Virginia Commonwealth University President Dr. Eugene P. Trani and Director of Athletics Norwood T. Teague announced today that the university has reached an agreement in principle to extend and upgrade the terms of the contract of head men’s basketball coach Anthony Grant (pictured above).
“I am thrilled that we are extending Anthony’s contract, as well as providing him an increased financial package,” Teague said. “His impact on our basketball program has been outstanding and it is our intention for Coach Grant to serve as our head men’s basketball coach for many years.”
Said Dr. Trani, “Coach Grant has had a significant positive impact on the entire university, not just athletics. We have tremendous confidence in what he will be able to do going forward.”
The deal now runs through the 2013-14 season.
“My family and I are extremely grateful for the confidence and commitment shown to us by Dr. Trani, Norwood and the entire VCU and Richmond communities,” Grant said. “I am excited, honored and privileged to be a part of the present and future of VCU and the City of Richmond.”
VCU is 52-15 in two seasons under Grant. The Rams have finished first in the Colonial Athletic Association both seasons. Grant has a 31-5 record in CAA regular season games. No CAA team has won more league games in a two-year span.
In 2007, VCU advanced to the second round of NCAA tournament, beating Duke in the first round before losing to Pittsburgh in overtime. In 2008, the Rams competed in the National Invitation Tournament and finished with a 24-8 record.
Grant was named CAA Coach of the Year in 2007 after his first season with the Rams.
“Coaches the caliber of Anthony Grant are rare,” Teague said. “We’re glad to have him and we look forward to a long association with him.”
– The information above was provided by Mike Harris, Assistant Athletic Director at VCU
Update: According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, the terms of the new deal for Grant were not made available. However, the newspaper’s unnamed sources have said what follows about what Grant will receive:
“…$700,000 with an annuity of $100,000. Perks and performance bonuses could push Grant’s paycheck past $850,000.”
Click here to read the article.
– Photo by F.T. Rea
