Alabama men’s basketball coach Nate Oats has agreed to a contract extension until the end of the 2026-27 season, the school announced on Thursday.
Oats also received a salary raise of up to $ 3.225 million per year.
“We feel we have a lot of positive momentum with our team and that the program is heading in the right direction,” said Oats. “Our administration is making an important statement with this renewal as we all work to build a successful long-term program. I know the winning history we’ve had with basketball in Alabama, and I feel like we have that. be able to contribute and perform great things here.
“… This is truly a reflection of the excellent work that our players, coaches and basketball staff have done over the past two years. Now we need to focus all our attention on finishing this season the right way and making our team the best. opportunity to succeed on the trajectory. “
Oats has Alabama topped the SEC standings at 17-5 overall and 12-1 in conference play heading into Saturday’s game against Vanderbilt. The Crimson Tide was ranked # 8 in this week’s AP poll and is currently projected as a 2-seed in the NCAA tournament.
The Tide went on a 10-game winning streak earlier this season.
Athletic director Greg Byrne hired Oats to replace Avery Johnson after the 2018/19 season. Oats spent the past four years at Buffalo leading the Bulls to three NCAA tournaments and two first-round wins.
“We had high expectations when we hired Coach Oats,” said Byrne. “He has exceeded those expectations, and we want to make sure he is compensated in the top half of the SEC. We have taken buyout measures that show the long-term commitment between both parties.
“Coach Oats and his staff have established a comprehensive program that has maximized our student athlete experience, significantly increased interest in Alabama Basketball among prospective recruits, and presented a product that has thrilled our fan base.”
Alabama went 16-15 in the first season of Oats at the helm.