Clemson University has recently announced new contracts for several of its top coaches, including men’s basketball coach Brad Brownell, who led the Tigers to an impressive run in the recent season, reaching the Elite Eight. Brownell’s new five-year contract is reportedly worth $20 million. A select panel of the Clemson board of trustees approved the enhanced contract for Brownell, as well as new deals for men’s soccer coach Mike Noonan and baseball coach Erik Bakich, among others.
Graham Neff, the Athletic director, mentioned that the department recognized the pivotal role played by Clemson’s coaches in ensuring success across various sports. Neff stated, “In an evolving environment, stability is critical and provides Clemson the opportunity to compete nationally.” The new contracts are seen as a testament to the university’s commitment to ensuring the continued success of its athletic programs.
Brownell, who has been at the helm of the men’s basketball program for 15 seasons, has achieved a program-leading 265 victories. His new contract will secure his position at the university through the 2028-29 season. Under the terms of the new deal, Brownell’s annual salary will increase to $3.5 million for the upcoming season and will gradually rise to $4.5 million in the final year of the contract.
Expressing his gratitude, Brownell thanked the Clemson administration for their unwavering support and expressed pride in his team’s accomplishments over the past few seasons. Notably, the team achieved a program record of 47 wins over the last two seasons.
In addition to Brownell’s contract, men’s soccer coach Mike Noonan and baseball coach Erik Bakich also received contract extensions. Noonan, who has secured two of the last three NCAA College Cup championships, will see his contract extended through the 2029 season, along with a raise for the upcoming season. Similarly, Bakich, who led the baseball team to host a home NCAA super regional for the first time since 2010, had two years added to his deal through the 2030 season and will receive a substantial raise for the upcoming season.
The Clemson athletic department also extended the contracts for women’s soccer coach Eddie Radwanski and women’s golf coach Kelley Hester. Radwanski received a three-year extension through the 2028 season, while Hester’s contract was extended by two years through the 2029 season.
The new contracts awarded to these coaches underscore the university’s commitment to sustaining its success across a wide array of sports. The dedication and leadership of these coaches have been pivotal in securing numerous victories and accolades for Clemson University.
These new contracts are significant not only for the coaches but also for the entire Clemson community, as they reinforce the university’s dedication to excellence in athletics. With stability and support for its coaching staff, Clemson University is well-positioned to continue its strong athletic legacy for years to come.