UMBC officials and head men’s basketball coach Ryan Odom have agreed in principle to contract amendments that will keep the Retriever mentor as the leader of the program.

UMBC made history under Coach Odom’s guidance as the first No. 16 seed to defeat a No 1 seed, with a decisive victory over Virginia on March 17th in the first round of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Tournament. The week before, the Retrievers captured the America East Tournament title and secured a bid to the NCAA Division I Championships for just the second time in school history.

“It is with great enthusiasm and pride that we announce Ryan Odom remaining as the leader of our men’s basketball program,” Athletics Director Tim Hall said. “Now, along with us, the nation knows how truly remarkable he is — simply said one of the best head coaches in the country! We are pleased that he will remain on Hilltop Circle and continue to build on the season’s remarkable success.”

The Retrievers finished the season with a school record 25 wins (25-11), and in two years under Odom, have won seven post-season contests and compiled an overall record of 46-24.

“We are very proud of Coach Odom and our basketball team,” UMBC President Dr. Freeman Hrabowski said.  Ryan is an amazing educator and fine human being. He appreciates the important relationship between our athletic and academic programs.”

“I am so proud of our staff and players and it’s been a remarkable journey that we set out on together,” head coach Ryan Odom said.  “I am grateful to Dr. Hrabowski and Tim Hall for their confidence in our staff to continue to lead these young men during their time at UMBC. It’s a great honor to be a part of the UMBC community.”

The men’s basketball team will be honored this evening in Annapolis, beginning with a reception hosted by Governor Larry Hogan and concluding with visits to the Senate and House Chambers.

http://umbcretrievers.com/sports/mbkb/2017-18/releases/20180326nsz9am