Bob Huggins’ Family Issues Heartbreaking Announcement
Bob Huggins, 73, is living with a progressive cognitive condition that has begun to affect his memory and aspects of his daily life, according to a statement released by his family in coordination with the University of Cincinnati on Wednesday.
The announcement came days before Huggins’ induction into the University of Cincinnati’s James P. Kelly Athletics Hall of Fame. He plans to attend the ceremonies on campus this weekend but will not be available for media interviews, the university said.
“An Update from the Family of Bob Huggins Issued in coordination with the University of Cincinnati Athletics DepartmentThe family of legendary college basketball coach Bob Huggins wishes to share a personal update regarding his health,” the statement reads.
“Bob is living with a progressive cognitive condition that has begun to affect his memory, and aspects of his daily life. While the family has chosen to keep this matter private over the past several months, they believe this is an appropriate time to share the news with the many people who have supported Bob throughout his remarkable career, particularly as he prepares to be honored with induction into the University of Cincinnati’s James P. Kelly Athletics Hall of Fame,” the statement continued.
The statement also reflected on Huggins’ career beyond win totals. “Throughout his extraordinary basketball journey, Bob’s greatest impact has extended far beyond wins, championships, and the basketball court. From his early coaching years at Walsh University to his time at Akron, Cincinnati, Kansas State, and West Virginia, his defining passion has always been the young men he coached, the relationships he built, and the lives he helped shape. Generations of former players have benefited not only from his leadership as a coach, but also from his mentorship, loyalty, and lifelong friendship.”
Legendary College Basketball coach Bob Huggins is “living with a progressive cognitive condition that has begun to affect his memory and aspects of his daily life,” Cincinnati announced ahead of his induction into the school’s Hall of Fame this weekend🙏https://t.co/7QsPs7yfqX pic.twitter.com/YrJywZUXWH
— On3 (@On3) October 21, 2026
Huggins expressed appreciation for the upcoming recognition. “Bob is deeply grateful for the tremendous honor being bestowed upon him by the University of Cincinnati,” the family said. “His years leading the Bearcats represent an unforgettable chapter in his life, filled with cherished relationships, remarkable accomplishments, and memories that will always hold a special place in his heart. He’s looking forward to returning to Cincinnati this weekend, celebrating with former players and friends, and sharing in a moment that recognizes not only his accomplishments, but also the enduring bonds formed along the way.”
The family acknowledged the road ahead while focusing on support. “Although Bob and his family recognize the challenges that lie ahead, they remain focused on the relationships, experiences, and moments that bring him joy. He continues to be surrounded by the unwavering love and support of his wife, June; his daughters, Jenna and Jacqueline; and his entire family.”
They added that they “extend [their] sincere appreciation to the former players, colleagues, fans, and friends who have shown Bob such extraordinary love and support over the years” and “respectfully ask for privacy, compassion, and understanding as they navigate this next chapter together.”
Huggins coached for more than four decades and ranks among the winningest coaches in college basketball history, with roughly 935 career victories, 26 NCAA Tournament appearances, and two Final Fours. His longest and most successful tenures came at Cincinnati, where he coached from 1989 to 2005, won nearly 400 games, led the Bearcats to the 1992 Final Four, and guided them to 14 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.
He also spent nearly two decades at the University of West Virginia, his alma mater, where he coached from 2007 to 2023, recorded 345 wins, and reached the 2010 Final Four. He was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2022.
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