The search wasn’t long but it appears that Jeremy Foley has found his man in Michael White of Louisiana Tech. White has agreed in principle to a six-year contract at an average of $2 million a year.
“I have an incredible amount of respect for the University of Florida, and I am so excited to be a Gator,” White said in a release by the school. “Not only is Florida home for me, but the tradition and success that the Gators have built make this an incredible opportunity.”
White, 38, spent the last four years at Louisiana Tech where he led the Bulldogs to three-consecutive NIT Tournaments. Prior to that, he served as an assistant coach at his alma mater Ole Miss — where he was a four-year starter.
“Michael White is someone who came to the top of our list very quickly and he checks all of the boxes we were looking for,” Foley said in a release.. “He is a winner who has a high level of integrity, plays an up-tempo style of play and has the respect of his peers and the basketball community. He has experience in coaching, recruiting and playing in the Southeastern Conference and has a strong pedigree. He has a certain authenticity with people and is not afraid of challenges.”
White will take over one of the premier programs not only in the SEC but in the country. He is, however, replacing a legend in Billy Donovan. A young coach, much like Donovan was when he was hired, White is ready to face that challenge head on and excited to get to work in Gainesville.
“I know about the great home court advantage in the O’Connell Center, which is a testament to the fans and the Rowdy Reptiles,” White said. “There’s an unbelievable commitment to excellence athletically and academically at UF, and it starts with the leadership of Dr. Fuchs and Jeremy Foley. I look forward to returning to the SEC where I have a lot of great memories, and I can’t wait to create many more alongside The Gator Nation.”
White was named the 2014-15 Conference USA Coach of the Year and led the Bulldogs to a 101-40 (.716) overall record in four seasons.