It seems like Athletic Director [autotag]Pat Kraft[/autotag] has made his first big hire in his Penn State tenure. After the departure of [autotag]Micah Shrewsberry[/autotag] to Notre Dame, all eyes were on Kraft to see how he would approach finding a replacement.
[autotag]Mike Rhoades[/autotag] will be named the next head coach of the Penn State basketball program, leaving VCU after six seasons.
After an amazing March that was highlighted by a Big Ten Championship appearance and first round victory in the NCAA Tournament, it was clear there is a basketball fanbase at Penn State. These fans have been clamoring for the school to take basketball more seriously and put resources into the program.
Kraft said that he is willing to prioritize the basketball program. Those words were going to be tested after the Shrewsberry seemingly left for greener pastures in South Bend.
On the surface, it looks like Kraft delivered on his statement. Hiring Rhoades away from a strong mid-major program shows a commitment to getting top talent. It’s reported that Rhoades will be paid more than $3 million per year, double what his salary was at VCU.
With the new head coach set in stone, here are five things to know about Mike Rhoades.