Donovan, Florida agree to two-year extension

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA - Florida basketball coach Billy Donovan agreed in principle to a two-year extension to his current contract, school officials said Thursday. <br> <br> Donovan, who led the Gators to their fourth straight NCAA Tournament appearance this season, and the school have not finalized the terms of the extension, team spokesman Steve McClain said. <br> <br> The two years will be added on to the $6 million, five-year deal Donovan signed in 2000, McClain said. <br> <br> ``I am thankful for such a committed and supportive administration here at Florida. I am excited and look forward to all of the challenges that lie ahead,&#39;&#39; Donovan said in a statement. <br> <br> Florida went 22-9 last season but bowed out of the tournament in the first round with a loss to Creighton. Donovan, 36, became the Gators&#39; coach in 1996, leading them to the national championship game in 2000, losing to Michigan State. <br> <br> ``Coach Donovan has done a tremendous job of putting our basketball program among the nation&#39;s elite and our goals are to maintain the recent success we&#39;ve enjoyed over an extended period,&#39;&#39; athletic director Jeremy Foley said.

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