UConn's Calhoun says he will sign a new contract

[March 12, 2010]  STORRS, Conn. (AP) -- Connecticut coach Jim Calhoun said he intends to sign a new contract with the school he has led to two national championships.

"It is important for me to put the recent questions about my future to rest and make it clear that I will be signing a new contract at UConn," Calhoun said in a statement. "I plan to continue working hard to get us back to where we expect to be as a basketball program and hope that this agreement will show people that I am committed to the future of UConn basketball."

ESPN.com reported that Calhoun had reached agreement on a four-year deal, citing a statement released by his agent. UConn athletic director Jeff Hathaway said he is excited that Calhoun has decided to stay at the school and looks forward "to having a signed contract in the near future to make it official."

The Hall of Fame coach will turn 68 in May, took a medical leave of absence in January, and missed seven games with an undisclosed condition.

The Huskies (17-15) lost on Tuesday in the first round of the Big East tournament. During his postgame news conference, Calhoun denied a report that said he was he planning to retire. He also confirmed that there was a contract offer on the table from the school.

"I'm in the business of trying to recruit players to UConn," Calhoun said. "I love the school, and I still love coaching."

Calhoun has 822 wins, seventh in Division I. He is expected to announce this weekend whether the Huskies will accept an invitation to the NIT.

[Associated Press; By PAT EATON-ROBB]

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