UConn hires URI’s Dan Hurley as men’s basketball coach

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Photo credit Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

UConn has hired Dan Hurley as the school’s new men’s basketball coach, it was announced Thursday.

Hurley and UConn agreed to a six-year deal with Hurley getting $2.75 million in his first season.

It's official! Dan Hurley named Head Coach of @UConnMBB. pic.twitter.com/G5ppW9fneO

— UConn Huskies (@UConnHuskies) March 22, 2018

The former University of Rhode Island coach reportedly chose UConn over a larger offer from Pittsburgh and despite URI’s attempt to sign him to a long-term extension.

"I am honored and excited to become the head coach of the UConn men’s basketball program, and I would like to thank President Herbst and David Benedict for this tremendous opportunity," Hurley said in a statement released by UConn. "This program, which is part of one of the top public universities in the country, has a championship history and wonderful support from a passionate fan base. I look forward to continuing this proud tradition."

UConn fired coach Kevin Ollie earlier this month for what the school described as “just cause.”

Hurley has a 113-82 overall record as the head coach at URI and is no stranger to NCAA tournament appearances. He is the son of Hall of Fame coach Bob Hurley and his brother, Bobby, is the head coach at Arizona State.