PORTLAND, Ore. -The University of Portland men’s basketball coach Michael Holton received a five-year contract extension through 2008-09, Portland Director of Athletics Joe Etzel announced today.

In making the announcement, Etzel expressed that “Michael’s ability to recruit, and then coach and develop players has been very impressive. His efforts over his first three years has been to build a solid basketball program and not go for the quick fix. He has done this within the academic mission of the University.”

“I am excited that the University of Portland has decided, at this time to extend my opportunity to continue to build this basketball program,” said Head Coach Michael Holton. “Along with my staff and players, I am very excited about the future of Pilot basketball.”

As UCLA’s recruiting coordinator and assistant coach from 1996-2001, Holton helped the Bruins land the nation’s No. 1 (1998) and No. 2 (1997) recruiting classes. During his five-year stint with UCLA, the Bruins earned five consecutive NCAA Tournament berths, including a 1997 NCAA “Elite Eight” appearance, along with 2001, 2000 and 1998 NCAA “Sweet 16” berths. UCLA recorded five consecutive 20+game winning seasons and a 114-56 record, averaging nearly 23 victories a year. Holton inked NBA stars such as Baron Davis (Hornets), Earl Watson (Grizzlies), Jason Kapano (Cavaliers) and Dan Gadzuric (Bucks) during his tenure at UCLA.

“I’m pleased, but not surprised, that the University of Portland has extended Coach Holton’s contract,” said Larry Brown, Head Coach Detroit Pistons. “This commitment by the University acknowledges the great strides the Pilots have made during his brief tenure as head coach. His players reflect his tireless work ethic and he has re-energized that basketball program.”

Next year will be the first year for Holton to have a complete roster that he recruited. His latest prodigy, Pooh Jeter is ranked No. 41 (71.70) in the nation on CBS.Sportsline.com’s overall player rankings, and 14th (71.70) nationally among guards.

Holton is currently in his third season at Portland, and this year has the Pilots 9-11 overall, 3-4 in the West Coast Conference play. He has a cumulative record of 26-52 in three seasons at the helm of the Pilots’ program.

Holton, held assistantships at UCLA (1996-2001), Oregon State (1995-96), University of Portland (1994-95) and Pasadena City College (1993-94) before taking the head job at Portland. Holton becomes the 19th head coach at Portland since 1922. A summary of his coaching assignments can be found at the end of this release.

Holton, a native of Long Beach, Calif., graduated from UCLA in 1992 with a bachelor of science degree in political science. He and his wife, the former LaShell Hunter, who have been married for 18 years, have three children: Chanelle (16), Mike, Jr. (13) and Anthony (11).