Mark Stoops became somewhat of a hot name in the coaching carousel this hiring season, but the long-time Kentucky coach has ultimately declined interest from other schools, and has agreed to a contract extension, the school announced.

Stoops is 58-53 in 9 seasons at Kentucky, and this season the Wildcats are 9-3. Stoops has previously called for upgrades to UK’s facilities, and other resources added to the program.

The contract will run through June 2028 and continues guaranteed extensions for any season with 7 wins (one-year extension) or 10 wins (two-year extension). The agreement takes into account the Wildcats’ current 9-3 campaign, which already had earned a one-year extension through June 2027, regardless of the outcome of UK’s upcoming bowl game.

The contract has been agreed upon and is in the process of getting signatures. The amended terms will be confirmed upon completion of the contract.

“We have been in discussion with Coach Stoops in recent weeks and are excited about his ongoing commitment to Kentucky,” Barnhart said. “Coach Stoops has done an outstanding job in building the UK football program and we look forward to continued success under his leadership.”

“Our football and athletics programs have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to success for our students — on the field and in the classroom,” said UK President Eli Capilouto. “Our football program, under Coach Stoops, has only strengthened the commitment that we have as an institution to putting students first in everything that we do. We are preparing our students for lives of meaning and purpose when they leave UK, no matter what path they take.”

“I’m excited to continue to build this program to national prominence,” Stoops said. “We’re on our way and I’m more confident in Kentucky football than I’ve ever been.”