Texas Tech AD Kirby Hocutt says schools has resources to keep Chris Beard

MINNEAPOLIS – After leading Texas Tech into the national championship game, Chris Beard has never been a hotter commodity. But Tech athletic director Kirby Hocutt sounds unconcerned he might lose him.

“We’ve got the resources to do what we need to retain Chris Beard,” Hocutt told USA TODAY Sports.

The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reported that Arkansas, which parted ways with Mike Anderson last month, is waiting for a chance to woo Beard. UCLA’s job remains open, as well.

Hocutt said Texas Tech began talking about renegotiating his current contract in February, as Texas Tech was on its way to winning a share of the Big 12’s regular-season championship, but shelved talks until after the season.

Beard’s deal was renegotiated after last season after leading Texas Tech to the Elite Eight. He makes $2.8 million annually, which ranked 27th among coaches according to data annually compiled by USA TODAY Sports. Texas Tech is also building a $30 million basketball practice facility.

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Arkansas wanted but did not land Houston’s Kelvin Sampson, who received a raise and extension. Before he arrived at Texas Tech, Beard coached one season at Arkansas-Little Rock, taking the Trojans to the NCAA tournament and upsetting Purdue.

“I think our job is better than UCLA’s,” Hocutt said – and he meant Arkansas, too. “Absolutely. It’s one of the best jobs in the country."