Hubert Davis entered his role as UNC’s head coach with high expectations, especially after leading the Tar Heels to an unexpected Final Four appearance in 2022. However, the last two seasons have left many fans frustrated. A failure to reach the NCAA Tournament in 2023, combined with slow starts, defensive struggles, and disappointing losses this season, has turned up the heat on Davis’s tenure. Fans are questioning whether he’s the right fit to lead one of college basketball’s most storied programs.
Most regret showing up at all. Fire Hubert
— Mark Paschal (@markpaschal) December 5, 2024
When considering a coaching change, UNC fans and administrators must evaluate the financial implications of Davis’s contract, including his salary, performance incentives, and buyout terms. Here’s a closer look at the details.
Hubert Davis Contract
Hubert Davis signed a six-year contract in August 2022, extending through the 2027-28 season. The contract is valued at approximately $16.7 million, with the following salary breakdown:
- Base Salary: $400,000 annually.
- Supplemental Pay: Ranges from $1.5 million to $2.1 million over the life of the deal, tied to media appearances and other obligations.
- Retention Bonus: Davis earns $250,000 annually if he remains head coach on specific contract dates.
Hubert Davis Incentives
Davis’s contract includes multiple performance-based bonuses:
- ACC Regular Season Championship: $50,000
- ACC Tournament Championship: $50,000
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NCAA Tournament Bonuses:
- Appearance: $100,000
- Round of 32: $100,000
- Sweet 16: $75,000
- Elite Eight: $200,000
- Final Four: $200,000
- National Championship: $250,000
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Coach of the Year:
- ACC: $25,000
- National: $50,000
- Academic Progress Rate (APR) of 975 or higher: $75,000
These bonuses provide strong financial incentives tied to team and individual achievements.
Hubert Davis Buyout
If UNC terminates his contract without cause, the school owes him the remaining base salary for the life of the contract. Here’s how the buyout decreases over time:
- After 2023-24 season: $1.6 million
- After 2024-25 season: $1.2 million
- After 2025-26 season: $800,000
- After 2026-27 season: $400,000
Commentary
Firing Hubert Davis may not be as expensive as initially assumed. The buyout only includes his base salary of $400,000 annually, meaning UNC would owe him approximately $1.6 million if terminated after the 2024 season, or less if closer to the end of his contract. This figure excludes the larger supplemental compensation, making the financial burden of parting ways with Davis manageable compared to other high-profile, college basketball coaches.
This relatively modest buyout could embolden UNC to make a change if dissatisfaction among fans and stakeholders continues to grow. It also allows the program to reset without the financial strain that often accompanies firing a head coach mid-contract. The decision ultimately hinges on whether the administration believes Davis can right the ship or if fresh leadership is needed to restore the program to its usual competitive standard.
