Despite a report that Arizona athletic director Desireé Reed-Francois is a finalist for the Wisconsin AD opening, sources indicate to AZ Band Cat Sports that the Wildcats’ AD is staying put in Tucson.
A UA spokesperson contacted AZ Band Cat Sports on Saturday, confirming that Reed-Francois “is not a finalist at Wisconsin.” The spokesperson also stated that Reed-Francois “did not interview at Wisconsin” and “has not interviewed anywhere else.”
The development comes following an initial statement issued by the UA to Michael Lev of the Arizona Daily Star. In the statement, Reed-Francois stated via a UA spokesperson she is “very happy where my feet are,” but did not directly comment on Wisconsin or name the institution specifically. See below for the full statement from the Arizona AD via a UA spokesperson:
“Anytime my name is connected to opportunities outside the University of Arizona, I see it as a testament to the momentum we have built together at Arizona Athletics. Our coaches, staff and student-athletes have worked with grit and integrity to move the Wildcats forward competitively, financially and culturally. That progress has been made possible by the unwavering support of university leadership and the extraordinary commitment of our donors and fans. We are proud of what we are building, and I am very happy where my feet are. Bear Down.”
The statements were issued following a report from WildcatAuthority.com that Reed-Francois “is considered a finalist for the Wisconsin AD job.” The original report also stated she “is involved with two to three others currently.”
Some believe the Arizona AD could be on the move following contentious contract negotiations with men’s basketball coach Tommy Lloyd, who led the Wildcats to their first Final Four appearance in 25 years. Lloyd’s newly inked contract extension gives more operational and financial authority to UA president Suresh Garimella, adding further speculation.
Reed-Francois arrived in Tucson in early 2024, helping correct the UA’s financial crisis due to a mismanagement of available cash. She secured nearly $90 million in naming rights for Casino Del Sol Stadium and the McKale Center at ALKEME Arena. She also helped secure a $5 million endowment for the Director of Athletics position from alumnus R. Ken Coit. Reed-Francois is also an alumna of the UA’s James E. Rogers College of Law, graduating with her juris doctor in 1997.