New Mexico’s Neal gets 2-year extension

New Mexico head coach Craig Neal was given a two-year contract extension after becoming the first rookie coach to lead the Lobos to the NCAA Tournament. His contract now runs through the 2019-20 season.

Neal took over the head job this season following six as the associate head coach and led the Lobos to a 27-7 record, tying for the 12th-most victories by a first-year head coach in NCAA history.

“We are excited about the direction of the program under Craig’s leadership, and we are glad that he wants to be here at the University of New Mexico,” said school Vice President for Athletics Paul Krebs.

Nicknamed “Noodles,” Neal was 2-2 against Top 25 teams this season.

“I’m thankful to Paul, President Frank and the administration,” said Neal. “We have a tremendous program here at New Mexico, with an unbelievable facility and great fans. Having raised my children here in New Mexico, I’m excited to be the coach here, and I’m excited for our future as a program.”