The waiting game lingers: Livengood upbeat (are you?)
All indications show Pitino is pointing toward a future with Louisville
Although it is obvious on this Web site and others that anxious UA fans want answers and they want them now, Livengood remains “Sunny Jim” around McKale, according to some staffers. He is determined, no doubt about it, along with UA president Robert Shelton to get the best possible coach in their opinion.
He has maintained a cool and calm demeanor, and that likely means he is still optimistic of hiring somebody that will be able to recruit the Wildcats out of their current void of talent and get the program back to being ranked in the Top 25 again.
This is what we know: Obviously, John Calipari is a goner, the anti-Lute, leaving Memphis instead of trying to become the most popular figure since Elvis in that city. The reason we write “anti-Lute” is because Olson was in the same position as Calipari 20 years ago. He was offered the chance to coach in the Commonwealth, as they call it there, after taking Arizona to the Final Four.
Olson decided to stay in Tucson and he solidified himself as a legend in Arizona as a Hall of Famer and national championship coach.
What’s interesting is the man who tried to hire Olson there — C.M. Newton — has assisted Livengood with the UA’s current search. Newton eventually hired Rick Pitino. As the World Turns: Pitino was in fact courted by Arizona, but it appears that he will be staying at Louisville. The challenge of coaching against Calipari in the state intrigues him too much too skip out and move to Tucson.
According to a reliable source, Pitino and his wife were guests of renowned thoroughbred trainer Todd Pletcher in Tucson after Louisville played Minnesota in Phoenix on Dec. 20. Pletcher is an alum of the UA’s Race Track Industry Program and is a good friend of Pitino’s. A couple of weeks after that is when Pitino’s name emerged as a serious candidate.
The Kentucky firing of Billy Gillispie started a ripple effect that has turned into a fierce hurricane for Arizona. It caused the hiring of Calipari and thus the mindset of Pitino to change. Can you imagine the fallout if Pitino left that state after Calipari was hired? Pitino’s image would take a hit. And he’s all about image.
In Louisville’s season-ending press conference today Pitino did an about-face and discussed next season for Louisville and went so far as to say that he hopes his assistants don’t leave the program except for his son Richard Pitino, who is rumored as a leading candidate for the Boston University job.
Hey, at least UA fans can take solace in the fact that BU’s opening has been around a long time as well.
Meanwhile the winds of the hurricane ignited by Calipari’s hire can shake up the Pac-10 even more. Olson’s spot is already open at Arizona and now Tony Bennett’s spot is vacant at Washington State. An opening could occur at USC soon with Tim Floyd becoming a candidate for the Memphis vacancy.
However, ESPN reported tonight that Memphis’ leading candidates might be Nolan Richardson or UTEP coach Tony Barbee (a former Calipari aide at Memphis).
Don’t laugh but Floyd’s name could surface in Tucson. He certainly knows how to recruit. That would be due justice wouldn’t it? The school that robbed Larry Smith from the UA can be a victim of theft by the Wildcats. The odds are against that from happening, but if you were Floyd, where would you rather coach? USC routinely plays in front of less-than-capacity crowds in a 10,000-seat arena.
More observations:
- The silence from Livengood and Shelton this week is a result of one certainty: the Calipari development at Kentucky since Sunday. The UA understandably does not want to be second-fiddle hiring a coach in the same time frame as Kentucky. That’s why you should expect an announcement by Friday.
Other reasons: A coach such as Pitt’s Jamie Dixon has asked for more time to weigh his options. If Dixon told you: Give me a few days for me to make a decision, what would you do? I would wait for Dixon. Also, the No. 1 target on Livengood’s list could likely be coaching. That means it could either be Tom Izzo, Jay Wright or, yes, Scott Drew of Baylor.
Drew, a coach’s son, is very intriguing. He has Baylor in the NIT finals only five years after Baylor barely had a pulse because of infractions and inner-turmoil. If he can make a program like Baylor a winner in the worst of circumstances, imagine the possibilities in Tucson. And perhaps the most pleasing aspect to UA fans: Drew is 1-0 versus Herb Sendek, beating ASU on a neutral court earlier this season when ASU was a decided favorite. Also, Drew will come at a cheap price and would likely stay at Arizona for a very long time if he manufactures success in Tucson.
Tags: calipari, drew, Livengood, Rick Pitino
WILDABOUTAZCATS.com (RSS) Feeds
This entry was posted
on Tuesday, March 31st, 2009 at 9:30 PM and is filed under General News.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
Both comments and pings are currently closed.
March 31st, 2009 at 9:39 PM
Would like to see Dixon in Tucson. But there are lots of good coaches out there. The thing that the doomsters don’t seem to get is that no coach can assure success. The Pac-10 is unique. What worked in another division won’t necessarily work here. There’s always risk. Hiring Olson was a risk. It obviously worked out well. But a very tough act to follow.
March 31st, 2009 at 9:40 PM
Scott Drew??? Seriously? This is what were down to?
March 31st, 2009 at 9:43 PM
KVOA said Livengood has told the players that a coach has been hired. Does that mean Few? Capel? Dixon?
Wouldn’t the hiring of Capel or even Few suggest that Arizona’s program really isn’t viewed as that great of a job? Does the empty cupboard that a new coach will inherit deter a great coach from ruining his record for the next year or two, or mean just too much work at a later stage of an elite coach’s career?
March 31st, 2009 at 9:43 PM
Javier
KVOA is reporting tonight that Livengood addressed the team and said an announcement is imminent – 24-48 hours possibly.
I think that would rule out Izzo and Wright… Which narrows the field down to:
Pitino
Dixon
Few
But I think you hit it on the head with Pitino and staying in Kentucky. If its not one of those three, it better be a shocker like Billy Donovan or someone like that who we haven’t even mentioned.
I can’t help myself from thinking though that for some reason we will see Reggie Theus walk out from behind that curtain and the air will be let out of the balloon.
March 31st, 2009 at 9:56 PM
here’s some more ESPN bias, anyone see this article title?
Coach Pennell unhappy on way out Zona door
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/clubhouse?teamId=12
the article makes no mention of Pennell’s unhappiness, and I’m sure there really was none, Russ has been an upbeat guy and a good sport the whole time, and has known from the get-go that he wouldn’t be the permanent coach.
A bittersweet final day, perhaps, but ESPN’s use of the word unhappiness, especially when it is nowhere to be found in the article, is simply uncalled for.
March 31st, 2009 at 9:59 PM
Javier & Co>:
Does Cal consider UK , let alone take UK, if he knows Pitino’s staying put?
Just last week Cal was content, more than comfortable, living the fact that Conference USA was big enough for only one big boss.
So now Cal’s gonna take the toughest job in basketball and compete with Pitino – in the same state?
I don’t think so.
Cal moved ’cause Pitino’s moving on, and Cal knew it, somehow.
I”m still holding out hope that’s the case.
Take two:
Pitino knows, regardless of where Cal ends up, he, Pitino, can be the big fish anywhere, and especially from Seattle to Tucson, in the PAC-10.
He’ll rule the roost ala Cal in Conference USA.
He’ll still be #1 in Kentucky, only from afar, in the Old Pueblo, all tanned and looking ten years younger, especially when the Pitino did this-Cal ain’t doing that comparisons start free-flowing.
And tell me the winning Shelton-Livengood-Pitino press conference from the then twice-baptized, twice as hallowed floor of those “four walls and a court” doesn’t last FOREVER from LA to NY, from Florida to Washington, from Michigan to Louisiana, from just about anywhere in the world there’s an ABC, CBS, NBC, ESPN, FOX, you name it.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:01 PM
Javier, goazcats is also saying that a deal is virtually done. They are saying that it is NOT: Pitino, Izzo, Dixon or Floyd.
If that is true (and take it for what it’s worth) is it still possible to win the press conference?
Do either Few or Capel “win” the press conference?
March 31st, 2009 at 10:02 PM
Junior: It is very likely that Livengood could hire his next coach by Friday. He’s waited primarily because he does not want to go against the Kentucky saga that has developed since Sunday. Calipari will have a press conference tomorrow morning so Kentucky will continue to eat up the news tomorrow. Expect word to come Thursday or Friday. This can mean that he has already lined up a coach and somebody like Izzo, Wright and Drew are remote possibilities. That leaves….
Dixon, Few, Capel, Pearl and Tubby Smith as the most viable possibilities unless Livengood pulls something out of sleeve. Sean Miller has made it known that he won’t leave Xavier, but if the Pitt job opens he could wind up there. Pitino’s comments and mannerisms today tell us that he’s staying in Louisville.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:07 PM
Javier- Great job with this site. Out of the possibilities out there, I’d be somewhat disappointed if the UA settled for Mark Few. Once more Few flamed out in the tournament, marking him something like 0-10 to advance past the Sweet 16. That makes him sort of a Dick Tomey of college basketball. Some may want that but most of us are looking for an occasional run DEEP into the field of 65. Few has always ended the season with his nose pressed to the glass watching the best play on.
I also want to set the record straight on something that I’ve seen you post more than once. The renewal of the series between UNLV and Arizona had nothing to do with Lon Kruger. Lute was friendly with Charlie Spoonhour, former UNLV coach and it was those two who agreed to renew the rivalry.
Also, as you know Kruger is one of the very best coaches out there. I do think that Arizona has him as a fall back candidate. He’ll be 57 in August so that is a big negative and he’s not the blockbuster name some are expecting. Kentucky has raised the bar and the very best will cost a bundle.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:11 PM
So is the KOVA report confirmed?
One thing I have to say about Jimmy Boy is he would be one hell of a poker player when his days as being an AD are over. He has remained calm, confident, and unwavering through what has to be the 4 most stressful months of his professional career. I am not going on a limb when saying this hire is probably the most important hire in the history of the school. It completely dwarfs their search 3 years ago for a new president after Likens retired.
