Missouri State Extends Basketball Coach Martin’s Deal

Springfield, MO, United States (AHN) – Missouri State, in an effort to solidify the Bears basketball coaching staff for the future, extended the contract of men’s basketball head coach Cuonzo Martin. The Missouri State Board of Governors approved the five-year deal extension Friday.

The 38-year-old Martin’s guaranteed contract extension locks him up through the 2014-15 season.

Martin, who took over the post vacated by Barry Hinson on April of 2008, originally signed a five-year contract.

Martin’s base salary of $140,000 will remain the same, under the terms of the extension.

His total compensation package could reach an estimated $300,000 through income generated from television and radio shows and promotional compensation.

A significant change in the Martin’s new contract is the cancellation clause, which provides a $250,000 cancellation fee on the part of Martin in case he cancels the contract and take another head coaching job.

Likewise, should Missouri State cancels Martin’s contract without a cause, it will be obligated to compensate him with a monthly base pay times the number of months left on the contract.

Martin spent eight seasons at Purdue before coming to Missouri State.

He is credited for the fifth-best turnaround in college basketball last year.

Martin guided a Bears team, which posted an 11-20 mark, into national spotlight. Missouri State recorded an impressive 24-12 record and even tied Kansas for the national lead in home victories.

Meanwhile, the school also announced that pay raises will be given to all of Martin’s assistant coaches.

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