sobriety tests, which Huggins failed. A breathalyzer test indicated a blood alcohol level of 0.21%, nearly three times the legal limit. Huggins was taken into custody and later released, pending a preliminary hearing.
The university has accepted Huggins’ resignation and retirement, supporting his decision to prioritize his well-being and family. Although a replacement has not been named, the focus will be on supporting the student-athletes and establishing new leadership for the men’s basketball program.
Huggins had previously faced disciplinary action, including a salary reduction, a three-game suspension, sensitivity training, and a shift to a year-to-year contract, after using a homophobic slur during a radio appearance. He had apologized for his actions, expressing deep regret and acknowledging the negative impact it had on the athletics family and the state of West Virginia.
Throughout his coaching career spanning 41 seasons, Huggins achieved 935 victories, ranking him third in college basketball history among Division I head coaches. Under his guidance, the West Virginia men’s basketball program achieved 345 wins, 11 NCAA Tournament appearances, five NCAA Sweet 16 appearances, and a Final Four appearance in 2010. Huggins was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2022.
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