OT: Xavier's Sean Miller to meet with Arizona

[jkwuc89]

According to Andy Katz at ESPN (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4043820&campaign=rss&source=NCBHeadlines), Sean Miller was expected to meet Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood in Albuquerque, N.M., on Sunday.

[Not Guilty]

CBS Sportsline reported the same thing.

Here is an article from the Arizona Daily Star about why Arizona is having such a hard time filling its vacancy:

http://www.azstarnet.com/sports/287497

I found this quote interesting, as it clearly relates to UC:

The Wildcats have lost virtually their entire 2008 and early 2009 recruiting classes, and they have also fallen far behind on the 2010 recruits, many of whom have already committed to schools or significantly narrowed their choices.

For those that like to criticize Mick for the talent level of the soon to be junior class, it seems pretty apparent his job was not an easy one. Hopefully he can finish off this years class strongly and show that the recruiting his still continuing to trend up...

[Forsure21]

Really surprised here. Arizona is an average job. IMO he could do better.

[Irishbearcat]

He supposedly is being lined up for the UConn job when it becomes available. If that's the case, taking the Arizona job would be foolish.

BTW-I heard Robinson at UConn had been doing some funky things with his enrollment. Calhoun's luster is quickly deteriorating.

[catsfan32]

Arizona is not an "average job". It has been regarded as one of the best programs in the last 20+ years because of Olsen and what he has done. 24 straight tourney appearances and a National Championship tell you that this isnt an "average job"!

[Forsure21]

Arizona is not an "average job". It has been regarded as one of the best programs in the last 20+ years because of Olsen and what he has done. 24 straight tourney appearances and a National Championship tell you that this isnt an "average job"!

THat was all Lute Olsons work. Nobody here can name a coach or a player before Lute Olson arrive. He was the program. Yes, It is an average job. That is why nobody is knocking the door down to accept it.

People say the previous 16 years here was all the work of another coach. They said he was the program etc.. Arizona is no different.

UCLA, UNC, UK and Kansas IMO are the 4 elite jobs. I don't include Duke because most of the work there is Mike K.

[Forsure21]

Arizona is not an "average job". It has been regarded as one of the best programs in the last 20+ years because of Olsen and what he has done. 24 straight tourney appearances and a National Championship tell you that this isnt an "average job"!

Read that again out loud and you will see my point.

[Not Guilty]

THat was all Lute Olsons work. Nobody here can name a coach or a player before Lute Olson arrive. He was the program. Yes, It is an average job. That is why nobody is knocking the door down to accept it.

People say the previous 16 years here was all the work of another coach. They said he was the program etc.. Arizona is no different.

UCLA, UNC, UK and Kansas IMO are the 4 elite jobs. I don't include Duke because most of the work there is Mike K.

So there are 4 elite jobs. Miller isn't getting any of those. So how could he do better?

[Forsure21]

So there are 4 elite jobs. Miller isn't getting any of those. So how could he do better?

He could do better by waiting for an opening. There are better jobs than Arizona and that current situation. Who said Miller was going to get an elite opening? No matter what or where he is as soon as the Pitt opening is available he is going to take it if they want him.

Arizona is not an elite job. They have old facilities. The gym they play in is old. Tucson is Tucson. Again, nobody is knocking down the door to get that job. AZ doesn't produce top flight talent year in and year out. Yes I know about all the stars so don't bother naming jefferson, bayless etc..

[Not Guilty]

He could do better by waiting for an opening. There are better jobs than Arizona and that current situation. Who said Miller was going to get an elite opening? No matter what or where he is as soon as the Pitt opening is available he is going to take it if they want him.

Arizona is not an elite job. They have old facilities. The gym they play in is old. Tucson is Tucson. Again, nobody is knocking down the door to get that job. AZ doesn't produce top flight talent year in and year out. Yes I know about all the stars so don't bother naming jefferson, bayless etc..

Honestly, most of what you said makes no sense. The fact that he will take the Pitt opening when it comes open doesn't mean he should pass on another job that's willing to pay him 2+ million a year. Especially given the fact that Dixon is a great coach and seems really happy at Pittsburgh.

And the idea that Arizona doesn't produce top flight talent is pure idiocy. Just because you make something up doesn't make it true.

[Forsure21]

Honestly, most of what you said makes no sense. The fact that he will take the Pitt opening when it comes open doesn't mean he should pass on another job that's willing to pay him 2+ million a year. Especially given the fact that Dixon is a great coach and seems really happy at Pittsburgh.

And the idea that Arizona doesn't produce top flight talent is pure idiocy. Just because you make something up doesn't make it true.

The last thing I care about is what Sean Miller is going to do or who is and will be the coach at AZ. All I said is that it is not an elite program and it is a terrible situation at the moment.

I said Arizona doesn't produce top flight talent year in and year out, as in every single year like many other states do. I said I know about Bayless, Jefferson etc..

Again, I'm not making anything up. IMO AZ is a good job, but just an average one. If I was Sean Miller I would take the job for the money and the challenge. It can't be much fun winning the confrence every year and only playing in 10 meaningful games a year like at XU.

[Thegreatone]

How is this at all related to UC? We cant mention Huggins or anybody who has helped/hurt the program and is no longer here but we can talk about our rivals coach?


I am glad we are discussing it because it is interesting but just the point.

I dont think he goes. Why go and be somebodies 5th or 6th or maybe 7th choice??

[nolte50uc]

How is this at all related to UC? We cant mention Huggins or anybody who has helped/hurt the program and is no longer here but we can talk about our rivals coach?


I am glad we are discussing it because it is interesting but just the point.

I dont think he goes. Why go and be somebodies 5th or 6th or maybe 7th choice??

...don't forget the other thread on michigan st/big ten. nowhere close to uc related but it stays open...

[tophat]

Arizona is a big time program, no question, but I can't see him going there under these circumstances. He'll have better options, and he knows it.

[Forsure21]

FYI. Arizona has only reached the FF four times. All four times were done by Lute Olson. THe last, and I had to look it up, was 2001. Oh, and before I forget catsfan32, they only had made the NCAA tournament 3 times before Olson- in 1951, 76 and 77. Yeah, not exactly average huh?

[BearcatRob33]

How is this at all related to UC? We cant mention Huggins or anybody who has helped/hurt the program and is no longer here but we can talk about our rivals coach?


I am glad we are discussing it because it is interesting but just the point.

I dont think he goes. Why go and be somebodies 5th or 6th or maybe 7th choice??

I agree...I was just thinking before I opened the thread that the admins probably closed this by now, but then I see it was actually an admin that actually started it.

Talk about a double standard. They can jam down our throats that if we don't like their policies, we can go away, however I guess those policies are beneath them.

[catsfan32]

FYI. Arizona has only reached the FF four times. All four times were done by Lute Olson. THe last, and I had to look it up, was 2001. Oh, and before I forget catsfan32, they only had made the NCAA tournament 3 times before Olson- in 1951, 76 and 77. Yeah, not exactly average huh?

Average! Are you serious! 24 years straight of going to the NCAA and winning makes you an average program. 4 final fours in 24 years makes you average? 1 national championship in 1997 makes you average? So what if it was all under Olsen, he built that program and has made it a damn good program, one that is considered by many to be a top 15 program of all time! They are in the top 25 of all-time wins and its an average job! You are absolutely wrong about Arizona not being a top program! Just plain wrong!

Here go google search Top 25 college basketball programs of all time, and you will see Arizona in there along with Cincy as well!

[CatsClaw]

How is this at all related to UC? We cant mention Huggins or anybody who has helped/hurt the program and is no longer here but we can talk about our rivals coach?


I am glad we are discussing it because it is interesting but just the point.

I dont think he goes. Why go and be somebodies 5th or 6th or maybe 7th choice??

The reason Bob Huggins isn't mentioned is because the main reason he is mentioned by certain people is to trash Mick and the current program, and that becomes old.

[catsfan32]

Here i did the work for you. Arizona #11 all-time. Cincinnati is #13 by the way!

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=3501739
http://www.prepticket.com/album/823292:Album:92650/market/national/id/823292:Photo:92643

[CatsClaw]

FYI. Arizona has only reached the FF four times. All four times were done by Lute Olson. THe last, and I had to look it up, was 2001. Oh, and before I forget catsfan32, they only had made the NCAA tournament 3 times before Olson- in 1951, 76 and 77. Yeah, not exactly average huh?

Ummm, last I checked, Kansas, Kentucky, UCLA, Indiana, those programs didn't start with Final Fours and national championships hanging in the rafters. It looks to me like Olson has started a tradition similar to how those programs' tradition started.

[CatsClaw]

Here i did the work for you. Arizona #11 all-time. Cincinnati is #13 by the way!
http://www.prepticket.com/album/823292:Album:92650/market/national/id/823292:Photo:92643

I completely disagree with that list, tradition wise Cincinnati should be ahead of Arizona. UC has been to more Final Fours, more national championship games and has won more national titles. Cincinnati is a much more tradition rich program then Arizona. That being said, Arizona is still a great job.

[catsfan32]

^I agree 100 percent. I think Cincy is top 10 of all-time. I was just simply showing that Arizona is an elite program and should be considered more than an "average" job!

[Forsure21]

^I agree 100 percent. I think Cincy is top 10 of all-time. I was just simply showing that Arizona is an elite program and should be considered more than an "average" job!

I did the research, as always. The history shows only 3 NCAA tourney appearances before Lute Olson took over in the early 80's.

[catsfan32]

^That has nothing to do with them being a top 25 program of all time and its clear you're avoiding that fact. And that it's still a great job!

[Doss]

You have to be kidding. Remember Lute Olson? Many years in NCAA. PAC12.
Great weather. DAH!


Really surprised here. Arizona is an average job. IMO he could do better.

