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University of Houston Athletics
UH Rewards McCallum With Extension
5/2/2002 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
May 2, 2002
Dave Maggard, Athletic Director at the University of Houston, today announced the Athletic Department has extended head basketball coach Ray McCallum's contract through the 2007 season. McCallum's new contract will increase his total salary to $400,000 per year.
"We want continuity and stability in our basketball program," commented Maggard, "and this extension does just that. Ray has made great strides with the UH basketball program, and he has indicated to us that he wants to be here, so we want him here as well."
McCallum was hired away from his alma mater, Ball State, in the spring of 2000, and his original contract was for five seasons.
?(The extension) shows a commitment to me and what we're trying to do for the program," added McCallum. "This is a major statement on behalf of the University's administration. Both Dr. (Arthur K.) Smith and Dave are saying they want some stability with the basketball program. We are all committed to the continuity to make this program a success."
In just his second season at UH, McCallum reversed the fortunes of the Cougar basketball program by leading Houston to an 18-15 record and a trip to the NIT. The 18 wins were the most by the Cougars since the 1992-93 season, and the postseason berth was the first for the University of Houston in nine years.
The McCallum-led Cougars were one of Conference USA's most surprising teams in 2001-2002. The Cougars were picked finish sixth in the National Division by most preseason prognosticators, but finished second in the divisional race with a 9-7 league record. For the first time since joining Conference USA, the Cougars advanced to the semifinals of the league tournament, defeating East Carolina and Memphis?the eventual NIT champions?along the way.
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