Scott Forbes Signed UNC Baseball Extension
The University of North Carolina has extended its head baseball coach's contract through June 2032.
Updated on Sept. 21, 2026 in Baseball
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The University of North Carolina Board of Governors approved a multi-year contract extension for head baseball coach Scott Forbes on September 17, 2026. The new agreement, which includes extensions for the entire coaching staff, runs through June 30, 2032.
Why it matters
This long-term deal signals the university administration's increased commitment and financial support for the baseball program in Chapel Hill. The extension aims to provide stability for the coaching staff as they look toward future seasons.
Forbes will earn an annual salary starting at $1.2 million, escalating to $2 million by the final year of the deal. The contract also provides a $1.55 million annual staff salary pool and a $1.15 million operating budget for the program.
The players
Scott Forbes
He is the head baseball coach at the University of North Carolina and is a native of Sanford, North Carolina.
Eric McKibban
He is the newly hired strength and conditioning coach for the University of North Carolina baseball program.
University of North Carolina Board of Governors
This body is the primary governing authority responsible for approving high-level administrative and athletic contracts for the university system.
The details
The contract includes $820,000 in revenue sharing for the 2028 fiscal year and eligibility for up to $500,000 in annual performance bonuses. As part of the program's expanded support, Eric McKibban joined the team as the new strength and conditioning coach in September.
Timeline
June 30, 2026: The term sheet for the extension was signed.
July 1, 2026: The new contract officially took effect.
September 10, 2026: Eric McKibban was hired as a strength and conditioning coach.
September 17, 2026: The Board of Governors approved the final contract.
Season Trajectory
This long-term financial commitment stabilizes the program's leadership through 2032, allowing the coaching staff to focus on sustained recruiting and long-term competitiveness. It signals a shift toward treating the baseball program as a premier investment within the university's athletic department.
The secured $1.55 million staff salary pool and $1.15 million operating budget indicate increased resources for player development and facilities. These investments provide the coaching staff with the financial flexibility to retain support personnel and maintain a high-level training environment.
The takeaway
This agreement provides the University of North Carolina baseball program with significant financial stability and increased resources for the next several years. By investing in a large staff salary pool and operational budget, the university has prioritized long-term development over immediate results.
Further reading
For more on the program's leadership and upcoming schedule, visit Baseball.
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