Furthermore, as a few of the posts have said already the lack of a true leak is unprecedented especially in this day and age. Since I personally will have no effect on the next hire I am going start now and stand behind Jimmy and have confidence that he knows what he is doing. I mean how can you remain “Sunny Jim” if you know you F-ed this whole process up and will be out of a job by the end of the school year when your current contract runs out.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:13 PM
Few or Capel are certainly capable coaches who have proven they can win under the radar. Not much was expected from Capel at Oklahoma right away after he left VCU. He recruited the nation’s college player of year in Blake Griffin in only his second season. I found this to be very interesting: In the week leading up to Arizona’s game with Utah, Capel was interviewed on a TV show that previewed matchups with comments by various coaches and Capel rattled off information about the UA as if he followed the Cats closely all year.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:14 PM
The only issue I have with Tim Floyd is he hires fathers of recruits or AAU coaches so that player will come to the school. I feel that is a shady practice and I don’t think the fans want to see a guy who use to be a janitor become the assistant director of shoe lace tieing so a high level recruit can play hear for a year or two. I will admit that the silence is a little troubling to me, but that’s because I am anxious to know who the next coach will be. KVOA also reported that Pitt has not been contacted by Livengood yet to get permission to talk to Dixon.I hope Dixon is our coach but Few, Capel and Drew would be ok as well. Maybe not as high profile but all very good coaches.
Javier any chance on you playing Vegas odds maker and re-figuring the odds of the remaining available coaches?
March 31st, 2009 at 10:15 PM
Few is not only a second-tier hire, it’s a comedown hire.
And I hear the Athletic Department crashing DOWN around us as we type.
Pennell with UA’s worst team, talent-wise, in five years outoached Few and Arizona won vs the Bulldogs going away.
That’s an improvement, that’s what’s gonna keep the Dept. – one which exclusively, almost, relies on b-ball revenue – in the black?
Doubtful.
And Drew, Kruger, Bennett, Fox, Theus are worse – much worse!
Goodness, if it isn’t Pitino, just let it be Dixon…or Capel…or Smith…or Billy the Kid.
I mean, why else would he pass up UK the second time, if not for the chance to start fresh and be rid of Florida and Kentucky…and sunning on the Victor’s Stand in the other sunshine state?
March 31st, 2009 at 10:16 PM
Kinfuky sucks they had to make this drag out you know who cares if we dont win the press conference its not like they give a damn about west coast sports anyway name the damn coach already so we can either jump for joy or start beyoching and call for Livinbad’s head one of the two get on with already!
March 31st, 2009 at 10:19 PM
Pennell we WANT YOU BACK Pleas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
March 31st, 2009 at 10:21 PM
Agree and I think it is time for folks around here to come to the realization that – while it would be great to get a Pitino or Izzo or even Calipari before Kentucky swooped in… As good – great at times – a program that Lute built here in the desert, it is tough to get some of the big-time coaches to jump at coming to Tucson.
Yes, Lute built a top-10 program here, but it is still not Kentucky, Kansas, UCLA or UNC for example. So to expect big-time coaches to just jump from their big-time gigs – like Louisville or Mich State for instance – is just not very realistic. As I think you will hear from Calipari tomorrow in his press conference — “Hey, its Kentucky”… Plus, Calipari was interested in the Kentucky opening before they hired Gillespie.
I don’t necessarily think Pitino is thinking “Hey, its Arizona”.
I think if Livengood can land Dixon or Few, it would be a really solid hire for the school and keep the program progressing forward and turn it around from the duldrums of the past few years. (Not sure either hire though wins the “Press Conference” as he stated) But either one would be big news across the country.
It would really be interesting to ask Few – if he is the choice – why now and why Arizona. He has been mentioned for every major opening over the past few years. I know his teams have the rap of being soft and under-achieving in the tourney – but again, lets be real with ourselves and ask “who does that sound like?” Arizona for the longest time had that rap – in fact they still do have the soft label as do most teams from the west coast. Lute never got over the first-round/underachiever label until he won in ’97, even with several FF’s on his resume before then.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:21 PM
Hey Javier,
At the beginning of Rick Pitino’s end of year press conference he stated that having Tom Crean help Izzo prepare for Louisville was very beneficial to Izzo’s game plan. What did that mean? Could Crean take over for Izzo at MSU allowing for a smooth transition for both schools??? Crean helped Izzo win his 2000 NC, thats Izzo’s boy. Also, just curious, where are you reporting from?
March 31st, 2009 at 10:22 PM
Mr. Morales,
Whats likely to happen? The UA makes an announcement in the next 24-48 hours, then the following day the new coach flies in for the press conference?
March 31st, 2009 at 10:24 PM
Does an AD need permission to talk to a possible candidate? Is it possible JL is making a hire without an interview?
I don’t see how you can name someone in 24-48 hrs, without having requested permission to interview.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:27 PM
Javier: did you read my first post after this story?
And BTW, isn’t it possible – probable – that no word means Livengood did this out of respect for Pennell, who after all had his own press conference, or adios turn at the mic, just this morning?
I’d be shocked more than I am if something more isn’t said tomorrow or Thursday.
I don’t recall UVA having that “Cavalier authorities have asked to speak with WSU’s Bennett” moment in the media.
And I don’t think anything of the sort has come out of reports surrounding the Arizona hire, so are we being too optimistic that word, the word, is coming down the line soon?
March 31st, 2009 at 10:29 PM
It’s hard to believe all the chicken littling one sees these days. Look, any coach is a shot in the dark. There’s probably going to be a drop off after Lute. Unless we’re very lucky.
Few coaches want to follow in the footsteps of a legend, someone who placed a program on the map. It’s kind of a no-win situation. Win and you’re just doing what you’re supposed to do. Lose and your incompetent. Either way, you’re not Saint Lute.
At this point, I have to think that’s a big part of the difficulty landing a top coach. If you’re taking on a challenge, one wants to be recognized for it. Even the guys with huge egos are very strategic about the challenges they take on.
Years ago, I spoke with Josh Pastner about whether he’d want to follow Olson at Arizona. He said he’d like to be the guy who follows the guy who follows Olson.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:32 PM
I believe Pitino was referring to Crean helping Izzo because he was a former assistant at Michigan State and they still collaborate. It reminded me of when the UA played Utah in the NCAA tournament the year after its national title. Ben Howland, a buddy of Rick Majerus, collaborated with the former Utah coach and Nuggets coach George Karl on the best way to beat the UA. The Utes’ slow-down tactics threw the UA off and the Wildcats lost badly. I don’t read into it that Crean will leave for Michigan State if Izzo leaves. Crean has a job with a top 10 program already.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:34 PM
Louisville AD Tom Jurich said Tuesday he has not been contacted by Arizona, and that Livengood didn’t mention the possibility when they saw each other last week in Indianapolis.
—————————————————————————–
Methinks Pitino was never in the works.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:45 PM
I am based in Las Vegas but I have contacted media in Tucson and elsewhere in addition to other sources. I have not heard the 24-48 hour window that KVOA reported but it could be true if a player leaked it to one of their reporters. I don’t see how it could be 24 hours with Calipari’s press conference scheduled tomorrow in Lexington. I say something can happen by Friday. An interesting note about requesting interviews. You don’t need to request interviews if you are going after someone in the NBA. I heard to today that Livengood also received assistance from Kerr, who likely discussed possibilities in the NBA. Former NBA head coaches available include Avery Johnson, P.J. Carlesimo (one of the UA’s top three candidates according to Mike DeCourcy), Paul Westphal, Larry Krystowiak, Reggie Theus. … Can’t think of a case when a coach who started in the NBA was successful in the college ranks. Calipari and Pitino coached in the NBA but started in college. What about Doug Collins coaching in college for the first time with son Chris as an assistant? Don’t get mad at me. Just a joke. Not funny, I know. But Livengood has enlisted the aid of Kerr for suggestions overall, not just the NBA end of it.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:50 PM
Don’t be too quick to dismiss Mark Few. He has done an amazing job considering he is not getting 5 star athletes to come to Spokane. He has gotten the most out of the talent he has. At Arizona, he will be able to recruit at the next level. If he had the talent Arizona had this year, he would easily have won 22-25 games, excluding the NCAA tournament.
If the choice is not Pitono (I won’t give up hope), Dixon or Few, we will be truly screwed for many years to come.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:54 PM
Avery Johnson coaching at Point Guard U??
Interesting
March 31st, 2009 at 10:55 PM
CJM, I don’t think Pitino wants to be perceived as wanting out of that state now that Calipari is hired at Kentucky. He would be ridiculed by Louisville and UK fans and most likely the national media. Instead of a grand welcome at Arizona his press conference would include national media and that from Kentucky asking why he bolted after Calipari entered the picture in the state. I sincerely believe that communication with Pitino about the UA vacancy was always informal trying to gauge his interest and Pitino likely never gave Livengood and Co. something to chew on.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:56 PM
Avery Johnson Dallas Mavericks
———————–
Coach of the Year 2005-06
Year — W-L
2004 — 16-2
2005 — 60-22
2006 — 67-15
2007 — 51-31
Interesting.
March 31st, 2009 at 10:56 PM
all nba guys you mentioned are a joke except avery
March 31st, 2009 at 10:57 PM
whats next terry porter
March 31st, 2009 at 10:58 PM
at worst we should get mark few
March 31st, 2009 at 11:00 PM
UofA should offer the alleged blank check to pitino and buy him a house since we all know the rumor of him buying a house here is complete bs.
March 31st, 2009 at 11:01 PM
As much as i like steve kerr no one should take his advice he has run the suns into the ground.
March 31st, 2009 at 11:05 PM
Wow guys it looking bleak now its friday whats next after the championship game then it will be when students go on summer break, then what next when fall classes start? This is utter BS the Athletic department still has no idea who the coach is i bet they just started putting a list together monday this Athleic Department is a total joke. I want, no we should all want Livingood to resign Wednesday email that loser at uofaad@arizona.edu tell him we want him gone. the way its looking we wont know crap by next weekend or the weekend after.
