Tommy Lloyd is the head coach of the Arizona Wildcats, who just secured a major contract extension while leading his team to the Final Four. Here’s what you need to know.
1. Tommy Lloyd’s Contract Extension Keeps Him at Arizona Through 2031
Lloyd confirmed he is staying at Arizona after being linked to the University of North Carolina job.
“I’m happy to announce I’m staying at Arizona,” Lloyd said. “Arizona basketball, you guys know what it means to me, and when I say it’s a special place, that always comes from the bottom of my heart.”
Arizona athletic director Desireé Reed-Francois praised the decision, saying, “Tommy Lloyd is the best coach in college basketball, and we have a strong conviction in the future of Arizona Basketball under his leadership.”
2. Arizona’s Head Coach’s Salary Is Set to Jump to $7.2 Million
Lloyd’s new deal includes a significant pay increase.
According to CBS, Lloyd is expected to earn around $7.2 million annually, up from $4.85 million during the 2025-26 season. That places him among the highest-paid public school coaches in college basketball.
Despite interest from North Carolina, Lloyd chose to remain in Tucson.
“It’s an honor to even be considered for that job,” Lloyd said. “North Carolina is a first-class organization, and I appreciate them for the way they’ve handled this.”
3. Tommy Lloyd Led Arizona to a Historic Final Four Run
Lloyd has delivered one of the most successful stretches in program history.
Arizona posted a 36–2 record this season, won both the Big 12 regular Season and tournament titles, and reached the Final Four for the first time since 2001.
University president Suresh Garimella said, “This past season is among the finest in Arizona Athletics history, reflecting the culture he has built and the consistency of the program.”
4. Lloyd Holds a Record-Breaking Coaching Start
Lloyd has compiled a 148–35 record in his first five seasons, the most wins by any head coach over that span in NCAA history.
His teams are known for unselfish play and consistency, helping reestablish Arizona as a national powerhouse.
“Coach Lloyd has led our men’s basketball program with clarity of purpose and a commitment to excellence,” Garimella said.
5. Tommy Lloyd’s Contract Includes Major Structural Changes
Lloyd’s new agreement includes more than just salary increases.
He will now report directly to university president Suresh Garimella instead of the athletic director, a notable shift in leadership structure. The deal also includes a larger salary pool for assistant coaches and additional incentives.
“Arizona Basketball is a central galvanizing force in our community and our state,” Lloyd said. “The University of Arizona and the City of Tucson are special to me and my family.”
With Arizona set to face Michigan in the Final Four, Lloyd remains focused on the program’s immediate goal.
“We are honored to be playing on the biggest stage this weekend,” he said.
Tip-off for Arizona vs Michigan is scheduled for Saturday at 8:49 p.m. ET at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
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