Johnny Dawkins’ three-year contract extension, announced May 28, includes a $300,000 raise for the upcoming 2026-27 season and higher potential earnings for performance bonuses, according to an executive summary provided to The News-Journal by UCF Athletics.
Dawkins, 62, will earn $2.5 million next year, up from a non-guaranteed $2.2 million figure on the final year of his previous deal. According to USA TODAY’s database of men’s college basketball coaching salaries, Dawkins is still the lowest-paid head coach among Big 12 Conference programs, though BYU did not report Kevin Young’s annual salary.
Dawkins’ new contract runs through the 2028-29 season. He will make $2.6 million and $2.7 million in the final two seasons, bringing the total value of the extension to $7.8 million.
“Johnny has led our men’s basketball program with outstanding poise and class,” UCF director of athletics Terry Mohajir said in a statement. “The stability and continuity he has provided have been, in my opinion, a major reason for the program’s growth. As a result, we’re excited to extend his contract. He is a strong leader and an outstanding role model for our young men.”
In addition, Dawkins could earn twice as much money for leading the Knights into the NCAA Tournament going forward as an at-large. This past season, he pocketed an extra $50,000 as UCF earned a No. 10 seed in the East Region.
That’s a significant development, considering the tournament field is set to expand to 76 teams beginning next year.
Here is a full breakdown of the contract, including bonuses Dawkins can accrue and terms regarding a future buyout:
UCF basketball coach Johnny Dawkins contract terms
Three years, $7.8 million in guaranteed compensation (beginning with 2026-27 season)
UCF basketball coach Johnny Dawkins performance bonuses
Team performance bonuses
NCAA Tournament bonuses (cumulative)
Coaching awards
Academic performance bonuses
Conduct bonuses
Total bonus compensation caps
UCF basketball coach Johnny Dawkins buyout
By UCF (termination without cause):
By Johnny Dawkins:
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Johnny Dawkins contract extension: What is UCF basketball coach’s new salary?
Reporting by Chris Boyle, Daytona Beach News-Journal / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
