USC Upstate gives Payne extension

Spartanburg, SC – South Carolina Upstate has given men's basketball coach Eddie Payne a contract extension through the 2015-16 season.

Payne has guided the USC Upstate program for the past 11 years, helping the Spartans transition from Division II to Division I in 2007.

The Spartans were 21-13 last season, tied for second in the Atlantic Sun Conference and landed a bid to the College Insider Tournament. For his efforts, Payne was rewarded with the A-Sun Coach of the Year honor.

"This contract extension and commitment from the university will signal to prospective recruits that our program is in a great place as we strive to win an A-Sun championship," said Upstate athletic director Mike Hall.

USC Upstate opens the 2012-13 season on Nov. 9 at Saint Louis.