March 31st, 2009 at 11:11 PM
Parallax, very good post. I recently asked Pastner about the opening at Texas-Pan American and if he would get his foot in the door at the D-I level as a coach in his home state there. He replied that he has no interest in coaching at a place like that. He said that if given the opportunity he wants to help restore Arizona to the elite status it enjoyed earlier this decade under Olson. His heart is in Tucson even after moving to Memphis this year and coaching under Calipari. Pastner will likely follow Calipari to Kentucky and continue to build his resume. If you were an AD wouldn’t you want to hire a coach who was tutored under Lute Olson and John Calipari, arguably two of the top 10 coaches of all-time? For all Calipari has done recently, he still is no match to Olson (national title, five Final Fours). Think of that when you’re hearing all these glowing things about Calipari on ESPN these days.
I was fortunate to cover the UA and speak one-on-one with some of its legends (Kerr, Elliott, Bibby, etc.) and as far as class goes Pastner is right up there with all of them. The only way he can prove himself if he’s given a chance. The same was said of Roy Williams when he took over the Kansas program after serving for 10 years as an assistant to Dean Smith. It would be nice to see Pastner get a shot at a mid-major, at least, someday soon and build a winning resume as a head coach and then return to Arizona like Williams returned to UNC. Be honest…did you know much about Williams when he took over at Kansas for Larry Brown right after the Jayhawks won a title?
March 31st, 2009 at 11:17 PM
Andy Katz latest:
Memphis won enough to be held in the same regard with the likes of North Carolina, Duke, Kansas and UCLA
March 31st, 2009 at 11:36 PM
Russ Pennell pleas come back the program wont survive with Lon Kruger as coach and Livingood as the AD. Russ Turn that Uhaul around and come back I, we beg you pleas come back Kruger will murder this program pleas Russ come back!!!
March 31st, 2009 at 11:38 PM
Russ penell isnt qualified for the job period.
March 31st, 2009 at 11:41 PM
And Lon Kruger or Theus are? becuase one of the two will be the next coach we need to deal with it Livinbad is a joke and thats how he’s treating this coach search
March 31st, 2009 at 11:44 PM
no way theus is coming and lon is a good coach just not for UA
March 31st, 2009 at 11:46 PM
Mark Few is the next coach
March 31st, 2009 at 11:48 PM
Someone give Lute Olson some ginkgo biloba and convince him to come back, other wise we are screwed.
Few = recruiting is sketchy. he gets the most out of his local talent but there is no local talent in AZ.
Theus= Don’t make me laugh
Baylor guy = won’t win press conference.
Izzo = obviously wont happen if the announcement is supposed to come by Friday. Never was going to happen anyway.
Pitino= Godly, but his ego won’t let him run from Calipari’s intrastate challenge.
Dixon = BEST OPTION
—–At this point in time. There is no plan B. Dixon or bust. Few is a half bust—–
April 1st, 2009 at 12:04 AM
i say its a bust fold the card and count our loses. Kruger get used to that name we’ll hear that for the next year or two just long enough to watch the program drop faster than a used condom
April 1st, 2009 at 12:56 AM
GOAZCATS Front Page!
UA HAS ITS MAN!!!
Now who is it?????
BearDownZona
http://WWW.WILDCATSPORTSNEWS.COM
April 1st, 2009 at 4:06 AM
GOAZCATS is recycling old news.
I’m getting a sinking feeling that Mark Few is the guy. I know many will be okay with his hiring, but it will be a big let down for me.
I live in Cincinnati and the radio waves are lit up with excitement over Kentucky’s hiring of Calipari. Kentucky did a great job in going after the coach they wanted with a full court press. Press conference scheduled for 9:30 am (ET) to annouce the hire. Should give Livengood an example of how to “win the press conference”.
Few? Bland.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:15 AM
Capel seems to have a pulse.
I don’t know much about him … any opinions?
April 1st, 2009 at 4:23 AM
Capel is what this program needs. Will probably bounce to the NBA in 10 years, but will get us back to elite status for Izzo
April 1st, 2009 at 4:23 AM
…or Dixon
April 1st, 2009 at 4:30 AM
I like Capel’s court presence (whatever that is!), but don’t know anything about him as a coach. He doesn’t have much of a track record … is it worth taking a chance?
April 1st, 2009 at 5:45 AM
I do not think its Dixon and folks if we are able to land Capel or Few we should feel lucky with all that has gone on..
By reading Fox’s Jeff Goodman’s comments we were set to get Mark Fox (yuk!)
He said Few and Capel were out (as of yesterday).. Sounded like UGA was in hot pursuit of Capel. I would think Jeff would choose UA over UGA.
I think Jeff would do a great job here until he coach K steps down..
Buzz Williams of Marquette has done an outstanding job..Painter of Purdue.. Drew of Baylor… all hungry to win and they can recruit too..
Romar from UW would be a great fit as well. He has a ton of respect for Lute..
I’m at peace with a young and up and comer coach. The “flashy” coaches do not suit us.. Lets get an up and comer “hungry” young coach…
Confusing times folks…
April 1st, 2009 at 5:47 AM
Anyone but Kruger, Theus, PJ Calisimo or Fox..
April 1st, 2009 at 5:50 AM
Capel has won at VCU and brought in big time studs at OU (a football school)..
Jeff did better than most Pac 10 coaches in their second years..
Floyd is not leaving SC.. They lose no one to the draft and add Sydney to their lineup… Preseason top 10 team for next year..
I think Floyd is shady at times but he can recruit and really gets after it..
April 1st, 2009 at 6:09 AM
Zonacat_vols, do you ever have anything positive to say? It’s okay to have a bad feeling about what is going on with Livengood and the coaching search, but do you have to inject constant negativity?
April 1st, 2009 at 6:16 AM
does anybody have access to that article “UA has its man” on azcats.com? What does it say and what kind of timeline are we looking at?
April 1st, 2009 at 6:20 AM
On the non-premium message board I keep seeing references to a press conference in 24-48 hours.
I don’t think that based on inside information. Unless Arizona is intent on making a run at one of the four remaining coaches (Dixon?), it seems reasonable to expect a decision before the weekend.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:30 AM
620 KTAR’s Mark Asher reported reported after their show Gambo and Ash ended, to Dave Burns and his show, that Arizona interviewd two persons. He said they interviewed Rick Pitino and Mark Few. And they will wait on Rick Pitino, and if he declines they will hire Mark Few, and UA feels they got Mark Few locked up, if Rick PItino declines.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:32 AM
I still think JL may fall back with Mike Montgomery. He liked him a year ago before Lute pulled the General Al Haig “I’m in control here!”
April 1st, 2009 at 6:34 AM
The article says UA has reached verbal with unnamed coach. Working out details now. Same author also claims the following.
1. The trip to El Paso was to secure $10 million gift from booster.
2. The coaches not on list to hired are Pitino, Dixon, Izzo, Floyd, Sean Miller, and inexplicably Bill Grier of San Diego.
3. Also claims that once it looked like UK coach was going to be fired last week, Livengood pivoted to who he made the deal with.
The speculation on their premium board is that it is Few or Capel, but there remains a lot of skepticism given the wild swings in information.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:38 AM
620 KTAR’s Mark Asher reported reported after their show Gambo and Ash ended, to Dave Burns and his show, that Arizona interviewd two persons. He said they interviewed Rick Pitino and Mark Few. And they will wait on Rick Pitino, and if he declines they will hire Mark Few, and UA feels they got Mark Few locked up, if Rick PItino declines.
THIS IS ALL TRUE LISTEN TO 620 Now
The trip to El Paso was to secure $10 million gift from booster.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:40 AM
Thanks guys, I heard that Livengood wanted this done before the final four started so the 24-48 hour timeline would make sensee.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:54 AM
I can’t take much more of this. I will say that if I knew I had Pitino hired I’d seem pretty darn relaxed too. And if he can pick up one of the Memphis recruits that reopened their process, like Cousins, and bring back Chase, we’d be a Sweet 16 team right away.
Okay, all done dreaming….
April 1st, 2009 at 6:55 AM
620 is saying that Arizona is waiting on Pitino while “the article” says that Pitino is not on the list. Clears that up.
Louisville would be decimated if Pitino came to Arizona. In a matter of a few days, their team loses in the regional finals … Calipari is hired by Kentucky with the expectation of reviving their program and adding fuel to their in-state rivalry (well known that Pitino and Calipari don’t exactly get along) … and then they could lose their coach to Arizona. Ouch.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:59 AM
Has anyone heard weather Lute is helping with the search??
If Olson is making calls for JL it could help swing someones thoughts on the job. For coachs like Capel or Few, who either come from a small school or a football school, it might be exciting to hear from Lute himself what it is like to be “the man” on campus and in town.
Just a thought.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:23 AM
At this point, it’s best not to worry. Not much we can do about it anyway. Besides, it’s a craps shoot. Even the great Pitino could be the wrong choice for this town, this school. Would of course make for an exciting press conference and off season. But the best guy could be totally off the radar.
Just hope Lavingood doesn’t make some so-called “safe” choice like Kruger. I shudder to recall the Mac fiasco. Would be happy, though, with a guy like Few. Perhaps a few down years while the recruiting takes hold, most likely an end to the 25 year streak, but a very solid coach who’s earned his shot with a major program.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:26 AM
if we land a top tier coach, the streak will continue because there are still good recruits on the board. Plus the Pac-10 will probally be weaker next year. ASU will be worse, UCLA loses a ton, the Pac 10 will be wide open.
I think we will still make the tournament (assuming Wise comes back and we get two recruits off the board)
April 1st, 2009 at 7:35 AM
From Sports 620 KTAR:
Arizona to have a coach hired soon
by Tyler Bassett/Sports 620 KTAR
The University of Arizona may have a coach hired within the next 24-48 hours for the vacant men’s basketball coaching position.