[BearcatAlum1]

Average! Are you serious! 24 years straight of going to the NCAA and winning makes you an average program. 4 final fours in 24 years makes you average? 1 national championship in 1997 makes you average? So what if it was all under Olsen, he built that program and has made it a damn good program, one that is considered by many to be a top 15 program of all time! They are in the top 25 of all-time wins and its an average job! You are absolutely wrong about Arizona not being a top program! Just plain wrong!

Here go google search Top 25 college basketball programs of all time, and you will see Arizona in there along with Cincy as well!

Arizona is not an "average job". It has been regarded as one of the best programs in the last 20+ years because of Olsen and what he has done. 24 straight tourney appearances and a National Championship tell you that this isnt an "average job"!

Here i did the work for you. Arizona #11 all-time. Cincinnati is #13 by the way!

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=3501739
http://www.prepticket.com/album/823292:Album:92650/market/national/id/823292:Photo:92643

Good points CatsFan32. Arizona wasn't much before Olsen, but he has made Arizona into a very solid program over the last 20 years or so. I can name a number of great players that have gone on to play in the NBA: Bibby, Jason Terry, Richard Jefferson, Gilbert Arenas, Bayless, etc.

Arizona is an "elite" job, but it is very appealing. He certainly isn't an "average" job. Not to mention, I'm sure whoever is named coach will make some serious $$$$$.

Alum1

[MicksTheGuy]

THat was all Lute Olsons work. Nobody here can name a coach or a player before Lute Olson arrive. He was the program. Yes, It is an average job. That is why nobody is knocking the door down to accept it.

People say the previous 16 years here was all the work of another coach. They said he was the program etc.. Arizona is no different.

UCLA, UNC, UK and Kansas IMO are the 4 elite jobs. I don't include Duke because most of the work there is Mike K.

I'm sorry but unless you are talking about Ed Jucker your thought process doesn't make any sense. Most people care about those National championship things.

[Forsure21]

Again, AZ is a good a job but it is not an elite job. Tucson is Tucson, the facilities are old, and you are going to coach in 1 mans shadow. It is a certainly a good paying job-no question right? I was saying it is an average job- IMO no better than Virginia.

[jkwuc89]

Whoever takes this job on a permanent basis will be living in the very long shadow cast by Lute Olson who went to multiple Final Fours and won a national championship. Generally, it is not good to be the guy who follows a legend because that guy will forever be judged against the legend's record.

[cornelius]

Again, AZ is a good a job but it is not an elite job. Tucson is Tucson, the facilities are old, and you are going to coach in 1 mans shadow. It is a certainly a good paying job-no question right? I was saying it is an average job- IMO no better than Virginia.

WOW! I hope you are kidding. If not, that says a lot about how much you follow or know about college basketball. Not even close between the two jobs.

[TheLivingLegend]

What xavier does really doesnt concern me, although i would like to laugh at Ctrent for saying miller will be around a while. haaa

[CincyBearcat95]

Average! Are you serious! 24 years straight of going to the NCAA and winning makes you an average program. 4 final fours in 24 years makes you average? 1 national championship in 1997 makes you average? So what if it was all under Olsen, he built that program and has made it a damn good program, one that is considered by many to be a top 15 program of all time! They are in the top 25 of all-time wins and its an average job! You are absolutely wrong about Arizona not being a top program! Just plain wrong!

Here go google search Top 25 college basketball programs of all time, and you will see Arizona in there along with Cincy as well!

By that thinking, wouldn't the 16 years at UC with Huggs be below average then since we didn't win a national title and only went to March 14 or was it 15 straight times.

And why would Pitt be an above average program? They've had recent success but I don't believe they have the history of AZ.

Foresure21...step away from the bong!

[Forsure21]

WOW! I hope you are kidding. If not, that says a lot about how much you follow or know about college basketball. Not even close between the two jobs.

Tell me why VA is worse then? Don't just tell me I'm wrong. Back it up. I backed up my opinion that AZ was LUTE OLSON. I stated the fact that they had only 3 NCAA tourney appearances b4 Lute was coach. Virginia has better facilites, as good as fans, and as good as a recruiting base for talent. So tell me why AZ is better than Virginia.

[catsfan32]

^LMAO, Virginia as good as Arizona, you really have lost a lot of credibility.

[Forsure21]

I want somebody or anybody to tell me why I shouldn't believe that Lute olson was Arizona. Again. There first NCAA tourney appearance was 1951. The second was 25 years later! Olson coached the only 4 NCAA FINAL appearances. Also the facilities are old and outdated and this is well known within the fan base.

AZ is no different than any other state school in the US.

[Forsure21]

^LMAO, Virginia as good as Arizona, you really have lost a lot of credibility.

Again. Tell me why? Virginia has WAY better facilities. Just as good as fan support. A nice check. Tell me why someone would want the Arizona job over Virginia? All you are doing is telling me I'm wrong and not explainin. Stop being lazy and make an arguement.

[catsfan32]

I made my argument and all you did was say that Lute Olsen was Arizona and that the job was considered "average". Now im not saying Lute Olsen wasn't Arizona because he was, but he built that program into a top 25 program of all time. To say that they compare similarly is asinine! Lets begin with UA's 4 final fours to UV's 2. UA's 27 NCAA tournament appearances to UV's 16. UA's 1 national championship to UV's 0. UA's 21 conf championships to UA's 5. UA's 5 national players of the year to UV's 3. More All americans at UA than UV, Etc, etc. Arizona is a much better job, period!

[catscratchfever]

He supposedly is being lined up for the UConn job when it becomes available. If that's the case, taking the Arizona job would be foolish.

BTW-I heard Robinson at UConn had been doing some funky things with his enrollment. Calhoun's luster is quickly deteriorating.

I actually would contend that the Arizon job is a better job than UCONN. When Calhoun leaves UCONN, what is the appeal? Arizona has great weather, beautiful terrain, a storied tradition of winning, lots of $$ from wealthy boosters, and is one of the top programs on the entire west coast. Other than UCLA, they are possible the biggest program in the entire western part of the country.

[Forsure21]

I made my argument and all you did was say that Lute Olsen was Arizona and that the job was considered "average". Now im not saying Lute Olsen wasn't Arizona because he was, but he built that program into a top 25 program of all time. To say that they compare similarly is asinine! Lets begin with UA's 4 final fours to UV's 2. UA's 27 NCAA tournament appearances to UV's 16. UA's 1 national championship to UV's 0. UA's 21 conf championships to UA's 5. UA's 5 national players of the year to UV's 0. Etc. etc. Arizona is a much better job, period!

So you are saying you can win more at Arizona going forward than at Virginia because what Lute Olson did? Why and how come? Virginia has better facilities to recruit kids. The class of 2010 were 8 and 9 years old the last times Arizona went to the final four. No one remembers that. No current kids being recruited remember Cincinnati being ranked #1 in 2000. Sorry.

Nothing is any easier for Mick because of what Huggins did, so why will it be at Arizona? Can you tell me why? Can you?

[catscratchfever]

Again. Tell me why? Virginia has WAY better facilities. Just as good as fan support. A nice check. Tell me why someone would want the Arizona job over Virginia? All you are doing is telling me I'm wrong and not explainin. Stop being lazy and make an arguement.

wow dude...you just lost all credibility with this gem...

The fan support at UVA is no where in the ballpark with Arizona. The Arizona job is the west coast version of Kentucky or Carolina.
At UVA, you are not even top 5 in your own conference!

[jeffto]

I want somebody or anybody to tell me why I shouldn't believe that Lute olson was Arizona. Again. There first NCAA tourney appearance was 1951. The second was 25 years later! Olson coached the only 4 NCAA FINAL appearances. Also the facilities are old and outdated and this is well known within the fan base.

AZ is no different than any other state school in the US.AZ is what Lute built, but now it's built and it's big time. The question is whether it will stay big time.

Tark built UNLV into the big time and it eventually faded away. For AZ to continue they'll need a coach who will keep winning and having tourney success.

"no different than any other state school in the US."The state schools tend to win nearly every NCAA championship don't they?

[Forsure21]

wow dude...you just lost all credibility with this gem...

The fan support at UVA is no where in the ballpark with Arizona. The Arizona job is the west coast version of Kentucky or Carolina.
At UVA, you are not even top 5 in your own conference!

You are just saying that. You are not backing it up. Arizona is not the west coast kentucky and Carolina. Not even close! Arizona has been to 4 final fours- all under the same coach. UK, and Carolina have all been to 10 plus- different coaches. Please come with a better arguement.

[Corporateballa]

Really surprised here. Arizona is an average job. IMO he could do better.

Arizona is an average job? That's why I'm not enjoying this forum much these days. Too many clueless posters.

[Forsure21]

Arizona is an average job? That's why I'm not enjoying this forum much these days. Too many clueless posters.

Another comment with no arguement made. Thats is why I'm enjoying this so much.

[Thegreatone]

forsure21 has exploded on BCN lately posting on everything. No one takes him seriously now and his posts are not even entertaining.

[Irishbearcat]

I actually would contend that the Arizon job is a better job than UCONN. When Calhoun leaves UCONN, what is the appeal? Arizona has great weather, beautiful terrain, a storied tradition of winning, lots of $$ from wealthy boosters, and is one of the top programs on the entire west coast. Other than UCLA, they are possible the biggest program in the entire western part of the country.


Feel free to contend anything you want. It's not. The BE has a far better conference, the Arizona program is being gutted, and the new coach is not going to be a Calipari type (far from it). You'll get a decent coach, but I'm not buying for one minute that the UofA job is better than UConn. The Pac-10 hoops is starting to look just like it's football counterpart. Some elite teams, and other largely irrelevant teams that provide padded stats for the few upper echelon teams.
Arizona used to be the better program, but let's not confuse that with the realities of today.

[bearcatpride11]

Forsure you are very immature. If I had to put a number on your age I'd aim for 17.

You think he can't recruit the West Coast if he goes to ZONA because he's not Lute Olsen? because he doesn't have great facilities? Well maybe he might pitch the fact that he took an A-10 team with decent talent to TWO elite eights, in a row. Do you think that might sell to someone that he's a good coach?? Maybe?

UVA will never ever ever ever be Arizona, in basketball, ever.

[bearcatpride11]

oh and forsure, you are a tool.

[Forsure21]

forsure21 has exploded on BCN lately posting on everything. No one takes him seriously now and his posts are not even entertaining.

So because IMO Arizona is not an elite program I'm dumb? It is just an opinion. I love to debate but nobody is telling me why I am wrong. I am not discounting what AZ did under Olson, I said He was AZ and IMO there is no reason to believe why AZ is going to continue to be in the NCAA tourney every year.

Doesn't make me right. Doesn't make me wrong. At least I'm not being lazy and saying I'm right. I'm backing it up.

[Forsure21]

Forsure you are very immature. If I had to put a number on your age I'd aim for 17.

You think he can't recruit the West Coast if he goes to ZONA because he's not Lute Olsen? because he doesn't have great facilities? Well maybe he might pitch the fact that he took an A-10 team with decent talent to TWO elite eights, in a row. Do you think that might sell to someone that he's a good coach?? Maybe?

UVA will never ever ever ever be Arizona, in basketball, ever.

Where is this coming from? Some of you guys on here are ridiculous. Nothing I'm saying is wrong. All I said was Lute Olson was AZ. I said AZ does not produce talent every year in state. I said AZ had only been to 3 Ncaa appearances before he took over as coach.

I was using Virginia as an example. I was just saying with the resources at Virginia there is reason to believe from 2009-2010 on you can just as much and be just as successful at UVA as you can as Arizona? Does that make me dumb? Why?

If you want to tell me I am an *****. Stop being lazy and tell me why?

[jeffto]

Arizona is a big time job. No ifs, ands or buts. Lute built it to where it is but it is where it is. How can anyone who has the least knowledge of college basketball say otherwise. It's not at the Kansas, UNC, Indiana, Duke, UCLA or Kentucky level, but's it's definitely at the CT, Syracuse, Louisville, Ohio State, Florida or Tenn. level (to name a few)

One weak season hardly makes the Pac 10 irrelevant. The PC 10 is big time. Now, AZ, could fade to the back of the Pac 10 if they don't hire well.

[bearcatpride11]

Everyone here knows Arizona is not UNC, UK, Kansas, or UCLA okay buddy. We all get that. Tom Crean put Marquette on the map, they hired a new coach and they're doing okay. Arizona is obviously an appealing job, and Miller obviously feels he can recruit, win, and be successful there, or maybe he is just on a private jet to NM for kicks and giggles? Right?

You criticize everyone about not backing any of their arguments up yet you back yours up with IMO, IMO, IMO....... well we all have opinions so if you're going to argue about UVA being a better job and say "Tucson is Tucson" twice when ONCE was PLENTYY, why dont you pull up some stats? I guarantee those stats won't go in your favor.

[Forsure21]

Arizona is a big time job. No ifs, ands or buts. Lute built it to where it is but it is where it is. How can anyone who has the least knowledge of college basketball say otherwise. It's not at the Kansas, UNC, Indiana, Duke, UCLA or Kentucky level, but's it's definitely at the CT, Syracuse, Louisville, Ohio State, Florida or Tenn. level (to name a few)

One weak season hardly makes the Pac 10 irrelevant. The PC 10 is big time. Now, AZ, could fade to the back of the Pac 10 if they don't hire well.

That is your opinion. There is a reason nobody is jumping to take the job though right? Why is that? IMO- It is not better than any other state school job. That is what I mean by average. There are many on the national level who see the same thing.

[Forsure21]

Everyone here knows Arizona is not UNC, UK, Kansas, or UCLA okay buddy. We all get that. Tom Crean put Marquette on the map, they hired a new coach and they're doing okay. Arizona is obviously an appealing job, and Miller obviously feels he can recruit, win, and be successful there, or maybe he is just on a private jet to NM for kicks and giggles? Right?

You criticize everyone about not backing any of their arguments up yet you back yours up with IMO, IMO, IMO....... well we all have opinions so if you're going to argue about UVA being a better job and say "Tucson is Tucson" twice when ONCE was PLENTYY, why dont you pull up some stats? I guarantee those stats won't go in your favor.

Are you made? Are you angry? Are you getting emotional. It is just my opinion. Neither of us are right. And neither is wrong.

[jplog]

Are you made? Are you angry? Are you getting emotional. It is just my opinion. Neither of us are right. And neither is wrong.

Is your real name Alan Cutler? He's famous for giving the neither of us is wrong or right thing and then shoving his "opinion" down your throat.

[catscratchfever]

You are just saying that. You are not backing it up. Arizona is not the west coast kentucky and Carolina. Not even close! Arizona has been to 4 final fours- all under the same coach. UK, and Carolina have all been to 10 plus- different coaches. Please come with a better arguement.
You are just saying that Arizona is comparable to Virginia...
Care to back it up? If Coach K left Duke, would Duke compare to Virginia? Will UCONN be comparable to UVA when Calhoun leaves?
You have not said anything to back up your ridiculous claim.

[CincyBearcat95]

So you are saying you can win more at Arizona going forward than at Virginia because what Lute Olson did? Why and how come? Virginia has better facilities to recruit kids. The class of 2010 were 8 and 9 years old the last times Arizona went to the final four. No one remembers that. No current kids being recruited remember Cincinnati being ranked #1 in 2000. Sorry.

="Black"]Nothing is any easier for Mick because of what Huggins did, so why will it be at Arizona? Can you tell me why? Can you?

This could not be more wrong of a statement. The 16 years that Huggs was here brought Cincy back onto the national scene. When I started in 1990, the only people wearing UC stuff were students. By the time I left, kids all over were the country were wearing Bearcat uniforms, sweatshirts, hats, etc. Some of our players that came out of Texas also stated they were big Cincy fans from Huggs earlier years.

Olsen made AZ a huge program. Kids out on the west coast still know that AZ is a part of the PAC 10 and a major program because of the last 24 years.

Your comparison of coaches can be said for any school! If an elite school chooses the wrong coach enough times, they will go for a long stretch and no longer be considered an elite school. They 4 you list will always be elite schools, but the conversation would become "they used to be an elite program" if they had enough bad coaches in a row.

[catscratchfever]

forsure21 has exploded on BCN lately posting on everything. No one takes him seriously now and his posts are not even entertaining.
The guy has been a member for 4 months and has over 1,000 posts.....
Talk about a lot to say about nothing..

[Forsure21]

You didn't answer anything. I said Mick's job is not any easier because of the success Huggins had. In fact he under more pressure. The same goes for Arizona.


[/B]

This could not be more wrong of a statement. The 16 years that Huggs was here brought Cincy back onto the national scene. When I started in 1990, the only people wearing UC stuff were students. By the time I left, kids all over were the country were wearing Bearcat uniforms, sweatshirts, hats, etc. Some of our players that came out of Texas also stated they were big Cincy fans from Huggs earlier years.

Olsen made AZ a huge program. Kids out on the west coast still know that AZ is a part of the PAC 10 and a major program because of the last 24 years.

Your comparison of coaches can be said for any school! If an elite school chooses the wrong coach enough times, they will go for a long stretch and no longer be considered an elite school.

[catscratchfever]

Feel free to contend anything you want. It's not. The BE has a far better conference, the Arizona program is being gutted, and the new coach is not going to be a Calipari type (far from it). You'll get a decent coach, but I'm not buying for one minute that the UofA job is better than UConn. The Pac-10 hoops is starting to look just like it's football counterpart. Some elite teams, and other largely irrelevant teams that provide padded stats for the few upper echelon teams.
Arizona used to be the better program, but let's not confuse that with the realities of today.

I'm as big of a big east fan as anyone, but sometimes it is a bit overvalued. Once Calhoun leaves UCONN, I just don't see how that job is any more attractive than AZ, other than the fact that he will probably leave it in better shape personel wise. I agree that the Pac 10 is nowhere near the conference that the Big East is, but if you win, you are consistently one of the top 2 teams, along with UCLA. In the Big East, you could be a top 5 team (UCONN) and still not win your conference. People here in the East are a bit out of touch when it comes to west coast teams, and what I said about Arizona being the Kentucky or Carolina of the west is, in fact, very accurate.

[Forsure21]

I'm as big of a big east fan as anyone, but sometimes it is a bit overvalued. Once Calhoun leaves UCONN, I just don't see how that job is any more attractive than AZ, other than the fact that he will probably leave it in better shape personel wise. I agree that the Pac 10 is nowhere near the conference that the Big East is, but if you win, you are consistently one of the top 2 teams, along with UCLA. In the Big East, you could be a top 5 team (UCONN) and still not win your conference. People here in the East are a bit out of touch when it comes to west coast teams, and what I said about Arizona being the Kentucky or Carolina of the west is, in fact, very accurate.

Well you are missing 1 big thing. Pac 10 teams are almost never on ESPN unless it is OOC. At UCONN, in the same state as ESPN- you are going to be on ESPN

[anbuc88]

I have Forsure21 and Matt1982 among a few others on my ignore list. If everyone who responded to him on this thread had done the same, then this would have been a dozen posts long and much more enjoyable.

[CincyBearcat95]

You didn't answer anything. I said Mick's job is not any easier because of the success Huggins had. In fact he under more pressure. The same goes for Arizona.

I'm sorry, let me connect the dots for you.

Huggs had us regularly in the NCAA Tournament and on national television.

This increased awareness of our baskeball program and kids across the country (some of which played basketball) became fans.

This increased the number of kids willing to look at Cincinnati for basketball.

This improved our chances of recruiting good kids. Thus Mick was able to get better players than an unknown school would - especially since he was starting from scratch.

