UCLA will continue its long search for a new head coach after top candidate Rick Barnes decided to remain with Tennessee despite a lucrative offer from the Bruins. Barnes finalized his decision on Monday after the Volunteers reportedly countered with a new offer.
The Bruins fired former head coach Steve Alford on Dec. 31 after six years, and the Bruins finished the season 17–16 under interim coach Murry Bartow.
Barnes is the latest candidate to turn down UCLA. Virginia's Tony Bennett, who won the NCAA national championship with the Cavaliers on Monday, turned down the job.