UNLV basketball coach Dave Rice received a five-year contract that keeps him signed through the 2016-17 season, it was announced Thursday.

The announcement came after the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents voted to approve Rice’s deal, along with contracts for women’s basketball coach Kathy Olivier and new softball coach Lisa Dodd. Like Rice, Olivier, who’s in her fifth year with the Lady Rebels, is also signed through the 2016-17 season. Dodd received a three-year contract.

“We are very happy with these contract approvals,” UNLV Athletic Director Jim Livengood said. “I would like to thank the Board of Regents and UNLV President Neal Smatresk for their continued support of UNLV Athletics and these three fine coaches, who are wonderful representatives for UNLV and our student-athletes.”

Rice is entering his second season leading the Rebels. In his debut, Rice went 26-7 and fell in the Rebels’ first game of the NCAA Tournament. Since then he and his staff polished off a top 10 recruiting class and enter the 2012-13 season with lofty expectations.

Taylor Bern can be reached at 948-7844 or [email protected]. Follow Taylor on Twitter at twitter.com/taylorbern.