Porter Moser buyout: Contract details for OU basketball coach with annual base salary of $500,000

Porter Moser, a distinguished figure in collegiate basketball coaching, has been at the helm of the University of Oklahoma (OU) men’s basketball program since April 2021. His appointment followed a successful decade-long tenure at Loyola University Chicago, where he notably led the Ramblers to a Final Four appearance in the 2017-2018 season. Moser’s transition to OU was marked by a comprehensive contract that reflects both his past achievements and the university’s expectations for the future of its basketball program.

Contract Overview

Upon his hiring, Moser agreed to a six-year contract with the University of Oklahoma, set to conclude on June 30, 2027. The contract outlines a total annual compensation of $2.8 million, structured to include both a base salary and additional income from various sources.

Base Salary and Additional Income

Moser’s base salary is established at $300,000 per annum, directly paid by the university. In addition to this base amount, he receives $2.5 million annually as “additional outside income.” This supplementary income encompasses payments for personal services, fundraising efforts, public relations activities, and speaking engagements. This dual-structured compensation model is designed to reward Moser not only for his coaching responsibilities but also for his active involvement in promoting and representing the university’s athletic interests.

Incentive Structure

To encourage sustained success and long-term commitment, the contract incorporates several incentive-based components:

• Annual Raises: Beginning July 1, 2023, Moser’s total compensation increases by $100,000 annually. This increment reflects the university’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding performance and tenure.
• Stay Benefits: The contract includes retention bonuses to incentivize Moser’s continued association with OU. He is slated to receive a $400,000 bonus on April 1, 2022, followed by annual bonuses of $200,000 each May from 2024 through 2027. These bonuses serve as financial encouragements for Moser to fulfill the entirety of his contract term.
• Performance Bonuses: While specific performance-based incentives are not detailed in the available sources, it is customary for coaching contracts to include bonuses tied to athletic achievements. These may encompass milestones such as conference championships, NCAA tournament appearances, and other notable accomplishments.

Buyout Clause

The contract features a buyout clause applicable if either party opts to terminate the agreement prematurely. Should the university decide to terminate Moser’s contract without cause, it would be obligated to pay a buyout amount. Conversely, if Moser chooses to resign before the contract’s conclusion, he would be required to pay a buyout fee to the university. As of the latest reports, this buyout amount is approximately $7.5 million, underscoring the significant financial implications associated with early termination.

Comparative Context

In the landscape of collegiate basketball coaching, Moser’s compensation package positions him competitively among his peers. For context, his predecessor at OU, Lon Kruger, earned $3.2 million annually at the time of his retirement. Moser’s initial compensation aligns closely with this figure, reflecting the university’s recognition of his potential to elevate the program. Additionally, Moser’s salary is notably higher than that of the OU women’s basketball head coach, Jennie Baranczyk, who earns $475,000 annually, highlighting the market disparities between men’s and women’s collegiate basketball coaching salaries.

Professional Background

Before joining OU, Moser achieved significant success at Loyola University Chicago. His tenure there was highlighted by a historic Final Four run in 2018 and a subsequent Sweet 16 appearance in 2021. These accomplishments not only elevated the profile of Loyola’s basketball program but also solidified Moser’s reputation as a coach capable of maximizing team potential on the national stage.

Commitment to Oklahoma

Since his arrival at OU, Moser has consistently expressed a strong commitment to the university and its basketball program. Despite external speculation and interest from other institutions, he has publicly reaffirmed his dedication to the Sooners. In February 2023, amidst rumors linking him to the head coaching position at Notre Dame, Moser stated unequivocally, “I have no interest. I’ve not pursued it, nor do I have any interest. Oklahoma is my home. The Sooners are my home.”

Conclusion

Porter Moser’s contract with the University of Oklahoma reflects a comprehensive approach to securing a coach with a proven track record of success and a commitment to program development. The structured compensation, combined with performance incentives and retention bonuses, underscores the university’s investment in Moser’s leadership. As he continues to build the OU men’s basketball program, both the university and its supporters anticipate a future marked by competitive excellence and sustained success.