Northern Colorado Athletics and head men’s basketball coach B.J. Hill have agreed upon the provisions of a new five-year contract, reflecting the university’s continued investment in the program and its commitment to future growth and success.
“B.J. continues to grow the foundation of the men’s basketball program,” director of athletics Darren Dunn said. “Coach Hill and his staff demonstrated that his leadership, with an emphasis on service, athletics and academic excellence reflect the core values of the University. I am pleased that Coach Hill will continue to build character, integrity and accountability with our student-athletes for years to come.”
Over his first five seasons Hill places among the Top 3 of any coach in the history of the program in terms of winning percentage and has the fourth best winning percentage among current Big Sky coaches.
Hill’s 2011 team won the postseason tournament and advanced to the NCAA tournament for the first time in the program’s history since joining the Division I ranks.
His new contract which has been approved by the Board of Trustees will run through the 2019-20 season.
“I’m very thankful to the University Board, President Norton, and Darren Dunn for receiving this new contract,” said Hill. “Its truly an honor to be the coach at the University of Northern Colorado and a part of the basketball program. When you consider the people that have been a part of this program’s foundation such as Pete Butler, George Sage, Thurm Wright, Tad Boyle, and Don Meyer, it is truly humbling to be a part of it all.”
But it’s just not his on-the-court successes that make Hill such a valuable asset to the program.
Since he took over as head coach Hill has brought in $1,143,500 in guaranteed games along with another $175,000 in ticket revenue.
His teams have also held a higher Graduation Success Rates (GSR) than the NCAA Division I national average over the past four years.
The Bears are currently coming off a 10-8 season in the Big Sky and made the league’s postseason tournament for third consecutive year and the fourth time in five years under Hill.
“My family is very appreciative to receive this support from our first class community and University,” Hill stated. “The resources, relationships and commitment that our community and University provide our program enable us to recruit quality young men that represent our program in a manner that we all can be proud of. I want to thank all of the members of our staff and all the players that I have been fortunate enough to coach. None of this would be possible without them.”
http://uncbears.com/news/2015/6/19/MBB_BJContractExt619.aspx
Photo Courtesy Northern Colorado Athletics