The school has narrowed down their choices and talked to four candidates, sources have told Sports 620 KTAR’s Mark Asher.
A deal is believed to be agreed upon in principle but nothing has been signed.
The names are Gonzaga’s Mark Few, Louisville’s Rick Pitino, Oklahoma’s Jeff Capel, and USC’s Tim Floyd.
Few and Pitino have been rumored as possible candidates for weeks. Both have expressed that their energy goes into the program they are currently with.
Capel’s name has just recently surfaced and was also linked to the Virginia job before they hired Washington State’s Tony Bennett.
Floyd is somewhat of a surprise name and also is being mentioned as a possibility for the Memphis job that became open on Tuesday.
The Memphis job is open because Arizona’s first choice, John Calipari, took the Kentucky job after Billy Gillespie was fired late last week.
How reliable is this? Who are Bassett’s sources? Same Javier’s (who, by the way, should be thanked and praised for this site)? Same as Goodman’s? Same as Seth Davis?
Any of these coaches would be fine, though I would be stunned if Tim Floyd took the job. Why would he leave USC, unless it would be to get out from under the shadow of UCLA. Of the four, I would prefer Few, then Capel. They are more likely than Pitino or Floyd to stay at Arizona the longest.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:40 AM
Okay, this is driving me absolutely nuts. I need some closure! All of the circumstantial evidence still points to Pitino, so I would agree with what KTAR is saying. My in laws are from KY and nobody is saying anything over there. Of course, all of the attention is on UK. I agree with eveybody that is saying that this is either a really good thing that there is no talk or we are in trouble. Hows that for analytical thinking?
For me, personally, I feel that the style of play also plays a factor in who we get. If we want to continue to run and gun (which I think sells more tickets), then that leaves out Izzo, Dixon and the likes.
From that standpoint, here is who would fit in MY dream order of preference of who is still available. (even names of those who have not come up)
1. Pitino – I still think he is #1 candidate – he could be downplaying interest in him.
2. Billy Donovan – not coming
3. Jay Wright – if press conference is before Final Four, not coming
4. Lorenzo Romar- Yes, I would put him before Few. Few has not had to compete in a power conference. Romar has, and can recruit. Did Gaddy sign with UW?
5. Few – he would be a let down for me, too.
6. Why is nobody talking about Dunlap if we are talking about settling. Every game I was at or watched, he was running the show during time outs. I am suprised that it took the media so long to catch on. I saw it first hand before Christmas.
I am trying to stay realistic, here, but it is nearly impossible. My head keeps going up in the clouds. Oh the stress…
Pitino, just step up and say you are coming! (dreaming)
I am preparing for worst case scenario…we settle for somebody and Arizona fades, and so do peoples expectations and we never return to greatness, except for an occaisonal flash (ie football) which teases us and gets our hopes up only to have them dashed to pieces again.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:49 AM
Dunlap made it extremely clear late in the season and during the tournament that he was not coming back to Arizona. I believe the word he used was “categorically.” I agree–Dunlap is an vastly underrated treasure that some other school (Washington State?) is going to pounce on and be very glad they did.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:51 AM
In Goodmans interview that was posted here yesterday, he said that most top level coaches might shy away from AZ because there has been no recruiting fo virtually 2-3 years.
But some of the discussion on the Dan Patrick show this morning was about weather Cal would take his recruits to KY.
If Cal can take his recruits, then Few or Capel (or whoever) could bring theirs to AZ right?? That would help relieve the drought of AZ recruits that have bailed to other schools.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:52 AM
is john wooden still available???
April 1st, 2009 at 7:53 AM
Arizona fans will know who their next head coach is very shortly.
Several sources with knowledge of the situation have told GOAZCATS.com that UA athletic director Jim Livengood has targeted the next coach and that an announcement will be coming soon.
A press conference has yet to be scheduled, although it’s believed that one could come as soon as Wednesday, although Thursday appears to be much more likely and it could even stretch to Friday.
From what we were told, details of the contract have yet to be completed, but that a verbal agreement has occurred and that there is heavy confidence coming from both sides on the deal getting done.
After top target John Calipari came off the board when he agreed to a contract with Kentucky, many wondered if Livengood had a backup plan or if he was scrambling to find UA’s next head coach.
It now appears that Livengood has a backup plan and now will work out contract details before making an announcement.
It is believed that serious contact with the candidate was made either late Thursday or Friday when word got out that Billy Gillispie was out as Kentucky head coach and that Calipari would consider replacing him at UK.
GOAZCATS.com will have more details on this situation shortly.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:30 AM
Something out of left field?
How ’bout Rick Barnes from Texas?
I know, I know, not another name in the soup!! And it wouldn’t make sense to go this way with all the time that Barnes has been available.
But think about it for a minute. Cal was the first choice, he goes to UK. Now JL has to go to his fall back position. He has been able to guage the interest and has told Barnes (while guaging the interest) that, “I’ll get back to you.”
Suddenly Barnes is the principle target. It’s all secret (which seems to be the way JL has handled this whole thing) and the announcement catches everyone by surprise.
Just some senseless rambling? An April Fools joke?
I have no sources (unlike everyone else). Just my weird brain going off in a weird direction!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 8:31 AM
Even though Seth Davis is an idiot and gets his stories wrong 90% of the time he said this on SI:
Despite rumors swirling that he’s a possibility to fill the Arizona opening, Rick Pitino tolds SI.com’s Seth Davis he is definitley not considering a move to Tuscon. “I’m not a candidate for the Arizona job and I never was,” he said Wednesday. “I am not interested in any job. I am definitley returning to the University of Louisville.”
I hope its wrong but you never know
April 1st, 2009 at 8:32 AM
+1 Randall Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 7:49 am
Dunlap made it extremely clear late in the season and during the tournament that he was not coming back to Arizona. I believe the word he used was “categorically.” I agree–Dunlap is an vastly underrated treasure that some other school (Washington State?) is going to pounce on and be very glad they did.
————————
Can you blame coach Dunlap for not being around next season. The Wildcat cupboard is abso-LUTE-ly empty, baby! No incoming H.S. recruits and even no incoming marquee JUCO player’s, and only the troika of Wise, Horne and Fogg to heavily rely on.
Moreso, guarantee both Hill and Budinger are gone after the winter/spring semester, and Wise’s TDY ( tour of duty ) is still tentative- albeit I personally see him returning to the Ol’ Pueblo next season, because he’s still not even 2nd Round N.B.A. material but with one more season of seasoning he could be a potential 2nd Rounder next season.
It just goes to show Wildcat fandom what a remarkable job both Pennell, Dunlap, Geary and Brase did with basically only the troika of Jordan, Chase and Nick, i.e., Horne was absolutely inconsistent, and Fogg a true freshmen whom wasn’t recruited heavily by even Mountain West schools, and the defensive liability Johnson.
Yes, indeed. Dunlap knows what Arizona is in store for next season with basically only one scorer in Wise.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:38 AM
why is azcats saying that bragga is entering the nba draft??? He played like 20 minutes his entire career.. Are they that bored that they dont know what to write about or is it an april fools’ joke? I think it might be the latter.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:40 AM
why is azcats saying that bragga is entering the nba draft??? He played like 20 minutes his entire career.. Are they that bored that they dont know what to write about or is it an april fools’ joke? I think it might be the latter.
__________________________________
It is April Fools’ Day, although Bagga did drain that three at the end of the Louisville game… ice water in that ones’ veins I tell you.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:42 AM
“Even though Seth Davis is an idiot and gets his stories wrong 90% of the time he said this on SI:
Despite rumors swirling that he’s a possibility to fill the Arizona opening, Rick Pitino tolds SI.com’s Seth Davis he is definitley not considering a move to Tuscon. “I’m not a candidate for the Arizona job and I never was,” he said Wednesday. “I am not interested in any job. I am definitley returning to the University of Louisville.””
Damn… he’s right, it’s on SI.com. That SUCKS! I really wanted Pitino
April 1st, 2009 at 8:51 AM
Everyone has got a price. Everything is negotiable.
We aren’t sure how much the boosters were able to fork over, and how much JL has in hand to offer.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:23 AM
I cannot believe virginia signed bennett for 1.7 million per year. Welcome the age of “Yawn basketball”. What a mistake that was. There goes Wazzu….thats one less team to worry about.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:35 AM
Jaiver, Why is Rick Pitino now given 25-1 odds?
April 1st, 2009 at 9:52 AM
ThatOneGuy, Pitino’s odds will go much higher now that he’s confirmed to Seth Davis that he was never contacted about the job. I heard from a reliable source today that we can scratch out Drew and Few. Few, the quiet sort, is comfortable tucked away at Gonzaga right now. Drew might be a better candidate had Baylor made the NCAA tournament etc.
If Livengood makes his announcement by Friday, that basically leaves three guys at the collegiate ranks who can “win the press conference”…. Jeff Capel, Tubby Smith or Jamie Dixon. Dixon obviously is the best one of those three followed by Capel and then Smith. During this whole Kentucky fiasco, Smith has been positively mentioned by the national media that he should have never been run out of Lexington. He’s a class act and good recruiter. My problem with him is his age. And he’s already said more than once he’s staying at Minnesota. BTW, Sean Miller has also stressed he’s staying put. Capel would be an instant solid recruiter and would not coach under the shadow of the football program. Dixon now has the name and the system which will bolster his recruiting. If Livengood does not hire any of these three, I don’t see how he can win the press conference with another existing college coach…How would you feel if Livengood surprisingly hires somebody with NBA roots (Theus et al) or Rick Barnes or Tim Floyd or Thad Matta?
April 1st, 2009 at 10:05 AM
From another source:
Is Mark Few Next Arizona Coach?
