Shaka Smart said his decision to continue coaching at Virginia Commonwealth "came down to the fact that I love it at VCU."

Smart turned down an offer from Illinois that reportedly was worth about $2.5 million per year.

"My family is really, really happy in the city of Richmond," Smart said. "We have a great group of guys. We have some of the best fans in the country. It's just a great situation.

"A coach told me a long time ago, don't run away from happiness, and that's what we have at VCU."