Heath Impresses UA, Gets Contract Extension

University of Arkansas basketball coach Stan Heath may not have won many games in his debut season, but he won over Razorback fans with the way he handled himself under such difficult circumstances following the ouster of embattled coach Nolan Richardson.

Heath obviously won over the UA administration, too. He was awarded on March 12 a one-year extension to his contract. His pact with the Razorbacks is now set through April 30, 2008.

“My family and I are grateful for the commitment the University of Arkansas has shown to our basketball program,” Heath said. “I look forward to working with my assistant coaches and our student-athletes in maintaining one of the top programs in the country and returning Razorback basketball to national prominence.”

Heath’s state salary is $300,000, but his employment package will allow him to earn about $500,000 per year in separate agreements for radio, television, speaking engagements and fund-raising activities. His total package of about $800,000 makes him the highest-paid state employee in Arkansas, just ahead of UA football coach Houston Nutt.

“His leadership and enthusiasm have made an immeasurable impact on our program,” UA Athletic Director Frank Broyles said.