Do you really think Mick recruited the same caliber of kids at Murray St. that he can get at Cincy????

Another point. Every person on here is telling you that you are wrong and yet you stubbornly refuse to listen. At what point does your pride take a back seat and you recognize that you might just be wrong on this one?

[CanadianBearcat]

Really surprised here. Arizona is an average job. IMO he could do better.

If Arizona is considered just an average job then what would you consider the Xavier job ;). I agree that Ari isn't a UCLA or UNC but it can definately be considered a pretty big upgrade from Xavier. Any coach that would turn down a move from one of the top schools in the A-10 to one of the top schools in the Pac-10 would have started drinking at about 9AM that morning for it to make sence. To say that he should wait at his school in the A-10 for just a slight possibily (and I say slight because we dont know if they even would want him at UCONN) at a BE school, whenever there is a really good program in the Pac-10 calling is like turning down a promotion to vice president because you think the president of your company might retire. :p

I think that Miller is alot smarter then that!

[CincyBearcat95]

Well you are missing 1 big thing. Pac 10 teams are almost never on ESPN unless it is OOC. At UCONN, in the same state as ESPN- you are going to be on ESPN

That's funny. My wife went to UCLA and we get to see them quite a bit here in KC. Did you do your deep research on that one too or is this your opinion?

[Forsure21]

I fully agree. When I say average I mean about as good as any other state school. They all have awesome fan support. What I mean is you are not going to recruit a higher level athlete because you are Arizona. They are all awesome jobs but IMO with this situation how can it be an awesome time to be the head coach.


If Arizona is considered just an average job then what would you consider the Xavier job ;). I agree that Ari isn't a UCLA or UNC but it can definately be considered a pretty big upgrade from Xavier. Any coach that would turn down a move from one of the top schools in the A-10 to one of the top schools in the Pac-10 would have started drinking at about 9AM that morning for it to make sence. To say that he should wait at his school in the A-10 for just a slight possibily (and I say slight because we dont know if they even would want him at UCONN) at a BE school, whenever there is a really good program in the Pac-10 calling is like turning down a promotion to vice president because you think the president of your company might retire. :p

I think that Miller is alot smarter then that!

[jeffto]

That is your opinion. There is a reason nobody is jumping to take the job though right? Why is that? IMO- It is not better than any other state school job. That is what I mean by average. There are many on the national level who see the same thing.It is my opinion but I dare say my opinion is shared by more knowledgeable bball fans than yours - just look at this thread!

I think the reason they apparently are having a problem filling the job has to do more with personalities and not the program, facilities, or conference. Who's the AD there?

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

I'm sorry, let me connect the dots for you.

Huggs had us regularly in the NCAA Tournament and on national television.

This increased awareness of our baskeball program and kids across the country (some of which played basketball) became fans.

This increased the number of kids willing to look at Cincinnati for basketball.

This improved our chances of recruiting good kids. Thus Mick was able to get better players than an unknown school would - especially since he was starting from scratch.

Do you really think Mick recruited the same caliber of kids at Murray St. that he can get at Cincy????

Another point. Every person on here is telling you that you are wrong and yet you stubbornly refuse to listen. At what point does your pride take a back seat and you recognize that you might just be wrong on this one?

I prefer to avoid the H word but Coach Tony Yates recruited good players to UC in the mid to late 1980's. If you ignore his 3-25 (first) year, he coached them to 67-75 record over 5 years.

There's more to winning than just recruiting or coaching. You must do BOTH to be successful.

Yates could certainly recruit. His coaching (results) was his shortcoming.

[Mick's Da Man]

Again, AZ is a good a job but it is not an elite job. Tucson is Tucson, the facilities are old, and you are going to coach in 1 mans shadow. It is a certainly a good paying job-no question right? I was saying it is an average job- IMO no better than Virginia.

Whatever. Arizona is a very good job. :rolleyes:

[CincyBearcat95]

I prefer to avoid the H word but Coach Tony Yates recruited good players to UC in the mid to late 1980's. If you ignore his 3-25 (first) year, he coached them to 67-75 record over 5 years.

There's more to winning than just recruiting or coaching. You must do BOTH to be successful.

Yates could certainly recruit. His coaching (results) was his shortcoming.

Still doesn't change my point. Even with Yates recruiting good kids, Cincy was not a "name" with the kids. After Huggs was there a while, kids were wearing our stuff and we started getting kids from other states saying that they grew up Cincy fans and wanted to play for us. That definitely makes recruiting easier for Mick.

[jeffto]

I fully agree. When I say average I mean about as good as any other state school. They all have awesome fan support. So about the same as Idaho, North Dakota, or Wyoming? Or, about the same as Nebraska, Rhode Island or Colorado? Or, maybe Missouri, Washington, or Illinois. UCLA, North Carolina or Kentucky? When you say about the same as other state schools, you'd better be a little more specific.

Personally, I'd say they're like these state schools: Florida, Conn. and Louisville.

[jeffto]

Still doesn't change my point. Even with Yates recruiting good kids, Cincy was not a "name" with the kids. After Huggs was there a while, kids were wearing our stuff and we started getting kids from other states saying that they grew up Cincy fans and wanted to play for us. That definitely makes recruiting easier for Mick.Or, are we more like UNLV where the glory years have faded? (At least we're in a big time conference!)

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

Still doesn't change my point. Even with Yates recruiting good kids, Cincy was not a "name" with the kids. After Huggs was there a while, kids were wearing our stuff and we started getting kids from other states saying that they grew up Cincy fans and wanted to play for us. That definitely makes recruiting easier for Mick.

Sure it was. Cincinnati became a name with kids ever since Oscar Robertson played here.

[Forsure21]

http://www.azstarnet.com/sn/printDS/287497

[Mick's Da Man]

The similarities between the Arizona job and UC job are eerie. UC was lucky to have a "UC/City of Cincinnati" young head coach willing to take the job. Arizona is looking for a big name to take on a bad situation. Arizona is a great b-ball program with a huge mess right now. That is the only reason for their trouble in finding a new head coach. They are probably shooting too high.

And other coaches have probably witnessed the insane impatience of fans that other head coaches burdened with rebuilding have had to deal with.

[rayscott425]

Tell me why VA is worse then? Don't just tell me I'm wrong. Back it up. I backed up my opinion that AZ was LUTE OLSON. I stated the fact that they had only 3 NCAA tourney appearances b4 Lute was coach. Virginia has better facilites, as good as fans, and as good as a recruiting base for talent. So tell me why AZ is better than Virginia.

ok where would UCLA be w/o John Wooden!!!! More than likely unheard of !!! Tradition has to start somewhere, UA of starts with Lute Olon

[jeffto]

http://www.azstarnet.com/sn/printDS/287497As I said before, the problem at AZ is Livengood, not the program, facilities or conference.

[Pie Hole]

Sure it was. Cincinnati became a name with kids ever since Oscar Robertson played here.

By that rationale Navy became a name with kids ever since David Robinson played there.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

By that rationale Navy became a name with kids ever since David Robinson played there.

LOL. Oscar Robertson is one of the 5 best basketball players EVER.

David Robinson isn't even close to Big o level.

[Pie Hole]

LOL. Oscar Robertson is one of the 5 best basketball players EVER.

David Robinson isn't even close to Big o level.

I absolutely agree with that statement. But I don't agree that "UC was always a big name with kids because of the Big O".

To compare apples with apples

Is Indiana State "big with the kids" because of Larry Bird?
Is Umass "big with the kids" because of Dr. J?
Was San Francisco "big with the kids" because of Bill Russell?

[ralph1950]

Really surprised here. Arizona is an average job. IMO he could do better.

The Arizona job pays $2,500,000 per season and the contract will be for 7 years. $17,500,000 guarenteed money is far from average.

[CincyBearcat95]

Sure it was. Cincinnati became a name with kids ever since Oscar Robertson played here.

Sorry, as much as I love the Big O, that's not the case. National sales of our merchandise went way up after Huggs came on board.

Maybe the "kids" you are referring to now are in their 50's and 60's, but when I was there in the 90's Cincy was just not a nationally popular team with the 15 to 25 year olds. Not until 92 and after did we start seeing the merchandise worn outside of Cincy by non Alumni. Maybe kids all over the US were pretending to be Bearcat's in the 60's but they weren't in the 80's.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

Sorry, as much as I love the Big O, that's not the case. National sales of our merchandise went way up after Huggs came on board.

Maybe the "kids" you are referring to now are in their 50's and 60's, but when I was there in the 90's Cincy was just not a nationally popular team with the 15 to 25 year olds. Not until 92 and after did we start seeing the merchandise worn outside of Cincy by non Alumni. Maybe kids all over the US were pretending to be Bearcat's in the 60's but they weren't in the 80's.

Even today's "kids" know Oscar Robertson, Lew Alcindor (Kareem), etc.

[CincyBearcat95]

Even today's "kids" know Oscar Robertson, Lew Alcindor (Kareem), etc.

I don't disagree that kids know them - I don't see many kids out there running around in Big O jerseys though - do you?

Besides, you are dragging this away from the point that Huggs made recruiting easier for Mick.

[Forsure21]

My point is Arizona can't just hire anybody and expect to get kids because they are AZ. They need to get a coach who can recruit the west coast.

[OhioFootball]

The similarities between the Arizona job and UC job are eerie. UC was lucky to have a "UC/City of Cincinnati" young head coach willing to take the job. Arizona is looking for a big name to take on a bad situation. Arizona is a great b-ball program with a huge mess right now. That is the only reason for their trouble in finding a new head coach. They are probably shooting too high.

And other coaches have probably witnessed the insane impatience of fans that other head coaches burdened with rebuilding have had to deal with.

Are you serious here? Arizona is a truly elite job and many reporters have said so. Cincinnati is nowhere near at 'Zona level. I'm sorry but that's the obvious truth. I think some of you guys forget it's Clifton and forget how hard it is to recruit here.

[cincycat1]

So we cant talk about Bob Huggins or John Riek on this board but we can have a 5 page discussion on Sean Miller, whether or not Arizona is an elite program, and whether Forsure21 is credible.... ridiculous

[Bearcat_DF]

To relate this back to UC basketball, it is interesting to observe how hard it is for Arizona to recruit a coach. I suspect that Miller will turn them down. They are in the same situation as UC when we hired Cronin. They haven't been able to recruit this year, so their roster is depleted. That situation can not look attractive.

Arizona is a good program, but it is not a good situation right now.

If Miller did go, it would help us. If we can get back on top of Xavier, it would help our program.

We have a huge problem right now - I don't think we have ever had as many good coaches in the region as we do now - Miller, Matta, Pitino, Calipari, Crean . . . that makes it tough in recruiting the region. Then to look at our league - Pitiono, Calhoun, Boheim, Wright, Dixon . . .

Cronin never had this kind of competition for recruits - at UC or UL. The region nor the conference was this competitive.

Cronin has a huge uphill battle to get us to the top of the BE.

[jeffto]

To relate this back to UC basketball, it is interesting to observe how hard it is for Arizona to recruit a coach. I suspect that Miller will turn them down. They are in the same situation as UC when we hired Cronin. They haven't been able to recruit this year, so their roster is depleted. That situation can not look attractive.

Arizona is a good program, but it is not a good situation right now.

If Miller did go, it would help us. If we can get back on top of Xavier, it would help our program.

We have a huge problem right now - I don't think we have ever had as many good coaches in the region as we do now - Miller, Matta, Pitino, Calipari, Crean . . . that makes it tough in recruiting the region. Then to look at our league - Pitiono, Calhoun, Boheim, Wright, Dixon . . .

Cronin never had this kind of competition for recruits - at UC or UL. The region nor the conference was this competitive.

Cronin has a huge uphill battle to get us to the top of the BE.I agree with you except the last X coaching change was about as seamless as I remember, wasn't it.

[Forsure21]

Are you serious here? Arizona is a truly elite job and many reporters have said so. Cincinnati is nowhere near at 'Zona level. I'm sorry but that's the obvious truth. I think some of you guys forget it's Clifton and forget how hard it is to recruit here.

Some have said so and many others have said that it isn't an elite job. In fact, ASU is the IN STATE university now. It is bigger, better location, and much better facilities.

IMO, 4 FF's is not elite. Let's not forget- wait I'm sure everyone did, that the last FF was in 2001.

Cincinnati is above Zona'. More FF and More NC. We have a signiture player In Oscar Robertson as well.

[cincyboy24]

it doesn't really matter, he'll stay with X anyways

[jkwuc89]

According to several reports this morning, Sean Miller turned downed the Arizona job and will stay at Xavier.

[BearcatRob33]

According to several reports this morning, Sean Miller turned downed the Arizona job and will stay at Xavier.

Well great....as a Bearcats fan, I'm glad this issue, that has nothing to do with Bearcats athletics whatsoever, is resolved.

[ralph1950]

Well great....as a Bearcats fan, I'm glad this issue, that has nothing to do with Bearcats athletics whatsoever, is resolved.

If true Miller is a total fool for turning down over $2 million a year from AZ. He makes about $800,000 at X, if you are going to get a $1,200,000 raise you take it.

[cincycpaw]

If true Miller is a total fool for turning down over $2 million a year from AZ. He makes about $800,000 at X, if you are going to get a $1,200,000 raise you take it.

Not everything is about $. And I'm sure he is looking at the long-term viability of his coaching career as he is a fairly young guy. Personally, I think he made the right decision, though really it's a win-win decision to make.

Also, I think it's sad that Bearcat fans were hoping Sean Miller would leave X so we could start beating them again...that is a very sad statement. I'd rather our team just get better than the other guys get worse. It seems that we are relying on the "other guys get worse" attitude a lot, especially within the Big east.

[bearcatbret]

I think everyone has missed the point that Arizona has lost three years of recruiting. On the verge of missing the NCAA for the first time in like forever. The new coach will be in a world of hurt. The fans will be calling for him to be fired even though he will have a multi-year contract. Sounds very familiar. It may take them to hire a local guy who has a deep love of the university. It will be interesting to track their success against UC's for the past three years. Yes, Arizona was a great job as was UC. However, UC was not able to bring in a big time coach like UK did this year. AZ will have problems landing a high profile coach because nobody wants to rebuild a program that has high expectations. However, I do agree with the article that a coach would have a higher chance of winning the national championship at AZ versus X. If Miller is satisfied with winning the A10 every year and having his ticket punched to the NCAA every year then he should stick at X. He and his family loves it here and he likes the university and has a great relationship with the AD. However, if his goal is to win the NCAA then he may consider AZ even though he knows (just by watching Mick) that he will be going through tough times the first few years. I would like to see him take the job if for no other reason then to listen to the X fans cry.

[Major ----de Coverley]

Not everything is about $. And I'm sure he is looking at the long-term viability of his coaching career as he is a fairly young guy. Personally, I think he made the right decision, though really it's a win-win decision to make.

Also, I think it's sad that Bearcat fans were hoping Sean Miller would leave X so we could start beating them again...that is a very sad statement. I'd rather our team just get better than the other guys get worse. It seems that we are relying on the "other guys get worse" attitude a lot, especially within the Big east.


Well said on both fronts. I also believe Sean may still be holding out for the Pitt job down the road.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

If true Miller is a total fool for turning down over $2 million a year from AZ. He makes about $800,000 at X, if you are going to get a $1,200,000 raise you take it.

He has the best program in town. He'll get another chance to go Big East or ACC someday. He's a Piitsburgher. The Arizona desert would have been a bad fit.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

I think everyone has missed the point that Arizona has lost three years of recruiting. On the verge of missing the NCAA for the first time in like forever. The new coach will be in a world of hurt. The fans will be calling for him to be fired even though he will have a multi-year contract. Sounds very familiar. It may take them to hire a local guy who has a deep love of the university. It will be interesting to track their success against UC's for the past three years. Yes, Arizona was a great job as was UC. However, UC was not able to bring in a big time coach like UK did this year. AZ will have problems landing a high profile coach because nobody wants to rebuild a program that has high expectations. However, I do agree with the article that a coach would have a higher chance of winning the national championship at AZ versus X. If Miller is satisfied with winning the A10 every year and having his ticket punched to the NCAA every year then he should stick at X. He and his family loves it here and he likes the university and has a great relationship with the AD. However, if his goal is to win the NCAA then he may consider AZ even though he knows (just by watching Mick) that he will be going through tough times the first few years. I would like to see him take the job if for no other reason then to listen to the X fans cry.

Josh Pastner is their best bet. Has Zona in his blood. Has support of ex AZ players. Is a masterful recruiter.

[long suffering UC fan]

FYI. Arizona has only reached the FF four times. All four times were done by Lute Olson. THe last, and I had to look it up, was 2001. Oh, and before I forget catsfan32, they only had made the NCAA tournament 3 times before Olson- in 1951, 76 and 77. Yeah, not exactly average huh?

yes, and Uconn did nothing before Calhoun - doesn't mean that UConn is an average program.

[jeffto]

Gary Parrish reports that Xavier coach Sean Miller opted to reject the Arizona job, and that the ‘Cats will now target Utah coach Jim Boylen.

Arizona has now struck out publicly on Miller and USC coach Tim Floyd, as well as a number of behind-the-scenes attempts at at high-profile coaches ranging from John Calipari (Kentucky) to Jamie Dixon (Pitt) to Mark Few (Gonzaga). Zagsblog

[ralph1950]

He has the best program in town. He'll get another chance to go Big East or ACC someday. He's a Piitsburgher. The Arizona desert would have been a bad fit.

Wrong, Xavier is and will always be the second best basketball program in Cincinnati. You do not live here so you do not know what you saying. There was little talk about Xavier in the sweet 16 in Cincinnati, sports writers and talk show hosts were complaining about the lack of interest in XU basketball in the city. They have about 10,000 fans and little interest beyond that.

[ralph1950]

Not everything is about $. And I'm sure he is looking at the long-term viability of his coaching career as he is a fairly young guy. Personally, I think he made the right decision, though really it's a win-win decision to make.

Also, I think it's sad that Bearcat fans were hoping Sean Miller would leave X so we could start beating them again...that is a very sad statement. I'd rather our team just get better than the other guys get worse. It seems that we are relying on the "other guys get worse" attitude a lot, especially within the Big east.

Everything is about the dollars. When you are going to get $15,000,000 for 7 years guarenteed you take it. Invest it and you never have to worry about your coaching future. You can always leave AZ if the Pitt job opens. You cannot win the National Championship at a non BCS school, you can win the National Championship at AZ.

[BearcatAlum1]

Everything is about the dollars. When you are going to get $15,000,000 for 7 years guarenteed you take it. Invest it and you never have to worry about your coaching future. You can always leave AZ if the Pitt job opens. You cannot win the National Championship at a non BCS school, you can win the National Championship at AZ.

False. This has been discussed at length and it is false. I'm not going to start a firestorm over this because there is no convincing the Ralph of anything.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

Wrong, Xavier is and will always be the second best basketball program in Cincinnati. You do not live here so you do not know what you saying. There was little talk about Xavier in the sweet 16 in Cincinnati, sports writers and talk show hosts were complaining about the lack of interest in XU basketball in the city. They have about 10,000 fans and little interest beyond that.

X has the better program right now. UC did until 2005 but not since then.

[Thegreatone]

False. This has been discussed at length and it is false. I'm not going to start a firestorm over this because there is no convincing the Ralph of anything.

He isnt wrong. Never has been done in the Modern Era. Not saying it will never happen but the highest Sean will be able to get at X would be Final Four IMO. There is nothing wrong with that and I would take it. The ability to recruit and national exposure at Zona is way better than at X (probably UC too).

Sean is comparable to Brian Kelly. Could he move on, yes and will probably someday, but until then X fans should enjoy him. Very good coach and person.

I could see him jumping to a big time ACC or Big East team but not just any of them because of the conference. A good Big East or ACC team would do it I would think.

We should want X to be good to increase our SOS and we have a chance to beat them always. They have a very good team coming back next year. Maybe a top 15 pre-season and a possible Elite 8 contender and who knows what else. We have a lot coming back and are adding some good players and look foward to playing them next year.

[CroninCrazy]

I'm watching ESPN and Andy Katz said Sean Miller rejected the Arizona job because it is a rebuilding job.

Katz also compared the Arizona rebuilding job similar to the ones at "Indiana and Cincinnati".

[CroninCrazy]

yes, and Uconn did nothing before Calhoun - doesn't mean that UConn is an average program.

UConn and UC have the same number of National Championships.

[Thegreatone]

X has the better program right now. UC did until 2005 but not since then.

More success no doubt. But better program is a matter of opinion.

Wouldnt you agree 58' that X has limitations on their program? UC is behind but they can recruit players X couldnt get and get exposure that X couldnt get and have facilities X doesnt have the money for.

X plays second fiddle to UC as far as media in Cincinnati and I think most X fans agree with that.

Here is how I relate the two programs:

UC is like Tennessee or Michigan in football (not saying we are the best of the best like Michigan was but in the respect that they are a big school that was down.)

X is like UC football.

Is X (UC football) better now, yes. But the ability to stay on top through their limitations are different.

I say it over and over again I would love to have had X's success recently but I honestly think UC will win a National Championship before X because I dont think you can win a National Championship on 3 and 4 star players and a new coach every 5 or 6 years.

[JerseySean]

Everything is about the dollars. When you are going to get $15,000,000 for 7 years guarenteed you take it. Invest it and you never have to worry about your coaching future. You can always leave AZ if the Pitt job opens. You cannot win the National Championship at a non BCS school, you can win the National Championship at AZ.

There was a great piece on CBS Sunday Morning yesterday on the legendary Bobby Hurley at St. Anthony's in Jersey City. No, sir, not everything is about the Benjamins. It may be for you, and it may be for most people, but not to everyone.

I won't be a hypocrite and say that I'm not motivated by it, but there are some out there who are motivated by other factors. Thank goodness...

Bobby Hurley, by the way, makes $9,000 a year as coach of St. Anthony's. I'm sure he has other jobs to supplement his salary, but he has turned down MILLIONS to coach at the college level. He is motivated by helping young men get an education, and using basketball as a teacher of life's lessons. His graduation rate is astonishingly high, as is the percentage of his players who go to college. I encourage you to watch the piece by CBS.

[JerseySean]

We should want X to be good to increase our SOS and we have a chance to beat them always. They have a very good team coming back next year. Maybe a top 15 pre-season and a possible Elite 8 contender and who knows what else. We have a lot coming back and are adding some good players and look foward to playing them next year.

We should want X to suck because 1) they are our rival -- even though I could care less if we ever play them again as I'd rather have Loserville as our real "rival"; and 2) they are an insignificant "college" in Norwood -- their academic contributions to the greater Cincinnati area are anemic, at best. Drop them from our schedule and then we don't have to worry about them hurting our SOS.

[jeffto]

There was a great piece on CBS Sunday Morning yesterday on the legendary Bobby Hurley at St. Anthony's in Jersey City. No, sir, not everything is about the Benjamins. It may be for you, and it may be for most people, but not to everyone.

I won't be a hypocrite and say that I'm not motivated by it, but there are some out there who are motivated by other factors. Thank goodness...

Bobby Hurley, by the way, makes $9,000 a year as coach of St. Anthony's. I'm sure he has other jobs to supplement his salary, but he has turned down MILLIONS to coach at the college level. He is motivated by helping young men get an education, and using basketball as a teacher of life's lessons. His graduation rate is astonishingly high, as is the percentage of his players who go to college. I encourage you to watch the piece by CBS.
And it's a CRIME he's not in the HOF.

[JerseySean]

And it's a CRIME he's not in the HOF.

Agree. He is nominated for this year, however. Not sure when results will be made public...

[Bearcat_DF]

Also, I think it's sad that Bearcat fans were hoping Sean Miller would leave X so we could start beating them again...that is a very sad statement. I'd rather our team just get better than the other guys get worse. It seems that we are relying on the "other guys get worse" attitude a lot, especially within the Big east.

At one time, UC was a better team than most in the region - better than OSU, XU, U of L, then Pitino poached our best recruiter stealing a recruiting class, when Huggins was down Matta poached another assistant, when Huggins left Miller poached one of our recruits.

I not only want them to go through some low periods, I want Mick to kick 'em when they are down too!

[jeffto]

Agree. He is nominated for this year, however. Not sure when results will be made public...
The results are in and he didn't make it.

[DMoney_70]

I heard or read a blurb last night about Miller also being a top candidate for the UConn job if Calhoun steps down. Not sure if that would do anything for him. I would bet he will stay at X until the Pitt job opens and who knows when that would be.

[Bearcat Jeff]

I can understand the interest in this due to the rivalry, but honestly, I could absolutely care less who coaches Xavier. Miller is a very good coach who inherited a nice situation and built on it. I care about the Bearcats and their progress. The rest will take care of itself.

[catsfan32]

At one time, UC was a better team than most in the region - better than OSU, XU, U of L, then Pitino poached our best recruiter stealing a recruiting class, when Huggins was down Matta poached another assistant, when Huggins left Miller poached one of our recruits.

I not only want them to go through some low periods, I want Mick to kick 'em when they are down too!


I couldnt agree more! OSU will only play us when we have been decimated, XU is XU, and U of L is what i consider our best rivalry period! I hope when they are down we show them about as much respect as they show us....which is none!

[bearcatbret]

I always loved the Memphis rivalry from the Metro, Great Midwest, and CUSA eras. I loved hating Finch. Louisville by far is our biggest rival IMO, and if Memphis were still in our conference I would put them at no. 2. I believe that as we grow in the BEast, Pitt may become a big rival. As far as I am concerned, X is that annoying fruit fly that you just can not get rid of so you eventually just ignore it.

[TheLivingLegend]

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/news?slug=dw-miller040609&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

accepted

[Not Guilty]

Its now being reported that Miller is going to Arizona:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/news?slug=dw-miller040609&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

[catsfan32]

^If true i think its a good choice for miller. He can now compete for a championship and gets paid a boatload of money. Not to mention X has to miss once on bringing in a coach! Hopefully this sways some of the potential recruits as well!

[Not Guilty]

If true, I would expect assistant Chris Mack to be their next hire.

[Bearcats_Rule]

Its now being reported that Miller is going to Arizona:

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/news?slug=dw-miller040609&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

Yep... just got the text mesage from ESPN that said Miller to AZ a day after turning down the job... hmmm... interesting...

[ralph1950]

Marty just announced it on Reds game, Miller to AZ, as it should be. If Marty announces it, it has to be true. It is absolutely the correct decision by Miller. $2,000,000+ a year in salary guarenteed for anywhere from 5 to 8 years, nothing official yet, he is set for life, he can always leave AZ for Pitt should that job come open. He can win the National Championship at AZ, he could never win the NC at XU or any non BCS school.

[Not Guilty]

Marty just announced it on Reds game, Miller to AZ, as it should be. If Marty announces it, it has to be true. It is absolutely the correct decision by Miller. $2,000,000+ a year in salary guarenteed for anywhere from 5 to 8 years, nothing official yet, he is set for life, he can always leave AZ for Pitt should that job come open. He can win the National Championship at AZ, he could never win the NC at XU or any non BCS school.

You really don't think Memphis could have won the NC last year?

You really don't think UNLV won the title already?

[Doss]

Xavier's Miller to be introduced as Arizona coach after revised offer
April 6, 2009
By Gary Parrish
CBSSports.com Senior Writer
Tell Gary your opinion!




DETROIT -- Barring another last-minute change of plans, Sean Miller will be introduced as Arizona's next basketball coach despite the fact that he turned down the job late Sunday, a source has told CBSSports.com.

According to a source, Miller scheduled a Monday afternoon meeting with his staff, at which point he is expected to finalize the decision. The source said Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood called Miller early Monday after having been rejected and "significantly changed" the offer, which was initially around $2 million per year for seven seasons. At that point, the source said, Miller got better assurances on the number of "buy" games he would be allowed to schedule, as well as some enhanced promises about the way the team would travel. Thus, Miller's career at Xavier seems set to end after five seasons, four of which resulted in NCAA tournament appearances.

[ralph1950]

You really don't think Memphis could have won the NC last year?

You really don't think UNLV won the title already?

Did Memphis win last year? No. The BCS did not exist in 1990 when UNLV won. The BCS came into being in 1998, 11 years of existence at present. Since its existence all 11 NCAA tourneys, including this year, have been won by BCS schools. 11 of 11 is 100%. Now if you want to look back farther with the 73 schools who are the current members of the 6 BCS Conferences, these 73 schools have won 42 out of the last 43 NCAA tourneys. The only exception in the last 43 years is the 1990 win by UNLV.

[Montrell]

If true, I would expect assistant Chris Mack to be their next hire.

Wow. Really? I would think XU could do quite a bit better than that. That is kind of a risky hire. Miller was an obvious choice when Matta left because he basically ran the program when Matta was at XU.

[bearcatbret]

Can we close this thread now? Who really cares what happens at X? I suspect that Miller will try to take his staff with him. Anyone he does not take would be ones that he would have gotten rid of any way.

[JerseySean]

Good riddance, Miller. May this be the start of the inevitable fall of stinky egg-saver.

[jkwuc89]

From Andy Katz at ESPN:

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4046754&campaign=rss&source=NCBHeadlines

[jkwuc89]

At Columbus Northland High School (who just won the D-1 state title), there is a junior named J.D. Witherspoon who I was quite impressed with when I saw him play during the state tournament. He is currently verbally committed to Xavier. If he decides to reopen his recruitment, I hope UC at least takes a look at him. He is an extremely athletic forward with a huge upside.

[beeman7467]

Wrong, Xavier is and will always be the second best basketball program in Cincinnati. You do not live here so you do not know what you saying. There was little talk about Xavier in the sweet 16 in Cincinnati, sports writers and talk show hosts were complaining about the lack of interest in XU basketball in the city. They have about 10,000 fans and little interest beyond that.

Simply not true. The amount of interest/coverage has nothing to do with who has the best program. In recent years XU has been the better program, end of story. I'd like to see that change, but only time will tell.

[ralph1950]

Simply not true. The amount of interest/coverage has nothing to do with who has the best program. In recent years XU has been the better program, end of story. I'd like to see that change, but only time will tell.

If no one cares it does not matter how many games you win and basically no one cares about XU basketball.

[red_n_black_attack]

For a Muskie, i liked this guy. He handled himself with class and I wish him much better success than I did when he was with "that other Cincinnati school". Here is link on how he changed his mind after receiving a better off:

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/11599671


The only thing missed will be Sean as I doubt Zaiver can replace him with anyone near his talent level. The article doesn't say how many recruits or current players might follow him... a la Calipari

[ralph1950]

Sean Miller is getting $18 million on a 7 year contract from AZ, wow, he hit the mother load!

[cincycpaw]

Sean Miller is getting $18 million on a 7 year contract from AZ, wow, he hit the mother load!

Well, so for Sean looks like Ralph was right...it was about the money.

[JerseySean]

For a Muskie, i liked this guy. He handled himself with class and I wish him much better success than I did when he was with "that other Cincinnati school". Here is link on how he changed his mind after receiving a better off:

http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/11599671


The only thing missed will be Sean as I doubt Zaiver can replace him with anyone near his talent level. The article doesn't say how many recruits or current players might follow him... a la Calipari

First of all, it's Eggsaver. Secondly, they are in Norwood. Good riddance, Miller. Good riddance eggs to winning the mid-major a10 conference. It's a beautiful day in Cincinnati. Now, if only the Reds can win...

[catsfan32]

**** i would go if i was getting 18 million and a 1 million dollar signing bonus!

[jplog]

First of all, it's Eggsaver. Secondly, they are in Norwood. Good riddance, Miller. Good riddance eggs to winning the mid-major a10 conference. It's a beautiful day in Cincinnati. Now, if only the Reds can win...

Actually, they're in the City of Cincinnati, Norwood didn't want them. Don't they have a decent transfer from Indiana coming in?

[bearcatbret]

I am sure that their recruits do not have the "buy out" clause that Memphis recruits had with Coach Cal. I am not sure if X will release them from their signed LOI. Their team will be stacked next year. Depending on the new coach, this will not have an affect on recruiting for at least a year. The team should roll through the A10 next year and so I suspect that they will still get decent recruits next year. We will see in year 2 or 3 if the new coach can sustain their recent success.

[PaulBunyan#7]

They will always have this problem which is funny.

[STKohls]

They will always have this problem which is funny.

Sadly, UC will also always have that problem. Cronin is an exception (Cincy local, UC alum, UC is his dream job).

[jplog]

I am sure that their recruits do not have the "buy out" clause that Memphis recruits had with Coach Cal. I am not sure if X will release them from their signed LOI. Their team will be stacked next year. Depending on the new coach, this will not have an affect on recruiting for at least a year. The team should roll through the A10 next year and so I suspect that they will still get decent recruits next year. We will see in year 2 or 3 if the new coach can sustain their recent success.

I wouldn't be so sure. Thier's alot of younger players on that roster. They came to play for Miller and this move may anger alot of them. Transfers happen all the time for just this type of thing.

[bearcatmark]

Sadly, UC will also always have that problem. Cronin is an exception (Cincy local, UC alum, UC is his dream job).

The Bearcats had 16 straight seasons with a coach in high demand. I don't think we'll always have that problem. There are very few jobs that UC would be a stepping stone to.

[bearcatbret]

I wouldn't be so sure. Thier's alot of younger players on that roster. They came to play for Miller and this move may anger alot of them. Transfers happen all the time for just this type of thing.

True, I can see current players possibly transferring but I suspect that the current recruits are stuck there for a year.

[long suffering UC fan]

They will always have this problem which is funny.

They have always had this "problem", yet have always managed to get good replacement coaches to keep things going. I can specifically remember people on this forum laughing about how Miller wasn't up for the task, and how X would fall, back when he was relatively new. It seems, though, that X is one of the exceptions where the coach can leave, and the program retains it's credibility. Don't get me wrong, I'd love for them to take a big fall into the little brother program of the city (while UC hopefully dramatically improves).

[CatAttack]

"Sadly, UC will also always have that problem. Cronin is an exception (Cincy local, UC alum, UC is his dream job)."

Yea, and if Cronin could coach it'd be a beautiful thing.

[CincyBearcat95]

True, I can see current players possibly transferring but I suspect that the current recruits are stuck there for a year.

They have at least 1 4-star recruit for 2010 who is just a verbal at least according to Rivals. My bet is that they will let anyone out of their LOI if they ask. I think most schools do when this happens.

[bearcatbret]

They have at least 1 4-star recruit for 2010 who is just a verbal at least according to Rivals. My bet is that they will let anyone out of their LOI if they ask. I think most schools do when this happens.

K-State did not when Huggins left for WVU. Sure, the kid who wanted out only stayed for one year and bolted to the NBA. BK did not release Trevor Anderson out of his scholarship to go to MSU.

[BackInBlack]

Good news for Bearcat fans. Miller is a very good coach and the UA fans should be thrilled to have him in. Now, hopefully UC can improve and X will get worse with a new coach coming in. I really hate to admit it, but they will have a ton of talent next year, assuming everyone stays, so whoever the new coach is will be walking into a great situation.

[jlr1523]

It sure must suck to be a fan at any mid-major program like X. You find a good coach, then you cant keep him because there is always something better. Lol :D

[thebearcat]

AZ doesn't produce top flight talent year in and year out. Yes I know about all the stars so don't bother naming jefferson, bayless etc..

You say not to mention it but your contradicting because they do.

jefferson, bibby, arenas, frye, bayless, hill and budginger this year.

how do they not produce top talent when they have high draft picks every yr

[ralph1950]

It sure must suck to be a fan at any mid-major program like X. You fine a good coach, then you cant keep him because there is always something better. Lol :D

Yes, that is life as a mid-major where you have no chance to win the NCAA tourney. Miller in addition to getting $18 million for 7 years also got an $1 million signing bonus. Non BCS schools cannot compete with those dollars.

[Bearcat Jeff]

They have at least 1 4-star recruit for 2010 who is just a verbal at least according to Rivals. My bet is that they will let anyone out of their LOI if they ask. I think most schools do when this happens. JD Weatherspoon has already decommitted from Xavier. He says he is open to following Miller to UA if he recruits him.

[shaunsimpson]

K-State did not when Huggins left for WVU. Sure, the kid who wanted out only stayed for one year and bolted to the NBA. BK did not release Trevor Anderson out of his scholarship to go to MSU.

Kelly did end up letting Anderson out of his scholarship. Anderson did not have to pay his own way for a year.

They will probably let the kids out with guidelines and exceptions. I expect Memphis to do the same.

[ucat4]

The Bearcats had 16 straight seasons with a coach in high demand. I don't think we'll always have that problem. There are very few jobs that UC would be a stepping stone to.

I agree....there are very few jobs that UC would be a stepping stone to. I do however, wish our current coach was in high demand, that would mean things are going great for UC.

[ucat4]

I actually feel kinda bad for X. We as UC fans don't have much to room to rip X.

They can't hold on to quality coaches which would really suck if you're an X fan.

[catscratchfever]

I actually feel kinda bad for X. We as UC fans don't have much to room to rip X.

They can't hold on to quality coaches which would really suck if you're an X fan.

You know...I have tried to feel bad for them and I just can't do it...
I'm glad they are miserable right now! Better yet, I love the way it went down...they were scared to death yesterday, then went to bed happy when it was reported that Miller was staying, only to wake up and have their hearts ripped out today! It was poetic!!!!
Now I guess Xavier will have to go back to their favorite old "we have better academics than you" argument.

[jeffto]

You know...I have tried to feel bad for them and I just can't do it...
I'm glad they are miserable right now! Better yet, I love the way it went down...they were scared to death yesterday, then went to bed happy when it was reported that Miller was staying, only to wake up and have their hearts ripped out today! It was poetic!!!!
Now I guess Xavier will have to go back to their favorite old "we have better academics than you" argument.We'll at least they recovered from their last two coaching changes. Have we?

[catscratchfever]

We'll at least they recovered from their last two coaching changes. Have we?
Too soon to answer that question with any accuracy..

[bearcatmark]

We'll at least they recovered from their last two coaching changes. Have we?

No we haven't yet... 4 years, no NCAA tournaments... not to say we won't recover, but until we are dancing year in and year out we have not recovered.

[ralph1950]

So far, Marty Brennaman, Tracy Jones, and Alan Cutler have mentioned Bob Huggins as Miller's replacement at XU.

[Spinal2008]

Huggins will never come to Xavier to coach. That would be like Bill Cowher coming to cincinnati to coach the Bengals

[anbuc88]

So far, Marty Brennaman, Tracy Jones, and Alan Cutler have mentioned Bob Huggins as Miller's replacement at XU.

He was at the Reds game yesterday. This was said tongue and cheek, as everyone who was listening (except you) understood the joking nature of their comments. It's comments like yours that continue to stoke the fires and maintain rancor on this board. For Gods sake, stop already.

