UH advertising for hoops opening

The University of Hawaii is moving toward advertising an opening for a head coach for its men’s basketball team.

"I would guess that the position is going to get posted and a national search will begin," athletic director Ben Jay said Monday. Jay said it could be done shortly.

Benjy Taylor, who took over the team in the wake of Gib Arnold’s Oct. 28 dismissal, has so far turned down a proposed one-year extension that would take him through the 2015-16 season. Taylor’s current interim deal runs through this season.

Jay said, "(Taylor) has not entertained accepting the offer."

It is reportedly worth about $185,000.

Taylor’s agent, William Phillips, has sought a multi-year deal.

Taylor said, "Well, I haven’t had any conversations lately about anything in regards to my future. But you know, I’ve just been so busy winning basketball games. I know at some point, something’s going to have to be done for my future and for these kids’ future. Decisions are going to have to be made."

The Rainbow Warriors are 16-9 (4-5 in Big West play) with seven regular-season games remaining, plus the conference tournament. They host UC Riverside (11-12, 4-5) on Thursday.

"It’s the stretch drive of the season. We’ve dealt with uncertainty for five or six months," Taylor said. "It’s not fair to deal with it any longer than we have to, really. And I think it’s been a great opportunity for me. This is where I want to be. This is a great place. Whatever’s going to happen to us, I’m the best coach to get us through it, and these are the best players to get us through it. One senior. Whatever’s going to happen, this group has shown we can get through it with me at the helm. And at some point I hope people will understand that and see it and they’ll start talking about it."

When the position is posted, Taylor would be encouraged to apply, UH officials have said.