DaytonDailyNews.com

A break, only briefly, from the tremendous spirit the University of Dayton basketball team has brought to town.

While anxiously awaiting today's second-round UD-Kansas game, I'm going to turn my attention a little down the road to Oxford. While hearing this week that coach Brian Gregory received a contract extension from UD, it was more surprising to hear that coach Charlie Coles received a similar extension at Miami.

This is not surprising because of Coles' performance. His teams are always fundamentally sound, tough to play and fill their schedules with impressive opponents.

But most of us thought Coles was riding off into the sunset. Recent health problems, and to some extent his age (67), led to a belief that this past season would be his last on the sideline.

Instead, Coles is on the hook for three more years with the RedHawks. Some have criticized Coles' recruiting efforts and the intelligence of the tough schedules, but it's difficult to judge how important Coles' figure has been to the campus and the athletic department.

Coles is, quite frankly, one of the best sports figures in the area, both for his knowledge of the game and the entertainment he provides outside of it.

Many of us are thrilled, if still surprised, to have Coles remain on the sidelines.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7389 or knagel@DaytonDailyNews.com

.