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Iona will keep Tim Cluess

Iona v Ohio State

DAYTON, OH - MARCH 22: Head coach Tim Cluess of the Iona Gaels talks to Tavon Sledge #3 in the first half against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second round of the 2013 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament at UD Arena on March 22, 2013 in Dayton, Ohio. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images)

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Iona head coach Tim Cluess, who led the Gaels to the NCAA tournament in back-to-back seasons, has confirmed that he plans to stay in New Rochelle for the foreseeable future.

“I’m excited about the coming season and continuing to build on our success. I believe in the future of men’s basketball and the College itself,” Cluess said in a statement released by the college. “President Nyre and the entire Iona community have been so supportive of me and our program.”

Cluess was considered a flight risk after Hofstra fired Mo Cassara two weeks ago. Cluess played for Hofstra in the early 80s, and was reported to be in negotiations with his alma mater.

No details of the deal have been released as yet, but Iona was wise to make the proactive gesture as a helping hand for Cluess. As much as he might love Hofstra, the program is in disarray right now, and a new contract allows him to say no without openly embarrassing his former school.

The Pride may be more likely to land an up-and-coming assistant who will happily take on the rebuilding process at this point. The allure of the CAA has dimmed considerably with the recent departures of George Mason, VCU and Old Dominion.

To follow along with the 2013 Coaching Carousel, click here.