Henson had two years remaining on his original four-year contract signed in 1998. The extension was officially ratified today by the school's Board of Regents.

"I appreciate the opportunity to continue serving in the capacity of head basketball coach of my alma mater," Henson said. "My intention is to keep the basketball program on a firm foundation both academically and athletically."

Henson is the winningest coach in both New Mexico State and Illinois history and led both schools to the Final Four. Last season, his third year of his second stint as the Aggies' coach, he guided New Mexico State to a 22-10 mark and a National Invitation Tournament berth.

"Coach Henson has done an exceptional job in leading our men's basketball program," NMSU athletics director Brian Faison said. "We are excited that coach Henson has agreed to this contract extension."

Henson was named interim coach of the Aggies in October of 1997, replacing Neil McCarthy, who was reassigned as assistant athletic director while the school was placed on probation for academic fraud. After leading the Aggies to an 18-12 record, Henson was named permanent coach and given a four-year contract.

Henson previously served as the Aggies coach from 1966-75, compiling a 173-71 record. He led New Mexico State to six NCAA Tournaments, including the Final Four in 1970.

In 1975, he took over at Illinois, where he posted a 423-224 record in 21 seasons and led the Illini to 12 NCAA Tournaments, including the 1989 Final Four. He retired from Illinois following the 1995-96 season.

In 37 seasons overall, Henson has compiled a 726-363 career record and led his teams to 19 NCAA Tournament bids and three NIT appearances.