Posted Apr 01, 2009 11:32AM By Shane Bacon (RSS feed)
Filed Under: Pac-10, WCC, Tourney Coaches
In less than 24 hours, the University of Arizona basketball coaching search has gone from frantic to favorable.
GoAzCats.com is reporting that Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood has locked down the next head coach, and media sources close to the situation have revealed to FanHouse that the new head coach of Arizona will in fact be Gonzaga coach Mark Few.
Without revealing any names, the Rivals website had this to say about the search.
A press conference has yet to be scheduled, although it’s believed that one could come as soon as Wednesday, although Thursday appears to be much more likely and it could even stretch to Friday.
From what we were told, details of the contract have yet to be completed, but that a verbal agreement has occurred and that there is heavy confidence coming from both sides on the deal getting done.
Arizona had backed itself into a corner when news hit the Internet that John Calipari was interested and eventually took the vacant coaching job at Kentucky. With Calipari gone and Rick Pitino uncertain, the coaching board was moving towards lesser known guys that wouldn’t do what the Tucson faithful were hoping from their first secure coach since Lute Olson.
Few brings a lot of things to the table if it is in fact him who will be setting up shop at McKale Center. Few never missed out on the NCAA Tournament in his 10 seasons as head coach at Gonzaga. Few made Gonzaga a Cinderella powerhouse, if ever there was such a thing, and has gone as far as the Sweet 16 four times.
The bottom line was Few probably wasn’t going to win a national championship at a school like Gonzaga. Few is 46 and looks to be ready to take over a university known for basketball excellence.
If Arizona fans wanted a proper candidate, they got one.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:16 AM
Few or Capel – Please!
April 1st, 2009 at 10:27 AM
Anybody,How come we have heard almost virtually nothing about Dixon over the last couple of days? I have been scouting blogs and fourums concering the next arizona coach and they are all saying alot about Pitino/Few(and other random names) but they have absolutely no opinion or thoughts on Dixion, which me kinda uneasy beacuse I belive Dixon is the best posssible canidate.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:32 AM
Rick Barnes–why would he leave Texas when he has now raised that school’s basketball program to nearly the same level as the football program?
NBA guys shouldn’t coach college ball and vice versa. The two don’t mix…
I could imagine Tim Floyd or Thad Matta coming to Arizona. I could also imagine them leaving Arizona within 5 years. We need someone that would probably stay long-term. Seeing Mark Few’s history at Gonzaga, he would fit the bill.
Jamie Dixon or Mark Few–please…
April 1st, 2009 at 10:35 AM
Tucson citizen front page today at 11AM “pitino not interested in any jobs and is returning to U of L”
April 1st, 2009 at 10:36 AM
If Pitino gave a straight up no, why wouldn’t Dixon and Few do the same? Both men HAVE to be considering the job if they haven’t said No to the media and their schools yet.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:36 AM
Capel was booed by Duke fans when he played at Duke (he was part of that terrible team that didn’t make it to the tournemanet and K coincidently had back surgery after it became evident his team was bad)
– what better way for revenge than to coach at North Carolina or Arizona?
April 1st, 2009 at 10:37 AM
I’d be happy with Few, for sure. Or Dixon. Not sure about Capel.
And Barnes? Please. I’m an AZ alumnus living in Austin and I see a lot of Texas games. He can recruit but he can’t coach for squat. Seriously, he’s horrible. If Texas actually cared about their hoops program he’d be gone, but this place is the very definition of a football school.
I’m praying for Dixon or Few.
The one dude who said it was already determined it would be Izzo? Methinks he was pulling an April’s Fool Day joke a day early. Either that or he misplaced his lithium prescription, because that’s just nuts.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:38 AM
Capel must really be pissed at Duke … he named his daughter Cameron.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:40 AM
On ESPN, Andy Loser Katz just reported the potential replacement coaches for Memphis. He mentioned Theus! LOL
So there you have it, Katz/ESPN are talking about Memphis (a Conf USA program) and yes, even speculating about the next coach, but not one darn thing about U of A.
I was okay when people said they could only report facts and UA isn’t leaking anything, but to suggest Theus as a replacement for Cal at Memphis on EPSPN? Are those FACTS?
Have we sunken so low that even Memphis is a mroe appealing job now than UA? Don’t get me wrong, I know Memphis has been a tough team for a few years, but if it was such a “dream job”, Cal wouldn’t have left.
I’m so sick … and confused.
Will someone please pull me back off this ledge?
April 1st, 2009 at 10:41 AM
Seems our options are quickly dwindling. Hard to know whether JL has fiddled while Tucson burned. Four-plus months should’ve been plenty of time to nail down a top tier coach.
If a news conference is held tomorrow or Friday to make THE announcement and with only a few coaches left in the mix, I’d say:
1. Dixon
2. Capel
3. Few
Pulleeeeeze no Floyd or Smith. And if Pitino is truly out of the picture, maybe we should be happy; his ego is a little over the top for Tucson.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:45 AM
As they head into the home stretch, it looks like Mr. Capel could be passing Mr. Few:
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/137385
This is too funny! Will Arizona basketball ever be normal again?
April 1st, 2009 at 10:49 AM
http://thebeardown.blogspot.com/2009/04/capel-takes-lead.html
April 1st, 2009 at 10:50 AM
Why is nobody even talking about Wright? Look at what he has built at Villanova? I would take him over Few, Dixon, Barnes…He is young and will fill seats and be very successful. JL said this year would be a bigger factor than anything…
April 1st, 2009 at 10:51 AM
What a sad state of affairs. Five months, complete secrecy, and at best, Mark Few. Why all the secrecy, while allowing anticipation to build that it might be Pitino?
JL walking around McKale proclaiming that it’s all under control with a smile on his face, and he delivers Few (if we’re lucky)? How out of touch is this man? That was a rhetorical question.
He seems to have fallen into the same category as most Tucsonans: they don’t take themselves seriously and feel like anyone that would come here is doing us a favor.
How sad this has become. Those posters who originally were pushing for Pitino, Izzo or Dixon are holding onto the side of a cliff with their fingernails, begging for Capel or Few and hoping JL hasn’t destroyed our beloved program forever.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:52 AM
ESPN finally made mention of the Arizona coaching search. They reported that Few said “no way to Arizona” as they put it and now Capel is our top candidate. I wonder how Capel will feel about being #4 or 5 on the list.
We are going to end up with F’ing Lon Kruger.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:55 AM
Amen, James.
OC- remember that Pitino was not number one for UK when he took the job…Lute was their number one…
this is a gamble any way you look at it, the big name just increases our odds of success and especially recruiting…
April 1st, 2009 at 10:55 AM
James, well said.
Goodbye march, the UA may not see you for a while.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:55 AM
Hey OC wildcat
Link please.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:57 AM
I dont have a link. This was reported on Sportcenter (TV). It was a developing story.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:59 AM
Capel really?
So one recruit of his makes him a viable coaching option for the U of A, please.
This is a disaster!
April 1st, 2009 at 11:00 AM
It’s a Phoenix paper, but they say Capel
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/137385
April 1st, 2009 at 11:02 AM
Does anyone know if the rights to http://www.firelivengood.com have been bought?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:04 AM
I just got a call from my broker… no joke, we have been talking about this – he told me Capel we hired… looks like we have our coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:04 AM
Capel won with Sampson’s recruits, we have none.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:05 AM
According to godaddy.com
FIRELIVENGOOD.COM is already taken. (click here for info)
April 1st, 2009 at 11:07 AM
So why wait until tomorrow to announce a lukewarm presser such as Capel or Few?
Hell, I would announce it today and who cares if it gets lost under the UK–Calipari headlines.
At least we wont have every media outlet discussing how terrible we are, and how facetious it was to believe we were a top program that could land anyone in the nation. Sigh.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:09 AM
Does anyone know anything about the upcoming Oklahoma recruiting class? We may be able to get some of those guys if they havent signed a LOI.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:11 AM
Oregon announces the hire of Dunlap as Associate Head Coach later today.
——————————————
So disheartening, 5 Months and we scramble for a Capel or Few who might turn us down. I need a smoke.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:13 AM
All Oklahoma recruits have signed. They have two All-Americans in that mix.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:16 AM
Rather have Capel than Few.
*Played under Coach K for four years.
*Father is a Coach
*Hast 4 Recruits in ESPNU Top 100 for 09
*Knows his way around Texas HS hoops having recruited there for last 3 years
*Young – Will stay at UA for a while if things work out
April 1st, 2009 at 11:17 AM
Oklahoma has a top 10 recruiting class, including the #3 PG in the nation. As we found out last year, just because you signed doesn’t mean much. As long as OU lets them out of their commitment (which most schools, including UA, do after a coaching change) they can go somewhere else and play immediately (see Negedu last year).
April 1st, 2009 at 11:17 AM
Look guys. Nobody knows anything. Or at least there’s no way or sorting out who does and who doesn’t. Right now, it’s just a lot of noise.
The biggest problem for Arizona is it’s difficult to follow a legend. Expectations are high. After all, none of the guys we’re going after are Olson. Fans will not be happy if we’re not successful and will tar and feather anyone who breaks our streak of Tournament appearances. Besides, the cupboard is bare. It’s hard to imagine why Pitino would leave everything he’s created at Louisville to coach here, particularly when it would mean taking less money than Cal.
Few would seem a good fit if he were willing to leave the Northwest. But he doesn’t seem much the desert rat. Dixon would seem a potentially great fit but, if he’s thinking about it, it’s the best kept secret around.
That Lavingood is whistling means nothing. He’s a perennial optimist. He’s frickin Alfred E. Newman.
But, hey, the sky is not falling. It’s inevitable that when a legendary coach leaves there will be a downturn. Happens at even the most legendary programs. Look at UCLA and all the ups and downs they’ve had since Wooden retired. Look at the turmoil at Kentucky. All the money they’re throwing at Cal guarantees nothing. They could continue to suck and pull down the reputation of another coach along the way. There is always uncertainty. That’s life. Get over it.
