Mar. 30—Here's what people are saying about the UNM Lobos hiring former UC San Diego coach Eric Olen as men's basketball coach:
"We're thrilled to welcome Eric Olen as the new head coach of Lobo men's basketball. Eric is a proven winner with an incredible track record. Beyond the accolades and success on the court, he is a values-driven leader who puts student-athletes first. We're confident he'll bring tremendous energy and vision to our program. Please join me in giving a warm welcome to Eric, his wife Lauren, and their daughters Avery and Madeline — we're excited to have them join the Lobo family here in Albuquerque."
— Fernando Lobo, UNM vice president/director of athletics
----"Eric Olen has proven he is a winner and a builder. He's also got a system that works. Lobos fans can expect a team that will turn teams over and be able to score. Looking forward to seeing how Olen can continue the tradition of a consistent conference title contender in the years to come."
— Andy Katz, national college basketball reporter, NCAA.com/Turner Sports, former Lobos beat reporter with the Albuquerque Journal
----"Coach Eric Olen has been a tremendous asset in The Big West. His leadership, coaching acumen, and recruiting prowess have set a high standard. The University of New Mexico is fortunate to have him, and we wish him continued success in this new chapter. He will undoubtedly be missed in The Big West, and his contributions will leave a lasting impact on UC San Diego."
— Dan Butterly, Big West commissioner and former deputy commissioner of the Mountain West, overseeing men's basketball
----"The guy can flat-out coach. Period. He just pulled off one of the most impressive coaching jobs in the last decade, and people on the west coast have known about Olen for a while. He may not have the big-time personality or the name of Richard Pitino, but as long as he has the resources and builds a quality staff, there's no reason to believe the Lobos won't still be in the NCAA tourney under Olen."
— Jeff Goodman, national college basketball reporter, Field of 68 podcast network
----"I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Eric Olen for his exceptional leadership and mentorship — his contributions have elevated this program to new heights."
— Clint Allard, former assistant coach promoted Sunday to replace Olen as head coach at UCSD
----"Eric Olen is one of the elite offensive minds in college basketball. New Mexico didn't just hit a double or triple with this hire — it hit a home run."
— Jon Rothstein, CBS Sports
----"This is a great opportunity for Eric and his family. I appreciate all that he did for our basketball program, UC San Diego athletics and the university over the years. I know he will do well at New Mexico."
— Earl Edwards, athletic director at UC San Diego to the San Diego Union-Tribune
