Ole Miss announces a Chris Beard contract extension

Following a highly successful first season, Ole Miss has come to terms on a Chris Beard contract extension to keep the coach around the program a little longer.

Ole Miss announced news of the extension on Wednesday morning. It did not disclose the length of the extension or the terms of the new deal.

“The future of Ole Miss Basketball could not be brighter under Coach Beard’s leadership,” vice chancellor for intercollegiate athletics Keith Carter said in a press release. “His impact on every facet of our program was immediately apparent, and it has translated to a new standard of success and a culture that is building every day.

“He has galvanized Rebel Nation, and particularly our student body, and created a newfound passion for men’s basketball that is felt throughout the entire Ole Miss community. We could not be more excited to strengthen our investment in the program and can’t wait to see what the many years ahead hold with Coach Beard leading our team.”

Ole Miss reached the 20-win mark for the first time in five years under Beard this season, and the Rebels are likely to make their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2019.

Beard, who arrived by way of Texas this offseason, helped the Rebels jump out to a 13-0 start to the season. That tied the program’s longest winning streak of all time, and Ole Miss was one of just three teams to reach the 13-0 mark.

In addition to the on-court success, Beard has helped rejuvenate the fanbase. Ole Miss has set a season total attendance record, while also setting the single-game record for most fans with a game against Mississippi State. That Jan. 30 contest against the in-state rivals drew 10,630 fans.

“I appreciate Chancellor Boyce, Keith and the rest of the Ole Miss administration and their belief in my staff and my ability to build a championship program in Oxford,” Beard said in a press release. “I also want to express my gratitude to the Ole Miss fan base and alumni for their dedication to our players and program. The homecourt advantage created this season was instrumental in our first steps toward becoming a championship level program, and we look forward to building a stronger connection with the students and fans in the years to come.”

Ole Miss noted in its press release on the Chris Beard contract extension that he is a four-time conference coach of the year recipient, while he has also put together numerous top-10 nationally ranked recruiting classes at the Division I level.