I just hope Lavingood has the sense to go with an up-and-comer over an established has-been. If we can’t get a top tier candidate, make a Stoops-like choice rather than another Mac. That’s all I ask.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:18 AM
This is CRAZY!!! Some saying Capel others…Few.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:29 AM
If it does somehow wind up being Capel, I won’t be disappointed. As someone mentioned before, he has the bloodlines (his Dad at ODU forever) and has already had two brief successful stints. Plus he has proven already he can recruit the big time athletes (not sure if he recruited Griffen, Willie Warren, 2 McD’s All-Americans for next year). I know most of us wanted the big hire (Izzo, Pitino, etc), but I do think if it is Capel, it could wind up being a very good match.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:32 AM
I agree that Capel could be a good fit. My main concern would be whether he would bolt for Duke when Coach K. retires (most likely in about five years).
April 1st, 2009 at 11:36 AM
Just heard from my source (I know, who is going to believe me) that UA has in fact hired Jeff Capel. He did not, however, know the timing of the announcement. My source tipped me off to Lute retiring before Dickie V announced it, so I do consider his information pretty credible.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:39 AM
I think I am good with Capel. Josh Pastner can replace him when he goes back to Duke in a few years.
I would say that Lute should have one regret post retirement and that was to develop a caretaker for his program once he retired. You think after 25 years he would have groomed someone to takeover. His trustiest assistants were almost as old as he was.
I live in Austin now and this would hurt OU so a double plus for me!
April 1st, 2009 at 11:40 AM
If it is Capel he needs to bring some of his recruits ASAP, and shave that thing on his chin.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:40 AM
Trying to look at the bright side of things, next year might not be as bad for UofA as ESPN likes to advertise (our favorite Andy Katz predicted 8 wins)
Solomon Hill 4 star – as Javier mentioned, he still hasn’t signed his USC LOI. I have to think there is a reason for this (i.e he is waiting to see if we come up with a good coach)
Victor Rudd 3 star – seems to be leaning towards UofA, obviously waiting to see the coach
IF its Capel and IF he can bring one or two of his 4 star recruits (or even his 5 star PG) and Wise stays, I think we could be in the 14-18 win range.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:43 AM
justin, where did katz predict 8 wins??? got a link?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:44 AM
Capel has definitely shown he can recruit… And I think there is a decent chance he could bring one or two along with him from OU. If Dixon is definitely a no go (as are the other biggies), Capel is probably an equivalent coach to Few and a better recruiter. I really do worry about losing him to Duke as well. I want someone who will stick and embrace Tucson as Tucson will embrace him, given success. I worry that won’t be the case, but Capel is not the only Duke coaching prodigy out there and it’s not a given that the Duke job would be his…
April 1st, 2009 at 11:45 AM
Considering Capel’s success this season and after looking at his recruiting class (ranked 8th nationally), I am thinking Capel might be a good choice. I just hope a few of his recruits follow him out here – he has three 4-star centers headed to Oklahoma next year – Alex Jacobson will definately need some help from a couple of those guys!
http://scouthoops.scout.com/a.z?s=75&p=9&c=8&toinid=369&yr=2009
April 1st, 2009 at 11:46 AM
Justin, if he brings all that, I think we’re in for #26 next year… Wise, Horne, and Fogg are not exactly chopped liver.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:46 AM
Livengood is a clown. He lives in his own universe and not opening the process to public scrutiny only lets him linger in his own delusions. 7 months of searching and the best he comes up with is Few? Grant, a comparable Xs & Os coach, and a superior recruiter was there for the taking, and he misses the boat, because in his delusional mind he believed he could actually pull in a Pitino or Izzo. After all this waiting, anything less than a top tier coach will be disappointing and probably won’t help in recruiting.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:47 AM
I’m cool with Capel: young, hungry, charismatic. Maybe this is all for the better. And like Frankie says, by the time Coach K retires, 62, Pastner might be ready to take the reins.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:47 AM
I’m pissed.
WTF Few?
This is not our first, second or third choice I’m sure.
So much for winning the presser.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:47 AM
I am a giant effing toolbag.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:48 AM
Capel isn’t going back to duke. Collins or Wojo would be offered the job before him if they are still on the bench
April 1st, 2009 at 11:52 AM
Hi Guys. New to the site but can anyone suggest any good neighborhoods in the Tucson area? Also I hear that this place Byson Witches has a mean sandwich and bread bowl. Can anyone confirm?
April 1st, 2009 at 11:53 AM
bisonwiches… its awesome… 4th ave and 8th streetish
April 1st, 2009 at 11:54 AM
hell yeah, Capes, BisonWitches is great! meet me there for lunch and we can get wasted on shiner hefs or pbr!
April 1st, 2009 at 11:54 AM
“bisonwiches… its awesome… 4th ave and 8th streetish”… lol
April 1st, 2009 at 11:54 AM
Yes, Capel did recruit Griffin as an FYI. According to RIVALS.COM, Oklahoma’s 2009 recruiting class is ranked #12 – however, we all know that it is not where your class ranks but what you do with that talent. (Look no further than Notre Dame football)
“Jeff Capel is a rising star in the coaching world. He’s mature beyond his years and grew up around the game. He knows how to teach the game, but he also knows how players want to play it. Jeff brings integrity and knowledge to the process and has a very bright future at Oklahoma. I think the world of him. He’s young chronologically, but not upstairs.”
- ESPN analyst Jay Bilas
BTW – On the ESPN report, it never said “Few said NO THANKS to Arizona”, in fact Few wasn’t even mentioned. All ESPN did was regurgitate the Valley Tribune Report about Capel in negotiations with UA. (Nothing more added)
It is a little curious though that after 6 months, we basically hired a coach – if it is Capel – who probably was not in the mix 3 months ago. (Just speculating)
April 1st, 2009 at 11:55 AM
that is a 10-4 capel on the sandwich and bread bowl. great after a night at dirtbags after winning the national championship. Andy Katz is a complete moron and should be beaten with his worthless articles
April 1st, 2009 at 11:55 AM
Capel’s next stop is the NBA… but not for 5+ years at least, and by that time, if he’s in that much demand, then our Arizona program should be completely re-built and Sweet-16 Tourney Team…
Then we can go for an Izzo, Dixon, etc.
We need someone who is young, ambitious, and ready to step into Lute’s shoes. He’s the man!
April 1st, 2009 at 11:58 AM
COME ON LG!!!!!!!!!! Get on with announcing Capel. Every day that you screw around worrying about the press conference we are losing ground with unsigned recruits. Lets do this.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:10 PM
Looks like 620AM in PHX is running an April Fool’s Day joke. Right before they cut to break….”you’ll never believe who will be coaching the Az Wildcats next season, we’ll tell you why Lute Olson is coming back”
April 1st, 2009 at 12:12 PM
I will say another thing about Capel. In his college playing days (93-97), UofA was a true national powerhouse that was very well respected, even by the east-coasters… Capel still remembers that Arizona, I’ll bet, and will want to return this program to its rightful place.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:13 PM
http://books.google.com/books?id=PmlkVxHLR-gC&pg=PA161&lpg=PA161&dq=capel+booed+at+duke&source=bl&ots=Iy99XheMWx&sig=Obp9w-8XYabcH5D8yHnTL8j2x9w&hl=en&ei=Q8nTSdSOH6jqlQe2tfzGDA&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=6
From the book: “Tales from the Duke Blue Devils Hardwood ”
“On December 5, 1996, Duke hosted Florida State. Senior guard Jeff Capel had a miserable game, missing all nine of his field goal attempts and going scoreless. Mike Krzyewski put Capel back in the game late, a decision met with an audible groan and some scattered boos.”
April 1st, 2009 at 12:16 PM
they are saying that lute olson is a done deal
April 1st, 2009 at 12:17 PM
Yeah, 620 is officially doing the April Fool’s thing about Olson coming back. lame
April 1st, 2009 at 12:19 PM
All I want to know is what did Livengood do for 5 months? Capel is the best he could come up with? It appears he is the 5th or 6th choice. Im curious why everyone is turning us down, if they were even contacted by Livengood. If it is Capel, this is a sad day for Arizona basketball and the end of a great 25 year run.
Thanks Lute for leaving the program in shambles so you could protect your legacy and thanks Livengood and Shelton for not being able to effectively sell the program to a top-tier coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:21 PM
capel is a great recruiter, he would be better than few, his recruiting class next year is ridiculous, if we can get a couple of those players we are back in business
April 1st, 2009 at 12:22 PM
One more thought. How pathetic is the Tucson news media! We have to get all of our information from outside sources.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:24 PM
Mark Few isnt a recruiter, Jeff Capel is, look at his oklahoma recruitng class this year, Jeff Capel is the next UA coach. UA needs someone who could recruit, and get talent, a good coach such as Few can only take you so far, the recruits Capel while at Arizona can get is amazing, he already got great players in OU, a football school, including Willy Warren Griffin Brothers, and 3 4stars, and a 5star this year and 2 3stars. That talent that Capel can accimulate can take Arizona to the level they want to be, in the elite he took OU to them to Elite 8 . And plus he is younger then Few, only 34.
http://oklahoma.scout.com/a.z?s=146&p=9&c=4&cfg=bb&yr=2009
April 1st, 2009 at 12:25 PM
I use the think my friends (whom are UA fans) were IDIOTS when they said lute should retire ( they were saying this 3 years ago) ….I guess this is the outcome of him not……Jeff Capel
April 1st, 2009 at 12:26 PM
Tell me that what is being reported on Gambo and Ash is an April fools joke. They are saying Lute is coming back.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:29 PM
LATE BREAKING NEWS!!>>>: Rick Pitino is a douchebag.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:31 PM
http://www.newsok.com/jeff-capel-top-candidate-at-arizona/article/3358129?custom_click=lead_story_title
Daily Oklahoman confirming Capel is our #1 target now
April 1st, 2009 at 12:37 PM
Nervouscatfan – all is not lost yet. We can only hire those that want to leave their current situation. I don’t blame Calipari, Izzo, or Pitino for not wanting this position. They are all in great spots that they, themselves have created with their own hard work. There is no way the UA can compete with what UK threw at Cal.
