With the program's future looking promising, Notre Dame athletic director Kevin White continues to make sure men's basketball coach Mike Brey isn't going anywhere.The athletic department announced Brey's signing of a two-year contract extension Monday afternoon."Simply speaking, Mike Brey has done a brilliant job leading Notre Dame basketball back to national prominence," White said in a statement. "Mike represents the perfect Notre Dame fit. He is truly a gifted educator, who enjoys the distinct ability to impart life lessons through his chosen profession. "Without question, Mike is quickly becoming one of the elite players within the college basketball community. We are extremely excited that he will continue to lead our program." After signing an initial seven-year contract when taking the helm in South Bend on July 14, 2000 and a two-year extension in July 2002, Brey is now under contract through the 2010-11 season."Once again, I want to emphasize how honored I am to teach at this very special place," Brey said. "The commitment from our administration makes me a more confident basketball coach. Our program has great momentum, and I am excited about moving it forward into a new phase as the Big East becomes the best basketball conference in America."In his four seasons in South Bend, Brey (84-44) has led the Irish to the postseason each year - to the NCAA Tournament in the first three seasons and to the quarterfinals of the National Invitational Tournament last year.During his first season, Brey's team won the program's only Big East regular season championship claiming the West Division crown. He led the Irish in 2003 to their first Sweet 16 appearance since 1987. On the recruiting front, Brey has brought the Irish to national prominence with a number of top signings and commitments. Upon taking the Notre Dame job, Brey secured current senior guard Chris Thomas' commitment, the only Mr. Indiana to play for the Irish. Current junior forward Torin Francis was named the McDonald's national boys Player of the Year. For the 2006 recruiting class, Brey has gotten commitments from four top players, including consensus national prospect Luke Zeller from Washington, Ind.
