Bob Huggins has progressive cognitive condition, family says

The family of Hall of Fame basketball coach Bob Huggins announced Wednesday that the 73-year-old is living with a progressive cognitive condition. Huggins, who holds the record for most wins in Cincinnati Bearcats history, is scheduled for induction into the University of Cincinnati Athletics Hall of Fame on Friday.

In a statement, the Huggins family disclosed that the condition has begun to affect Huggins' memory and aspects of his daily life. They explained that while they had kept the matter private for several months, they decided to share the news now as Huggins prepares to be honored. The family said they believe this is an appropriate time to inform the many people who have supported him throughout his career.

The statement noted that Huggins will be surrounded by his family as they navigate this next chapter. It specifically named his wife, June, and his daughters, Jenna and Jacqueline, as providing unwavering love and support. The family asked for privacy and compassion as they move forward and stated they will not provide further comment on his health.

The University of Cincinnati responded to the announcement by expressing excitement for Friday's induction and extending heartfelt support to Huggins and his family. In its statement, the university described Huggins as one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history, crediting him with restoring Cincinnati basketball to national prominence and igniting a passion for the Bearcats throughout the city.

Huggins' 41-season coaching career included four seasons at Walsh, then an NAIA school; five at Akron; 16 at Cincinnati; one at Kansas State; and 16 at West Virginia. During his tenure, he coached in 26 NCAA tournaments and reached two Final Fours. He won 935 games in his career and was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2022.