While he has been hiring a men’s basketball coach, incoming athletic director David Matlin said he also hopes to retain women’s coach Laura Beeman.

Matlin said he and Beeman, who is reported to be one of three finalists for the University of Utah vacancy, "are talking."

Matlin, who officially takes over April 27, declined to discuss the substance of their talks.

"What I will say about Laura is she is very valued. She has done a great job winning with integrity. I think she demonstrated that on and off the court, so our goal is we want to keep her within the (financial) constraints we have."

Beeman’s latest contract, which was signed in December, is for three years and is believed to pay her approximately $160,000 annually. The salary range for the position is $118,488-$209,784.

Anthony Levrets, who was fired by the Utes after five seasons, had an annual salary of $313,183.

Matlin said, "We’re talking. And, as I would expect, she’s been handling this in a very professional manner and I appreciate that. It just proves who she is."

Beeman did not return calls to the Star-Advertiser.

She took UH to a 23-9 record and the regular season Big West championship this season. She is 57-37 at UH.

She served on the search advisory committee for the men’s basketball coach.