If it does turn out to be Capel, UA can do a whole lot worse. These Kruger and Theus rumors that fly around make me sick to my stomach. Capel would bring a lot of energy, which really makes young basketball players take notice and sign up. He has a track record of success, and he can carry on the Point Guard U tradition. Few would be another viable option, but the guy obviously loves his situation up there in WA, and it has been successful for him. He will continue to make the tourney year in and year out. His quality of life is totally fine in his eyes, and if he’s waiting for the Oregon job, then I’d rather he wait for it there than here at UA. UA can still schedule games with Gonzaga and build up the SOS as it did this year. Again, it could be WAY worse that Capel coming to the UA, so look for the silver lining folks.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:41 PM
One of the Oklahoma discussion forums is saying their two McDonald’s All Americans would go with Capel. That’s not hard to believe after what happened with the Memphis recruits.
*IF* true, that’s a huge plus for going with Capel.
From the Norman newspaper:
Messages left for Capel and OU athletic director Joe Castiglione Wednesday afternoon were not immediately returned. Capel is scheduled to be in Detroit along with Blake Griffin for numerous activities and awards in conjunction with the NCAA Men’s Final Four beginning Thursday.
OU athletic department spokesman Kenny Mossman said the school would not comment on whether permission was sought by Arizona to talk to Capel.
[No comment is pretty much saying "yes" in this context]
http://www.normantranscript.com/sports/local_story_091154244.html?keyword=topstory
April 1st, 2009 at 12:44 PM
boxner1: the no comment thing maybe, just MAYBE shows the JL has agreed with all parties to say nothing. I guess we may never know who are true targets were.
if the McD’s all American thing is true that would be incredible.
April 1st, 2009 at 12:44 PM
BREAKING NEWS: NJIT TURNS DOWN COACHING JOB, WANTS TO LOSE SOME MORE!!!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 12:50 PM
IF IT IS CAPEL THAT IS A GREAT GET COMPARED TO A KRUGER, THEUS, OR EVEN PEARL.
THE BEST THING ABOUT CAPEL IS HIS RECRUITING ABILITIES AND THE FACT HE COULD BRING RECRUITS WITH HIM.
BEARDOWNZONA
http://WWW.WILDCATSPORTSNEWS.COM
April 1st, 2009 at 12:55 PM
If we don’t land Dixon… I’m going to have a hell of a time wondering why in the hell we didn’t go after him.
Yea he likes the pitt administration, blah blah. If we are truly such a profitable program, then show it. Every one has a price, everything is negotiable as I have said. Need to spend some to get some, sometimes you need to feed the revenue generating machine a little more, to get a little more.
2.5 M + For Jamie Dixon, I would like to see him turn that down. Word is he gets around 1.3-1.5M right?
April 1st, 2009 at 12:56 PM
I WOULD LIKE TO FORMALLY WITHDRAW MY NAME FROM CONVERSATION FOR THE ARIZONA JOB. I JUST LOVE THE PROGRAM WE HAVE BUILD IN JERSEY AND AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MANY MORE LOSING SEASONS. NOW WE DID WIN A GAME THIS YEAR, SO THAT IS GOOD ENOUGH FOR ME. MY STANDARDS OF WINNING, ARE NOT THE SAME AS OTEHR SCHOOLS. I LOVE LOSING!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 12:58 PM
JOHN WALL IS COMING TO JERSEY!!!!! SO IS LANCE STEPHENON
April 1st, 2009 at 1:01 PM
From what has been communicated to me, it’s Capel’s job if he wants it. Capel has followed the UA situation closely all year, sources say, and has been involved in informal contact. Few is definitely out, from what I’ve been told. Capel from what I’ve understand has been enamored with what Lute Olson did at Arizona since his Duke days. Capel was never seriously considered for the Virginia job because he knows of the Cavaliers’ hierarchy in the ACC. So Livengood’s comment that the guy is somebody no one else is going after rings true with Capel. How do you guys feel about welcoming a Duke alum? I say it’s good for Arizona and exposure on ESPN, which froths at the mouth over Duke. He will sway recruits instantly. Two Dukies in the Pac-10, if Capel is hired. The other is Johnny Dawkins at Stanford. The Stanford-Arizona rivalry can become interesting again.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:02 PM
Hum, I think Greg Hansen would be a good fit at UA. Go after him JL, go GO GO!!
You have got to be kidding me, ugh.
I’m actually ok with a Capel, but Dixon is where it is at. How can we be the 4th or 6th most valuable program and not have SQUAT to offer him?
April 1st, 2009 at 1:04 PM
I like Capel. He has a great recruiting class coming into OK next year. If we offer him the right contract he could be here a long time.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:04 PM
Capel is great for ARizona the guy can recruit, AND PLUS ANYTHING RELATED TO DUKE, THIS CASE. WHEN THEY MENTION ARIZONA THEY WILL MENTION CAPEL AND WHEN MENTIONING (ESPN) THEY WILL MENTION DUKE. AND THAT GOES FOR RECRUITS AS WELL.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:05 PM
what happens if capel declines? who’s next (5th? 6th?) on the list?
April 1st, 2009 at 1:06 PM
fcuk duke… just saying.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:07 PM
If not Capel,
I would guess:
Lon Kruger
Scott Drew
Reggie Theus
Randy Bennett
In that order. Throw in bill frieder for good measure.
On a serious note, the more we move down that list, the more people will realize this is actually not that great a gig. I hope to God JL is doing everything he can to keep Capel.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:07 PM
“what happens if capel declines?”
Livengood should start packing his office.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:08 PM
If not Capel, Arizona I would tell them to go to Avery Johnson.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:16 PM
the more and more posts i see the more i think Capel is a good fit.
recruiting, espn exposure (important for recruits), duke ties etc etc…this whole whirlwind is ridiculous. pitno one week Dixon for 3 days, Few for 8 hours, and now capel for 2 hours…..just looking forward to see if the new coach can bring some of his recruits immediately.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:19 PM
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Capel_III
April 1st, 2009 at 1:19 PM
WHAT ABOUT ME????
April 1st, 2009 at 1:26 PM
Jeff capel is awesome baby with a capital “A”.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:27 PM
If it isn’t capel why not go with josh pastner?! He knows the program inside and out. Although all of his recruits haven’t panned out they were some of the highest ranked possible. If we hire kruger or theus were just going to be rehiring someone in two-three years anyhow. The question at this point is would josh even want it?!?! Tucson is offically the worst sports town in the country.sad!
April 1st, 2009 at 1:28 PM
anybody know what the breaking news on the arizona.rivals.com website says…..i dont have access
April 1st, 2009 at 1:28 PM
Just landed in Tucson returning from the East Coast. Coach K was on my flight to Phoenix. Didn’t see him on the next flight to Tucson, tho..
April 1st, 2009 at 1:32 PM
who cares?
April 1st, 2009 at 1:35 PM
They are saying it is not Jeff Capel, Mark Few, Bruce Pearl, Tubby Smith, Mark Fox, Reggie Theus, Lon Kruger or Randy Bennett.
The speculation is Tim Floyd.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:35 PM
http://louisville.craigslist.org/vol/1102591279.html
Need I say more?
April 1st, 2009 at 1:35 PM
who keeps writing about NJIT???? What an idiot
April 1st, 2009 at 1:39 PM
why would tim floyd come to ua? if anything he goes to memphis
April 1st, 2009 at 1:39 PM
Dunlap just got hired as the Associate Head Coach at Oregon.
Folks – IF it is Capel – this is a really good hire for UA. He can recruit with the best of ‘em and as we saw this year, he knows what to do with those recruits when he gets them.
THIS would be a really good hire. Not a GREAT one like Pitino would be, but Capel would turn this around based on his track record. He plays an up-tempo style of ball, I think he would bring excitement back to Tucson.
Would REALLY like to see him bring some recruits with him……
April 1st, 2009 at 1:40 PM
who does keep writing about NJIT…..it has nothing to do with arizona or even basketball
April 1st, 2009 at 1:40 PM
I’m surprised we weren’t all talking Capel a little sooner. He’s young, a great recruiter and obviously has the basketball pedigree coming from Duke. He might not have the star power of a Pitino or Izzo, but obviously he knows what he’s doing and he probably won’t expect both the sun and the moon to come here. If he’s the guy, I’m ok with it. But, let’s get it done before somebody else does.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:41 PM
boxner1 Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 11:00 am
It’s a Phoenix paper, but they say Capel
http://www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/137385
—————————
ESPN radio has been announcing the next head coach of Arizona the past hour.
And ESPN doesn’t air news of this significane unless it has “up-tempo legs to run on”. LOL
I mentioned the other day, that when Arizona had it’s man, a high-level Wildcat insider would “leak” the news to a reputable college sports media-nexus, i.e., East Valley Tribune, who then leak it to the major networks such as TSN, ESPN radio, FOXSPORTS radio, et. al.
Baby, Arizona got a “full court” steal with Capel!! Abso-LUTE-ly guarantee it!! LMFAO
April 1st, 2009 at 1:44 PM
THIS WEBSITE IS WEST COAST BIAS….NOBODY CARES ABOUT THE LITTLE GUY IN JERSEY….I AM SO SICK OF GETTING TOSSED AROUND AS A TECHNOLOGY SCHOOL…..WE LOVE OUR BASKETBALL!!!!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 1:45 PM
buddha,
what is it with you and “LMFAO”????
you put it in every post. I know what it means, but can you write anything without it?
