Kevin Keatts gets contract extension

The Wolfpack basketball coach's deal now runs through the 2025-26 season

For the second time in his three-year tenure, basketball coach Kevin Keatts has had his contract extended by NC State.

The new deal, which was approved by the school's Board of Trustees on Friday, runs for seven seasons through the 2025-26 season. Financial terms are similar to the original deal Keatts signed when he was hired from UNC Wilmington in 2017 and was extended last year, which pays the veteran coach $2.7 million annually.

“Coach Keatts has proven to be a tremendous leader for NC State, he brings stability and consistency to our program and does it the right way,” athletic director Boo Corrigan said. “His teams compete night in and night out with a toughness that is representative of what makes NC State special. This extension reflects our gratitude and commitment to Kevin and his family.”

Keatts has compiled a 45-24 record during his first two seasons with the Wolfpack. His 2017-18 team, which was picked to finish 12th in the ACC, won 21 games, placed third in the conference and broke a five-year NCAA tournament drought. Although last year's team was snubbed on Selection Sunday, it still won 24 games and advanced to the quarterfinals of the NIT.

This year's team is scheduled to open its season on Tuesday, Nov. 6 with a home game against Georgia Tech.

“NC State has become home for my family and we’re grateful to Chancellor (Randy) Woodson and Director of Athletics Boo Corrigan for their commitment and the opportunity to continue to lead the Wolfpack,” Keatts said in a statement. “I look forward to building on the foundation we’ve created, and to leading NC State for many years to come.”