Albuquerque, New Mexico – Eric Olen, the mastermind behind UC San Diego’s remarkable men’s basketball run this season, has been appointed as the new head coach of the University of New Mexico Lobos. This decision comes after Olen led UCSD to a thrilling NCAA Tournament appearance that nearly upset Michigan. His hiring was officially announced on Sunday by UNM following a quick selection process that ensued after the departure of the previous coach.
Olen’s appointment brings a sense of optimism to the Lobos, who are aiming to sustain their success in the competitive college basketball landscape. Athletic director Earl Edwards expressed confidence in Olen’s ability to recruit top scholar-athletes, coach effectively, and lead the program to continued success. Olen, who previously served as the associate head coach at UCSD, is excited to embark on this new chapter with the Lobos and make his mark on the program.
The transition for Olen comes at a crucial time for both UCSD and the Lobos, as the former seeks to rebuild its roster after losing key players to graduation. Olen’s experience and track record of success make him a valuable asset to UNM as they look to remain competitive in college basketball. The decision to hire Olen over other candidates like Andy Kennedy from Alabama-Birmingham underscores the confidence in his leadership and coaching abilities.
Financial considerations also played a role in Olen’s hiring, with his contract details revealing a substantial increase in salary compared to his previous position. This move highlights the growing importance of financial management for mid-major programs looking to stay competitive in the evolving landscape of college sports. Olen’s arrival at UNM signifies a new era for the Lobos and their quest for excellence on and off the court.
As Olen embarks on his new role at UNM, there is anticipation surrounding his vision for the program and how he plans to build on the team’s recent success. With his proven track record and commitment to developing student-athletes, Olen is poised to make a significant impact at New Mexico and write a new chapter in the school’s basketball history. The future looks bright for the Lobos under Olen’s leadership, and fans eagerly await the upcoming season to see the team in action.