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UCF Extends Johnny Dawkins' Contract for Three Years

The move signals UCF's push for stability as it establishes the basketball program in the Big 12.

Overview

  • UCF announced the three-year extension Thursday, formally agreeing to keep Dawkins under contract after the 2025-26 season.
  • The deal follows back-to-back 20-win seasons and a 21-12 2025-26 campaign that included a 12-1 start, a 9-9 Big 12 record and a No. 10 seed appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
  • Athletic director Terry Mohajir praised Dawkins for providing continuity that aided program growth and Dawkins said UCF has become home for his family.
  • Reports conflict on the extension’s terminal season with several outlets citing a run through 2029-30 while Reuters and some contract details list 2028-29, and coverage noted Dawkins had the lowest Big 12 pay last season at about $2.1 million.
  • Documentation released after the announcement shows the extension includes a pay increase and performance bonuses that raise guaranteed compensation to roughly $7.8 million over the term, a change that could affect recruiting, staff retention and the program’s competitiveness in the Big 12.