Florida Gulf Coast University men’s basketball coach Andy Enfield became a star of the NCAA Tournament early on. His leadership of the 15th-seeded Eagles to the Sweet 16 has helped him get the vacant coaching position at the University of Southern California, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The hiring of the 43-year old coach was confirmed by USC spokesman Tim Tessalone.
Enfield led the Cinderella team past the second-seeded Georgetown Hoyas in the first round of the NCAA tournament. The buzz only continued to grow after the Eagles beat seven seed, San Diego Aztecs in the second round of the tournament.
The team was given the name “Dunk City" in honor of their fast-paced play which included many dunks and alley-oops.
FGCU’s appearance in the tournament was its first. They were able to secure a bid after winning the Atlantic Sun conference tournament.
The vacancy for USC job occurred after former coach Kevin O’Neill was fired. Bob Cantu served as the interim head coach for the rest of the season. The USC Trojans finished the season 14-18 record and lost to the University of Las Vegas in the beginning of the Pac-12 conference tournament.
Enfield's coaching experience includes a stint at Florida State under Coach Leonard Hamilton. He also coached under former Boston Celtics coach Rick Pitino. Pitino currently coaches the No. 1 overall seed of the NCAA Tournament, the Louisville Cardinals.
Sources said Enfield could make more than $1 million He's agreed to a six-year deal with with USC, but the exact amount has not been officially released. His previously salary with FGCU was $157,000 per year.
“My family and I are thrilled to join the Trojan Family and be part of the unparalleled athletic tradition at USC," Enfield said in a statement released by USC. "I'm looking forward to bringing an exciting, up-tempo style of play to USC and building the men's basketball brand into one the fans and basketball community will enjoy and respect."
