UNLV’s Tony Sanchez Lands Contract Extension


Tony Sanchez’s UNLV deal has been extended. The Rebels have signed their head football coach through the 2021 season.


After improving on his win total from his debut 2015 season, Tony Sanchez is getting rewarded.

UNLV announced in a press release on Friday night that the parties have reached an agreement in principle on a three-year contract extension. The new deal would keep the head coach in Las Vegas through the 2021 season.

Sanchez’s original deal was scheduled to run through the 2018 season.

“Tony signed a four-year contract and halfway through it, we are even more convinced he is the answer to the question of how to make UNLV football consistently successful,” athletic director Tina Kunzer-Murphy said. “Continuity is important in turning this program around and Tony’s success in building a roster, building the brand and building interest and support throughout the community has earned him an extension to see that vision realized.”

The Rebels went 4-8 last year, a one-win improvement from 2015. The three-win debut campaign was the most wins for a first-year Rebels head coach since John Robinson hit the same number in 1999.

Before arriving at UNLV, Sanchez compiled an 85-5 mark at national high school power Las Vegas Bishop Gorman, which won six NIAA 4A championships in his six seasons.

“I want to thank President [Len] Jessup and Tina for their continued support along with the entire Southern Nevada community, which has been unbelievable throughout our first two years here,” Sanchez said. “I am so excited to be leading UNLV football for years to come.”

It is unknown if Sanchez received a raise in the extension. Last season, Sanchez made $510,000.

MORE: National Signing Day Countdown: Instant Impact JUCO Transfers