Family Announces Bob Huggins Is Diagnosed With Progressive Cognitive Condition

The family of legendary college basketball coach Bob Huggins announced on Wednesday that he is living with a progressive cognitive condition that has begun to impact his memory and daily life. The announcement was made jointly with the University of Cincinnati just days before Huggins is scheduled to be inducted into the university's James P. Kelly Athletics Hall of Fame.

According to the family's statement, they chose to keep the diagnosis private for several months. However, they felt it was appropriate to share the news publicly ahead of the ceremony to connect with the many supporters who have stood by Huggins throughout his extensive coaching career. The event takes place on Friday, honoring his historic tenure with the Bearcats.

Although Bob and his family recognize the challenges that lie ahead, they remain focused on the relationships, experiences and moments that bring him joy. The family shared that he continues to be surrounded by the unwavering love and support of his wife, June, his daughters, Jenna and Jacqueline, and his entire family.

The University of Cincinnati expressed deep support for its former coach, noting his immense contribution to college athletics. University officials stated that Coach Huggins is undoubtedly one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history, adding that he restored Cincinnati basketball to national prominence, ignited a passion for the Bearcats throughout the city and left an indelible mark on generations of student-athletes.

Huggins spent 16 seasons as the head coach at Cincinnati from 1989 to 2005, becoming the program's all-time winningest coach with a 399-127 record. During his tenure, he led the Bearcats to 14 consecutive NCAA tournament appearances, including a memorable run to the Final Four in 1992. His leadership put the program back on the national basketball map and established a culture of tough, competitive play.

Over a remarkable 41-season coaching career, Huggins recorded 935 career wins, placing him high among all-time coaching victories. In addition to his time at Cincinnati, he served as head coach at Walsh College, the University of Akron, Kansas State University, and his alma mater, West Virginia University, where he guided the Mountaineers to another Final Four appearance in 2010. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2022.

The Huggins family has asked for privacy, compassion, and understanding as they navigate this next chapter together. Neither the family nor university representatives are expected to provide further comments regarding his health, and Huggins is not expected to speak or be interviewed during Friday's induction ceremony.