Coaching Contracts: When is a Done Deal Done?

By Donald Chance Mark, Jr.   A recent appellate court decision in Minnesota has affirmed a trial court’s jury verdict holding basketball coach Tubby Smith and the University of Minnesota responsible for damages caused to Jimmy Williams. Williams, a long-time assistant coach, was awarded in excess of $1.2 million in May of 2010 for the treatment he received when he was offered a job as an assistant coach on the staff being assembled by recently hired head coach Tubby Smith. The offer was s