KNOXVILLE (NCAA Women) - Lady Vols coach Pat Summitt has become the first women's basketball coach to break the $1 million-per-season mark after being handed a giant new six-year contract by the University of Tennessee.
Summitt, who is the all-time wins leader in college basketball with 913 victories, will receive a total compensation package of $1.125 million from next season in a deal which runs until the end of the 2011-12 campaign.
"Not only is Coach Summitt the winningest coach in college basketball, but she is a tremendous ambassador for our university and our state," University of Tennessee president John Petersen told utladyvols.com.
"I am proud that she will continue to represent the university for many years to come."
Summitt's base salary will rise from $300,000 to $325,000 but a package of media, endorsement and PR clauses make up the final amount.
Over the life of the contract, Summitt's pay will average $1.3 million per season.
Summitt has just completed her 32nd season as Lady Vols coach. During her reign, the school has collected six NCAA titles, and 24 Southeastern Conference tournament and regular-season championships.
They have made 25 consecutive appearances in the Sweet 16 and produced 12 Olympians.
Summitt also has a 100% graduation rate for her student-athletes who have completed their four years of eligibility.
"This is a landmark statement for women's athletics," said Tennessee women's athletics director Joan Cronan.
"The university has made a statement that success in both athletics and academics is important. Pat has had 32 successful years at Tennessee, and we're looking forward to her being here for at least six more years."
Connecticut women's coach Geno Auriemma signed a contract in 2004 which will see him paid $1.05 million in 2007-08, the fourth year of the five-year deal.
PA Sport