Had he continued as the Bulldogs coach, Georgia would have paid Crean $ 7.2 million over the next two years. Instead, the acquisition clause starts from the original six-year contract signed on March 15, 2018, “at the end of the 2021-22 season” which reduces that number to $ 3.2 million. Crane, who has appointed attorney Tom Mars to represent him, does not object to these terms.
Neither Mars nor Crane have commented on UGA’s work. On Thursday, Mars noted that Crean’s contract requires seven days’ written notice before the split occurs. Brooks delivered that notice when he met Crane on Thursday.
He practiced as a lawyer in Northwest Arkansas and a former Walmart litigator who practiced law in Atlanta until recently. He is best known for representing NCAA athletes on eligibility issues and for leading efforts to change legislation to allow for one-time transfers.
After working for some time in the NCAA’s Complex Enforcement Problems Unit, Mars returned to represent coaches in contract disputes. New clients include Brian Harsin of Auburn University and Jim Harbaugh of Michigan. He successfully represented Houston manager Nate in a lawsuit against Ole Miss several years ago.
Brooks offered Crean the opportunity to step down on Feb.23 and accept the $ 3.2 million acquisition, but Crean declined, people familiar with the situation told the AJC. Why the Bulldogs did not provide Crean termination notice a week ago is unclear.
Meanwhile, the Bulldogs are serious about training with the help of Atlanta-based research firm Parker Executive Search. Two Georgia targets – Andy Enfield of the University of Southern California and Steve Forbes of Wake Forest – have accepted contract extensions from their current employers.
At least two other candidates still play for Cleveland State manager Dennis Gates and assistant manager Xavier Jonas Hayes. Both teams were eliminated in conference tournaments this week, as Hayes’ musketeers bounced back in extra time from Butler at the Big East Championships in New York.
The UGA may also seek an audience with Murray State manager Matt McMahon. Team leader Bob Ritchie coach and Chattanooga manager Lamont Paris are among several mid-level coaches who have expressed interest in the opening of the UGA, according to people familiar with the situation.
