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OXFORD, Ohio -- Charlie Coles is all but guaranteed to be the winningest basketball coach at Miami of Ohio when his new deal is done.

The RedHawks announced Thursday that Coles signed a three-year extension through the 2008-09 season.

Coles, who will be entering his 11th season with Miami in the fall, stands just 42 wins shy of becoming the school's all-time winningest coach. So far, Coles' 175-126 (.581) mark stands second behind Darrell Hedric, who compiled a 216-157 record from 1970-84.

"I am pleased that Charlie has a strong desire to continue leading our men's basketball program, and this well-deserved contract extension is an example of our desire to have him continue guiding this program," Miami athletic director Brad Bates said. "Behind his charismatic disposition is the heart of a fiery competitor who demands maximum effort to achieve the lofty goals the team places upon themselves."

In his previous 10 seasons, Coles, 64, has guided the RedHawks to three Mid-American Conference championships, a MAC tournament title in 1997 and four bids to postseason play, including the NCAA Tournament in 1997 and 1999. Helped by star shooter Wally Szczerbiak, Miami reached the NCAA regional semifinals in 1999.

"We have been able to do some great things and have had some tremendous players come through this program, but there is so much more that our staff and our players aspire to accomplish," Coles said. "I am eager to continue working with our staff to tap all of the potential our players have to offer and continue bringing in quality student-athletes to Miami to see how much further we can push the success of this program."

In 16 seasons, including six with MAC member Central Michigan, Coles has amassed a 267-210 (.560) overall record and 165-113 (.594) mark within league play. He needs 30 league wins to surpass Toledo's Bob Nichols to become the conference's all-time winningest coach.

Last season, the RedHawks went 18-11 en route to earning a second consecutive bid in the NIT Tournament.