Feb. 14, 2006
VILLANOVA, Pa. - Villanova University and men's basketball coach Jay Wright have reached agreement on a contract extension through 2012-13, it was announced today. As per university policy, terms of the agreement were not released.
"Jay Wright is an exceptional representative of Villanova University and its mission," said Villanova University President Rev. Edmund J. Dobbin, O.S.A. "Jay has a unique appreciation and understanding of the values of Villanova University. Those values are reflected in the program he has developed and we look forward to working together as a university to further build upon its wonderful history."
"This agreement represents a significant commitment to the continued success of our men's basketball program," stated Villanova director of athletics Vince Nicastro. "In the course of the past five years, our university administration, athletic, and coaching staffs have worked together to add to the great tradition of this program. This is the latest step in that process. We are thrilled that Jay and his family will continue to be an integral part of the Villanova community."
In four plus seasons at Villanova, Wright has compiled a record of 96-56. In 2004-05 the Wildcats advanced to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1988 and ended the season ranked No. 13 in the country. In 2005-06, the `Cats have won 20 of their first 22 games and been ranked in the top 10 of the Associated Press and ESPN/USA Today Coaches polls for every week of the season to date.
"There's always been a special commitment from our administration to the basketball program at Villanova," said Wright. "My staff and family are grateful to Father Dobbin, the Board of Trustees, and Vince Nicastro for this renewed level of commitment to us and this basketball program.
"We now have a long-term commitment, a new practice facility planned, a newly expanded conference and renovations planned for the Pavilion. There's nowhere our staff and my family would rather be in the world than a part of this wonderful Villanova community."
