FAIRFAX, Va. – George Mason University director of athletics Brad Edwards has announced a contract extension for men's basketball head coach Dave Paulsen through the 2021-22 campaign.
 
"It's a privilege to extend Dave's contract for another season," Edwards said. "In just two years, he's built a program of high character student-athletes, a staff that fosters personal development both academically and socially, and a team that's been recognized as one of the most improved on the court."
 
After inheriting a Patriot roster that posted a 10-22 record in 2014-15, Paulsen has led the Mason program back to its traditional winning ways in just two seasons at the helm. The Green & Gold won 20 games in 2016-17 and statistically ranked as one the top-20 most improved teams in the nation this past season. Mason set a new program record for Atlantic 10 victories (9) in 2016-17 and its 20 overall wins were the most by the program since 2012-13.
 
"I am excited to continue the progress we have made with our program and I am appreciative of the continuing support of President Cabrera and Brad Edwards," Paulsen said. "'Alignment' is a term often used, but less frequently found in collegiate athletics. I feel fortunate to have such strong alignment with my president and director of athletics. Together, we have witnessed progress on the court and in the community while enhancing the program with facility and infrastructure upgrades."
 
Paulsen arrived in Fairfax in spring 2016 and took over a team with just six returning scholarship players. But the Patriots meshed that returning core with a talented group of freshmen – including current Mason juniors Otis Livingston II and Jaire Grayer – to put together a season that included wins over Ole Miss, Oklahoma State, VCU, Davidson and Richmond.
 
Paulsen came to Mason from Bucknell, where in seven seasons he led the Bison to four Patriot League titles, two NCAA Tournament berths and two NIT appearances.
 
He also coached for eight seasons at his alma mater, Williams College, leading the Ephs to the 2003 NCAA Div. III National Championship and a berth in the 2004 National Championship game. He was named the NCAA Div. III National Coach of the Year in both 2003 and 2004.
 
Paulsen has recorded 427 wins and a career winning percentage of .632 in 23 seasons as a head coach.
 
His Patriot program returns three starters in 2017-18 and kicks off the season Nov. 10 with a home contest vs. Lafayette.
 
"We aren't satisfied with our achievements and I look forward to working together as we strive to bring Mason basketball back to the consistent level of national success that has fueled the program in its modern history," Paulsen said. "I'm thrilled to have begun preparations with this year's team in our new practice facility."
 
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