DePaul has hired Clemson’s Oliver Purnell as its new men’s basketball coach, according to the USA Today and other media sources.
Purnell has agreed to a seven-year contract worth more than $15 million that includes the buyout of his Clemson contract, according to the newspaper.
It is being reported that Purnell will be introduced Tuesday at a 1:30 p.m. news conference.
I am shocked by this news. I really thought “OP” was going to stick around at Clemson for many more years. Thought Clemson would do all they could to keep him around and happy. But I guess money and opportunity talks.
This is a huge blow to Clemson and its’ basketball program. I hate to admit it but OP had them going in the right direction. This is just like the Rick Barnes situation when he bolted for Texas after his stint at Clemson. Got them going in the right direction, then leaves.
Wrong time for a coaching search for Clemson, maybe they can see if the services of Butler’s Brad Stevens are available? Or how about Tubby Smith? Terry Don’s search could be interesting to watch.
Good for DePaul as they got a good coach, best of luck to OP and let’s watch who Clemson goes after upon picking up the pieces after this shocking news.
Coach Purnell’s overall record:
Overall record: (22 years) 394-279 (.585)
Conference record: 171-161 (.515)
Six NCAA bids (0-6)
Eight NIT bids (10-8)
