Lute Is Leaving Arizona

Lute Olson is retiring as head basketball coach at the University of Arizona.

"This was not a decision that was made lightly," Olson said. "I've had a wonderful run at The University of Arizona. I leave with a great sense of pride in what we have accomplished here."

"At this stage in my life, I want to devote my time to my children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, family and friends. I look forward to watching Wildcat basketball and visiting with my colleagues in the coaching profession. It is time to pass the program on to a younger staff, to transition the university to the next generation of basketball."

Olson legacy will loom large at U 0f A. in 25 season on the Arizona bench Olson led the Wildcats to 4 final fours and a national title in 1997 as well as 11 Pac-10 Championships, 4 Pac-10 Tournamemt titles. Most impressively, Olson led Arizona to 23 straight NCAA Tournament appearances, the longest active streak in the NCAA.

Read more from the Arizona Daily Star.

Paola Boivin of the Arizona Republic says it’s the end of a dynasty at UA.

Photo Courtesy: Xavier Gallegos/Tucson Citizen

Bear Down Arizona, Lute Could Be Leaving

Rumors are flying around Tucson that Lute Olson is leaving as head basketball coach at Arizona. A source told the worldwide leader's Dick Vitale (never one to keep his mouth shut) that Olson is stepping down and associate coach Mike Dunlap will take over on an interim basis.




This is news to the Universities adminstration who say they have not been informed by Olson that he is stepping down. The 4-letter word quotes Arizona spokesman Tom Duddleston, "We're not making any announcement to that effect." At this moment there is nothing going on."



At this moment, eh.



The Arizona Daily Star reported that Olson missed practice yesterday and was unable to attend the Rotary Club of Tucson luncheon for health related issues.



So coach Olson calls in sick and appears to be never heard from again. Sounds like the way they used to get rid of Soviet dictators.



We will keep you posted.



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