Georgia Basketball: Mark Fox’s Contract Extended Through 2020
The vision for Georgia basketball is now 2020 with the extension of Coach Mark Fox’s contract.
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Mark Fox’s contract now runs through 2020. After a consecutive 20 win seasons (21 in 2015) and consecutive post season bids, most recently a to the NCAA Tournament, the University of Georgia hopes to maintain the basketball program’s momentum by securing Mark Fox for at last five more years.
“We have a healthy program that’s getting healthier every year, and Mark Fox is the reason that’s happening,” McGarity told Georgiadogs.com. “His leadership, the way he represents the institution and the way these young men represent him and the University.”
Fox, who is 106-89 in seven seasons at Georgia, will receive $2 million annually for the next five seasons. Fox had three years remaining on his contract after an extension signed several months ago.
“This would basically place [Fox] in a group beneath John Calipari at Kentucky,” Georgia athletic director Greg McGarity told Fletcher Page of onlineathens.com. “With Billy Donovan moving on to the NBA (from Florida) it brings Mark well in line with recent hires at other institutions, as well as coaches that are his peers in the Southeastern Conference.”
With Fox secure in his job and Georgia secure in its basketball coach, the Stegeman Coliseum will receive upgrades. Next season the current scoreboard will be equipped for improved high-definition video. The upgraded equipment will be transferred to a new system, including a center-hung scoreboard that will be in place for the 2016-17 season.
“We’d also like to upgrade all of our technology in the building, as far as presentation, sound, lights and anything that has to do with fan engagement,” McGarity said. “Over the next two years there will be a number of upgrades that fans will notice very quickly. We’re going to do everything we can to support Mark and support his program, and provide all of the resources he needs to be competitive.”
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For next season, Georgia loses its all senior starting front court of Marcus Thornton and Nemanja Djurisic while returning the talented Yante Maten. Added to the frontcourt talent will be Rivals four star center Derek Ogbeide along with Mike Edwards. The Dawgs return a talented group of upper classman to the backcourt including rising seniors Charles Mann and Kenny Gaines and rising junior J.J. Frazier. Georgia adds Will Jackson and E’Torrion Wilridge to the perimeter talent.
“Six years ago I envisioned that together we could heal and build a great basketball program at the University of Georgia,” said Fox to Georgiadogs.com. “The collective efforts of many people now allow us to praise our team on the court, in the classroom, and in our community. This pride, along with the passion of the Dawg Nation, provide great energy as we strive to achieve even higher levels of success. I am grateful for the continued support from our board, Greg, and President Morehead. It is an honor to work each day with people that share the same values and commitment.”