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FSU's Hamilton Gets Extension

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By SCOTT CARTER, The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 9, 2007

TALLAHASSEE - Here's an effective way to quiet speculation about the future of a coach: Give him a two-year contract extension on the eve of the season opener. That's what Florida State president T.K. Wetherell did Thursday, announcing that FSU basketball coach Leonard Hamilton's contract was extended through the 2011-12 season.

Hamilton begins his sixth season tonight when the Seminoles open at home against Nicholls State. Hamilton has an 87-71 record at FSU, but he has never led the Noles to the NCAA Tournament, which prompted discussion among fans and the media that this could be a make-or-break year for Hamilton.
Wetherell delivered a strong vote of confidence Thursday.

"Coach Hamilton advocates winning not only on the basketball court, but also in the classroom and in the game of life," said Wetherell in a prepared statement. "Coach Hamilton is responsible for developing an exciting basketball program that is headed in the right direction."

The 59-year-old Hamilton, whose annual salary is $737,000 plus incentives, has built his career on rebuilding programs. Prior to coming to FSU, he turned Oklahoma State and Miami into postseason contenders after years of struggles at each school.

Hamilton has done the same at FSU, where he took over a program coming off four consecutive losing seasons under former coach Steve Robinson. Under Hamilton, the Noles have made the NIT three times and are coming off back-to-back 20-win seasons for the first time in 14 years.

Despite the loss of Al Thornton, runner-up for ACC Player of the Year last season, Hamilton is convinced this year's team - led by the guard trio of Toney Douglas, Isaiah Swann and Jason Rich - can snap FSU's March Madness drought.

"We are well on our way to becoming a program of significance in the ACC and nationally," Hamilton said. "I am very happy and appreciative of the university's and athletic administration's confidence in our program and staff. We are pledged to take Seminole basketball to new heights."

Reporter Scott Carter can be reached at (850) 294-3088 or scarter@tampatrib.com.

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