CHATTER: LMU EXTENDS COACH'S CONTRACT.

Byline: Ramona Shelburne  Staff Writer

After leading the Loyola Marymount women's basketball team to its first West Coast Conference title and NCAA Tournament appearance, coach Julie Wilhoit was given a two-year contract extension, athletic director Dr. William Husak announced. Wilhoit's contract, which had two seasons remaining, now runs through 2008.

``I love working at LMU,'' said Wilhoit, who is 236-210 in 16 seasons as a collegiate coach. ``I love being part of an organization whose philosophy of higher education in not only mission but vision so closely mirrors mine as a coach.''

She was given the task of rebuilding the LMU program that had gone 6-21 and finished eighth in the WCC in 1994-95. During Wilhoit's tenure, the program has made great strides, including its 2004 achievements of the school-record 24-6 finish, first WCC regular-season and tournament titles and first NCAA Tournament appearance. ...

This summer, the original Harlem Globetrotters will provide a safe, educational and memorable week of basketball and instruction during Harlem Globetrotters Summer Youth Basketball Camps at cities across the country, including one in Van Nuys from June 21-25.

Globetrotter Vun Wersher will be in town Monday to promote the camp.

Harlem Globetrotters players and coaches will be at Montclair Prep in Panorama City. For information, call 818-425-8737, 602-258-0000 or visit www.harlemglobetrotters.com.

Ramona Shelburne, [phone]

ramona.shelburne(at)dailynews.com