Butler extends contract of head coach Kurt Godlevske

CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 03: Butler Bulldogs head coach Kurt Godlevske discusses with team during the game against the Providence Lady Friars on March 3, 2018 at the Wintrust Arena located in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - MARCH 03: Butler Bulldogs head coach Kurt Godlevske discusses with team during the game against the Providence Lady Friars on March 3, 2018 at the Wintrust Arena located in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Quinn Harris/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)

Can the Bulldogs find long-term success?

After a season to remember, Butler women’s basketball announced Monday that reigning Big East Coach of the Year Kurt Godlevske signed a multi-year deal to remain the Bulldogs’ head coach.

“I would like to thank Butler University President James Danko and Vice President/Director of Athletics Barry Collier for their confidence in me to lead our women’s basketball program,” Godlevske said. “Thank you to all of our Butler Athletic supporters including past and current players. I look forward to continuing to build our program both on and off the floor. It’s an honor to continue to serve you!”

Last season, his fifth with the team, Godlevske guided the Bulldogs to a third-place finish in Big East play (11-7, 23-10 overall) behind stalwarts Marquette and DePaul. Butler ended the season with a trip to the WNIT, its first postseason appearance since 2014 and first ever under Godlevske.

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The Bulldogs were a defensive menace in 2018-19, posting conference bests in defensive scoring average and steals. This production led to Butler receiving votes in the AP and USA TODAY polls for the first time as part of the Big East.

“Our women’s basketball program took a large step on the court last season,” said Butler Vice President and Director of Athletics Barry Collier. “This contract extension showcases our belief that Kurt can continue to build our program to be competitive in the BIG EAST on an annual basis while also delivering a quality experience for our student-athletes.”

The Bulldogs finished fifth in the Big East in Godlevske’s first season and spent time at or near the bottom of the standings the next three years before their breakout 2018-19 season.

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