Marian Washington, Kansas University’s women’s basketball coach since 1973, announced her retirement Friday night, effective immediately.

“I am retiring from coaching to address health issues that are not life-threatening, but that need my immediate attention,” Washington said in a statement released by the KU sports information office.

She added she could not face those unspecified issues and coach the Jayhawks for a 32nd season in 2004-2005.

“To try to do that would be unfair to my student-athletes, my coaches and to the University of Kansas,” she said.

KU athletic director Lew Perkins said the door was open for Washington to remain a part of the athletic department.

“I want her to take care of herself. That’s the most important thing,” Perkins said. “I respect her decision, and have told her we have a place for her for as long as she wants one.”

Washington was in the middle of her 31st season as KU’s women’s coach when it was announced Jan. 29 she was taking an indefinite leave of absence to address undisclosed health problems. Assistant coach Lynette Woodard was named interim head coach.

Washington’s teams have won 560 games, including 17 seasons of 20 or more victories. Under Washington, Kansas won seven conference titles and six conference tournament championships, and advanced to 11 NCAA tournaments, twice to the Sweet 16. She coached four All-Americans and three academic All-Americans.

6Sports video: KU seeking a new women’s head basketball coach It’s official: Washington retires Jayhawks: Washington will be missed Self in awe of Washington’s career Bio Career record Career timeline See the photos: Washington and Woodard KU press release about Washington’s leave of absence Past stories about Washington

“Marian Washington has been a pioneer, a leader, a mentor and a terrific basketball coach,” Perkins said.

In her statement, Washington thanked everyone who had sent their prayers and well-wishes.

“My mission in life has been to make a difference, especially in the lives of young people, and to use the arena of athletics to help develop good character as well as athletic talent,” she said.

Speculation about Washington’s replacement has already begun. Geno Auriemma, coach of the University of Connecticut’s traditional women’s powerhouse, is the knee-jerk leading candidate because Perkins came to KU from UConn last summer.

Asked last week by The Hartford Courant if he would contact Auriemma if Washington didn’t return, Perkins replied, “No comment.”

With no previous head coaching experience, Woodard isn’t thought to be a candidate. Neither are Tim Eatman and Kate Galligan, Washington’s other aides.

Washington, 57, will be honored before today’s 2 p.m. game against Nebraska in Allen Fieldhouse. She will be inducted this summer into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame.