College basketball coaching changes

[MrBug708]

Not sure if there was a thread, but Anthony Grant takes the Alabama job

[sterlingice]

At least spell his name right ;)

SI

[wade moore]

Oh goody. Time to go to the CAA Boards and watch it go berserk.

[Ksyrup]

LOL, this morning's Herald-Leader has 7 pages devoted to the UK coaching change. That's the first 7 pages of section A. And that doesn't count 2 of the 6 pages of the Sports section also talking about it.

[OldGiants]

I'm rooting hard for current VCU assistant Tony Pujol to get the head coach job at VCU since his oldest daughter was in my wife's class and I got to teach her as a sub. His middle daughter will likely be in my wife's class next year, too, assuming they stay in Chesterfield county. My wife really liked the parents even before she learned he was a VCU coach.

And she loves seeing the kids on the sidelines during VCU broadcasts.

[MrBug708]

Pitino and Calipari are saying all the right things about the open jobs and I think they aren't going anywhere

[wade moore]

I'm rooting hard for current VCU assistant Tony Pujol to get the head coach job at VCU since his oldest daughter was in my wife's class and I got to teach her as a sub. His middle daughter will likely be in my wife's class next year, too, assuming they stay in Chesterfield county. My wife really liked the parents even before she learned he was a VCU coach.

And she loves seeing the kids on the sidelines during VCU broadcasts.

It sounds like it's between Pujol, a Florida assistant, and a Texas assistant - so he seems to have a decent shot.

[Swaggs]

Pitino apparently was not interested, at all, when the UK job was open two years ago. I think he is happy at Louisville.

[Chief Rum]

Pitino apparently was not interested, at all, when the UK job was open two years ago. I think he is happy at Louisville.

Seems that most of the speculation (and I consider it just that) are not on the UK job but on the Arizona job, with regards to Pitino at least.

[Radii]

Seems that most of the speculation (and I consider it just that) are not on the UK job but on the Arizona job, with regards to Pitino at least.

Is there any reason he would want to leave Louisville for Arizona, other than the fact that he just seems unable to stay at one place too long and he's been at Louisville awhile?

Prestige wise, it seems like a lateral move, Louisville's history with Denny Crum may not be quite what Arizona had with Lute Olsen but its not like Arizona would be a huge step up or anything.

[Chief Rum]

Is there any reason he would want to leave Louisville for Arizona, other than the fact that he just seems unable to stay at one place too long and he's been at Louisville awhile?

Prestige wise, it seems like a lateral move, Louisville's history with Denny Crum may not be quite what Arizona had with Lute Olsen but its not like Arizona would be a huge step up or anything.

You would have to ask him. Now that L'ville's in the Big East, I don't see a big difference.

That said, Arizona has had a longer, more recent string of success (referring to the last 20 years or so), and there are a ton of good ballers in CA to recruit off of with not as much competition (which is why Olson was successful at AZ). Plus, for AZ, basketball is their premier position in the department, so they'll spend for it, and it seems likely Pitino will like living in Tucson more than Louisville.

Finally, against all odds, Pitino was mentioned a TON when the UCLA spot was open. Now, UCLA is quite a different spot than Arizona, of course, but the intimation we heard out here during all that was that Pitino actually wanted to come out west, that he liked the concept of playing the Left Coast. Since he was never offered the job (the flirtation was the year before Lavin was fired), I don't think anything was ever confirmed, nor did he speak publically about it.

[lordscarlet]

There go my dreams of Grant going to UVA.

[OldGiants]

There go my dreams of Grant going to UVA.

I don't think Grant was ever on the UVA radar screen, which was a shame.

The Richmond newspaper mentioned the VCU AD interviewed the guys from Florida and Texas (whose sole accomplishment appears to have been recruiting Durant for one year) already and said the AD plans to make a decision by Thursday. The paper also implies Pujol is the leading candidate.

I have to laugh at the local radio guy who claims to have 'lots of inside info' at VCU, UVa, etc (but to his credit does not claim to know what is going on). If he has so much inside info, why can't he pronounce 'Pujol' correctly? He pronounces it just like Albert Pujols, but 'Pujol' doesn't have an 's' and isn't mainstream Spanish. It's Bascque and pronounced with a soft 'g' sound.

[lordscarlet]

I don't think Grant was ever on the UVA radar screen, which was a shame.



I think this is true. That's the problem. :)

[Arles]

Here are the main reasons listed in some of the Arizona papers for Pitino coming out west:

1. His daughter (Jacqueline Pitino) starts classes at Arizona this fall and rumor is the Pitinos have purchased a house in Tucson.
2. The Arizona program has been on a downslide for 3-4 seasons (not unlike UK and Louisville when he took over) and Pitino could add more to his legacy by taking another program to the final 4.
3. He can have his pick of the litter in Texas and CA for most players (much easier than fighting NC, Duke, Big East schools and Big 10 for the east coast/midwest guys).

Finally, there was a somewhat crazy rumor in one of the Tucson papers stating that Arizona would agree to let Rick's son be the "coach in waiting" at Arizona if he agreed to coach now (somewhat similar to the Bennetts at WSU and Knights at TT).

I still think it's a longshot as Pitino has a sweet deal with a great program in Louisville - but stranger things have happened.

[Ksyrup]

OK, so here's the scuttlebutt I've heard around here about the UK coaching job - all of it unsubstantiated, of course, but some of it comes from a guy here who is VERY well connected to the university/boosters and well respected in the community.

Re Gillispie - It's true he didn't take on the ambassador role they wanted him to, and of course he lost more than they expected, but the "straw that broke the camel's back" about whether to fire him or bring him back was the constant attention his off-the-job activities required. Dude was infamous around here for hanging at the local pubs, getting drunk and driving, and being a big-time womanizer. It apparently got so bad that someone paid for an undercover cop to tail him every night he went out to make sure he didn't get into too much trouble. Apparently the school wanted to make a move before the inevitable happened and they were embarrassed even further over the decision to hire him.

Re possible replacements:

1. Rick Pitino - Apparently the boosters are putting together a gigantic pot of money to make Pitino the richest coach in America to come back. now, whether he would do it or the university would want to go through all of that is another thing, but we've heard from multiple people around here that the clear preference from the boosters is for Pitino. We'll see if he immediately shoots down any rumors like Donovan did, or if there's something to it.

2. Travis Ford - Aside from his youth/inexperience and not being a big name, word is that on the heels of Gillispie's woman issues, the university is very reluctant to take on Ford, who apparently has the same woman issues as Gillispie but even worse, is married. He's a fallback position at best right now.

3. John Calipari - There's definite interest, and depending on how discussions go with others, this might happen quickly if he's really interested and UK doesn't think other options are there.

OK, that's all - I think I hit my gossip limit for the month!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'd note that I think that this is the year that Calipari jumps for a job if he's ever going to jump. There's some excellent jobs available this year. If he doesn't take a different job this year, I wouldn't be surprised at all if he just stayed at Memphis for a very long time to come.

[Arles]

ESPN just reported on the radio that Calipari met with Kentucky officials this weekend. Not sure what they means (may be using it as leverage for Mem), but it seems to have happened.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4026848

[Butter]

Would bet money that Cal is just in this to improve his contract at Memphis.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Saw this over at the Atlanta newspaper website. I'd personally be shocked if Mike Anderson even considered the Georgia job. He's got much better facilities at Mizzou and 9 players returning in addition to a 6'10" athlete and a superstar local guard coming next year that fit the '40 minutes' mold. Couple that with 2010 recruiting on the back of an Elite 8 appearance and there's probably no way he goes to Georgia for 200-300K more salary.

Have no clue if Capel would be interested or not given that he's losing a big chunk of his squad this year.

UGA now can talk to Anderson, Capel | UGA Sports (http://blogs.ajc.com/uga-sports-blog/2009/03/30/uga-now-can-talk-to-anderson-capel/?cxntfid=blogs_uga_sports_blog)

UGA now can talk to Anderson, Capel
5:03 am March 30, 2009, by Chip Towers


The silence is deafening.

That’s the only way to describe Georgia’s search for a new men’s basketball coach. Suddenly it has all gone quiet. That, as you all surely know, means things are getting done.

The seasons of at least two coaches thought to be at the top of the Bulldogs’ wish list ended over the weekend. That means UGA’s search will likely kick into high gear between now and NCAA Final Four festivities in Detroit this coming weekend. Oklahoma’s Jeff Capel and Missouri’s Mike Anderson saw their teams go down in the Elite Eight round of the NCAA tournament Sunday and Saturday, respectively. That means they are now available for Georgia to approach about its coaching vacancy.

UGA athletics director Damon Evans, who’s usually pretty good about getting back to me, hasn’t returned my messages in three days, four if I don’t hear back from him on Monday. Earlier he told me the Bulldogs would not attempt to contact a candidate who was still active in postseason play. None of the four teams remaining — Villanova, North Carolina, UConn or Michigan State — are coached by a person believed to be targeted in Georgia’s search.

Indications are that Capel and Anderson are 1A and 1B on Georgia’s list. As far as I can tell, there was no evidence Sunday that the Bulldogs had received permission to speak to either of them. Asking the school for permission to interview a coach is standard protocol in the business.

I did manage to get Missouri’s chancellor on the phone. “I’ve heard nothing on that and I believe I would,” said Brady Deaton, Mizzou’s top Tiger, said when asked if Georgia had contacted the school about Anderson. “We just got back home and we’re excited about the progress Coach Anderson has made with the program and we’re looking forward to building on that.”

Anderson appears attainable for Georgia from a financial standpoint. According to published reports, Anderson has two years remaining on a contract that pays him $850,000 annually. Georgia would most likely offer much more than that — and Missouri knows it. Word is the Tigers already have offered him $1.3 million.

“Certainly discussions are in progress with Coach Anderson [on a pay raise and contract extension],” Mr. Deaton told me. “We feel good about his commitment to the University of Missouri and are very proud of what he has accomplished.”

In the meantime, phone calls to several Oklahoma administrators Sunday went unreturned. However, Capel — who reportedly has also been targeted by Virginia — did nothing to discourage speculation that he might consider a move after his team got bounced on Sunday.

“My name has been mentioned for jobs every year I’ve been a coach and I’m not planning on getting into it [with the media],” Capel told reports outside the locker room after Mizzou’s loss to North Carolina. “I can’t tell people what to write about me.”

Meanwhile, Alabama introduced Anthony Grant as its new coach late Sunday afternoon. The fact that Georgia didn’t budge and let Grant walk speaks volumes about its search. Clearly Evans had his sights set on some other candidates. But that could prove a risky proposition. I talked to a buddy who covers Bama on Sunday and he said Grant was very impressive in his debut before Crimson Tide fans. He talked about how a polished and motivational speaker Grant was. “Blew the doors off the place,” my friend said.

That sets up what will surely be an endless comparison between Grant and whomever the Bulldogs get, especially if it’s Anderson. A great faction of Bama folks wanted the Birmingham native, who coached at UAB before moving to Missouri.

Supposedly the Crimson Tide is going to pay Grant about $1.8 million dollars. That hasn’t been completely verified yet and I’m sort of surprised if that’s true. The only reports I’ve seen are that he made $700,000 at VCU and was going to clear $850,000 with bonuses from this past season. If it is true that gives you an idea of what Georgia is going to have to pay to get its man. Capel makes in the $1.1 million range from what I’ve seen.

But Damon and Dr. Adams knew what they were in for when they laid out the criteria. Stay tuned!

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Calipari has met with his players. Players are convinced he's gone...........

Source: John Calipari meets with players, hints at departure : GoMemphisTigers : Your leading source for The University of Memphis Tigers (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/mar/30/source-calipari-meets-players-hints-departure/)

Source: John Calipari meets with players, hints at departure
By Dan Wolken (Contact), Memphis Commercial Appeal
Originally published 09:53 a.m., March 30, 2009
Updated 09:53 a.m., March 30, 2009

University of Memphis coach John Calipari met with his players this morning to discuss his involvement with the University of Kentucky opening, according to a source close to the situation.

While Calipari did not say explicitly what he planned to do, players left the meeting convinced that Calipari would take the job. According to the source, Calipari told the team that Kentucky was the Notre Dame of basketball.

Meanwhile, ESPN.com reported Monday morning that Calipari met with Kentucky officials over the weekend to discuss an outline of a deal to replace Billy Gillispie.

A source told The Commercial Appeal on Sunday that Calipari had expressed interest in the job and could meet with Kentucky this week but that a meeting was “not definite.”

Memphis officials, according to multiple sources, had no direct knowledge of a meeting between Calipari and Kentucky if one indeed took place over the weekend. Kentucky still had not asked Memphis for formal permission to speak with Calipari as of 9:45 a.m., according to sports information director Lamar Chance.

Either way, Memphis is expected to make a strong bid to keep Calipari with a financial package that would make him the highest paid coach in basketball, according to another source.

[Logan]

I don't see why Anderson or Capel would leave their current gigs for Georgia, unless it came with a salary that was WAY outside of what you would expect Georgia to pay for basketball.

[JonInMiddleGA]

I don't see why Anderson or Capel would leave their current gigs for Georgia, unless it came with a salary that was WAY outside of what you would expect Georgia to pay for basketball.

The rumored amount is somewhere in the $1.8 million a year range. Whether that rumor is true of course is a whole other matter but that's the figure I've been hearing.

[DeToxRox]

As long as the new coaches checks don't bounce Memphis should be fine.

[Chief Rum]

So if Cla leaves for UK, does he take all those top recruits for next year he has signed, too?

[DeToxRox]

So if Cla leaves for UK, does he take all those top recruits for next year he has signed, too?

I think some go. I think Wall heads to Baylor now though.

[hoopsguy]

So if Cla leaves for UK, does he take all those top recruits for next year he has signed, too?

That was my first thought as well. He has a loaded class, including the top three (according to at least one ranking service) if Wall signs on as well.

Would be interesting to watch the fallout if he does jump.

[wade moore]

The rumored amount is somewhere in the $1.8 million a year range. Whether that rumor is true of course is a whole other matter but that's the figure I've been hearing.

If that's the case - These guys would leave their current gigs for less than Grant took to leave VCU - to go to Georgia?

That seems crazy.

[DataKing]

Here's Memphis' 2009 Class. I've listed the other schools with interest and offers. Could be interesting indeed...there's some serious talent that could land elsewhere if Calipari did leave (note: all of this comes from Rivals.com).

Xavier Henry (5* SG): Kansas
DeMarcus Cousins (5* PF, solid verbal only): NC State, Kansas State
Will Coleman (4* PF): Pitt
Nolan Dennis (4* SG): UNC, Texas, Texas A&M, UCLA, Baylor, UConn, Florida, Kansas
Darnell Dodson (4* SF): Pitt

Pitt could make out like bandits (as could my Jayhawks).

[DeToxRox]

Xavier Henry has signed a LOI so he won't be let out of that. All those other guys are free to pillage.

[Logan]

Xavier Henry has signed a LOI so he won't be let out of that. All those other guys are free to pillage.

Isn't it fairly common to release kids from LOIs when there's a coaching change?

[DeToxRox]

Isn't it fairly common to release kids from LOIs when there's a coaching change?

Kid is one and done anyway I doubt they do to be honest,

[DeToxRox]

Rumor is 6 mil per year for Calapari.

[Lathum]

Rumor is 6 mil per year for Calapari.

Jesus

[Big Fo]

Rumor is 6 mil per year for Calapari.

Amateur sports <3

[Logan]

Rumor is 6 mil per year for Calapari.

This has to be like the Howard Stern to Sirius deal, where all the expenses for operating the program (assistants, suits, bribes, jet allowance) are included in the publicly announced numbers.

[DeToxRox]

Its 4 and some change base, 2 and some change in incentives. Comes out to almost 7 mil actually. Like 6.67

[yacovfb]

Here's Memphis' 2009 Class. I've listed the other schools with interest and offers. Could be interesting indeed...there's some serious talent that could land elsewhere if Calipari did leave (note: all of this comes from Rivals.com).

Xavier Henry (5* SG): Kansas
DeMarcus Cousins (5* PF, solid verbal only): NC State, Kansas State
Will Coleman (4* PF): Pitt
Nolan Dennis (4* SG): UNC, Texas, Texas A&M, UCLA, Baylor, UConn, Florida, Kansas
Darnell Dodson (4* SF): Pitt

Pitt could make out like bandits (as could my Jayhawks).

Dodson is ineligible to go to Pitt, which is why he landed at Memphis (some weird thing with enrolling at Pitt and then the clearinghouse not making him eligible made it so he couldn't go back after going to prep school). Also, Blair would have to go pro, which all the buzz has him leaning that way, to have an extra scholarship to add another player.

[Samdari]

Isn't it fairly common to release kids from LOIs when there's a coaching change?

That release means they cannot play for one year. Without the release they could not play for two. And its up to the school to issue the release, which they are actually unlikely to do for players who want to follow the coach who just dissed them.

In short, very little chance that Henry goes to UK. Maybe he goes Brandon Jennings?

The NCAA has been better about releasing players recently, but I don't think they are in the habit of releasing freshmen from LOI's because the coach left.

[wade moore]

Its 4 and some change base, 2 and some change in incentives. Comes out to almost 7 mil actually. Like 6.67

If that's true, he's an idiot if he doesn't take it.

[DeToxRox]

http://blogs.bet.com/news/playahater/wp-content/uploads/2008/02/sampson1.jpg

Tell me Memphis is not the perfect fit.

[GoldenEagle]

It is a done deal. I feel like I have been kicked in the stomach right now.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

That release means they cannot play for one year. Without the release they could not play for two. And its up to the school to issue the release, which they are actually unlikely to do for players who want to follow the coach who just dissed them.

That's not correct. If a school releases a player from a LOI, they can sign with a new school and play without any penalty. JT Tiller is a perfect example of that. Mike Anderson left UAB after the season was over to go to Mizzou. JT Tiller had already signed a LOI to attend UAB the next year. JT Tiller was released from his LOI and played that fall for Mike Anderson and the Mizzou Tigers.

There's no penalty by the NCAA if the school rescinds your LOI upon request. If the school refuses to do that, you do have to sit out for one year (or two years depending on where you transfer). It's VERY rare that schools do that anymore. The reason is that future recruits will hold out until the last minute to sign the LOI's if they know the school will refuse to release them in a coaching change situation.

[Samdari]

That's not correct. If a school releases a player from a LOI, they can sign with a new school and play without any penalty. JT Tiller is a perfect example of that. Mike Anderson left UAB after the season was over to go to Mizzou. JT Tiller had already signed a LOI to attend UAB the next year. JT Tiller was released from his LOI and played that fall for Mike Anderson and the Mizzou Tigers.

There's no penalty by the NCAA if the school rescinds your LOI upon request. If the school refuses to do that, you do have to sit out for one year (or two years depending on where you transfer). It's VERY rare that schools do that anymore. The reason is that future recruits will hold out until the last minute to sign the LOI's if they know the school will refuse to release them in a coaching change situation.


Aye, you're right. I don't think it used to be that way (and I am thinking back 15 years).

I don't think its VERY rare that schools do so anymore - I think in particular they do not like players following coaches (who they usually consider to be breaking their contract) to their new school. I think the Tiller situation is the exception rather than the rule.

I will be interesting to see what happens with DeMarcus Cousins, the #2 or #3 player in this year's class. He is unsigned, but committed to Memphis.

Interestingly, UAB is in the middle of the Cousins situation, seemingly taking a contrary stance to what they did with Tiller. He was going to sign with UAB in November, but wanted written assurance that they would issue his release if Mike Davis was not their coach. They would not provide such assurance, and he opted to commit to Memphis without signing an LOI. I sincerely doubt he goes to Memphis now. Could he end up back at UAB? Does Kentucky have room for him?

[JonInMiddleGA]

Here's Memphis' 2009 Class. I've listed the other schools with interest and offers. Could be interesting indeed...there's some serious talent that could land elsewhere if Calipari did leave (note: all of this comes from Rivals.com).

Xavier Henry (5* SG): Kansas
DeMarcus Cousins (5* PF, solid verbal only): NC State, Kansas State
Will Coleman (4* PF): Pitt
Nolan Dennis (4* SG): UNC, Texas, Texas A&M, UCLA, Baylor, UConn, Florida, Kansas
Darnell Dodson (4* SF): Pitt

Pitt could make out like bandits (as could my Jayhawks).

One Tiger recruit could go with Calipari; Xavier Henry has no opinion yet : GoMemphisTigers : Your leading source for The University of Memphis Tigers (http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/mar/30/mother-tiger-recruit-dennis-says-he-could-leave-if/)

According to his mother, Dennis' LOI includes an out clause in the event Calipari leaves.
“We had anticipated on coming to Memphis for Mr. Calipari, and we had a letter that if he leaves, then we get to either follow or start all over again, but I don’t know,” she said. “Nolan is in agony. I’m assuring you that I hope he stays.”

Meanwhile, Xavier Henry's brother C.J. who is a guard on the Memphis roster already, says he doesn't know what his brother will do, nor apparently himself either
Asked if the brothers could leave Memphis if Calipari departs, C.J. said, “I don’t know. I’d have to talk (Xavier) and talk to my family and we’d go from there.”

[GoldenEagle]

This crap is moving way too fast. Apparently, Memphis is going to hire Mike Anderson quickly.

[DeToxRox]

On Rivals some Virginia and Minnesota fans are starting to pick up steam on Tubby to the Cavs.

[MJ4H]

This crap is moving way too fast. Apparently, Memphis is going to hire Mike Anderson quickly.

lol

[gstelmack]

I don't think its VERY rare that schools do so anymore - I think in particular they do not like players following coaches (who they usually consider to be breaking their contract) to their new school. I think the Tiller situation is the exception rather than the rule.

Is there a difference when schools fire a coach (when they almost have to let guys out of their LOI) and when a coach quits?

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

This crap is moving way too fast. Apparently, Memphis is going to hire Mike Anderson quickly.

***chuckle***

As Rivals has correctly reported on the Memphis Basketball website, Anderson to Memphis would be a lateral or backwards move at best for Coach Anderson.

Memphis has been granted permission to talk with Anderson, but it's very unlikely that anything comes of it.

[DeToxRox]

So we're looking at MBBF vs GE round 2?

Would read again.

[MJ4H]

That's one of the two reasons I posted "lol" earlier. #2 was GE's apparent assumption that talk to = hire.

[JonInMiddleGA]

Potentially interesting situation with the UK job mentioned in their local newspaper's latest article (http://www.kentucky.com/232/story/743635.html). Gillespie had apparently agreed to scholarships with five underclassmen, including an eighth-grader. When those deals were criticized, the university president assured everyone that they would be honored regardless of what might happen down the road but today he's backing off that a bit.

[GoldenEagle]

Anderson's wife is from Memphis.

Look, I really don't want Anderson. I want Cal.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Aye, you're right. I don't think it used to be that way (and I am thinking back 15 years).

I don't think its VERY rare that schools do so anymore - I think in particular they do not like players following coaches (who they usually consider to be breaking their contract) to their new school. I think the Tiller situation is the exception rather than the rule.

I will be interesting to see what happens with DeMarcus Cousins, the #2 or #3 player in this year's class. He is unsigned, but committed to Memphis.

Interestingly, UAB is in the middle of the Cousins situation, seemingly taking a contrary stance to what they did with Tiller. He was going to sign with UAB in November, but wanted written assurance that they would issue his release if Mike Davis was not their coach. They would not provide such assurance, and he opted to commit to Memphis without signing an LOI. I sincerely doubt he goes to Memphis now. Could he end up back at UAB? Does Kentucky have room for him?

Cousins never signed a LOI with UAB, which is a much different situation than the signed LOI by Tiller.

I can't even remember the last player in the B12 conference who was denied a release from his LOI if the coach left. Common practice is to wait for the new coach to be signed so they have a chance to talk with the committed recruit. If the recruit doesn't feel like he wants to stay after talking with the recruits, then the school almost always releases the player. The only condition that most schools put on the release is that they don't sign a LOI in the same conference. That shouldn't be a problem in the Memphis situation, since any recruits would likely not be transferring to another Conference USA school.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Anderson's wife is from Memphis.

Look, I really don't want Anderson. I want Cal.

There you go. They've been granted permission to talk to him and his wife's from there, so it must be a done deal.

The fact that the Memphis Rivals site is saying that the Memphis program is a step down from Mizzou must be a blow to that 'elite' status that Memphis is trying to claim.

[DeToxRox]

There you go. They've been granted permission to talk to him and his wife's from there, so it must be a done deal.

The fact that the Memphis Rivals site is saying that the Memphis program is a step down from Mizzou must be a blow to that 'elite' status that Memphis is trying to claim.

I am glad I am a Rivals subscriber because until now I didn't realize how definitive a source it truly was.

[Karlifornia]

Of course Memphis is a step down from Missouri, I mean look at Missouri's storied history of basketball success.

[Eaglesfan27]

Of course Memphis is a step down from Missouri, I mean look at Missouri's storied history of basketball success.

Missouri's success is like a tsunami.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Of course Memphis is a step down from Missouri, I mean look at Missouri's storied history of basketball success.

Can't disagree with you. With Calipari leaving the program, my comparison to UNLV's short run of success appears to ring even more true. Memphis can only hope that Calipari's dirty laundry doesn't get dug up, much like what happened to Tark after his big run at UNLV.

[cartman]

Can't disagree with you. With Calipari leaving the program, my comparison to UNLV's short run of success appears to ring even more true. Memphis can only hope that Calipari's dirty laundry doesn't get dug up, much like what happened to Tark after his big run at UNLV.

Are you seriously stating that Memphis had no substantial success at basketball before Calipari came on board?

[GoldenEagle]

Cal is pitching Tony Barbee to be his replacement at Memphis. Rumor is that if they hire Barbee, Cal will not take any players with him and will not ask for Henry to be let out of his LOI or pursue Cousins and Wall to come to UK.

I still don't see that happening.

[Ksyrup]

WMC-TV in Memphis is reporting that Witherspoon and Sallie will transfer to UK. But who knows.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Are you seriously stating that Memphis had no substantial success at basketball before Calipari came on board?

Certainly not. They won several mid-major conference championships before he showed up. They don't carry the status that a program like Mizzou carries, whether you choose to believe it or not. With Calipari gone and the recruits leaving in droves, it's likely to go back down in a hurry. They still may win that conference moving forward, but they won't be the national contender that they have been over the last 3-4 years.

[GoldenEagle]

Certainly not. They won several mid-major conference championships before he showed up. They don't carry the status that a program like Mizzou carries, whether you choose to believe it or not. With Calipari gone and the recruits leaving in droves, it's likely to go back down in a hurry. They still may win that conference moving forward, but they won't be the national contender that they have been over the last 3-4 years.

You are really showing your ignorance of college basketball history.

[MJ4H]

<table id="toc" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; width: 25em; font-size: 90%; clear: right;" cellspacing="3"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament Elite Eight</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1976, 1994*, 2002, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1976, 1980, 1982, 1989, 1994*, 2002, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament second round</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1976, 1978, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1989, 1992, 1994*, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament appearances</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1944, 1976, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994*, 1995, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009</td></tr></tbody></table><table id="toc" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; width: 25em; font-size: 90%; clear: right;" cellspacing="3"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament runner up</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 2008</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament Final Four</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 1985*, 2008</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament Elite Eight</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 1985*, 1992, 2006, 2007, 2008</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985*, 1992, 1995, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament appearances</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1955, 1962, 1973, 1976, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985*, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1996, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009</td></tr></tbody></table>These look fairly similar to me. Maybe I should count or something, though. Actually based on this I'd give the nod to Memphis.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

You are really showing your ignorance of college basketball history.

Like I said in previous threads, I find it hilarious how some Memphis fans complain about their mid-major standing. There's nothing wrong with playing in a weaker conference and winning against inferior competition over the last few years. It's what has allowed Memphis to be relevant on the national scene.

[MJ4H]

Name this team! :D<table id="toc" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; width: 25em; font-size: 90%; clear: right;" cellspacing="3"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#c41e3a">NCAA Tournament champions</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1994</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#c41e3a">NCAA Tournament runner up</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1995</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#c41e3a">NCAA Tournament Final Four</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1941, 1945, 1978, 1990, 1994, 1995</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#c41e3a">NCAA Tournament Elite Eight</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1941, 1945, 1949, 1958, 1978, 1979, 1990, 1991, 1994, 1995</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#c41e3a">NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1978, 1979, 1981, 1983, 1990, 1991, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#c41e3a">NCAA Tournament appearances</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1941, 1945, 1949, 1958, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2006, 2007, 2008</td></tr></tbody></table>

[cartman]

It's really been 12 years since the Razorbacks have made it to the Sweet 16?

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

These look fairly similar to me. Maybe I should count or something, though. Actually based on this I'd give the nod to Memphis.

Memphis is in a mid-major conference. That's the only way they've been able to even match Mizzou's numbers. Before Calipari came to the school, Mizzou was a clear leader. Only Calipari and his recruits along with Mizzou being 'Quin'd' allowed it to get close.

Regardless, it's a silly argument. Anderson isn't going to Memphis. He'll use it as a way to increase his salary expectations at Mizzou. More power to him.

[molson]

<table id="toc" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; width: 25em; font-size: 90%; clear: right;" cellspacing="3"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament Elite Eight</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1976, 1994*, 2002, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1976, 1980, 1982, 1989, 1994*, 2002, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament second round</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1976, 1978, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1989, 1992, 1994*, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#000000">NCAA Tournament appearances</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1944, 1976, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1992, 1993, 1994*, 1995, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2009</td></tr></tbody></table><table id="toc" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; width: 25em; font-size: 90%; clear: right;" cellspacing="3"><tbody><tr><td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament runner up</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 2008</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament Final Four</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 1985*, 2008</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament Elite Eight</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 1985*, 1992, 2006, 2007, 2008</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament Sweet Sixteen</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1973, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985*, 1992, 1995, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#143d99">NCAA Tournament appearances</td> </tr> <tr> <td colspan="2" style="text-align: center;" bgcolor="#ffffff">1955, 1962, 1973, 1976, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985*, 1986, 1988, 1989, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1996, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009</td></tr></tbody></table>These look fairly similar to me. Maybe I should count or something, though. Actually based on this I'd give the nod to Memphis.

Memphis has definitely had more success in basketball than Missouri, that's really not debatable. But Missouri's in a more prestigious conference. So maybe it's a wash

Neither program is remotely elite though. They're both been to the tournament 22 times, same as schools like DePaul, West Virigina, Iowa, NC State. That's sounds about right in terms of what tier we're talking about.

[MJ4H]

That's why I used tournament success as a measuring stick and not conference acheivements.

[cartman]

Like I said in previous threads, I find it hilarious how some Memphis fans complain about their mid-major standing. There's nothing wrong with playing in a weaker conference and winning against inferior competition over the last few years. It's what has allowed Memphis to be relevant on the national scene.

That's not what you said a few posts above. You said that Memphis' only success pre-Calipari was "a few mid-major conference championships".

[Karlifornia]

Just looking at the NCAA Tournament history, Memphis is a superior program to Missouri.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Neither program is remotely elite though. They're both been to the tournament 22 times, same as schools like DePaul, West Virigina, Iowa, NC State. That's sounds about right in terms of what tier we're talking about.

And it should be noted that no Mizzou fans have claimed that their program is elite. The same cannot be said of the Memphis fans on this board. I absolutely agree with your assessment that any Memphis fan that says their program is elite is out of their mind.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

That's not what you said a few posts above. You said that Memphis' only success pre-Calipari was "a few mid-major conference championships".

1973 and 2008 have been their only significant runs (1985 was thrown out of the books). If you consider one big run previous to Calipari as significant, so be it. Mizzou has been to the Elite Eight four times. I don't think their achievements would have been any more significant if one of those teams made a Final Four. Either you win the thing or you go home.

[MJ4H]

Right, there is only one good team every year. None of the others matter.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Right, there is only one good team every year. None of the others matter.

Absolutely. That's the goal that Mike Anderson set for Mizzou. I agree with that thinking. It worked pretty well at Arkansas. ;)

BTW, evidently the Memphis Rivals site has some lousy sources. Missouri has said that Memphis has not requested to talk with Coach Anderson at this point, though they said it is an option if they do ask for permission.

PowerMizzou.com - Is Memphis talking to Anderson? (http://missouri.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=930022)

[Radii]

god this is awesome.

[MJ4H]

Absolutely. That's the goal that Mike Anderson set for Mizzou. I agree with that thinking. It worked pretty well at Arkansas. ;)



as long as it serves your purpose, im sure you do

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Just looking at the NCAA Tournament history, Memphis is a superior program to Missouri.

Looking at records this year, Memphis had more wins than Missouri.

[JHandley]

1973 and 2008 have been their only significant runs (1985 was thrown out of the books). If you consider one big run previous to Calipari as significant, so be it. Mizzou has been to the Elite Eight four times. I don't think their achievements would have been any more significant if one of those teams made a Final Four. Either you win the thing or you go home.

And since Mizzou has never won the thing?

[Radii]

dola, is this "replying to posts dripping with sarcasm and pretending they were genuine" shtick a new thing for MBBF or has this been going on for awhile? I like it, adds to the disdain.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

dola, is this "replying to posts dripping with sarcasm and pretending they were genuine" shtick a new thing for MBBF or has this been going on for awhile? I like it, adds to the disdain.

It's been going on for awhile. ;)

[JonInMiddleGA]

1973 and 2008 have been their only significant runs (1985 was thrown out of the books). If you consider one big run previous to Calipari as significant, so be it. Mizzou has been to the Elite Eight four times. I don't think their achievements would have been any more significant if one of those teams made a Final Four. Either you win the thing or you go home.

One of the few times I've found myself (ugh) kind of siding with the Memphis folks in this ongoing debate (no love lost between Vol fans and that little school to the west).

Maybe it's because I'm just barely old enough to remember the run in '73 that Memphis gets a better cachet.

And on the point about the Final Four versus the Elite Eight, I completely disagree in terms of perception. People can kind of remember teams that get to the Final Four (at least with aided recall) but Elite Eight runs are largely anonymous except for the schools who have those as a highwater mark.

On the whole, I'm with Molson I think. He summed up my feelings about both programs pretty well as far as status goes.
Neither program is remotely elite though. They're both been to the tournament 22 times, same as schools like DePaul, West Virigina, Iowa, NC State. That's sounds about right in terms of what tier we're talking about.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

And since Mizzou has never won the thing?

We still have not reached the goal. It's the reason Mizzou and Memphis have no business being called an elite program.

[Radii]

And on the point about the Final Four versus the Elite Eight, I completely disagree in terms of perception. People can kind of remember teams that get to the Final Four (at least with aided recall) but Elite Eight runs are largely anonymous except for the schools who have those as a highwater mark.


Totally agree. Final Fours are one of the major barometers of success and prestige for a program. National titles obviously mean more, but Final Fours are a critical measuring stick. Pretending that anything but a title is meaningless is ridiculous.

[JHandley]

But it's your contention that one is less elite than the other right? I mean, you're claiming moving from Mizzou to Memphis is a step down, that must mean that Mizzou is a step up. Memphis has won the thing twice and Mizzou are tournament virgins. I'm not sure how you can take the attitude that Memphis is a step down and that winning the whole thing is the only thing that matters.

[mckerney]

After a week of their fans being sure they'd wind up with Tubby Smith, Virginia hires Tony Bennett.

[Atocep]

Missouri's success is like a tsunami.

The tsunami is coming.

Front Office Football Central - View Single Post - 2009 NCAA Tournament Thread (http://operationsports.com/fofc/showpost.php?p=1978582&postcount=1306)

[Atocep]

After a week of their fans being sure they'd wind up with Tubby Smith, Virginia hires Tony Bennett.

It'll be interesting to see how his style does in the ACC and how annoyed fans get watching their teams play Virginia.

[MJ4H]

Memphis has won the thing twice

They have?

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

But it's your contention that one is less elite than the other right? I mean, you're claiming moving from Mizzou to Memphis is a step down, that must mean that Mizzou is a step up. Memphis has won the thing twice and Mizzou are tournament virgins. I'm not sure how you can take the attitude that Memphis is a step down and that winning the whole thing is the only thing that matters.

Memphis has won the thing twice? You might want to let Memphis know.

Anderson isn't going anywhere because there's no question that Mizzou is the better option if you're a head coach and you want to choose the program that gives you the best opportunity to win a NCAA championship. The rest of this discussion revolves around Memphis fans and their belief that their program is somehow elite. It's not.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Front Office Football Central - View Single Post - 2009 NCAA Tournament Thread (http://operationsports.com/fofc/showpost.php?p=1978582&postcount=1306)

What's not true in that statement? Coach Anderson did a great job coaching this team to a high level of play this year and putting them in a position to play for a Final Four spot. He has the pieces in place to continue to improve this program. There's little reason to believe that Coach Anderson can't continue to get this program to improve. Kansas fans would be the first ones to begrudgingly admit that.

[cartman]

I'm in no way a Memphis fan, but to say that a school that has played in two national title games offers less of a chance to win a NC than a school that hasn't made it past the Elite Eight is simply ludicrous.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'm in no way a Memphis fan, but to say that a school that has played in two national title games offers less of a chance to win a NC than a school that hasn't made it past the Elite Eight is simply ludicrous.

The fact that your logic allows you to think that a mid-major team with what amounts to an empty cupboard after a coaching change is better equipped than an Elite Eight team who beat previously mentioned team and returns 9 players speaks volumes.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Toss another log onto the rumor fire. DeMarcus Cousins says that Coach Cal has told him he's not going anywhere. No idea how recent this comment is, but the article just came out.......

Judge, Cousins preparing for McDonald's game (http://memphis.rivals.com/content.asp?SID=962&CID=930017)

[Swaggs]

I am excited to hear West Virginia mentioned in the same breath as college basketball super-powers Missouri and Memphis. We have arrived on the main stage now!

[cartman]

The fact that your logic allows you to think that a mid-major team with what amounts to an empty cupboard after a coaching change is better equipped than an Elite Eight team who beat previously mentioned team and returns 9 players speaks volumes.

So they are canceling College Basketball after next season?

[GoldenEagle]

I am excited to hear West Virginia mentioned in the same breath as college basketball super-power Memphis. We have arrived on the main stage now!

FYP, at least until Cal officially leaves.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I am excited to hear West Virginia mentioned in the same breath as college basketball super-powers Missouri and Memphis. We have arrived on the main stage now!

You'll have to talk to the Memphis fans. I have no clue how Missouri got included in the discussion. Mizzou fans are smart enough to know they're not an elite program at this point.

[Logan]

They don't carry the status that a program like Mizzou carries , whether you choose to believe it or not.

Je. Ses. Christ.

[DataKing]

You guys crack me up. Really, you do. :D

[Lathum]

After a week of their fans being sure they'd wind up with Tubby Smith, Virginia hires Tony Bennett.

It'll be interesting to see how his style does in the ACC and how annoyed fans get watching their teams play Virginia.

yeah, his teams are hard to watch

[Lathum]

reading this thread is like watching Cartman poke a bear in the eye with a stick.

[Young Drachma]

Tubby might retire in Minny. I mean, why leave? No pressure and incremental chances at making it work for you.

[path12]

After a week of their fans being sure they'd wind up with Tubby Smith, Virginia hires Tony Bennett.

Ms.path (A WSU alum) is crushed. She LOVES Tony Bennett.

[cartman]

reading this thread is like watching Cartman poke a bear in the eye with a stick.

I have nothing but love in my heart for the California Golden Bears, Montana Grizzlies, Baylor Bears, UCLA Bruins, et. al.

Johnny-come-lately Tiggers on the other hand...

[JonInMiddleGA]

A quick look at a couple of threads around the Charlottesville newspaper site has them calling for Craig Littlepage's head for what a couple described as "Leitao part two". Another poster seemed to sum up what most of them were saying, "we didn't strike out on this hire, we never even tried to come up to bat".

[Young Drachma]

A quick look at a couple of threads around the Charlottesville newspaper site has them calling for Craig Littlepage's head for what a couple described as "Leitao part two". Another poster seemed to sum up what most of them were saying, "we didn't strike out on this hire, we never even tried to come up to bat".

Yeah, it seems like a particularly strange hire at best.

[digamma]

It'll be interesting to see how his style does in the ACC and how annoyed fans get watching their teams play Virginia.

We sort of know the answer to these questions already:

<TABLE class=wikitable><TBODY><TR><TD>Herb Sendek (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Sendek)</TD><TD>191-132</TD><TD>.591</TD><TD>1997-06</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

[RainMaker]

A quick look at a couple of threads around the Charlottesville newspaper site has them calling for Craig Littlepage's head for what a couple described as "Leitao part two". Another poster seemed to sum up what most of them were saying, "we didn't strike out on this hire, we never even tried to come up to bat".

There was a time when I was extremely angry that Depaul let Leitao go.

[WSUCougar]

Ms.path (A WSU alum) is crushed. She LOVES Tony Bennett.
It's like a kick in the frakking stomach. :banghead:

[MrBug708]

Two thoughts.

I've given GE a lot of grief over Memphis, but Missouri's greatest NCAA claim to fame was Tyus Edney going coast to coast in the Round of 32.

As for WSU fans, every other coach has left, what made Tony Bennett any different?

[dawgfan]

As for WSU fans, every other coach has left, what made Tony Bennett any different?
Not a WSU fan, but the son of one. What makes you think previous WSU coaching departures haven't been kicks in the stomach too? In fact, it's that history that lends extra oomph to this - it's history (in a bad way) repeating itself for WSU.

Add in the fact that Bennett had said all the right things over the last 2 years about wanting to stay at WSU long term and build a lasting program, and it really stings for WSU fans.

And what really hurts is the suddenness and the timing - had he left after last year, at least he would've left WSU in a better position. It was expected, and the national perception of WSU basketball was higher than it is now.

[dawgfan]

Dola -

What's interesting is seeing the wildly different reactions between the WSU fans and the Virgina fans. WSU fans are pissed and upset that Bennett is leaving, and Virginia fans are pissed and upset that Bennett was the guy hired.

Note to Virginia fans - Tony Bennett is a hell of a coach, and you guys are delusional if you think your program is so good you could've gotten and even higher profile coach.

[MrBug708]

Perhaps, but what is the coach supposed to say? Ben Howland told media that he was the coach of Pitt and was looking forward to building up the team. Week later, he is at UCLA. I figured Arizona would have been a better spot for Bennett anyhow. I can understand Bennett turning down Indiana, but he also turned down Marquette and LSU. LSU is probably equal to Virginia in prestige these days, but Virginia is like 6th in the pecking order in the ACC.

[Chief Rum]

I'm with Bug. I have given GE a ton of grief. But Mizzou B-Ball is off his rocker fighting this fight. There is NO question which program has been more elite, even given that neither is up to par with the UNCs, UCLAs, UKs, Kansas's of the world.

Also, and I fought this fight with Rainmaker, don't think I won't fight it here either, C-USA is not a mid-major except in the deluded minds of some media types who want to expand the classification to hype up their stories or the general buzz factor. Historically (if not recently), C-USA has been much closer to a power conference than a mid-major, and regardless of conference status, Memphis is not a mid-major, even if you consider its conference to be a mid-major.

[dawgfan]

Perhaps, but what is the coach supposed to say?
Coaches are admittedly in a tough spot when asked about their "loyalty" to a school. But Bennett really sold himself to WSU fans as a guy that wasn't looking to jump to the next great opportunity, and when you do that, you have to expect fans to be bitter when you turn around the next year and leave. Especially to a program like Virginia that hasn't exactly been setting the world on fire lately.

[Chief Rum]

Dola -

What's interesting is seeing the wildly different reactions between the WSU fans and the Virgina fans. WSU fans are pissed and upset that Bennett is leaving, and Virginia fans are pissed and upset that Bennett was the guy hired.

Note to Virginia fans - Tony Bennett is a hell of a coach, and you guys are delusional if you think your program is so good you could've gotten and even higher profile coach.

Ditto. Virginia who? Wazzu has been more relevant than you for some time now in this sport, and this guy (and his dad) is a big reason why.

The Pac 10 lost a good coach today. It will be interesting to see what Wazzu does in response.

[Chief Rum]

Ditto. Virginia who? Wazzu has been more relevant than you for some time now in this sport, and this guy (and his dad) is a big reason why.

The Pac 10 lost a good coach today. It will be interesting to see what Wazzu does in response.

Hmm, come to think of it... Few? Is that a possibility? Wouldn't have to move far at all. Same sorta restraints. Except now he's playing in the Pac 10. Add his name to playing in a major conference with a team with a recent string of success, you might be able to keep Bennett's gains and build on some more--all for likely more money and barely having to shake your life up--Spokane is just 200-300 miles north of Pullman, last I checked.

[MrBug708]

Coaches are admittedly in a tough spot when asked about their "loyalty" to a school. But Bennett really sold himself to WSU fans as a guy that wasn't looking to jump to the next great opportunity, and when you do that, you have to expect fans to be bitter when you turn around the next year and leave. Especially to a program like Virginia that hasn't exactly been setting the world on fire lately.

Virginia does have some basketball history however, and there was no guarantee that WSU would ever see what it say the previous two years. With Romar turning it on suddenly and Few at Gonzaga, WSU was third party in it's own state. At least in Virginia, he has a fighting chance. It's a tough break for WSU fans, but what can you do?

I'd like to see them go after someone liek Randy Bennett

[dawgfan]

Hmm, come to think of it... Few? Is that a possibility? Wouldn't have to move far at all. Same sorta restraints. Except now he's playing in the Pac 10. Add his name to playing in a major conference with a team with a recent string of success, you might be able to keep Bennett's gains and build on some more--all for likely more money and barely having to shake your life up--Spokane is just 200-300 miles north of Pullman, last I checked.
Big difference - at Gonzaga, Few is almost guaranteed an NCAA berth every season. If he's going to move to a major conference, I think he'll go somewhere where he has a better chance at NCAA tournament success. WSU ain't it, but Arizona would be. Question is, does he have the balls to make that jump? We'd find out in a hurry if Few is really as good as his current rep, because there would be no excuse for failure at Arizona.

I could see Oregon as a possible destination for Few since he's an alum and based off his connections to Pat Kilkenny, but Arizona would be a better job.

[Chief Rum]

Speaking of Oregon, as of right now, Ernie kent still has a job, does he not? And, umm, why? :p

[Chief Rum]

I'd like to see them go after someone liek Randy Bennett

Randy Bennett? Man, Dick sure is a virile man.

[dawgfan]

Virginia does have some basketball history however, and there was no guarantee that WSU would ever see what it say the previous two years. With Romar turning it on suddenly and Few at Gonzaga, WSU was third party in it's own state. At least in Virginia, he has a fighting chance. It's a tough break for WSU fans, but what can you do?

I'd like to see them go after someone liek Randy Bennett
I think he can succeed at Virginia, and I think it'll be by sticking to his system and being kind of the anti-North Carolina. I don't think Virginia can compete toe to toe with North Carolina for recruits, so why not go with a very different system and not need to out-recruit the Tar Heels? It worked for Bennett in the Pac-10.

I agree that Bennett was likely to bolt sooner or later - I'm just a little surprised it was this year. Last year afforded him higher profile jobs, but then again, maybe he looked into the future and felt that he'd done as well as he ever would with the Cougs and thought it would be better to leave now before his stock fell any more. Cougs were already looking at another rebuilding year next year with Rochestie & Baynes (among others) graduating.

And yeah, Randy Bennett would be a good choice. Ken Bone too.

[MrBug708]

Speaking of Oregon, as of right now, Ernie kent still has a job, does he not? And, umm, why? :p

Who the heck knows why? I blame affirmative action

[dawgfan]

Speaking of Oregon, as of right now, Ernie kent still has a job, does he not? And, umm, why? :p
Well, I suppose his two Elite 8 appearances still carry some weight, and they probably figure the talented frosh he had this year will eventually come around, much like the group he took to the Elite 8 in '06-'07. Plus, they can't feel like it's a guarantee that they could lure Mark Few if they did fire Kent. Would they be happy with Ken Bone or Randy Bennett as a consolation prize?

[Chief Rum]

Well, I suppose his two Elite 8 appearances still carry some weight, and they probably figure the talented frosh he had this year will eventually come around, much like the group he took to the Elite 8 in '06-'07. Plus, they can't feel like it's a guarantee that they could lure Mark Few if they did fire Kent. Would they be happy with Ken Bone or Randy Bennett as a consolation prize?

It could be argued, with the talent he had, that his Elite 8 appearances were underachievements. And, talented freshmen or no, that was a gawd awful team this year. No team should be that bad for a coach who has been on the job long enough for complete turnover, not if that coach is supposed to be any good.

On top of that, Oregon's class--what they're building off of, supposedly--wasn't as good as Washington's, Wazzu's, UCLA's or USC's classes, Oregon State got a high profile hire in state with the Obama-connected Robinson, Arizona will higher a big time coach, Cal has Montgomery again, Howland, Floyd, Romar ain't going nowhere and have consistently beaten Kent in pretty much everything...

Sorry, I just don't buy Phil Knight settling for more of that. I think they make sure they get Few, if that's who they want. Knight's money can back up a significantly heft contract. And if they somehow lost out on Few, they won't get Bennett or Bone. They'll get another big name with a big contract.

[Karlifornia]

Speaking of Oregon, as of right now, Ernie kent still has a job, does he not? And, umm, why? :p

They had an ugly season this year, to be sure, but I think he bought himself one stinker with the places he's brought Oregon to in the past. I think if he does a repeat next season, he's gone. Plus his team was real young this year (which you could also add to the list of strikes against him, I suppose).

[digamma]

Ditto. Virginia who? Wazzu has been more relevant than you for some time now in this sport, and this guy (and his dad) is a big reason why.

The Pac 10 lost a good coach today. It will be interesting to see what Wazzu does in response.

First, I'll say that I think this is a great hire for UVA.

That said, to say that Wazzu has been more relevant than UVA for some time is just absurd. Both have been to the tournament twice in the last ten years. In that time, Wazzu has also had one NIT trip, while UVA has had five. Wazzu has had 7 losing seasons in the last ten years. UVA has had 3.

Prior to that, UVA was very relevant on the national scene (throughout the 80s and 90s).

Again, I think this is a really, really solid hire for UVA. If you don't see why Bennett took the job, you're out of your mind.

[Chief Rum]

First, I'll say that I think this is a great hire for UVA.

That said, to say that Wazzu has been more relevant than UVA for some time is just absurd. Both have been to the tournament twice in the last ten years. In that time, Wazzu has also had one NIT trip, while UVA has had five. Wazzu has had 7 losing seasons in the last ten years. UVA has had 3.

Prior to that, UVA was very relevant on the national scene (throughout the 80s and 90s).

Again, I think this is a really, really solid hire for UVA. If you don't see why Bennett took the job, you're out of your mind.

No, it's not absurd, viewed through the prism most people use, which is "what have you done for me lately?" In the past five years, Wazzu has been much more significant than UVA, and the guy UVA hired is a key reason for it.

So UVA fans bitching about his hire need to do their homework, and not make themselves out to be above it all.

As for the bolded part above, please point out to me where I said this.

[dawgfan]

It could be argued, with the talent he had, that his Elite 8 appearances were underachievements.
Perhaps, but he should also be commended for recruiting enough talent to get Oregon to the Elite 8, something they'd never done before 1939 when they won the initial NCAA tournament.

I'm not saying Kent shouldn't be on a very hot seat right now, but I can see an argument for why he hasn't been fired yet. And maybe it's because Oregon has already checked with Few behind closed doors and been told "no".

[path12]

I agree with dawgfan that Ken Bone could be a great fit for WSU.

[Chief Rum]

Perhaps, but he should also be commended for recruiting enough talent to get Oregon to the Elite 8, something they'd never done before 1939 when they won the initial NCAA tournament.

I'm not saying Kent shouldn't be on a very hot seat right now, but I can see an argument for why he hasn't been fired yet. And maybe it's because Oregon has already checked with Few behind closed doors and been told "no".

I suppose. Just seeing what they do with their football team, though, it seems clear to me they are capable of much more in basketball, too (just like with UCLA in football, it's obvious they are capable of much more than they have historically achieved). And this year didn't reach even a mediocre standard.

As for Few, if he isn't interested, it's confirmation to me he's nuts (unless he has someone bigger just waiting to give him a huge contract, which is possible).

[dawgfan]

As for Few, if he isn't interested, it's confirmation to me he's nuts (unless he has someone bigger just waiting to give him a huge contract, which is possible).
I don't know what his interest level is. But if you're Mark Few, what's more appealing - Oregon or Arizona?

[Chief Rum]

I don't know what his interest level is. But if you're Mark Few, what's more appealing - Oregon or Arizona?

But is Arizona coming? That rumor has been out there forever. What's the hold up? If AZ's going to offer, what are they waiting for? Neither program is still in the tourney. If they're waiting for someone better, if I were Few, I would say screw you and go to Oregon. I certainly wouldn't tell Oregon no, regardless, unless I absolutely knew the UA job was mine.

[Groundhog]

Perhaps Mark Few just doesn't want to leave Gonzaga. He has a pretty good thing going there, and as long as he can recruit well enough to keep ahead of his conference, chances are he'd be a lot more secure in the WCC than in the Pac-10.

I don't think every single coach would neccessarily be so intent on jumping to higher profile schools after success at smaller schools, especially given what has happened to some of the other folks that have made the jump and failed.

[MrBug708]

I don't know what his interest level is. But if you're Mark Few, what's more appealing - Oregon or Arizona?

Oregon. More of a "nature" feel, plus he's from Springfield/Eugene

[cartman]

Isn't it clear what Few's plan is? The cunning bastard is waiting for the Mizzou job to come open, where he can move to a prestigious school that offers the best chance to win a National Championship.

[JonInMiddleGA]

So UVA fans bitching about his hire need to do their homework, and not make themselves out to be above it all.

I don't sense a great deal of arrogance in their displeasure, I see a pretty healthy dose of legitimate concern. They simply don't see him being significantly different from, nor any real reason to hope for significant improvement over, the guy they just got rid of. They're specifically concerned with whether he can recruit successfully in the area which he isn't familiar with and whether he's ready to compete in the ACC. I can't say I blame them for any of those concerns.

It's not so much that they think he's a bad coach or anything, they just don't see him as any sort of an upgrade over what they already had (and weren't happy with).

[Chief Rum]

Isn't it clear what Few's plan is? The cunning bastard is waiting for the Mizzou job to come open, where he can move to a prestigious school that offers the best chance to win a National Championship.

He may have to wait a bit. Looks like the UVA job Anderson would have jumped for is all sewn up.

[Chief Rum]

I don't sense a great deal of arrogance in their displeasure, I see a pretty healthy dose of legitimate concern. They simply don't see him being significantly different from, nor any real reason to hope for significant improvement over, the guy they just got rid of. They're specifically concerned with whether he can recruit successfully in the area which he isn't familiar with and whether he's ready to compete in the ACC. I can't say I blame them for any of those concerns.

It's not so much that they think he's a bad coach or anything, they just don't see him as any sort of an upgrade over what they already had (and weren't happy with).

Yeah, you're probably right, particularly about the legit concerns of recruiting. Although I believe Tony also worked with his dad in Wisconsin, so he won't be completely out of his element out east.

I would have to take a better look at the guy they just ditched to compare on the rest of it, although you're right I am mis-stating things to assume any arrogance on the part of UVA fans--I have no evidence of that (I just think they're wrong to jump to the conclusion that this is a step back).

[Wolfpack]

Memphis has definitely had more success in basketball than Missouri, that's really not debatable. But Missouri's in a more prestigious conference. So maybe it's a wash

Neither program is remotely elite though. They're both been to the tournament 22 times, same as schools like DePaul, West Virigina, Iowa, NC State. That's sounds about right in terms of what tier we're talking about.

I am excited to hear West Virginia mentioned in the same breath as college basketball super-powers Missouri and Memphis. We have arrived on the main stage now!

So, 20 years of lousy basketball is what it takes to come down to this level? *sigh* There was a time....

After a week of their fans being sure they'd wind up with Tubby Smith, Virginia hires Tony Bennett.

It'll be interesting to see how his style does in the ACC and how annoyed fans get watching their teams play Virginia.

I'm already hating it.

We sort of know the answer to these questions already:

<TABLE class=wikitable><TBODY><TR><TD>Herb Sendek (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Sendek)</TD><TD>191-132</TD><TD>.591</TD><TD>1997-06</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Actually, this is insulting to Herb in some respects. Herb positively ran run-n-gun compared to Bennett.

Oh, and to show you how psychologically wounded the State fan base has been over the past two decades and particularly by Herb's tenure, we still have obsessed fans thinking they're being funny by pointing out that it seems so illogical that no one's running out and hiring Herb right now (after all, as they like to carp on because of the poor press received, Herb was a stupendous coach and the ungrateful State fan base ran him off...me personally, I am just so sick and tired of it all...).

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I have nothing but love in my heart for the California Golden Bears, Montana Grizzlies, Baylor Bears, UCLA Bruins, et. al.

Johnny-come-lately Tiggers on the other hand...

It's hard to take seriously the opinion of a fan from a football school in regards to basketball when said school couldn't even beat the paltry Mizzou Tigers on their own floor.

[CU Tiger]

We sort of know the answer to these questions already:

<TABLE class=wikitable><TBODY><TR><TD>Herb Sendek (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Herb_Sendek)</TD><TD>191-132</TD><TD>.591</TD><TD>1997-06</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

See Also:
Larry Shyatt 70-84 .455 1998-03

And Id say Clemson is more comparable to UVa than NC State...other than the Sampson years UVA has never been real relevent where as NCSU actually ha a basketball legacy.

[cartman]

Considering Mizzou had only won one of its last 10 against Texas in basketball, consider it an act of mercy.

Thank you for only reinforcing the Johnny-come-lately part of my post.

[MrBug708]

It's hard to take seriously the opinion of a fan from a football school in regards to basketball when said school couldn't even beat the paltry Mizzou Tigers on their own floor.

Quite the argument

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Quite the argument

I was trying to stoop to cartman's level. Accept my apologies.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Considering Mizzou had only won one of its last 10 against Texas in basketball, consider it an act of mercy.

Thank you for only reinforcing the Johnny-come-lately part of my post.

I'd downplay the relatively mediocre play of my team as well given the high expectations. Thank God for spring football in Austin.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Calipari has accepted the Kentucky offer. In addition, Witherspoon and Sallie are transferring. At least two recruits will also go to Kentucky.

LEX18 - Lexington, KY - News, Weather, Sports - Calipari To Be New UK Basketball Coach (http://www.lex18.com/Global/story.asp?S=10096463&nav=menu203_4)

[cartman]

Yes, a 23 win season is considered mediocre in Austin these days. In Columbia, they've hit that number twice in the past 15 seasons.

[wade moore]

Calipari has accepted the Kentucky offer. In addition, Witherspoon and Sallie are transferring. At least two recruits will also go to Kentucky.

LEX18 - Lexington, KY - News, Weather, Sports - Calipari To Be New UK Basketball Coach (http://www.lex18.com/Global/story.asp?S=10096463&nav=menu203_4)

wow. Pretty unusual to establish that players are coming with you out of the gate, isn't it?

[Lathum]

round 2!!!!!!!

[RainMaker]

The one odd thing about Calipari moving to UK is that he has literally the top 2 recruits in the country coming to Memphis next year (as well as another solid guard). That team will be loaded and should be a favorite to win it all. If those guys stay with Memphis, whoever takes that job will have one hell of a team to roll with.

I don't know why Few would leave Gonzaga. They've earned enough prominence in the country to recruit with the big boys. He's also got a lot more security there with an automatic bid almost guaranteed to him every year. They get a lot of TV games too. He could end up like Monson who burned out at a Big 10 school and is now coaching Long Beach State.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

wow. Pretty unusual to establish that players are coming with you out of the gate, isn't it?

Not really. They're free to transfer without any release to another conference. The recruits haven't signed a LOI, so they're free to do what they want. It shows just how much that the Memphis program is much more about the coach than the program. Those players weren't there because of Memphis. They were there because of Calipari.

[Lathum]

wow. Pretty unusual to establish that players are coming with you out of the gate, isn't it?

just another example of how laughable it is to consider basketball and football "amatuer" athletics.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

The one odd thing about Calipari moving to UK is that he has literally the top 2 recruits in the country coming to Memphis next year (as well as another solid guard).

All three of the elite recruits plan to go with Calipari. Only one of them has signed a LOI and he reportedly will ask for a release, which will likely be granted. There will be no talent left when he's done moving the recruiting class to Kentucky plus at least two members of the current team.

[RainMaker]

Calipari has accepted the Kentucky offer. In addition, Witherspoon and Sallie are transferring. At least two recruits will also go to Kentucky.

LEX18 - Lexington, KY - News, Weather, Sports - Calipari To Be New UK Basketball Coach (http://www.lex18.com/Global/story.asp?S=10096463&nav=menu203_4)

The biggest news in that is Cousins may go with him to UK. He's the best Center going to college this year. Henry has signed a letter of intent so I'm not sure if he's allowed to take that back and go with Calipari.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

round 2!!!!!!!

I've got to go get my wife pregnant. You'll pardon my absence. :D

[RainMaker]

All three of the elite recruits plan to go with Calipari. Only one of them has signed a LOI and he reportedly will ask for a release, which will likely be granted. There will be no talent left when he's done moving the recruiting class to Kentucky plus at least two members of the current team.

Damn, that's a coup for Kentucky. Not only do they bring in a prominent coach, but they literally have one of the most talented teams in the country now.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

The biggest news in that is Cousins may go with him to UK. He's the best Center going to college this year. Henry has signed a letter of intent so I'm not sure if he's allowed to take that back and go with Calipari.

He's also got more dirty AAU baggage than any other recruit in this year's class. Missouri along with a couple other schools backed off him for that very reason. Too risky to recruit him given that he was likely a one and done player.

Henry can ask for a release. If the school grants it, which is very likely, he'll still be able to play this fall.

[Lathum]

so what does UK need to do next year for the alumni to consider the hire a success?

[DeToxRox]

so what does KU need to do next year for the alumni to consider the hire a success?

Win an NBA Championship.

[hoopsguy]

There was a time when I was extremely angry that Depaul let Leitao go.

Hey, now DePaul has Wainwright and it's all good.

[GoldenEagle]

Some Memphis insiders are now reporting that Cal is having second thoughts about taking the UK job. His family really wants to stay in Memphis. But there is so much crap flying around right now that no one knows what to think.

[dawgfan]

I don't know why Few would leave Gonzaga. They've earned enough prominence in the country to recruit with the big boys. He's also got a lot more security there with an automatic bid almost guaranteed to him every year. They get a lot of TV games too. He could end up like Monson who burned out at a Big 10 school and is now coaching Long Beach State.
Despite all the hype over Gonzaga, they've never been beyond the Sweet 16 under Few and have been bounced in the first 2 rounds 6 out of his 10 years. While they have virtually a guaranteed berth to the NCAA every year, and their national profile is quite high, they really aren't recruiting with the "big boys"; they haven't cracked the top-25 rated recruiting classes by Scout.com from 2005 on, and the only time they've cracked the top-25 by Rivals.com was #17 in 2007. By contrast, Washington has been top-25 every season from 2005 on by Rivals.com and all but one season from 2005 on by Scout.com.

Few would have access to better recruits and a greater chance at an NCAA title at a place like Arizona.

[sterlingice]

Win an NBA Championship.

Hey, wait a second- why are you dragging us into this (KU vs UK?)

SI

[cartman]

so what does UK need to do next year for the alumni to consider the hire a success?

The trustees expect you to contend for the FBCA championship.

[RainMaker]

Hey, now DePaul has Wainwright and it's all good.

Growing up my parents had season tickets to them and now I live a few blocks away from the campus. I would love to see DePaul get back to a respectable state. They should have stuck with C-USA.

[RainMaker]

Despite all the hype over Gonzaga, they've never been beyond the Sweet 16 under Few and have been bounced in the first 2 rounds 6 out of his 10 years. While they have virtually a guaranteed berth to the NCAA every year, and their national profile is quite high, they really aren't recruiting with the "big boys"; they haven't cracked the top-25 rated recruiting classes by Scout.com from 2005 on, and the only time they've cracked the top-25 by Rivals.com was #17 in 2007. By contrast, Washington has been top-25 every season from 2005 on by Rivals.com and all but one season from 2005 on by Scout.com.

Few would have access to better recruits and a greater chance at an NCAA title at a place like Arizona.

Recruiting classes are tough to judge. With so many one and done players, it's often better to be in the teens where most of the guys you recruit will be there all 4 years. He's shown over the years that his team can compete with the big boys and has a postseason resume that is better than most power conference schools this decade.

Of course there are benefits to the Pac-10, but he would have a lot more pressure. Missing the NCAA Tournament or getting bounced early a couple years in a row likely means getting the ax. At Gonzaga, he doesn't have that pressure.

I guess I just look at it from a job standpoint. I'd rather have that security and my name tied to a school for a long time. Gonzaga is a pretty nice gig for him. They have good prestige, a nice TV deal, and a newer arena. When you look at the coaches who moved from mid-majors to power conferences, most flame out in 5 years and end up somwhere crappy. All he has to do is look at Dan Monson who could have stayed at Gonzaga fora long time. He's now coaching Long Beach State. It's a pretty hefty risk if you ask me. If he was coaching UW-Milwaukee or something I'd understand, but Gonzaga is almost considered a major program these days.

[JonInMiddleGA]

With so many one and done players, it's often better to be in the teens where most of the guys you recruit will be there all 4 years.

See Tech comma Georgia.

[miami_fan]

Not really. They're free to transfer without any release to another conference. The recruits haven't signed a LOI, so they're free to do what they want. It shows just how much that the Memphis program is much more about the coach than the program. Those players weren't there because of Memphis. They were there because of Calipari.

Isn't that the case at 98% of the schools?

I am sure Columbia is a beautiful place and they will get a quality education at Mizzou but those kids are playing basketball at Missouri as much for Coach Anderson as the Memphis kids were playing for Coach Calipari.

[hoopsguy]

Growing up my parents had season tickets to them and now I live a few blocks away from the campus. I would love to see DePaul get back to a respectable state. They should have stuck with C-USA.

In all seriousness, I've talked with one of my close friends at length about DePaul and what happens next for that program. I'm really surprised that Wainwright does not seem to have invested much recruiting time in the state, where there is traditionally a lot of talent.

Assuming Tucker sticks around, they should have their top three players back from this season (along with Koshwal and Walker). The Big East is going to lose quite a few players to graduation and/or early entry. I do not think it is out of the realm of possibility for them to pick up 6-8 conference wins next year. But I imagine that it is tough to sell hope to incoming kids when you just went 0-fer in conference play.

[RainMaker]

In all seriousness, I've talked with one of my close friends at length about DePaul and what happens next for that program. I'm really surprised that Wainwright does not seem to have invested much recruiting time in the state, where there is traditionally a lot of talent.

Assuming Tucker sticks around, they should have their top three players back from this season (along with Koshwal and Walker). The Big East is going to lose quite a few players to graduation and/or early entry. I do not think it is out of the realm of possibility for them to pick up 6-8 conference wins next year. But I imagine that it is tough to sell hope to incoming kids when you just went 0-fer in conference play.

Yeah, they should be better next year. I'm more worried about Koshwal going pro since he has an NBA frame. The Wilson Chandler jump really hurt them. If he had hung around they probably would have been a tournament team at some point.

Wainright is never going to be succesful here. The only way DePaul can succeed is by nabbing solid local recruits. The last good team they had featured 3 Chicago recruits in Bobby Simmons, Quentin Richardson, and Paul McPherson. They need to be able to do that consistently.

Another problem they have is All-State Arena. It's just too far from campus and they dont' really have a home court advantage. It worked fine in the 80's wheny they had Comedgys and Strickland to bring in fans, but no one really wants to trek out there for this team. I'd love to either see a new on-campus facility or them just play more home games at Alumni Hall (which they could upgrade a bit more). They can always play half a dozen games at the United Center and/or All-State Arena.

[hoopsguy]

A couple of problems with the on-campus facility for DePaul:
1.) Where do you put it? Land is really developed in that neck of the woods and very expensive.
2.) How do you fund it, even if you can find a place to put it?

I do not know how they solve that one in the short term. Recruiting is something that DePaul can improve upon, but I just do not hear anything about him making the inroads locally. They are pursuing Darius Smith, but that is about the only top ten in-state talent in any of the last three classes where I've heard their name. And Smith was a "late bloomer" in that he wasn't on the radar for most people until the start of his senior year.

[RainMaker]

A couple of problems with the on-campus facility for DePaul:
1.) Where do you put it? Land is really developed in that neck of the woods and very expensive.
2.) How do you fund it, even if you can find a place to put it?

I do not know how they solve that one in the short term. Recruiting is something that DePaul can improve upon, but I just do not hear anything about him making the inroads locally. They are pursuing Darius Smith, but that is about the only top ten in-state talent in any of the last three classes where I've heard their name. And Smith was a "late bloomer" in that he wasn't on the radar for most people until the start of his senior year.

1) Good question. There have been a lot of ideas floated around. There is a nice chunk of land directly to the West of campus that is being used for off-campus housing (between Belden and Racine). The city also owns a lot of good land near campus that is being unused (such as the lot near Lane Tech). It probably wouldn't be a bad idea for CPS to sell that land and build a new school closer to Cabrini.

2) DePaul isn't exactly a poor school. The Big East money they are bringing in is helping a lot. Building it would be risky, but the goal would ultimately be to make them more competitive and get better money through local TV/radio deals (does DePaul even have a TV deal these days?).

Any new arena would require some deal with the city though. The UIC Pavillion is getting a bit old and there is some space to perhaps grab some of the events they typically get (WNBA, concerts, smaller sports leagues). The new arena could be the facility local high school teams as well. There is of course naming rights which can be fairly lucrative. I think there is a void for a north side arena that can hold some unique events.


I went to a game a few years back at McGrath/Alumni (whatever it's called) and the place was rocking. It was college basketball at its finest. A small arena in Lincoln Park would be a huge home court advantage for them. I guarantee they pick up 5-6 wins a year based on that alone. All-State is just a bad college basketball experience. The stadium is getting old and rundown and none of the college kids attend the games. The lease is up in 2012 anyway.

If DePaul won't buid a new arena, then I feel it's best for them to drop down to Conference USA. They just can't compete in the Big East with that setup. They can build up a nice mid-major of something. I still think the school can be a powerhouse like it used to be. Chicago is a hot bed for talent and if you can entice a couple kids a year to stay home and play in a great college basketball environment, there is no reason they can't turn into a contender in the Big East. Living and playing in the city of Chicago is a unique experience that not many schools in this country can offer.

A good model DePaul could follow is Xavier. They put a lot of money into the program years ago and it paid off. They built their arena for under $50 million.

[the_meanstrosity]

Then you'd have to throw out Missouri's Elite Eight run in 1994 due to Jevon Crudup being declared inelligible for getting benefits from an agent while at Missouri.

1973 and 2008 have been their only significant runs (1985 was thrown out of the books).

[the_meanstrosity]

I'm not a fan of Texas, but I'd rather have the high expectations of the Longhorns vs the low expectations of the Tigers. If you have high expectations then that means you've been doing something right in recent years and will likely continue doing something right despite some setbacks due to players opting for the NBA.

I'd downplay the relatively mediocre play of my team as well given the high expectations. Thank God for spring football in Austin.

[Butter]

Re: the DePaul discussion... Dayton fans have been going on for YEARS about how good an all-Catholic league would be... I can't imagine the Big East will carry on in a 16-team incarnation forever... can it?

That said, I am pretty shocked at how low DePaul basketball is right now. This was a team that was regularly in the top 10 as an independent... they have been sliding down for a while, and this season had to be the bottom.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I'm not a fan of Texas, but I'd rather have the high expectations of the Longhorns vs the low expectations of the Tigers. If you have high expectations then that means you've been doing something right in recent years and will likely continue doing something right despite some setbacks due to players opting for the NBA.

But low expectations at Mizzou is only a recent thing. Mizzou had been to the NCAA tournament 21 times in 27 years before Quin send the program into a downward spiral with his antics. MU was a NCAA regular before that. Also, even with the rough time Mizzou has had recently, they've had three players leave early for the NBA. Keyon Dooling, Kareem Rush, and Linas Kleiza were all early departures. But those players weren't the reason for Mizzou's setbacks as they were obviously very talented. The setbacks were all Quin Snyder.

[Ksyrup]

Re: the DePaul discussion... Dayton fans have been going on for YEARS about how good an all-Catholic league would be... I can't imagine the Big East will carry on in a 16-team incarnation forever... can it?

That said, I am pretty shocked at how low DePaul basketball is right now. This was a team that was regularly in the top 10 as an independent... they have been sliding down for a while, and this season had to be the bottom.

What happened to DePaul? Was Pat Kennedy part of the problem? I remember when he took FSU to the NCAA tournament a couple of years in a row back in the late 90s (not to mention an Elite Eight appearance around 1992 with Bobby Sura and Charlie Ward), and he basically wanted a "coach for life"-type extension, and when the school wouldn't give it to him, he bolted for DePaul. I lost track of him after that. Did he suck it up with DePaul?

[digamma]

See Also:
Larry Shyatt 70-84 .455 1998-03

And Id say Clemson is more comparable to UVa than NC State...other than the Sampson years UVA has never been real relevent where as NCSU actually ha a basketball legacy.

Interesting. I wouldn't have thought of Shyatt. Maybe there was a talent discrepancy, but I don't think teams were annoyed playing the Shyatt Clemson teams (except for maybe North Carolina) like teams were playing against Sendek. (This may be my perception. As I think you know, I'm a Georgia Tech fan and Hewitt and Cremins both had miserable records against Sendek.)

On the relevance point, pre-1980 I certainly agree with you that NCSU had more history. Since then, I think UVA has been on par with them. The Hoos had a sustained run from the Sampson years until Jeff Jones started getting caught with sorority girls in the late 90s where they didn't miss the tournament, made the sweet 16 several times and landed in the final four twice 81 and 84. (NCSU of course has the national championship in that time, but not much else.)

[digamma]

No, it's not absurd, viewed through the prism most people use, which is "what have you done for me lately?" In the past five years, Wazzu has been much more significant than UVA, and the guy UVA hired is a key reason for it.

So UVA fans bitching about his hire need to do their homework, and not make themselves out to be above it all.

As for the bolded part above, please point out to me where I said this.

I didn't say you said the bolded part. It was a general you.

I'd certainly argue the point that Washington State has been MUCH more significant than UVA in the last five years. Heck, I'd argue the point that they've been ANY more significant. In 2005 and 2006, Washington State had losing seasons. If I'm not mistaken, Virginia was an NIT both seasons. In 2007, they had a break through year and I think earned a 3rd seed in the tournament. Virginia that year? ACC regular season champs and a fifth seed in the tournament. No real difference.

Last year Washington State made the tournament again and Virginia played in the CBI. There's a difference.

This year Washington State made the NIT and Virginia had a bad year. Thus, the coaching change. So, you might have two years where Washington State has been more "significant." But by any measure longer than that Virginia is a better program and a step up for Bennett.

The reason UVA fans are underwhelmed by the hire is that it isn't a glamour hire. It isn't someone from an up and coming program. Some of the luster from the 2006 season has worn off Bennett. Virginia fans had also been spoon fed Tubby's name for several weeks.

I think it is a good hire because it shows a real change of direction for Virginia. They are sort of recognizing that they aren't going to compete year in, year out for recruits with North Carolina and Duke. But, they may beat them on the court with their system. That may not generate a lot of initial excitement from the fan base, but it could be a good long term decision.

Incidentally, one rumbling from UVA fans is that the initial excitement in a coach was a must in a hire. They have a newish arena (two or three years old) that they are still making tons of payments on, so ROI is pretty important in Hooville.

[Ksyrup]

From the Memphis paper:


Geoff Calkins: Tigers' Calipari to make decision this afternoon about Kentucky

By Geoff Calkins (http://www.commercialappeal.com/staff/geoff-calkins/) (Contact (http://www.commercialappeal.com/staff/geoff-calkins/contact/)), Memphis Commercial Appeal

Originally published 10:17 a.m., March 31, 2009
Updated 10:17 a.m., March 31, 2009

John Calipari told friends at a Memphis donut shop this morning he would make his decision about the Kentucky job "this afternoon."

And, yes, that is what this has come to: Tracking the man to a donut shop.

Calipari dropped by to see a collection of buddies at Gibson's Donuts at Mt. Moriah at 9:35 this morning.

Unbeknownst to him, The Commercial Appeal had a source -- we'll call him Deep Crueller -- at a nearby table.

Calipari stayed for exactly eight minutes. In that span, he said:

** In addition to Kentucky, Arizona came after him over the weekend offering not a salary but a blank check. Calipari said, "No thanks."

** He was in the Memphis Athletic Office Building yesterday but slipped out a side door.

** He loves Memphis but is drawn to the history and prestige of Kentucky. Calipari said it's one of five programs -- along with North Carolina, Duke, UCLA and Kansas -- any coach would have to consider.

Nobody actually came out and asked Calipari if he was leaving, but he said he hadn't made up his mind. He was going to drive around Memphis today and decide this afternoon.

If you're into reading tea leaves -- or coffee grounds, if you prefer -- Calipari did say two things that should have Memphis fans worried.

"Things will be OK here," he said.

And also: "Taking the job is the easy part of the decision. Leaving here is the hard part."

[Arles]

That source is a little dubious. I know some people in the Arizona AD department and it would be physically impossible for them to offer Calipari a blank check. The board only allows a max 5-year deal and the parameters (I've been told) cap out at $2.5-3 million. So, if a Memphis paper's "source" is saying Calipari got offered more than $3 million from Arizona, they are full of it.

[Arles]

Looks like another big winner this week could be Mike Anderson. ESPN is reporting that Anderson has an offer from Georgia for more than $2 million a season (5 years was said on the radio). This comes right after Missouri was prepared to offer him a 5-year deal averaging $1.3 million.

It also links Anderson to the Memphis opening. At the end of the day, it's a good time to be Mike Anderson. Regardless of where he lands, he's going to be making north of $2 million per season:

Georgia Bulldogs eye Missouri Tigers' Mike Anderson as next coach - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4029709)

[Ksyrup]

That source is a little dubious. I know some people in the Arizona AD department and it would be physically impossible for them to offer Calipari a blank check. The board only allows a max 5-year deal and the parameters (I've been told) cap out at $2.5-3 million. So, if a Memphis paper's "source" is saying Calipari got offered more than $3 million from Arizona, they are full of it.

It could be that they told him to name his price, with the idea that they would go back and work to get it approved quickly.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Looks like another big winner this week could be Mike Anderson. ESPN is reporting that Anderson has an offer from Georgia for more than $2 million a season (5 years was said on the radio). This comes right after Missouri was prepared to offer him a 5-year deal averaging $1.3 million.

It also links Anderson to the Memphis opening. At the end of the day, it's a good time to be Mike Anderson. Regardless of where he lands, he's going to be making north of $2 million per season:

Georgia Bulldogs eye Missouri Tigers' Mike Anderson as next coach - ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4029709)

Couple of points to make that were not made clear in that article.

1. The $1.3M offer from Mizzou is base salary and was the starting point for negotiations. The $2M offer supposedly from Georgia includes all bonuses. The real base salary offer from Georgia is around $1.5M. So the difference isn't nearly as big as that article indicates (around $200K). As we speak, Mike Anderson is currently in a room at the Hearnes Center with Mike Alden (Mizzou AD) negotiating a contract. Don't know whether we'll hear anything today or not.

2. There's some pretty good info circulating that Anderson and Capel's agents are deeply involved with the circulation of these contract numbers. They're both using Georgia to get the amounts they want from their current schools. In the end, it's likely that neither Capel nor Anderson end up at Georgia.

[cartman]

But low expectations at Mizzou is only a recent thing. Mizzou had been to the NCAA tournament 21 times in 27 years before Quin send the program into a downward spiral with his antics. MU was a NCAA regular before that. Also, even with the rough time Mizzou has had recently, they've had three players leave early for the NBA. Keyon Dooling, Kareem Rush, and Linas Kleiza were all early departures. But those players weren't the reason for Mizzou's setbacks as they were obviously very talented. The setbacks were all Quin Snyder.

Once again, the facts do not back up your statements. In the 27 years before Snyder, Mizzou went to the NCAA tourney 16 times. They went to the NIT 4 times, and the NCIT (only held in 1974 and 1975) once. In Stewart's last four seasons at Mizzou, they missed the post season once, went to the NIT twice, and the Big Dance once. In Snyder's first four seasons, they went to the NCAA tourney each of the four seasons, making the Elite Eight once. The program was in decline at the end of Stewart's tenure, and Snyder was on the verge of turning the program around before screwing things up.

Missouri Tigers men's basketball - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Missouri_Tigers_men%27s_basketball)

[MizzouRah]

Couple of points to make that were not made clear in that article.

1. The $1.3M offer from Mizzou is base salary and was the starting point for negotiations. The $2M offer supposedly from Georgia includes all bonuses. The real base salary offer from Georgia is around $1.5M. So the difference isn't nearly as big as that article indicates (around $200K). As we speak, Mike Anderson is currently in a room at the Hearnes Center with Mike Alden (Mizzou AD) negotiating a contract. Don't know whether we'll hear anything today or not.

2. There's some pretty good info circulating that Anderson and Capel's agents are deeply involved with the circulation of these contract numbers. They're both using Georgia to get the amounts they want from their current schools. In the end, it's likely that neither Capel nor Anderson end up at Georgia.

I hope Missouri steps up.. I'm assuming Laurie is in this meeting as well. :D

[Samdari]

Before Calipari came to the school, Mizzou was a clear leader.

By what measure was Missouri a clear leader over Memphis prior to the 2000-2001 season?

Tournament appearances? Mizzou 17, Memphis 15.
Tournament Wins? Mizzou 13, Memphis 18
Final Fours? Memphis 2, Mizzou 0

Not sure I see anything that clearly indicates Missouri as clearly having a better history than Memphis.

Is it beacuse they play in a better conference? Prior to 1995, Memphis was part of the Missouri Valley and Metro conferences. In the context of the times, those were MAJOR basketball conferences, on pretty much equal footing with the Big 8/12. For example, the Metro made 7 final fours in the 1980's, the Big Eight made 3.

The history lists appear pretty similar, with the exception of Memphis' two final fours, which would put them way ahead. Whether you like it or not (and I know you won't because it does make Mizzou look like less than they have been) Final Four appearances are a major measuring stick for basketball programs. You want to throw out the vacated 1985 appearance, but we all know they made it. I am not a big fan of revisionist history.

Note I am not arguing against the idea that its a step down for Anderson RIGHT NOW. I think it is. We are not playing in history, we are playing now. I agree with your assertion that Memphis' success has all been about Cal, and they will go back to mid-major status. However, making the statement that Mizzou had a clearly better basketball history than Memphis prior to Cal is riduculous.

The speculation about Memphis' players and recruits all following Cal to UK is pretty amazing.

First of all, Kentucky has only one senior. They have 4 recruits coming in. I am pretty sure they have their scholarship limit for next year, or are within 1 or 2. Now, I am sure with the coaching change they'll lose some, between pro declarations, transfers and decommits. The 7 players who are reported to all be coming with Cal? I sincerely doubt it. The recruits who signed with UK are not as likely to bolt, as they have nowhere to go to follow Gillespie. If he goes to, say, Georgia, UK will definitely not let them out of their scholarships to go there. My guess is he does not work this year and UK keeps the recruits.

Secondly, there are tons of reports that none of Memphis recruits but Henry signed LOI's. According to rivals and Memphis' press releases, all but Cousins did. Also reported is the one of the recruits' mother's claimed their LOI had an addendum. I am fairly sure that's not true - its a standard form, you have to sign THIS for it to be an official LOI. Now, the school may have made him that promise, and may have even made it in writing, but I doubt the actual LOI was altered in any way.

[Ksyrup]

I think you'll see some massive upheaval in UK's roster if Calipari comes and he brings recruits with him. This is from Andy Katz's column:

• Kentucky had some funny math even before the flirtation with John Calipari. The Wildcats had one scholarship open but signed three players under Billy Gillispie, meaning there had to be attrition either through the NBA draft, transfers or scholarships not being renewed. Whoever is the new coach is likely going to have roster-upheaval privileges. Remember, scholarships are technically renewable every season.

Sucks for the kids, but my guess is some of the pineasses on this year's team may be looking for another school. At least, that seems to be the preference of most fans, I can assure you!

[Ksyrup]

Perhaps this is finally coming to an end?


Memphis station reports that Calipari is leaving for UK (http://johnclay.bloginky.com/2009/03/31/memphis-station-reports-that-calipari-is-leaving-for-uk/)

<SMALL class=entry-meta>Published <ABBR class=published title=2009-03-31T12:05:36-0500>March 31, 2009</ABBR> UK basketball (http://johnclay.bloginky.com/category/uk-basketball/) 0 Comments (http://johnclay.bloginky.com/2009/03/31/memphis-station-reports-that-calipari-is-leaving-for-uk/#respond)
Tags: John Calipari (http://johnclay.bloginky.com/tag/john-calipari/)
</SMALL><!-- .entry-meta -->
<!-- .entry-head -->WREG in Memphis is reporting (http://www.wreg.com/wreg-calipari-decision,0,7710064.story) that John Calipari is leaving Memphis to become head coach at Kentucky.

Here’s the report:News Channel 3 has learned from a source very close to the situation that U of M coach John Calipari is leaving. Right now, Calipari is at his home meeting with members of his staff explaining the decision. We have live crews stationed in the area as well as working with our sister station in Lexington, KY.
The story posted 10 minutes ago.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I hope Missouri steps up.. I'm assuming Laurie is in this meeting as well. :D

Laurie is not in the meeting. Some Mizzou fans may be surprised by this, but there are two donors that have ponied up more money to the university than he does for things like this involving athletics. It's just that they remain anonymous unlike Laurie. He wants everyone to know when he gives money, even though it's actually his wife's money.

[Samdari]

I think you'll see some massive upheaval in UK's roster if Calipari comes and he brings recruits with him. This is from Andy Katz's column:



Sucks for the kids, but my guess is some of the pineasses on this year's team may be looking for another school. At least, that seems to be the preference of most fans, I can assure you!

I am sure Gillespie was counting on Patterson and/or Meeks going pro, and some of the leftovers transferring.

As a side note, I am amazed that the LOI's guarantee the recruits scholarships for next year (they are not revokable by the school) but that current players with scholarships are not guaranteed. If a school over books, and no one goes pro or transfers, they HAVE to boot current players.

It just seems like such bad PR these days to cancel a player's scholarship, yet clearly UK is going to have to do that for a few kids.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

The speculation about Memphis' players and recruits all following Cal to UK is pretty amazing.

First of all, Kentucky has only one senior. They have 4 recruits coming in. I am pretty sure they have their scholarship limit for next year, or are within 1 or 2. Now, I am sure with the coaching change they'll lose some, between pro declarations, transfers and decommits. The 7 players who are reported to all be coming with Cal? I sincerely doubt it. The recruits who signed with UK are not as likely to bolt, as they have nowhere to go to follow Gillespie. If he goes to, say, Georgia, UK will definitely not let them out of their scholarships to go there. My guess is he does not work this year and UK keeps the recruits.

Agree that they won't release them to a SEC school. Any other schools will be allowed a free transfer.

I sincerely doubt that Gillespie goes anywhere of note after what has come out regard his antics at Kentucky. He'll end up at a smaller college and will have to rebuild his career.

[miami_fan]

I am sure Gillespie was counting on Patterson and/or Meeks going pro, and some of the leftovers transferring.

As a side note, I am amazed that the LOI's guarantee the recruits scholarships for next year (they are not revokable by the school) but that current players with scholarships are not guaranteed. If a school over books, and no one goes pro or transfers, they HAVE to boot current players.

It just seems like such bad PR these days to cancel a player's scholarship, yet clearly UK is going to have to do that for a few kids.

Ironically it will probably be those kids who really and truly wanted to play for Kentucky no matter who the coach was.

[Atocep]

I am sure Gillespie was counting on Patterson and/or Meeks going pro, and some of the leftovers transferring.

As a side note, I am amazed that the LOI's guarantee the recruits scholarships for next year (they are not revokable by the school) but that current players with scholarships are not guaranteed. If a school over books, and no one goes pro or transfers, they HAVE to boot current players.

It just seems like such bad PR these days to cancel a player's scholarship, yet clearly UK is going to have to do that for a few kids.

It happens much more frequently than most probably realize, especially in football. One of the ways Miami was able to build so quickly after probation was cutting scholarships for the kids who either didn't pan out or weren't working hard enough. There's been speculation that FSU will be doing the same to try to keep from falling.

UK definitely won't be the only school doing it this year.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Mike Anderson and his wife have told Mike Alden that they want to stay at Mizzou. Contract is nearly complete and should be finalized in the next 24-36 hours. Expect an extention announcement before the end of the week.

Here's an article discussing the situation, though it doesn't have all of the information I just mentioned above. You'll note that Anderson's agent wishes that Georgia HAD made an offer. That's obviously because it would help their negotiating power..........

Alden has contract talks with Anderson, hopes for quick resolution - Kansas City Star (http://www.kansascity.com/sports/story/1116206.html)

Alden has contract talks with Anderson, hopes for quick resolution
By MIKE DeARMOND
The Kansas City Star

Missouri athletic director Mike Alden had contract talks with men’s basketball coach Mike Anderson on Tuesday morning in Columbia and expressed a desire to wrap up negotiations as soon as possible.

“If it was completely up to me,” Alden told The Star, “you’d want to get that completed today.”

Pressed for his level of confidence on when Missouri and Anderson might agree to terms on a contract extension, and for a timetable when that might take place, Alden said: “I would hope so. And within the next couple of days.”

Earlier Tuesday, ESPN — citing “multiple sources” — reported Georgia officials have offered Anderson a multi-year contract that would pay him more than $2 million per season.

Alden said his only knowledge of that claim was the ESPN report, e-mailed to him by a friend. Asked whether Anderson had been in Athens, Ga., on Monday talking to Georgia officials, Alden said: “I have no knowledge of that.”

“What we want to focus on is what we can do at Mizzou,” Alden said. “Not on other schools.”

Late Tuesday morning, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution posted a story on its Web site in which Anderson’s agent, Jimmy Sexton, was quoted as saying the ESPN report regarding a Georgia offer was “absolutely inaccurate.”

“Georgia hasn’t offered him the job,” Sexton told the Journal-Constitution. “I wish they had. They haven’t said the job is his.”

Sexton reiterated that Anderson is talking about an extension with Missouri, although Memphis and Georgia have been the subject of speculative interest in Anderson.

“All of these opportunities have their pluses and minuses,” Sexton said. “He’s got it turned around at Missouri. He’s got great players there now. Memphis is a great situation and Mike has connections there.

“Georgia appears to want to make a commitment to basketball and Damon (Evans, Georgia athletic director) probably has the most to offer. But Georgia hasn’t won consistently over the years and you wonder what the reason is for that.”

Sexton said Anderson is “in a sorting-out process right now.”

Alden said he and Anderson discussed a contract extension on Sunday, and again on Tuesday morning. Alden said such talks have been ongoing for more than a month.

The Star has reported MU sources as saying an anticipated three-year extension of Anderson’s current contract, which has two years remaining, would call for a guaranteed salary in the area of $1.3 million per year.

Alden said he has discussed specific numbers with Anderson but would neither confirm that number nor characterize the $1.3 million as a ceiling.

“We look at what is fiscally responsible for us,” Alden said. “What’s fair for us and for Coach.

“We love what he’s doing here. It’s our hope that he’ll be here for some time.”

Anderson coached the Tigers to a breakthrough 31-7 season in his third year at Missouri. Mizzou won its first Big 12 conference tournament and rolled to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament before falling to No. 1 seed Connecticut 82-75 on Saturday in the West Regional final in Glendale, Ariz.

The Star could not immediately reach Anderson for comment. However, on Monday, at a welcome back gathering at Mizzou Arena, Anderson spoke of Missouri’s hopes to make another deep run in the NCAA Tournament and attain at least another opportunity to make it to the school’s first Final Four.

“They want to get back there,” Anderson said, “so I know we’ll have their attention in terms of doing the things to get back there.”

Late Tuesday morning, an MU booster long involved with support of the basketball program, told The Star that: “Several weeks ago (MU athletic officials) talked to several big donors seeking more funds for this. I think it will get done.”

[Samdari]

I sincerely doubt that Gillespie goes anywhere of note after what has come out regard his antics at Kentucky. He'll end up at a smaller college and will have to rebuild his career.

I think his "antics" (not going to the rotary club? really?) at Kentucky have not made that much of a ripple nationally, and probably not much at all in Texas, where he's had great success. I just think this is seen more about being a bad fit than Gillespie having done a bad job, and I don't think his national reputation will take that much of a hit (like, say Quin Snyder or Larry Eustachy) from it.

If I had to name a leader in the clubhouse, I'd say he's very likely to be the coach at Texas Tech for the 2009-2010 season. Pat Knight has no business being a big time college coach, and they'll soon realize it there (see Sutton, Sean).

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Looks like the MU athletic department may have asked the board of curators to waive the 5 year limit on contracts for a head coach. Sounds like the sticking point to finalizing the deal is whether the new contract will be a 5 year or a 7 year extension and what the base salary will be for each option.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I just think this is seen more about being a bad fit than Gillespie having done a bad job, and I don't think his national reputation will take that much of a hit (like, say Quin Snyder or Larry Eustachy) from it.

Kentucky hired someone to follow Gillespie at night to keep him out of trouble due to his drinking and womanizing. Sounds exactly like the two coaches you mentioned if you ask me.

[hoopsguy]

I sincerely doubt that Gillespie goes anywhere of note after what has come out regard his antics at Kentucky. He'll end up at a smaller college and will have to rebuild his career.

Yep, I'm guessing he ends up following the Coach Doherty career path for the next few seasons.

[Samdari]

Kentucky hired someone to follow Gillespie at night to keep him out of trouble due to his drinking and womanizing. Sounds exactly like the two coaches you mentioned if you ask me.

This is something that is easily dismissed as rumor - I have seen no reputable national media reporting it (as Kentucky will not confirm it).

Snyder and Eustachy had their transgressions blazoned across the headlines, and had documentation. The "someone hired to follow Gillispie" report is from blogs and forums. There is no equating the two whatsoever.

Gillispie will work, in a major conference, within the next five years (unless he takes a lower job and bombs). I'd bet after a single season of sitting out and negotiating the buyout with Kentucky (which will take the whole year).

[molson]

I'm tempted to start spreading some college sports rumors on message boards. I'll say, "I know some people at the university who told me..." or perhaps, "I overheard Calapari at a coffee shop. He didn't think anyone would recognize him at a Memphis coffee shop and figured that was a good place to talk freely about contract matters. He talked for exactly 8 minutes and happened to cover everything the news media is interested in, in bullet-point efficiency".

Of course, since I'm in Idaho, I should start with, "Chris Peterson bought a car from my cousin. He told me that his daughter has enrolled at Notre Dame and he spoke very highly of the football tradition there".

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

More fallout from the Memphis situation. The #4 guard in the nation (Stevenson) was supposed to commit today to Kansas. He has now said he will not commit to Kansas at this point. He's concerned that Xavier Henry will be granted a release from his LOI and will commit to Kansas. Henry has an addendum in his LOI that says he must be released if Calipari moves to a different school.

Also, DeMarcus Cousins has said in an interview that he will consider Washington and Kansas State in addition to Kentucky if/when Calipari takes the UK job.

[Ksyrup]

This is something that is easily dismissed as rumor - I have seen no reputable national media reporting it (as Kentucky will not confirm it).

You're reading it on message boards/blogs; I'm hearing it from connected boosters. The reason it hasn't made news is that there's no hard/public evidence (like photos or arrest records), and the local media here need to keep in the university's good graces. I suspect that's the same for most small town newspapers covering the "only game in town."

I've heard from fairly reputable folks that he's been saved from a DUI on more than one occasion. That's not going to get reported. Now, if he's arrested or some chick has a picture of him in bondage or something and posts it on the net, they've got no choice but to cover it.

I understand being skeptical of these kinds of reports, and maybe this is all part of a grand scheme to make the guy look like an asshole, but I will say that I heard this stuff witrhin a couple of months of him taking the job. So it's not like this is recent news to anyone around here.

[Samdari]

Henry has an addendum in his LOI that says he must be released if Calipari moves to a different school.

I am pretty sure this is not possible. According to the NCAA's NLI website, the NLI is a standard form that all athletes sign (the schools MUST use the pdf they download from the NCAA). The schools may make promises to that effect, and may even do so in writing, but its not on the letter of intent, from what I can determine.

[DeToxRox]

Apparently a deal has been made to let Nixon out of his LOI if Cal leaves.

[Ksyrup]

I am pretty sure this is not possible. According to the NCAA's NLI website, the NLI is a standard form that all athletes sign (the schools MUST use the pdf they download from the NCAA). The schools may make promises to that effect, and may even do so in writing, but its not on the letter of intent, from what I can determine.

That may be, but this is directly from one of the stories floating around:


Carol Dennis, the mother of University of Memphis recruit Nolan Dennis, told The Commercial Appeal Monday that the letter-of-intent her son signed last fall contains an addendum that would allow him to follow Calipari to another school.

[molson]

You're reading it on message boards/blogs; I'm hearing it from connected boosters. The reason it hasn't made news is that there's no hard/public evidence (like photos or arrest records), and the local media here need to keep in the university's good graces. I suspect that's the same for most small town newspapers covering the "only game in town."

I've heard from fairly reputable folks that he's been saved from a DUI on more than one occasion. That's not going to get reported. Now, if he's arrested or some chick has a picture of him in bondage or something and posts it on the net, they've got no choice but to cover it.

I understand being skeptical of these kinds of reports, and maybe this is all part of a grand scheme to make the guy look like an asshole, but I will say that I heard this stuff witrhin a couple of months of him taking the job. So it's not like this is recent news to anyone around here.

Maybe it's all true, but why would allegations that would bring down an entire basketball program be so well known in a community, and then so blabbed about? I'm sure dark things happen, but why would a school inform a booster, and why would the booster be so loose with the info? Is part of the privelege of being a booster access to dirty laundry that you can spread around and feel like a big shot? Is that the "elite Wildcat" donation plan? Or is the boosters pulling the strings? Wouldn't they want to keep that off the internet? Do your sources give you permission to talk about these things publically?

It just seems more logical that someone saw him at a bar, went to the bathroom, and when he came back, the coach was gone, annd then figured that must have meant he drove, and since he didn't get a DUI, the school must have pulled some strings.

[Samdari]

You're reading it on message boards/blogs; I'm hearing it from connected boosters. The reason it hasn't made news is that there's no hard/public evidence (like photos or arrest records), and the local media here need to keep in the university's good graces. I suspect that's the same for most small town newspapers covering the "only game in town."

I've heard from fairly reputable folks that he's been saved from a DUI on more than one occasion. That's not going to get reported. Now, if he's arrested or some chick has a picture of him in bondage or something and posts it on the net, they've got no choice but to cover it.

I understand being skeptical of these kinds of reports, and maybe this is all part of a grand scheme to make the guy look like an asshole, but I will say that I heard this stuff witrhin a couple of months of him taking the job. So it's not like this is recent news to anyone around here.

I am offering no opinion on the veracity of the report, only on the public perception of their credibility. I've never liked Gillispie, and believe any report that paints him as a jackass.

The boosters who will be making the decision as to whether Gillespie will be the coach at another big time basketball school tend to be three things: rich, old, and white. The old part generally means they will accept everything written in a newspaper as fact, and not ever hear, or disbelieve, information delivered via internet forum or blog.

If it makes the newspapers that they hired someone to follow Gillispie around to avoid the public embarassment of him getting a DUI, that will obviously be damaging. If the stories/rumors about personal conduct remain only in blogs/forums, I don't believe that will hurt him in seeking future employment.

[Samdari]

That may be, but this is directly from one of the stories floating around:
:


Quote:
Carol Dennis, the mother of University of Memphis recruit Nolan Dennis, told The Commercial Appeal Monday that the letter-of-intent her son signed last fall contains an addendum that would allow him to follow Calipari to another school.

Go read the site, and show me the part where it suggests anything but the standard form will suffice.

I think it far more likely that report had something lost in translation - I think he was promised in writing that he would be let out if Cal left (and that they will keep that promise). I just don't think it was an addendum to the LOI, and that in the eye of the NCAA both parties are bound by the standard LOI terms.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

:I think it far more likely that report had something lost in translation - I think he was promised in writing that he would be let out if Cal left (and that they will keep that promise). I just don't think it was an addendum to the LOI, and that in the eye of the NCAA both parties are bound by the standard LOI terms.

Three of the Memphis recruits have signed documents in hand that state that they are free to leave if Calipari leaves. If you want to be a stickler, I suppose you're technically correct that it's not part of the LOI. It's a separate document that was signed at the same time.

[the_meanstrosity]

Yes, Missouri used to have high expectations, but they haven't had that for a few years now. I think this is the first year since 1998-1999 when Missouri finished above fourth place in the conference. I just don't understand why you're taking shots at Texas for having one season where they didn't meet expectations. The Longhorns have been one of the better programs in the Big 12 since it's inception.

I don't disagree that the problem at Missouri was Quin Snyder. Anderson has done a solid job at Missouri, but let's not forget that this is his third year at Missouri. The first two years he struggled to make the NIT. And next year, Missouri has to replace 40% of their scoring and rebounding. They've got a couple of good players to build on, but I don't think anybody would be surprised if they dropped off a bit next year.


But low expectations at Mizzou is only a recent thing. Mizzou had been to the NCAA tournament 21 times in 27 years before Quin send the program into a downward spiral with his antics. MU was a NCAA regular before that. Also, even with the rough time Mizzou has had recently, they've had three players leave early for the NBA. Keyon Dooling, Kareem Rush, and Linas Kleiza were all early departures. But those players weren't the reason for Mizzou's setbacks as they were obviously very talented. The setbacks were all Quin Snyder.

[Samdari]

Three of the Memphis recruits have signed documents in hand that state that they are free to leave if Calipari leaves. If you want to be a stickler, I suppose you're technically correct that it's not part of the LOI. It's a separate document that was signed at the same time.

The MCI has this in one of their myriad of stories on the Calipari decision.

"All four players who signed with Memphis in the fall have the same unconditional release in their letters."

Still, I wonder how many of them will actually be able to follow Cal to UK. I imagine they'll have no problem clearing the two scholarships they are over for next year. How many schollies can the school let him cancel (oops, not renew) before it becomes a huge PR problem? If everyone who reportedly wants to follow him were indeed to come, that would mean they'd need 8 more spots in addition to the 2 they currently need to clear. I doubt he takes the transfers - they'd be ineligible next year. Still, they'd need to clear 7 spots to fit the existing Memphis and UK recruits.

The Memphis and Lexington paper websites are both very interesting reads today.

[JonInMiddleGA]

The boosters who will be making the decision as to whether Gillespie will be the coach at another big time basketball school tend to be three things: rich, old, and white.

What you leave out is that they also have a tendency to enjoy winning. If Gillespie is believed to be their best chance of doing that, they'll write the checks. If they don't, they likely won't. But if he wins enough & doesn't get arrested on felony charges or get the pants sued off the university/state, then he can drive as drunk as he wants and screw anybody he wants to screw.

Short of getting a school the death penalty, winning trumps pretty much everything. It's why he's out at Kentucky, it's why someone else will hire him (if they believe he's the guy to get them there).

His biggest problem right now is whether anybody in a top tier conference/program believes he can do that to the extent they're hoping for.

[GoldenEagle]

The same media source that reported it was a done deal is now saying that Cal is conflicted and has no idea what to do. Memphis boosters have offered him the world to stay.

[Arles]

The Fox affiliate in Memphis just reported that the Calipari deal is done to KY and that Memphis has received permission to talk with Mike Anderson.

This is from the rivals Memphis main page on the LOIs:
If John Calipari leaves the University of Memphis, what will happen with the recruits that he has signed?

Memphis has a signed National Letter of Intent (NLI) with three recruits: Will Coleman and Darnell Dodson, the junior college transfers, and high school senior Xavier Henry. It is not possible for those potential student-athletes to break their commitment without getting a release from the U of M. If the U of M were to give those three a release, they could immediately re-open their recruitment. It would then be possible, of course, for them to follow Calipari to UK. Though that is a possibility, it is highly improbable. It simply does not happen very often. DeMarcus Cousins, who has given a verbal commitment to Memphis, would be free to sign an NLI with anyone he chooses—including, of course, Kentucky. John Wall, the consensus number one recruit in the country, has not indicated what school he wishes to attend. Obviously, he, too, would be free to sign with any school of his choice. Kentucky has never been on his list, which could change if Calipari takes the job there.

[Ronnie Dobbs2]

If Anderson went to Memphis that would be ironic.

[JonInMiddleGA]

If Anderson went to Memphis that would be ironic.

No kidding. Like rain on your wedding day or something.

[DataKing]

No kidding. Like rain on your wedding day or something.

Like a free ride, when you've already paid?

[Samdari]

What you leave out is that they also have a tendency to enjoy winning. If Gillespie is believed to be their best chance of doing that, they'll write the checks. If they don't, they likely won't. But if he wins enough & doesn't get arrested on felony charges or get the pants sued off the university/state, then he can drive as drunk as he wants and screw anybody he wants to screw.

Short of getting a school the death penalty, winning trumps pretty much everything. It's why he's out at Kentucky, it's why someone else will hire him (if they believe he's the guy to get them there).

His biggest problem right now is whether anybody in a top tier conference/program believes he can do that to the extent they're hoping for.

That's why I picked a Texas school. They will remember him as resurrecting two pretty moribund programs there more than they will remember him not addressing the rotary club in Lexington.

I expect Texas Tech to continue their road to moribundity and be looking for a coach next season. The Sean Sutton Rule says you have to give unfortunately-named-coaches-in-waiting-to-placate-their-legendary-fathers two and a half years before firing them.

Besides, who doesn't think Bobby's commentary on Pat's being fired at TTU will be prime tv viewing?

[the_meanstrosity]

Memphis would be a great job for Anderson. He'd get to return to Conference USA where he's had success before with his style of play. His recruiting would likely be improved and the money would obviously be better than what he previously made.

I'll say this, I wouldn't blame Missouri AD Mike Alden if he didn't get into a bidding war. Anderson has had one good season in his three years at Missouri. There are a number of quality coaches out there whom he might rather throw big money at. Of course, Alden may feel pressured given that attendance has been down for Missouri basketball since his hiring of Quin. Alden and Quin practically threw Missouri basketball into the cellar.

If Anderson went to Memphis that would be ironic.

[the_meanstrosity]

Sounds like it's official...Calipari to Kentucky.

[Karlifornia]

LOL I'm rooting hard for Mike Anderson to go to Memphis.

[spleen1015]

LOL I'm rooting hard for Mike Anderson to go to Memphis.

That would be epic.

[kcchief19]

Missouri confirms that Mike Anderson has agreed to a 7-year extension with the Tigers. Whew!

[RainMaker]

What happened to DePaul? Was Pat Kennedy part of the problem? I remember when he took FSU to the NCAA tournament a couple of years in a row back in the late 90s (not to mention an Elite Eight appearance around 1992 with Bobby Sura and Charlie Ward), and he basically wanted a "coach for life"-type extension, and when the school wouldn't give it to him, he bolted for DePaul. I lost track of him after that. Did he suck it up with DePaul?

Pat Kennedy actually brought them back from crap for a couple years. He recruited a monster class that included Quentin Richardson, Bobby Simmons, Stephen Hunter, and Paul McPherson. I believe they made the NIT the first year and the tournament the next (lost to Kansas I think).

He was a great recruiter but horrible in-game coach. That team should have been a top 10 team. Still, he did bring the team back from the pile of crap Joey Meyer left it at.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Missouri confirms that Mike Anderson has agreed to a 7-year extension with the Tigers. Whew!

Terms were a 1.6M base salary with bonus up to 2.3M. So basically the same salary structure that Georgia was offering.

Certainly not a surprise. Memphis and Georgia would have both been monumental rebuilding efforts with all of the transfers at those two programs. Mike Anderson told the AD he wanted to stay at Mizzou and they got it done. Reportedly, Anderson didn't visit a single school, contrary to the false rumors that were spread in Atlanta and Memphis. Kudos to all involved at Mizzou for handling the situation well.

[Arles]

Great news for Missouri and my opinion of Anderson has gone up as well. With the Memphis opening and Georgia, he could have held out for more money but he took a fair deal from Missouri.

[MrBug708]

Who the hell is Arizona going to hire?

[Arles]

It looks like this situation:

1. Pie in the sky choices (estimate a 20% chance)
Pitino, Dixon, Wright

2. More likely, but still questionable (30% chance)
Few, Capel

3. Up-and-comer, but lose the press conference (30% chance)
Mark Fox, Matt Painter, Buzz Williams

4. The old standby to save face (15% chance)
Kruger, Tim Floyd, Pearl

5. Complete longshot (5%)
Josh Pastner

At this point, it isn't looking great. If Arizona can't land Pitino (I hear they have a shot if they will pay him $4 mil a season), then I would prefer Few, Caple or one of the up-and-comers. I'd almost rather have Pastner than Pearl or Floyd.

[the_meanstrosity]

Mike Anderson is a good guy so don't take this the wrong way, but he was looking at a major rebuilding job at Memphis and his agent wasn't too high on Georgia's current administration as that job has pretty much been a coaching graveyard. Staying at Missouri was pretty much a no brainer no matter how much money Memphis may have thrown at him if they had talked.

Great news for Missouri and my opinion of Anderson has gone up as well. With the Memphis opening and Georgia, he could have held out for more money but he took a fair deal from Missouri.

[Pumpy Tudors]

lol buzz williams

[GoldenEagle]

It was fun will it lasted. Memphis will now slip back to irrelevance. At least I will have no more embarrassing rants on FOFC!

[spleen1015]

Matt Painter will be at Purdue for 40 years. He was hand picked to replace Keady. He is a Purdue guy. He will never leave.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

As a sidenote to this whole Memphis situation, I'd note that the jackass at the Memphis Commercial-Appeal who insisted no less than 4 times that Memphis was granted permission to talk to Anderson should lose all credibility with his 'sources'. That guy just kept throwing shit at the wall hoping it would stick and it didn't. Not once. He stirred rumors that had no basis in reality. Anderson told Alden two days ago that his wife and he loved the Mizzou program and had no intentions of leaving as long as they could get a fair market value offer.

[Ksyrup]

Speaking of unsubstantiated rumors, I wonder who the idiot was who said Donovan was taking the UK job 10 seconds after Gillispie was fired? I think he was from an Orlando paper or TV station. That dude should have to go sit in the corner for a few months.

[Ksyrup]

Well, UK got Calipari to actually sign his contract, so he's already off to a better start than Gillispie.

[the_meanstrosity]

I don't know how Memphis could have contacted Missouri regarding Anderson at that time given they were supposedly still trying to woo Calipari to return. The earliest they would have contacted Missouri would have been last night or today.

As for Anderson, you can't deny that he did look around. According to his agent, they were in contact with Georgia. I have no doubt that Georgia was probably a bargaining chip to use against Missouri. Even the agent didn't seem too enthused with Georgia in his comments. But Anderson's agent was certainly willing to talk to other teams. Now Missouri has to hope that this year wasn't some fluke for Anderson.

As a sidenote to this whole Memphis situation, I'd note that the jackass at the Memphis Commercial-Appeal who insisted no less than 4 times that Memphis was granted permission to talk to Anderson should lose all credibility with his 'sources'. That guy just kept throwing shit at the wall hoping it would stick and it didn't. Not once. He stirred rumors that had no basis in reality. Anderson told Alden two days ago that his wife and he loved the Mizzou program and had no intentions of leaving as long as they could get a fair market value offer.

[the_meanstrosity]

Somebody is going to end up with a really good coach in Gillespie. Hopefully he can straighten out his life before that point.

Well, UK got Calipari to actually sign his contract, so he's already off to a better start than Gillispie.

[Swaggs]

I don't know how Memphis could have contacted Missouri regarding Anderson at that time given they were supposedly still trying to woo Calipari to return. The earliest they would have contacted Missouri would have been last night or today.

As for Anderson, you can't deny that he did look around. According to his agent, they were in contact with Georgia. I have no doubt that Georgia was probably a bargaining chip to use against Missouri. Even the agent didn't seem too enthused with Georgia in his comments. But Anderson's agent was certainly willing to talk to other teams. Now Missouri has to hope that this year wasn't some fluke for Anderson.

I think the courtesy of requesting permission to speak/negotiate with coaches has gone away, for the most part. There are a lot of third parties out there, that act as go-betweens, that put out feelers, set the parameters, see whether there is genuine interest, etc. before any formal negotiations are made. Basically, these guys round up candidates and make sure that they are interested before the ADs "officially" open things up.

[mckerney]

I think the courtesy of requesting permission to speak/negotiate with coaches has gone away, for the most part. There are a lot of third parties out there, that act as go-betweens, that put out feelers, set the parameters, see whether there is genuine interest, etc. before any formal negotiations are made. Basically, these guys round up candidates and make sure that they are interested before the ADs "officially" open things up.

Minnesota's AD Joel Maturi has said with search firms and going through coaches agents, requesting permission only occurs after everything has been worked out and the coach has agreed to take a new position.

[the_meanstrosity]

I don't disagree, but again Memphis was still wooing Calipari so I highly doubt they were talking to Mike Anderson at the same time.

I think the courtesy of requesting permission to speak/negotiate with coaches has gone away, for the most part. There are a lot of third parties out there, that act as go-betweens, that put out feelers, set the parameters, see whether there is genuine interest, etc. before any formal negotiations are made. Basically, these guys round up candidates and make sure that they are interested before the ADs "officially" open things up.

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

I don't disagree, but again Memphis was still wooing Calipari so I highly doubt they were talking to Mike Anderson at the same time.

Actually, Memphis and Georgia did both contact Anderson's agent. Memphis asked Mike Anderson to come to Memphis and offered the job before Calipari had even officially taken the new job. They assumed he was gone even if he didn't take the UK job. Before salary numbers were even exchanged, Anderson said 'thanks, but no thanks'.

Georgia approached with a 1.6M base salary. Anderson also said no to that, but the Georgia offer was used as the basis for his new contract extension at Mizzou. But as I mentioned before, neither school was granted permission to speak directly with Anderson.

Another interesting note is that Memphis did actually ask for permission to talk formally with Coach Anderson to take another shot at wooing him 1/2 hour AFTER the new contract extension was signed.

[Samdari]

I think the courtesy of requesting permission to speak/negotiate with coaches has gone away, for the most part. There are a lot of third parties out there, that act as go-betweens, that put out feelers, set the parameters, see whether there is genuine interest, etc. before any formal negotiations are made. Basically, these guys round up candidates and make sure that they are interested before the ADs "officially" open things up.

Yeah, the way this thing reads is that UK asked for permission to talk to Calipari on Monday, but that they had already been talking all weekend.

[Ksyrup]

Another interesting note is that Memphis did actually ask for permission to talk formally with Coach Anderson to take another shot at wooing him 1/2 hour AFTER the new contract extension was signed.

Wow, Josh McDaniels is doing double duty as Memphis' AD, too, huh?

[Mizzou B-ball fan]

Wow, Josh McDaniels is doing double duty as Mizzou's AD, too, huh?

Actually, one of the Mizzou Board of Regents members mentioned the contact in a KC Star article.