MSU to extend contracts of football, women's basketball coaches

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The head coaches of Missouri State University's football and women's basketball program are slated to receive contract extensions as the school starts its transition into Conference USA.

MSU announced in a news release Friday that Ryan Beard of the Bears football team and Beth Cunningham of the Lady Bears basketball team are in line for base salary increases as part of their new contracts. The contracts are subject to formal approval by the MSU Board of Governors during its June 21 meeting.

Beard's new five-year agreement extends his contract through Jan. 14, 2029. The contract has a base salary of $315,000 this season, which increases to $450,000 in its second year and MSU's first season in CUSA. More salary increases are planned in the contract in years three through five, and incentive pay for victories, postseason appearances, attendance and other metrics is included, according to the release.

"Our commitment to excellence in all areas of our program will not waver as we navigate this historic move to (Football Bowl Subdivision)," Beard said in the release.

Beard was appointed as head football coach in December 2022 after the exit of Bobby Petrino, according to past Springfield Business Journal reporting. His starting base salary was $275,000. Beard led the team to a 4-7 record in 2023.

Cunningham's new contract extends her agreement through May 31, 2030, according to the release. Her base salary is slated to rise to $385,000 in year one and $405,000 in year two, with more increases in years three through six. Incentive pay also is included.

"I am extremely proud and grateful for the opportunity to be the leader of the Lady Bears program for years to come. As we continue to build upon the success of the last two seasons, I want our fans to know that my hungry and committed players and staff are already hard at work on building a tough and connected team this summer," Cunningham said in the release.

Cunningham has a 43-22 overall record leading the Lady Bears basketball team.