UVa dedicates John Paul Jones Arena court to Tony Bennett

University honors legendary basketball coach with court naming

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The University of Virginia has dedicated the court at the John Paul Jones Arena to former men's basketball coach Tony Bennett. Bennett led the Cavaliers to a national championship in 2019 and is widely regarded as one of the most successful coaches in the school's history.

Why it matters

Tony Bennett's tenure as head coach of the UVa men's basketball team was transformative, taking the program from a perennial underachiever to a national powerhouse. Honoring him with the court naming is a fitting tribute to his legacy and impact on the university and the local community.

The details

The dedication ceremony took place on Saturday and included remarks from university officials and former players praising Bennett's leadership, coaching acumen, and commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the court.

  • The dedication ceremony was held on Saturday, February 21, 2026.

The players

Tony Bennett

Former head coach of the University of Virginia men's basketball team, leading the Cavaliers to a national championship in 2019 and establishing the program as a perennial contender.

University of Virginia

A public research university located in Charlottesville, Virginia, known for its prestigious academic programs and successful athletic teams, including the men's basketball program.

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What they’re saying

“Tony Bennett's impact on our university and our community is immeasurable. This court dedication is a small way to honor his legacy and the indelible mark he has left on Virginia basketball.”

— Jim Ryan, President, University of Virginia (University of Virginia press release)

“Coach Bennett always emphasized the importance of character, teamwork, and excellence. This court will serve as a constant reminder of the standard he set and the success he helped us achieve.”

— Kyle Guy, Former UVa basketball player and 2019 NCAA tournament Most Outstanding Player (University of Virginia press release)

What’s next

The University of Virginia plans to hold an annual ceremony honoring Tony Bennett and the legacy of the men's basketball program on the court that now bears his name.

The takeaway

The dedication of the John Paul Jones Arena court to Tony Bennett is a well-deserved recognition of his transformative impact on the University of Virginia's men's basketball program and the broader Charlottesville community. His commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the court has left an indelible mark on the university and will continue to inspire future generations of Cavaliers.