Lefty
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Great news if you're a Cat fan.
Keeping Lute longer
Two-year extension would lock in Olson at Arizona through 2011, when he'll be 76
STEVE RIVERA
Tucson Citizen
In a season of drama and uncertainty, the University of Arizona plans to offer Lute Olson a contract extension through 2011 to provide stability to the basketball program.
Olson's deal of up to $1.1 million a year expires in 2009. He would be 76 in 2011, possibly making him the game's oldest current coach.
"There is an extension in the works for two more years," UA athletic director Jim Livengood told the Tucson Citizen yesterday.
Olson, 71, declined comment, preferring to wait until the deal goes before the Arizona Board of Regents in March or April.
The extension would give Olson leverage with future recruits and provide assurance to three high school juniors who recently committed to UA, including a 7-foot center.
UA beat Stanford last night 90-81 in overtime, but Olson's 23rd season has been one of his most challenging.
He kicked Chris Rodgers off the team Wednesday but left open the door last night for a possible return. Also, Jawann McClellan is out for the season after having wrist surgery, and Fendi Onobun gave up his redshirt season to play last night.
UA (11-6) is trying to extend its nation's-best current streak of 21 straight NCAA Tournaments. Olson is 560-170 at UA with four Final Four appearances and a national title.
Keeping Lute longer
Two-year extension would lock in Olson at Arizona through 2011, when he'll be 76
STEVE RIVERA
Tucson Citizen
In a season of drama and uncertainty, the University of Arizona plans to offer Lute Olson a contract extension through 2011 to provide stability to the basketball program.
Olson's deal of up to $1.1 million a year expires in 2009. He would be 76 in 2011, possibly making him the game's oldest current coach.
"There is an extension in the works for two more years," UA athletic director Jim Livengood told the Tucson Citizen yesterday.
Olson, 71, declined comment, preferring to wait until the deal goes before the Arizona Board of Regents in March or April.
The extension would give Olson leverage with future recruits and provide assurance to three high school juniors who recently committed to UA, including a 7-foot center.
UA beat Stanford last night 90-81 in overtime, but Olson's 23rd season has been one of his most challenging.
He kicked Chris Rodgers off the team Wednesday but left open the door last night for a possible return. Also, Jawann McClellan is out for the season after having wrist surgery, and Fendi Onobun gave up his redshirt season to play last night.
UA (11-6) is trying to extend its nation's-best current streak of 21 straight NCAA Tournaments. Olson is 560-170 at UA with four Final Four appearances and a national title.
