RICHMOND, Va. — Washington State coach Tony Bennett has been hired as Virginia's men's basketball coach.

Washington State athletic director Jim Sterk announced the move Monday evening. He said Virginia asked for permission to speak with Bennett on Friday.

Bennett replaces Dave Leitao, who resigned after four seasons.

The 39-year-old Bennett posted a 68-30 record in three seasons with the Cougars. His first two teams made the NCAA tournament. This year's squad was eliminated in the first round of the NIT.

Bennett was the AP college basketball coach of the year in 2007.

Sterk said Washington State will begin a national search for Bennett's successor immediately.