CEDAR CITY, Utah — Southern Utah women's basketball coach Steve Hodson died after a long battle with cancer.

The 53-year-old coach died on Monday the school announced.

Hodson, a former player and assistant coach at Southern Utah, took over the women's basketball program two years ago after a long and successful high school coaching career. He coached Canyon View High School to three boys' state championships and a girls' state title in 2006.

"He has touched the lives of countless individuals for good and his passing not only leaves a hole at SUU, but in the sport of basketball in this region," Southern Utah athletic director Ken Beazer said.

Southern Utah named assistant Kit Janes as interim coach.

Hodson is survived by his wife, Suzy, three daughters and five grandchildren.