Two days after his team was voted the preseason favorite in the Big East, DePaul women’s basketball head coach Doug Bruno was awarded with a contract extension that keeps him on the sidelines through the 2018-2019 season.

“What’s really important about the contract is that I really appreciate DePaul University’s trust in me to do this job,” Bruno said. “I want to thank Father Dennis Holtschneider and (Athletic Director) Jeanne Lenti Ponsetto for having the faith to sign me.”

Bruno is a women’s basketball coaching legend and has led DePaul’s program to unprecedented heights in his 28 years leading the team.

During his tenure, the Blue Demons have reached the NCAA tournament 18 times, including the current run of 11 consecutive appearances. His record at DePaul stands at 531-294. In addition to his various endeavors to promote women’s basketball around the country, Bruno also oversaw a team that finished No. 2 in the nation academically last season.

Bruno played at DePaul under Ray Meyer and led the Blue Demons in assists in the 1971-1972 season.

“I’ve had the great benefit of just coming into contact with this immense network of DePaul people. DePaul people are great people because they’re giving people,” Bruno said. “I’ve been blessed to have that connection to DePaul, DePaul’s values, and DePaul’s people. That’s what I feel most fortunate about.”

Bruno’s extension means he will see the finish to the careers of the 2015 recruiting class, which will ensure continuity and the long-term growth of the nation’s best programs.