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Lute Olson’s wife wants counseling, not divorce

Arizona hoops coach filed for divorce on Dec. 6; is taking this season off

TUCSON, Ariz. - The wife of Arizona basketball coach Lute Olson filed a court challenge to his attempt to divorce her.

The petition said Christine Olson “denies the marriage is irretrievably broken” and “remains committed to preserving the marital relationship.” The petition was filed in Pima County Superior Court last Friday and seeks marital counseling.

The 73-year-old Hall of Fame coach filed for divorce Dec. 6, the same day he announced his leave of absence would be extended for the rest of this season. He began his leave for unspecified personal reasons Nov. 4, shortly before he was to have opened his 25th season at Arizona.

Christine Jack Olson, 50, is a prominent business executive and member of the Republican national committee from Pennsylvania. She married Olson in 2003 and is Olson’s second wife. His wife of 47 years, Bobbie, died of ovarian cancer in 2001.

Kevin O’Neill is the interim coach and has been designated Olson’s eventual replacement. Olson has indicated he expects to return as coach next season.

© 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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