COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) South Carolina and Chattanooga's Lamont Paris have reached a five-year deal for him to become the next men's basketball coach, a person with direct knowledge of the decision told The Associated Press.

The person spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity Tuesday because South Carolina has not announced the deal, which was first reported by ESPN. Any hiring would have to be approved by the school's board of trustees before it becomes official.

Paris would take over for Frank Martin, who was fired last week after 10 seasons with just one NCAA Tournament appearance. He would become the first Black men's basketball head coach at South Carolina.