re: Sam Pittman is a terrible head coach

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Pittman has the rare performance-based buyout. If fired without cause, he’s owed 75% of his remaining contract. However, if Pittman’s record is below .500 when he’s fired, he’s only owed 50% of his remaining contract.

Pittman is currently 21-18 as Arkansas’ head coach. Per the terms of his incentive-heavy extension that was signed after the 2021 season, Pittman’s 7-win season in 2022 meant that he got an extra year added and a $250,000 bump to $5.25 million annually through the 2027 season. That means after the 2023 season, he has $21 million remaining on his deal. If his total record at Arkansas is below .500 at season’s end, his buyout is a very affordable $10.5 million. He would have to finish 4-8 or worse this season to fall below .500. If Pittman’s Arkansas record is at or above .500 at season’s end, his buyout would be $15.75 million.

In other words, 1 game could have a $5.25 million difference in Pittman’s buyout. That could absolutely impact Yurachek’s decision if that’s indeed one he has to make.

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