LUBBOCK, Texas — Right after his Red Raider basketball team played in the national title game, Chris Beard was recognized by his boss, Texas Tech Athletic Director Kirby Hocutt, as the hottest name in college basketball coaching.

“There’s not a better coach for Texas Tech in this country than Chris Beard,” Hocutt said. Beard led the team to a Final Four win and a shot at the national title. Virginia beat Texas Tech in overtime; nevertheless, being the national runner up was best result ever for the men’s basketball team.

“The job he’s done is tremendous,” Hocutt said.

David Collier with KAMC’s Red Raider Nation asked Hocutt what he will do to keep Beard at Texas Tech. No doubt, other schools will try to recruit him.

“I think everyone knows we’re going to recognize that and be proactive,” Hocutt said.

“We’ll sit down in the next, I’m sure, 72 hours and have a chance to have a conversation about the future,” Hocutt said. “We’re going to be proactive and make sure this is the best place for him.”

“We’re going to continue to invest in the program like we have with the groundbreaking of the basketball center,” Hocutt said, referencing the Dustin R. Womble Basketball Center which has been described as a “milestone” for Texas Tech. “

We’re going to continue to invest in other aspects of the basketball program as well as coach Beard and his staff,” Hocutt said.

“I don’t think there’s a better job fit for coach Beard than at Texas Tech. I just think the fit is natural.”

Use the video link above to see Hocutt’s comments.

Texas Tech, the national championship game – complete coverage