April 9, 2008

Pullman, WA (UWIRE) -- After two weeks of veiled statements, Indiana innuendos and media-induced hysteria, Tony Bennett officially announced Tuesday he is staying at WSU.

"I will remain as the head coach at Washington State and I look forward to building for the future," Bennett said in a news release. "I am thankful for the opportunity this university gave me to become head coach and for the continued support of President Floyd, Jim Sterk and the entire Cougar Nation. Washington State University is a special place." Bennett's announcement comes after the Cougars' second-year coach spent the weekend in San Antonio for the Final Four. During that trip he was reportedly approached by representatives from Louisiana State University and had a brief discussion with the school about its vacant head coaching position.

When the Cougars concluded their 2007-08 season with a loss to North Carolina on March 27, Bennett was annointed the frontrunner for the Indiana University head coaching position by several news outlets. However, after speaking with Indiana officials, he made the following remarks on March 30:

"Last night I had an exploratory conversation with Indiana," Bennett said in a statement. "They went through the proper channels by contacting (WSU Athletic Director) Jim Sterk and then earlier today I let Indiana know I am not going to pursue the position." Even after those comments were made, speculation continued that Bennett might be interested in the LSU job due to his wife Laurel's ties with the area. In addition, after Indiana filled its position with former Marquette head coach Tom Crean, Bennett's name was floated as a possible replacement for the job at the Milwaukee school.

Marquette announced the promotion of assistant coach Buzz Williams to its head coaching position on Tuesday.

(C) 2008 Daily Evergreen via UWIRE