Virginia won't retain interim coach Sanchez

Virginia is moving on from interim head coach Ron Sanchez, the school announced Wednesday.

Sanchez took over the program after the sudden retirement of Tony Bennett in October.

"I am grateful to coach Sanchez for accepting this role during such a critical time for the program," Virginia director of athletics Carla Williams said. "Ron is the ultimate professional because he cares deeply about this program and university."

She added: "Ron and the staff provided great stability, guidance, and support for the young men on the team and we are thankful for his commitment to UVA and the values that are foundational to Virginia men's basketball."

Bennett retired on the eve of the season and cited the shifting collegiate landscape, including NIL, in his decision to step away from the program. He had led Virginia to its sole NCAA title in 2019.

Sanchez, meanwhile, shepherded the school to a 15-17 record in his lone season in charge, which included a second-round exit in the ACC Tournament.

This was Sanchez's 11th season with the school across two different stints.

Virginia isn't projected to make the NCAA Tournament for just the second time since 2012 (excluding the canceled 2020 tourney). The Cavaliers are the 105th-ranked team, according to KenPom.