After hearing inquiries from other programs to fill their vacancies, Shaka Smart once again stayed loyal to VCU, telling ESPN.com that he will remain with the program next season. Smart told ESPN of his decision via text message Wednesday before VCU issued a statement announcing that changes in the coach's contract are being finalized.
"We're extremely thankful for the tremendous belief shown in us by Dr. Rao, Ed McLaughlin and VCU," Smart said in a statement Thursday. "We're also incredibly appreciative of the phenomenal fans that support our program and university. We are very excited about the challenges that lie ahead and the student-athletes that we have the pleasure of working with on a daily basis. Our goal will always remain to progressively move our student-athletes forward on and off the court."
A source confirmed to ESPN that Smart will sign an extension to remain the Rams head coach through 2013. SI.com earlier reported news of the extension.
Smart led VCU to the Final Four in 2011 in his second season with the program. He had his contract restructured afterward, signing an eight-year deal with his financial payout totaling $1.2 million.
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