[bearcatbret]

He was at the Reds game yesterday. This was said tongue and cheek, as everyone who was listening (except you) understood the joking nature of their comments. It's comments like yours that continue to stoke the fires and maintain rancor on this board. For Gods sake, stop already.

Exactly and to boot, X would never offer him the job even if he begged for it.

[Colonel]

He was at the Reds game yesterday. This was said tongue and cheek, as everyone who was listening (except you) understood the joking nature of their comments. It's comments like yours that continue to stoke the fires and maintain rancor on this board. For Gods sake, stop already.

Didnt you know that Huggs is going to leave his "home" job at WVU to step down? LOL! :D

[mikep]

I know it makes me a petty person but I am soooo happy about this. 2 mos ago X fans were saying that they could be a Memphis type program that is a National Power in a bad league, now what are they saying? The team they wanted to be like couldn't even keep their coach and X just lost another. X has had 4 good hires in a row, all good things come to an end. They are one bad hire from being what UD has been post Don Donaher.

[Thegreatone]

No coach will choose the A-10 over the Big 6. Not sayin he wasnt offered other jobs and turned down but the good big 6 teams outweigh X. I dont think Sean was the top of all these schools lists regardless of what people say. He was Zona 5th or 6th choice. They didnt offer him so much money he couldnt say no.

He went there to win a championship and said that in his press conference, he tried to back track his statement but that was the biggest factor IMO.

[JerseySean]

Well, so for Sean looks like Ralph was right...it was about the money.

For Miller it was... Can't say I blame him. Thank goodness for Bobby Hurley.

[bearcatbret]

For Miller it was... Can't say I blame him. Thank goodness for Bobby Hurley.

Maybe Bobby Hurley will be X's next coach. After all, that job will not be about the money.

[catscratchfever]

You simply cannot sustain a championship level of baskeball at a mid-major. Yes, they can have a few good years here and there, but it is such a long process of building towards a particular season. At a major program, it only takes one good recruiting year to make a Final 4. Memphis is a glaring exception, but their situation is much different than most mid-majors. The NBA arena and the Fed-Ex money works wonders. It sucks for Xavier (OH), but i'm not going to lie, I don't feel bad for them one bit.

[Mick's Da Man]

I was shocked Sean took the Arizona job. I really thought he'd continue to wait for the Pitt job to open someday and be happy at Xavier until then. I guess I fell for it hook, line, and sinker, especially his buy-out.

I think the Arizona job is a good one. I think good/great mid-major coaches lick their chops at being able to compete for the higher level recruits on a yearly basis, wondering what they could do with 4 and 5 star players when they're having success with 3 and some 4 star players. Had to have been on Sean's mind. He's taken X as far as he can.

I'm also in the camp that hopes Xavier takes a hit and finally makes a bad hire. They've been really fortunate, starting with Thad. What they really need is for some of these recruits to not pan out. That will really set a program back.

[Mick's Da Man]

Sadly, UC will also always have that problem. Cronin is an exception (Cincy local, UC alum, UC is his dream job).


Unless he fails miserably, I can see Cronin as a UC head coach lifer............and then add in Huggins 16 seasons..........I wouldn't say that UC has the same problem as X. Nice try though, X-boy! :cool:

[Thegreatone]

UC doesnt have a problem with coaches leaving to go to a bigger program. Football wise perhaps. Not basketball.

[BearcatAlum1]

UC doesnt have a problem with coaches leaving to go to a bigger program. Football wise perhaps. Not basketball.

Agreed. Kelly will be gone when the "right" opportunity presents itself.


Alum1

[Doss]

WLW 700 reporting Huggins in town and may have interest in XU job?

[STKohls]

Unless he fails miserably, I can see Cronin as a UC head coach lifer............and then add in Huggins 16 seasons..........I wouldn't say that UC has the same problem as X. Nice try though, X-boy! :cool:

One of the reasons I hope Cronin succeeds is because if he does, he'll stay here forever (okay, decades). If Cronin leaves, it's likely that any name coach would look at UC as more of a stepping-stone job. I don't like it, but that's the way I see it. UC was lucky that Huggins didn't leave, and it seemed like there was a chance he would every couple of years. (remember the Miami Heat? West Virginia?) Cronin even said that Huggins was talking up Morgantown back when Mick was an assistant.

Now, does that put UC in the same class as X? No way. Coaches leave programs like X to step up to programs like UC.

[Bearcat Fan Since 1958]

WLW 700 reporting Huggins in town and may have interest in XU job?

Tay Baker did it...why not???

[jkwuc89]

WLW 700 reporting Huggins in town and may have interest in XU job?

There is no way that Huggins will leave his alma mater to coach Xavier. NO WAY. You can take that to the bank. He probably stopped by in Cincinnati to see some friends on his way back to Morgantown.

[chase1050]

There is no way that Huggins will leave his alma mater to coach Xavier. NO WAY. You can take that to the bank. He probably stopped by in Cincinnati to see some friends on his way back to Morgantown.

He was in town for opening day. There were a surprising number of other people in the stands wearing WVU gear. Thousands of people were wearing UC gear. That was nice to see. I've noticed a huge increase in UC gear around town the past couple of years

[jeffto]

He was at the Reds game yesterday. This was said tongue and cheek, as everyone who was listening (except you) understood the joking nature of their comments. It's comments like yours that continue to stoke the fires and maintain rancor on this board. For Gods sake, stop already.Lighten up. How could anyone in their right mind take the comment seriously. A little humor is welcome on here.

[catscratchfever]

He was in town for opening day. There were a surprising number of other people in the stands wearing WVU gear. Thousands of people were wearing UC gear. That was nice to see. I've noticed a huge increase in UC gear around town the past couple of yearsI noticed all the UC gear at the game also! I even mentioned it to the guy I was at the game with. Every time the camera would pan on the crowd, someone in the picture was wearing bearcat gear!
Good stuff!!!

[Mick's Da Man]

One of the reasons I hope Cronin succeeds is because if he does, he'll stay here forever (okay, decades). If Cronin leaves, it's likely that any name coach would look at UC as more of a stepping-stone job. I don't like it, but that's the way I see it. UC was lucky that Huggins didn't leave, and it seemed like there was a chance he would every couple of years. (remember the Miami Heat? West Virginia?) Cronin even said that Huggins was talking up Morgantown back when Mick was an assistant.

Now, does that put UC in the same class as X? No way. Coaches leave programs like X to step up to programs like UC.


.....and Pitino and Calipari and Mike Montgomery and other topnotch head coaches of topnotch programs left for the NBA too..........so what is your point?

......and UC is now in the Big East and very easily, with a good to great head coach, could be a top 4 to 6 program annually in the Big East with a yearly invite to the Dance........although even UConn missed the Dance 2 years ago and Syracuse missed it the last 2 seasons, but I digress only to point out that it will be hard to sustain Big Dance invites being in the tough as nails Big East.

[Mick's Da Man]

WLW 700 reporting Huggins in town and may have interest in XU job?

A late April Fool's joke. I guess they made a fool out of you! :cool:

[ralph1950]

When Mack gets the XU job the Crosstown Shootout will be LaSalle vs St. X.

[Mick's Da Man]

I keep wondering how good Xavier will be next year. They lose Raymond and CJ Anderson to graduation.

They had PG problems this year, but the IU kid will be eligible and so will Mark Lyons (Prop 48). Still Lyons will be like a true frosh, Holloway will be a soph, but will Crawford take the reigns as the upperclassman?

They lost 2 good scorers in Raymond and Anderson. Each would easily contribute 10-20 points in every game. Raymond was deadly from three point range and Anderson was a good undersized low post guy who knew how to score down low and in transition.......and also grabbed a ton of rebounds. Frease seemed to be alot better late in the season. I would assume their lineup next year looks like this:

PG Holloway / Crawford / Lyons
SG Dante Jackson / Brad Redford
SF Derrick Brown
PF Love / McClean
C Frease

I think BJ will be missed the most. But if you look at their bad losses, it usually happened when CJ had an off game, which he did alot late in the season.

[Lobot]

I keep wondering how good Xavier will be next year. They lose Raymond and CJ Anderson to graduation.

They had PG problems this year, but the IU kid will be eligible and so will Mark Lyons (Prop 48). Still Lyons will be like a true frosh, Holloway will be a soph, but will Crawford take the reigns as the upperclassman?

They lost 2 good scorers in Raymond and Anderson. Each would easily contribute 10-20 points in every game. Raymond was deadly from three point range and Anderson was a good undersized low post guy who knew how to score down low and in transition.......and also grabbed a ton of rebounds. Frease seemed to be alot better late in the season. I would assume their lineup next year looks like this:

PG Holloway / Crawford / Lyons
SG Dante Jackson / Brad Redford
SF Derrick Brown
PF Love / McClean
C Frease

I think BJ will be missed the most. But if you look at their bad losses, it usually happened when CJ had an off game, which he did alot late in the season.

Prop 48? That went down the tubes years ago.

[Mick's Da Man]

Prop 48? That went down the tubes years ago.

Oops. My bad. He couldn't play this year..............so he just wasn't eligible and had to sit or what? Although it may appear I'm up on Xavier.........I'm really not, in terms of the rest of their roster. I'm only familiar with the guys who got playing time.

[Not Guilty]

Xavier's roster strongly depends on who they hire as head coach. There are rumors that Holloway and Frease will transfer if they don't like the hire, as well as Brown and Crawford bolting for the NBA. Also, their only recruit, Kevin Parrom, may ask out of his LOI still. A lot still has to play out, but Xavier may not be nearly as good as everyone was expecting...

[Mick's Da Man]

I heard Frease was looking to transfer to UC. ;)

Seriously......I just went over to Musketeer Madness.........I rarely go over there..........has anyone noticed how slow their message board is? It takes forever for a page to load. Are they really that cheap?