Most of us could use a big payday these days, or at least a payday loan. For former Xavier men’s basketball head coach Sean Miller, the former has come.

Reid Cherner and Tom Weir of USA Today report that Miller has agreed (after saying no the day before) to coach the Arizona Wildcats next season. The deal is for seven years of service. Compensation will be $18 million, which includes a $1 million signing bonus.

Build it, dump it

Miller led the Xavier Musketeers to two Elite 8s and a Sweet 16 in his five years behind the helm at that university. Miller, who is 40 years old, compiled a total record of 120 wins, 47 losses  at Xavier. His coaching and recruiting abilities made the school a basketball force in the Atlantic 10 conference.

According to Cherner and Weir, the Cincinnati Enquirer reported that Miller told Xavier Athletic Director Mike Bobinski of his decision on Monday, April 6. The Associated Press, citing information from an individual familiar with the decision, said that Miller accepted the Arizona Wildcats job on that date. This came after “days of uncertainty.”

Xavier players and recruits left in the lurch

B.J. Raymond, a current Xavier player, didn’t hear the news from his coach. The Enquirer broke the news to the graduating swingman. “He’s out. They just told me,” was Raymond’s response.

Now that Miller’s departure is definite, Xavier’s incoming class is jumping ship. Touted high school recruit J.D. Weatherspoon has already said he is going to go back on his commitment to the school.

“I want to reopen my recruitment,” he said. “Xavier is still on my list, but I want to wait and see who they get as a coach.”

Weatherspoon told the Columbus Dispatch that he is willing to consider signing with Arizona if Sean Miller pursues him.

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