Big East associate commissioner Dan Gavitt has been hired as vice president in charge of the NCAA men's basketball tournament.
Gavitt, who had been in charge of Big East men's basketball, will assume a newly formed position created by NCAA executive vice president Mark Lewis.
The announcement was made Thursday.
The men's basketball committee met in Salt Lake City this week to discuss a number of issues, and Gavitt's hiring is expected to be warmly received. The move was applauded by former Big East commissioner Mike Tranghese.
"It is great for Dan, for the NCAA and college basketball," Tranghese said. "He is really excited about it. The basketball committee wanted someone with strong basketball ties, and he is the right person."
Lewis also has been attempting to hire a vice president in charge of the women's basketball tournament, and one in charge of commercial marketing.
Former vice president Greg Shaheen previously had been in charge of the men's tournament, as well as commercial marketing.
Gavitt long has been lauded for his demeanor and ability to get along with coaches and administrators. He also has helped with television negotiations at the Big East.
Gavitt is the son of late basketball Hall of Fame member Dave Gavitt, founder of the Big East.