A University of Minnesota athletics spokesman said Saturday that contract extension talks with coach Tubby Smith will be held off until the end of the season.
It is another continuation in a process that once seemed far more certain. Smith said in March 2011 that an extension is "just a matter of time." Again in October, Smith told media that the extension was essentially in its final stages and could be completed at any time.
It's not uncommon to avoid contract negotiations during a season, when the coaches are expected to focus all of their attention on the court. And Smith, who is in his fifth season at Minnesota, still has two years left on his original seven-year deal, meaning there is still ample time for an agreement.
But with President Eric Kaler new to his position and the future of athletic director Joel Maturi in doubt, the further delay is noteworthy.
The Gophers lost their first four conference games before bouncing back with consecutive road victories. They face Northwestern on Sunday at Williams Arena.
AMELIA RAYNO
