Greenberg Gets New Deal That Ends Interest in USC

Seth Greenberg, Long Beach State basketball coach, accepted an upgraded contract offer Tuesday and is no longer a candidate for the USC job held by interim Coach Charlie Parker.

Although terms were not released, a Long Beach administration source said the contract covers five years and includes a “roll over” after two years, essentially providing the coach with an on-going five-year deal.

Greenberg, 38, will receive about $175,000 per year, including payment from a shoe contract, television and radio shows, basketball camps and other performance-based incentives, a Long Beach official said. Long Beach has also allocated money for a secretary and pledged to build offices in the Pyramid by August for Greenberg and his staff.

“I’m very flattered that a school of USC’s prestige and reputation would have an interest in having me become their next basketball coach,” said Greenberg, who has a career record of 85-56. “But I’m happy at Long Beach and we’re not done building.”

Long Beach Athletic Director Dave O’Brien offered the improved contract last week after reports surfaced that USC Athletic Director Mike Garrett had asked permission to interview the coach.

Already among the highest-paid coaches in the Big West Conference, Greenberg had three years remaining on his previous deal that paid him about $150,000 per year in total compensation.

“We’re thrilled,” O’Brien said. “We think this shows a huge vote of confidence (by Greenberg) in the future of Long Beach State athletics.”

The 49ers, 17-7 overall and 13-3 in the Big West, lead the Big West.

In a separate matter, USA Basketball said Greenberg will coach the West team at the 1995 U.S. Olympic Festival July 21-30 in Denver.