BUFFALO, NY; After winning 20 games four straight seasons University at Buffalo women's basketball coach Sal Buscaglia received a well-earned pat on the back from UB Director of Athletics Nelson E. Townsend. Townsend has given Buscaglia a three-year extension onto his current contract which will keep the Buffalo native at the school at least through the year 2000-2001.

Townsend called the extension an easy decision based on Buscaglia's record of 137-61 since arriving at UB six seasons ago. "Sal has had an exceptional tenure here at UB characterized by teams that have excelled both on the court and in the classroom," said Townsend. "We feel that is essential that the University recognize his accomplishments and award him an extended contract to lead the women's basketball program into the next century."

Buscaglia owns an overall collegiate mark of 386-123 over 15 seasons and has twice led the Bulls women's basketball program to a school-record 23 wins (1991-92 and 1995-96). Last year his team posted its fourth straight 20-plus win season by finishing 22-6 and earned Top 25 votes from both USA Today and the Associated Press during the regular season.

In his tenure at UB, Buscaglia has won four Division I conference championships and has twice been named New York State Division I Coach of the Year. He came to UB after leading Hilbert College to eight consecutive National Junior College Regional Championships.

"I'm very happy to be offered and accept this extension of my contract as it further indicates the administration's commitment to the women's basketball program." said Buscaglia. "I'm very proud of the success we've had to date and am optimistic that it will continue and move forward."