Famed father and son college basketball coaches Dick Bennett and Tony Bennett have based their coaching philosophy on the Biblical tenets of humility, passion, unity, servanthood, and thankfulness. These “five pillars,” as created and practiced by Dick and continued by Tony, and their devout faith in Jesus Christ have been at the center of their ministry as coaches. The principles have led to great team success on the basketball court, but more importantly in shaping the lives of the young men they’ve had the privilege to coach.
Dick Bennett began his college coaching career at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He then coached the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Phoenix from 1985–1995, leading the team to two regular season conference titles, three conference tournament championships, and three NCAA tournament appearances. Coaching the University of Wisconsin from 1995–2001, the Badgers made four NCAA tournaments and advanced to the Final Four. He finished his coaching career at Washington State University, retiring in 2006.
Tony Bennett was a standout player for his father at UW-Green Bay and was selected by the Charlotte Hornets in the 1992 NBA draft. He spent three seasons with the team before a foot injury ended his NBA career. Later succeeding his father as the head coach of the Washington State Cougars, Tony’s team twice tied the record for wins in a season with 26. Today, he is the head coach at the University of Virginia. Foremost among his many achievements and accolades, Tony led the Cavaliers to the 2019 NCAA National Championship. He has twice been named AP National College Coach of the Year.