Sanchez Returning to Virginia as Associate Head Coach
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. – Former Virginia associate head coach Ron Sanchez is returning to the program in the same role, Dean and Markel Families Head Men’s Basketball Coach Tony Bennett announced Tuesday (June 6).
Sanchez served nine seasons on Bennett’s staff from 2009-18, the last three as associate head coach. During his time on Grounds, the Cavaliers won 212 games, three ACC regular-season titles and two ACC Tournament titles while making six appearances in the NCAA Tournament and one NIT appearance. The Cavaliers earned three No. 1 seeds in the NCAA Tournament and won 29 or more games four times. The Cavaliers won 31 games and reached No. 1 in the AP rankings for the first time since 1982-83 during Sanchez’ last season at UVA in 2017-18.
Sanchez served as head coach at Charlotte the past five seasons. The 49ers won 16 or more games in three seasons, including a 22-14 record in 2022-23. This past season was highlighted by Charlotte’s first-ever postseason tournament title when the Niners won four games in five days in Daytona Beach, Fla., at the 2023 Discount Tire College Basketball Invitational.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ron and his family back to the University of Virginia,” Bennett said. “Ron played an integral part in building this program and was a pillar in the community. He is an outstanding recruiter and coach, and really connects with student-athletes. Ron’s last five years as a head coach enhances what he will bring back to our basketball program.”
Sanchez also served as an assistant coach on Bennett’s staff for three seasons at Washington State from 2006-09, helping the Cougars to a pair of NCAA Tournament appearances and one NIT berth. Washington State reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2007 and Sweet 16 in 2008. The Cougars tied the school record with 26 wins in 2006-07 and 2007-08.
“The University of Virginia is truly special to me and my family,” Sanchez said. “It is the only institution I would vacate my head coaching position for. I’m thankful for the opportunity to return to Grounds with a new-found lens and perspective.
“I’m also excited to reconnect with the staff and join their efforts in sustaining the incredible success this program has had over the last decade. I look forward to serving Coach Bennett, the staff, the student-athletes and our community.”