Feb. 17, 2010

Bronx, N.Y. - Fordham University announced today that its Board of Trustees unanimously approved significant increases in the budgets for the men's basketball program at a meeting held on February 11th.

These substantial upgrades will elevate the budget for the Fordham basketball program from the lower third to the top third among schools competing in the Atlantic 10 Conference, and were approved in an effort to compete in the upper tier of the A-10 annually.

"The time is now, and the will is there," said Joseph M. McShane, S.J., president of Fordham. "With this renewed commitment, we believe the Fordham basketball program will be a force in the A-10. We are determined to succeed."

While increasing the University's commitment to basketball, Fordham will continue its steadfast commitment to compliance, integrity and academic excellence.

A search committee is spearheading a national search for the men's basketball coach, with the goal of identifying the most qualified candidates for the position. A final decision will be made no later than April, 2010. Interim head coach Jared Grasso remains a strong candidate for the full time head coaching position. "The players have responded well to Jared, are playing hard every game, and have made significant progress since Jared was appointed as head coach," said Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics Frank McLaughlin."