Alford a Lobo through 2020

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - New Mexico basketball coach, Steve Alford, said all along that he was in for the long haul as a Lobo.  The University of New Mexico released the details of a contract that will keep Alford in Cherry and Silver until the 2019-2020 season Tuesday. 

The two-time, Mountain West Conference Basketball Coach of the Year will get a $145,000 increase from 2009's salary. 

Alford's total compensation package will be $1.149 million for the current fiscal year began July 1. Alford can earn an additional $625,000 in 2010-11 by meeting performance-based incentives. 

The contract extension also includes something Alford hasn't had in 20 years of coaching. The contract has a buyout clause that would cost Alford $400,000 if he decides to leave prior to March 31, 2011.  The buyout clause continues through 2013, decreasing to $150,000 if Alford leaves on or after April 1, 2013.