Under the proposed three-year extension, Ault's base salary would remain at $360,000 a year. He would receive an additional $25,000 a year during the last four years of the contract.

Regents are scheduled to consider the recommendation when they meet Thursday in Reno.

UNR Athletic Director Cary Groth said extending Ault's contract will provide stability for the program and strengthen the school's recruiting ability.

"What we're trying to do is secure our coaches who are having success not only on the field, but who also are increasing our graduation rate," Groth said.

"Chris is doing that. If we can give that stability, we can continue to grow."

In June, regents approved a three-year contract extension for Nevada basketball coach Mark Fox through 2014. Fox receives a base salary of $400,000, with extra compensation of $100,000 a year paid by boosters and annual $25,000 cost-of-living increases.