Texas Tech Athletics Extends AD Kirby Hocutt’s Contract
Texas Tech President Lawrence Schovanec has announced a new contract for Kirby Hocutt that includes a raise and two extra years on the deal.
According to the press release about the deal, it includes, "an increase in compensation to $1.5 million annually with 3 percent increases each year, beginning September 1, 2019, and an extension to August 31, 2027."
Hocutt is widely regarded as one of the best ADs in the country. He's served on boards and panels, won AD of the Year, and hired and kept some of the best coaches in the country. Hocutt also has improved the facilities on campus considerably. Now, in his 8th season at Texas Tech the entire athletic department has grown under his watch.
"I am sincerely appreciative of the continued trust and support from President Schovanec, Chancellor Mitchell and the Board of Regents," Hocutt said. "Texas Tech University and Lubbock have become home for my family and there is not a greater place. I look forward to continuing our work to elevate Texas Tech Athletics to the top echelon of college athletics."
Under Hocutt, the success hasn't only been off the court and field. In the 2017-18 school year, six teams finished in the top eight nationally. Texas Tech has won 13 Big 12 Titles under Hocutt, including the first Big 12 title in men's basketball this past season.
"As a result of Kirby's leadership and vision, our athletic programs have enjoyed unprecedented success," Schovanec said. "He has assembled an administrative staff and a group of coaches who reflect his priorities to develop our student-athletes, academically and athletically, while competing at the highest level. His success in fundraising has resulted in impressive improvements in facilities and resources. He is one of the most respected athletic directors in the nation, and we are fortunate that he will continue to lead our programs at Texas Tech."
Arguably the biggest impact of Hocutt, however, has been the campaign for Fearless Champions, which has added the Sports Performance Center, The Dustin R. Womble Basketball Center, and countless renovations to Jones AT&T Stadium, including new turf and a new jumbotron.
With schools long considered bigger or better looking for new ADs, this extension and reinforced salary couldn't come at a better time. Kirby Hocutt remains one of the best paid athletic directors in the entire country, and more importantly, he remains a Red Raider.