Henson reveals recent cancer diagnosis, still plans to coach

The Associated Press

LAS CRUCES, N.M. -- New Mexico State coach Lou Henson says he plans to continue coaching even though he was recently diagnosed with cancer.

Henson, 71, has non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, a cancer that affects the body's lymph system, the school said Tuesday.

"Through our faith, along with prayers of family, friends and others, we expect to win over possibly the toughest foe we've had to face in my lifetime," Henson said in a statement released by the school.

Henson said he and his wife Mary were "very optimistic at this point and time."

Henson, preparing for his 41st season of coaching, ranks second among active Division I coaches in wins with 762. Bob Knight is first.

"Coach has been a fighter and winner all of his life," New Mexico State athletic director Brian Faison said.

Faison said he spoke with Henson by telephone Monday, when Henson informed Faison of the diagnosis. Faison said the cancer apparently was discovered during a physical examination that Henson took while on a trip to Illinois.

"He's upbeat. He's a fighter, that came through pretty clear," Faison said. "This is another of life's battles he's geared up and ready for."

Henson needs 38 wins to join Dean Smith, Adolph Rupp, Knight and Mount St. Mary's coach Jim Phelan as the only Division I men's coaches to win 800 games.

Henson coached 21 seasons at Illinois, and left in 1996 as the school's winningest coach with a record of 214-164. He also coached at New Mexico State from 1966-75 before returning to take over the team before the 1997-98 season.

His teams have been to the NCAA tournament 18 times, with two Final Four appearances -- New Mexico State in 1970 and Illinois in 1989.

Faison said it was too early to determine if Henson will have to cut back on his coaching schedule because of the cancer.

"We obviously have to find out what stage the cancer is in ... that that will dictate a lot," Faison said.