When Eric Olen took the helm of Lobo basketball just one season ago, few could have predicted the whirlwind of success and change that would follow. Now, as the offseason heats up, Olen and Athletic Director Ryan Berryman are making it clear: they're in this for the long haul.

The pair recently sat down to discuss Olen's new five-year contract—a deal that signals more than just a pay raise. It's a statement of commitment in an era where college sports are shifting faster than a fast break. "I don't think recruits care about my contract," Olen said with a knowing smile. "But fans and donors? They care."

And why wouldn't they? The landscape of college athletics has transformed dramatically. Gone are the days when a five-year coaching contract was the golden ticket for recruiting high school talent. Today's players are more focused on NIL opportunities, revenue sharing, and program stability—things Olen's new deal aims to address.

The contract includes a modest pay increase for Olen, a bump in assistant coaching salaries, and a reset on buyout terms that protects UNM from poaching attempts. It's a lesson learned the hard way: Olen's predecessor, Richard Pitino, was lured away just 14 months ago. This time, the Lobos are playing defense.

Berryman emphasized the broader impact: "There's a tangible aspect to the dollars and cents, but there's also an intangible aspect—community pride and national sentiment about our athletic department. It's hard to put a number on that."

This isn't an isolated move either. First-year football coach Jason Eck received a similar vote of confidence after his program's success, showing that UNM is serious about retaining top talent across the board.

Olen, who technically won't see a base salary increase in year one but secured a $100,000 retention bonus, sees the bigger picture. "The university's investment in me, in assistant salaries, in revenue sharing for players—it all matters," he said. "It shows we're building something sustainable."

For Lobo fans, that commitment is exactly what they want to hear. As the transfer portal tracker fills up with names and decisions, one thing is clear: the foundation is solid, and the future looks bright in Albuquerque.