Here is where Groce is at:
With Groce’s most recent extension, his base salary remained $400,000, and his annual supplemental compensation stayed at $450,000.
Prior to Groce’s 2024 extension, his base salary was $400,000, but his annual supplemental compensation was $250,000.
In other words, Groce received a raise from $650,000 to $850,000.
As long as Groce remains UA’s coach, he is set to receive two $75,000 retention bonuses, the first to be paid no later than July 31 and the second no later than July 31, 2028.
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Might be reading too much into it, but it seems odd that we’re announcing an offer, not a deal.
When questioning how much we can offer Steele, remember in 24-25, the most recent year we have data, men’s hoops ticket sales were 226k, men’s hoops donations was 122k, buy games was 196k (but most of that goes right back out to bring teams in), and NCAA distribution was 177k.
If we want to play with the big boys, we need some big boys to step up. The fact that Sayler says we are at least offering in the upper reaches is a big statement on lining up some big money.
Ultimately, I don’t think the money will matter as long as its enough to not be insulting (which it sounds like it won’t be). It’ll just come down to whether Steele is happy living in Cincinnati and building a program here or taking another shot at big time.
We can’t control that, so just enjoy the magical year we’re having.
Here’s my one concern. Why was this info shared without verified commitment from Steele? Is he out the door and this is our last ditch effort?
I mean it wasn’t a press release from Miami. I’d guess Sayler was being interviewed by Rothstein and was asked something like “How in the heck are you going to keep Steele” and he answered “we’re prepared to make him one of the highest paid coaches in the league with resources to be one of the top mid-majors”
I wouldn’t read more into it. Seems like a standard answer.
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Just interesting because you know now Steele will be asked about it. No way he said go tell the press while I contemplate the offer
An alternative way of looking at this is to rally big donor support to seal the deal.
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Agreed. Steele saying he’s committed tonight post game after we take care of business would also help donations fingers crossed!!!
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That’s a pretty safe bet.
Steele mentioned in the “who’s ready to make the jump” section (Groce as well):
Like, you look at Stan Heath, John Groce, Porter Moser … dudes who were big fish in small ponds. Then they go to a pressure cooker for more cash, more exposure, get ground up and spit up. Then back to their original stomping grounds. Why not stay and build a program?
Because and media and society say you have to
I just don’t see how UC can bring Wes back for a 6th year with no tourney appearances and the resources they have him this year. I think their fans would riot if there are any left.
I’m more worried about UD moving on from Grant as it relates to Steele…
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