Bob Bessoir, Scranton head men's basketball coach has announced he will retire from coaching following the 2000-2001 season. Bessoir's career spans six decades, first as a player from 1951-1955, then eight years as an assistant. For the last 28 years, he has served as head coach, producing an overall record of 539-252 (.681), including two Division III titles (1976, 1983), a second-place finish in 1988, and a third-place showing in 1977. Among NCAA Division III active coaches, he is fourth in wins.

"Every year I sit down and evaluate myself, to see areas where I can improve as a coach and to do what is best for the program and the university," says Bessoir.

"This past summer I took a good, long look at myself and decided that this would be my last. I want to thank the university for the opportunity they gave me and for supporting me all these years."