Men's Basketball Head Coach Extends Contract
April 27, 1998
CORVALLIS - Oregon State University men's basketball Head Coach Eddie Payne has had his contract extended one year, it was announced Saturday by Director of Athletics Mitch Barnhart. Payne's contract now runs through the academic year 2000-2001. "As we complete this recruiting period and look forward to next year, we are pleased to extend the contract of Eddie Payne," Barnhart said. "This reflects our commitment to his efforts in resurfacing the rich tradition of Oregon State basketball."
Payne led the Beavers to a 13-17 record last season, his third at the helm of the program. The 13 wins were the most by a Beaver men's basketball team since the 1992-93 campaign.
"With this renewed commitment by the Oregon State administration and the energized and competent leadership of Mitch Barnhart, I am very encouraged with the direction of the men's basketball program," Payne said. "This entire coaching staff remains dedicated to the task at hand - restoring Beaver basketball back to its rightful competitive position in the Pac-10 Conference."
Payne, who came to Oregon State after rebuilding the East Carolina University program, has an overall four-year coaching record of 185-167 in 12 seasons. He is 26-58 in three years at Oregon State.
"I am confident the efforts of Coach Payne and his staff, plus the administrative support we intend to give him, will push Beaver basketball back to prominence in the Pac-10 Conference," Barnhart concluded.
