Utah State's Scott Barnes To Be Named New Pitt Athletic Director

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Pitt's search for a new athletic director has come to an end.

According to KDKA-TV's Rich Walsh, Pitt has hired Scott Barnes of Utah State University as their new athletic director.

Barnes was Pitt's number one choice and was in town for an interview on Monday. The decision to hire him was made later that evening.

The Board of Trustees still has to vote, but they are expected to vote in favor of Barnes.

An official press conference is expected either Thursday or Friday.

Barnes also had a secret meeting with Chancellor Gallagher during the Final Four in Indianapolis.

Other finalists included, Boise State's Mark Coyle, Villanova's Vince Nicastro and Northern Illinois' Sean Frazier.

Pitt planned on having other candidates in this week, but only after Barnes' meeting.

According to a Cardiac Hill report, one of the more appealing aspects to Barnes was his fundraising ability.

During his six years at Utah State, he helped facilitate the school's move to the Mountain West Conference along with a $2.4 million sponsorship from Nike.

On top of his duties at Utah State this past year, Barnes also served as the NCAA Tournament selection committee chairman.

His work also resulted in several multi-million dollar donations.

Pitt has called a press conference for Friday at 3 p.m. to make an official announcement.

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