Georgia gives Fox 2-year extension

Georgia basketball coach Mark Fox was given a two-year contract extension, and is now under contract through the 2017-18 season.

Fox originally signed a six-year deal, and is 85-77 through the first five seasons. The Bulldogs were 20-14 in 2013-14, tying Kentucky for second place in the Southeastern Conference at 12-6.

Georgia lost in the second round of the NIT, but athletic director Greg McGarity said it was important to extend Fox’s contract now to provide confidence in recruiting.

“The improvement our team made throughout the 2013-14 season was very encouraging, and with the loss of only one starter, the expectations for the coming season will be very high,” McGarity said. “Mark and I discussed not only this past season, but spent the majority of our time focused on the next four-year period. We discussed our recruiting plans, scheduling, academic progress and continued development of our program moving forward, and Mark fully recognizes the expectations in these key areas.”

The 20-win campaign in 2013-14 came on the heels of two 15-17 records.

“From Day One, we have worked to establish basketball success within the SEC, academic success in the graduation of our players and developing a culture where we remain consistently successful,” Fox said. “As we move forward and continue to recruit and develop young men who can compete for championships, this is a great step to aid in the process.

“The next goal is to remain successful and to move that success to another level through scheduling, recruiting, the commitment of our young people and the help of our administration.”