DAYTON, Ohio -- The University of Dayton said it has reached an oral agreement with Basketball Coach Brian Gregory to extend his contract five years through the 2017-18 season.

Athletics Director Tim Wabler said that both parties will hammer out a written contract after the basketball season is over.

Gregory said a long-term committment from Dayton is essential for recruiting.

Gregory, 42, has led the Flyers to 49 victories the past two seasons. Their highest two-year total since winning 50 games from 1954 to 1956. He has a 124-67 record in six seasons at Dayton, which plays in the Atlantic 10.

Gregory is in Minneapolis with the team preparing for a first-round match against West Virginia in the NCAA Tournament on Friday.