Self Let Down by Knight's Sudden Retirement

The loss of college basketball’s winningest coach from the ranks of the Big XII will diminish the conference’s luster a little, according to KU coach Bill Self.

Texas Tech coach Bob Knight abruptly announced his retirement Monday. Most had speculated Knight would retire at the end of the current season, but he decided to pack it in and turn the reins over to his successor – his son and assistant coach, Patrick – with 10 games left in the season.

“He brings instant interest,” Self said of Knight Monday night after Kansas’ 90-71 Big Monday win over Missouri.

Self acknowledged that Knight had earned the right to retire any way he wants to. The Jayhawks coach admitted to being eager to see coach Knight on March 3 when he was scheduled to bring his Red Raiders to Allen Field House.

“He had one more time he could have come back to Allen Field House,” Self said. “I’m happy for Pat (Knight, Bob Knight’s son and successor at Tech). He’ll do a great job, but selfishly, it’s fun to coach against a guy that’s won 902 games.”

“I’m sure I’ll talk to him at some point and say congratulations, but he’s great for our league.”

Knight won 902 games and lost 371 for a winning percentage of .709. He was in his 42nd year of coaching. He got his start at Army and then moved on to Indiana where he made his name. In 29 years, Knight won three national championships.

“I’m happy for him, whatever he wants to do,” Self said.