Olson won’t be back this season

Arizona basketball Coach Lute Olson said Thursday night he would extend his leave of absence through the end of this season, citing undisclosed family matters that require his attention.

In a statement released by the university, Olson says he plans to return to coach the Wildcats for the 2008-09 season.

“There are personal issues within my family that need to be addressed and I must devote my full energy to that,” Olson said in the statement.

Athletic Director Jim Livengood said assistant coach Kevin O’Neill will continue to serve as interim coach.

Livengood said the university supports Olson’s decision.

“All of us at the University of Arizona want what is best for Lute and his family,” he said.