Tubby Smith says he had prostate cancer, now cancer free

6:56 AM, May 12, 2011  |

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota coach Tubby Smith says he’s “feeling great” and free of prostate cancer after dealing with the disease for the past year.

The university issued a statement from Smith on Wednesday. The 59-year-old had not previously revealed his condition.

Smith says he had surgery at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., on April 21 to contain and remove the cancer. He says a routine physical and subsequent biopsy last spring showed an early stage of prostate cancer.

Smith says he’s thankful to his doctors at the clinic and that he “can’t wait” for next season.

Smith’s fourth year with the Gophers was his most disappointing, stopping his streak of 17 straight 20-win seasons.

Smith released a statement Wednesday:

“Amid speculation I want to make it aware that I did in fact undergo a procedure on April 21 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester. During my regular physical last spring it was discovered that my prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were high. A biopsy was done and it was discovered that I had early stages of prostate cancer. I am happy to say that the cancer was contained and removed and I am now cancer free and feeling great.

“I want to thank Dr. Gettman and Dr. Litin at the Mayo Clinic for everything they have done for me. I am a proponent of regular prostate examines and hope that men, especially African-American men, continue to have regular checkups. Again, I am feeling great and can’t wait for the upcoming season.”