Kevin Ollie has signed a five-year extension to remain as head coach of the University of Connecticut's men's basketball team. Since capturing the NCAA Championship in
April, Ollie's name has been associated with every NBA head coaching vacancy.
The Los Angeles Lakers were reportedly interested in Ollie's services. Ollie entered the league a year after Kobe Bryant. He played for 11 teams during his journeyman career. If the Lakers are sputtering by all-star break their next hire as head coach will be on the way out the door. Kobe is short on time and wants to win now.
UConn took a chance on Ollie after Jim Calhoun's abrupt retirement in 2012. Just four years ago he was still playing in the NBA. After a lengthy NBA career Ollie should be financially stable. He gave Connecticut a hometown discount by agreeing to an annual salary of $2.8 million dollars. After this springs impressive run, the second-year coach could have demanded top dollar pay.
Ollie was looking at the bigger picture. UConn is arguably the best NCAA Basketball program in America.
"I'm not chasing championships, I want championships to chase me" Ollie said.
The entire coaching staff at UConn were former players under Jim Calhoun including Ollie. Ray Allen, Rip Hamilton, Kemba Walker and Ben Gordon were all in Texas during Final Four weekend to support their alma mater. The support from the university, community and former players is evident.
Ollie's goal is to continue the successful run they began at the school in the early 90's. Programs such as UCLA or Kansas have been relevant for generations. Today UConn is on the same pedestal as these historic institutions.
Replacing a legend is no easy task in sports. UConn has found a diamond in the rough in Kevin Ollie.
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