University of Virginia basketball coach Tony Bennett checked off two major career milestones this spring after leading the Cavaliers to their first Final Four appearance in 35 years and their first-ever NCAA Championship title.
It was no surprise that Athletic Director Carla Williams and UVA President Jim Ryan decided to offer Bennett a hefty, well-deserved raise for his accomplishments.
But in an act of selflessness rarely witnessed in the high-profile athletic scene, Bennett humbly rejected the offer.
Instead, he requested that the money be redirected to provide his staff with additional compensation and to implement program improvements.
“I have more than I need,” said Bennett. “I’m blessed beyond what I deserve.”
Tony Bennett Credits His Wife
The coach credited his wife Laurel for the decision to reallocate the money.
“She’s always said, ‘Is there something we can do that can make a difference?'” said Bennett. “That’s been on her heart and mind, and we’ve talked about it a lot. We try to train our guys to be the best basketball players they can be, the school educates them, we try to teach them what it means to be a leader, and we try to pour the pillars into them. But what else can we do?”
As if turning down the substantial raise wasn’t enough, the couple also generously pledged $500,000 toward a career-development program designed for current and former players.
“There’s an incredible advantage in being a student-athlete here, but there are some disadvantages,” the coach continued. “You’re so consumed with your studies and then your workouts and your playing that you don’t always have the time to really pursue as many internships and career opportunities [as other students].”
“This just does not happen in our industry,” said Williams, shocked by Bennett’s decision to deny her offer.
UVA President James Ryan was equally impressed by the head coach’s decision and deliberate act of service to his fellow staff and players.
“Tony’s decision – to turn down a well-deserved raise and instead invest in his players and UVA athletics more broadly – tells you everything you need to know about him as a leader and as a human being,” said Ryan. “Tony is one of the most selfless people I’ve ever met, and this is just the latest example. He and Laurel show us what it means to be great and good, and I hope they will continue to be a part of the UVA family for many years to come.”
But Bennett isn’t one to take credit for his generosity or accomplishments, as he consistently redirects the praise to Jesus.
In fact, when the Cavaliers won their national title last April, he said, “I do want to thank the Lord and my Savior.”
The coach also makes a habit of praying for all of his players in hopes “they’ll be able to find the truth in their lives that has really transformed my life.”
While Tony Bennett loves the thrill of winning as much as the next guy, he’s made it clear that his priorities are in check.
“If my life is just about winning championships—if it’s just about being the best—then I’m running the wrong race. That’s empty,” he explained. “But if it’s about trying to be excellent and do things the right way, to honor the university that’s hired you, the athletic director you work for and the young men you’re coaching—always in the process trying to bring glory to God—then that’s the right thing.”