April 1st, 2009 at 1:47 PM
what is LMFAO
April 1st, 2009 at 1:48 PM
Joel Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 10:59 am
Capel really?
So one recruit of his makes him a viable coaching option for the U of A, please.
This is a disaster!
————————–
What the FREAK. Does the bloody lot of Wildcat fandom even watch major college hoopdom’s outside of Arizona, and an occasional PAC-10 game.
Just to enlighten some Wildcat fans. Did you ever hear of or watch Willie Warren!!?? Well, he just happens to be a TRUE FRESHMEN who helped Capel’s Sooner team reach the Elite-8!! The kid is so good, I wouldn’t be surprise IF he left for the N.B.A. after his sophomore season.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:48 PM
BUDDHA – this is not instant messenger where you leave these lame abreviations, these are sports fans that dont spend time hitting on underage woman
April 1st, 2009 at 1:49 PM
OU’s 2009 class is top 10 also
Capel can recruit.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:53 PM
Yeah Buddha, this isn’t instant messenger, apparently this is site where some troll is enjoying posting as “NJIT coach”, “Dick Vitale”, “Herb Sendek”, “Jim Livengood”, etc. I guess whenever a site becomes more popular that is the price you pay.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:53 PM
+2 CatPhan Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 11:16 am
Rather have Capel than Few.
*Played under Coach K for four years.
*Father is a Coach
*Hast 4 Recruits in ESPNU Top 100 for 09
*Knows his way around Texas HS hoops having recruited there for last 3 years
*Young – Will stay at UA for a while if things work out
—————————
Voila! Maybe there is more than a few “enlightened” Arizona fandom in the Grand Canyon state and all points between there.
To insinuate Capel is a “bum” reeks of abso-LUTE LUNACY of the Wildcat degree. LMFAO
Capel is a “hard court steal” for Arizona. Mark my words, the bloody lot of Willy Wildcat’s will be kissing Capel’s arse, metahorically speaking mind you. LMFAO
April 1st, 2009 at 1:53 PM
On PTI a few minutes ago Mike Wilbon said he would give a standing ovation for Capel to Arizona. Remember that Wilbon has a house in Scottsdale now and follows Arizona sports.
This is a good example of how Capel would get us a bit of attention on the East Coast. Recruits watch PTI and ESPN.
As for recruiting, Capel didn’t just recruit Blake Griffin. He has a monster recruiting class this year too, easily comparable to any Lute had.
I’m also concerned about our tourney streak. If Capel could bring those two McDonald’s recruits with him, we have a great shot at #26. I like Few but there’s no way he could bring equal quality with him.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:54 PM
No offense, but can we please stop talking about Pastner? No doubt the kid can recruit and he’ll probably be a good coach down the road but he’s NEVER been a head coach. Moreover, the track record of Lute’s assistants as head coaches is unimpressive, to say the least. Obviously, this doesn’t mean Pastner won’t be good, but there’s no way JL is gonna roll the dice on a completely unproven coach nor should he.
April 1st, 2009 at 1:56 PM
GOOD POINT MATT…..DO YOU PLAY BASKETBALL?????
April 1st, 2009 at 1:57 PM
I can’t speak for Matt but I play women’s basketball.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:00 PM
THATS PERFECT OUR TEAM IS CO-ED WHICH IS WHY WE ONLY WON A GAME LAST YEAR…..ADOLF DO YOU LIKE JERSEY????
April 1st, 2009 at 2:02 PM
Maybe its not Capel
http://www.normantranscript.com/sports/local_story_091174642.html
April 1st, 2009 at 2:02 PM
+1 BearDownZona Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 12:50 pm
IF IT IS CAPEL THAT IS A GREAT GET COMPARED TO A KRUGER, THEUS, OR EVEN PEARL.
THE BEST THING ABOUT CAPEL IS HIS RECRUITING ABILITIES AND THE FACT HE COULD BRING RECRUITS WITH HIM.
BEARDOWNZONA
http://WWW.WILDCATSPORTSNEWS.COM
—————————
Right On, baby! Right on. This is a MAJOR COUP for Arizona. Because Capel has everything a school is looking for in a “high-rising” head coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:02 PM
Now that is has leaked Livengood better seal the deal!
April 1st, 2009 at 2:02 PM
bring on capel and his recruits
April 1st, 2009 at 2:03 PM
adolph oliver bush!!!! aaaaahhhahahahahaha! that’s the coolest name i’ve ever heard! funniest thing since getting called a “dickfor” int he 4th grade
April 1st, 2009 at 2:06 PM
+7 Javier M. Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 1:01 pm
From what has been communicated to me, it’s Capel’s job if he wants it. Capel has followed the UA situation closely all year, sources say, and has been involved in informal contact. Few is definitely out, from what I’ve been told. Capel from what I’ve understand has been enamored with what Lute Olson did at Arizona since his Duke days. Capel was never seriously considered for the Virginia job because he knows of the Cavaliers’ hierarchy in the ACC. So Livengood’s comment that the guy is somebody no one else is going after rings true with Capel. How do you guys feel about welcoming a Duke alum? I say it’s good for Arizona and exposure on ESPN, which froths at the mouth over Duke. He will sway recruits instantly. Two Dukies in the Pac-10, if Capel is hired. The other is Johnny Dawkins at Stanford. The Stanford-Arizona rivalry can become interesting again.
——————————–
Javier, other than the hiring of Calipari, this is a major, major get for Arizona. As some astute-minded Wildcat fandom have already mentioned Capel’s plus’, he will keep the Wildcat program relatively stable, and operating.
By the way, Dawkins was an abso-LUTE great hire for Stanford, because look out PAC-10 once coach Dawkins gets his recruits at Palo Alto.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:11 PM
Does anyone know Capel’s offensive and defensive styles? I haven’t seen any OU games this year.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:17 PM
Some one must have gotten to Capel and told him that the U of A is a basketball school, not a football school like OU.
If Capel comes to the UA and brings a recruit or two and gets 19-20 wins his first season, he will be treated like the King of Tucson. No matter how well he does at OU he will always be #2 to the football program.
Capel could come to Tucson and go from being the little step brother of Bob Stoops to the big step brother of Mike Stoops. Sweet!!
April 1st, 2009 at 2:23 PM
Sorry folks, Capel is not coming. And I was actually getting excited.
UPDATED: Early reports of Capel negotiations erroneous
By John Shinn
NORMAN —
Arizona is interested in making Jeff Capel its next head coach. But early reports Capel is already in negations to leave Oklahoma appear to be erroneous.
Wednesday afternoon the East Valley (Ariz.) Tribune reported on its Web site Capel had already begun talks to become the Wildcats’ next head coach. Citing an anonymous source, the paper said Capel’s hiring could be announced within “the next couple days.”
Wednesday afternoon, a source close to the Sooner basketball program who would only speak on the condition of anonymity said Capel has had no contact with Arizona as of Wednesday afternoon.
Capel was at the OU basketball offices Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning. He boarded a plane for Detroit in the afternoon where he will attend several banquets in conjunction with OU forward Blake Griffin receiving national player of the year awards and the Final Four in the next few days.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:28 PM
This whole thing is just a sad sad situation.. I’m hearing on KTAR up here in Phx that Floyd is now their man..
I do like Floyd’s energy and he could bring Sydney and or Hill with him or we get Floyd and everyone’s nightmare Sydney transfers to ASU and Harden stays for his junior year..
Really with all this Livenbad will be burned at the stake in front of the student union..
I’m really thinking no one wants this job..
Heck – bring in Josh Pastner..
I’ll bet old Mike Dunlap is looking pretty good right now..
April 1st, 2009 at 2:30 PM
-1 Bay Cat Nate Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Sorry folks, Capel is not coming. And I was actually getting excited.
UPDATED: Early reports of Capel negotiations erroneous
By John Shinn
NORMAN —
Arizona is interested in making Jeff Capel its next head coach. But early reports Capel is already in negations to leave Oklahoma appear to be erroneous.
Wednesday afternoon the East Valley (Ariz.) Tribune reported on its Web site Capel had already begun talks to become the Wildcats’ next head coach. Citing an anonymous source, the paper said Capel’s hiring could be announced within “the next couple days.”
Wednesday afternoon, a source close to the Sooner basketball program who would only speak on the condition of anonymity said Capel has had no contact with Arizona as of Wednesday afternoon.
Capel was at the OU basketball offices Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday morning. He boarded a plane for Detroit in the afternoon where he will attend several banquets in conjunction with OU forward Blake Griffin receiving national player of the year awards and the Final Four in the next few days.
————————
I abso-LUTE-ly disagree! Because major college hoopdom media-nexus’s such as ESPN radio as well as TSN don’t air and or print frivolous college basketball news items for the thrill of it, i.e, the hiring of Calipari, or the hiring of Nick Saban at Bama, for instance., because the majority of relatively significant hires in both college football as well as college hoop’s were announced by the ESPN’s and or FOXSport radio shows through high-level insider’s of said schools.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:34 PM
ESPN is citing the East Valley Tribune article. I doesn’t sound like they have their own sources. All of their people are in Lexington for the crowning of Calipari!
April 1st, 2009 at 2:41 PM
ESPN has just reported that Bill Walton will be the next coach at the University of Arizona
April 1st, 2009 at 2:41 PM
Guys, I was on board the Jeff Capel bandwagon as well, but it AINT GONNA happen.
I give up. I’m tired of getting excited one second thinking it’s pitino, the next its dixon, today it’s capel or few or floyd or romar or Montgomery or pastner. That’s it. It’s over.
Do yourselves a favor and acclimate to the idea that we will land a no name dud. As much as I hate to be negative, its better if we get used to the idea that way it wont sting as much. How in the world I gave Livengood an ounce of trust is beyond me, but I’m over that. You all should should follow suit.
We are not getting any good coach. Sorry.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:47 PM
javy, nothing from you for a bit…please tell us the floyd rumors are bunk and capel is at fleming’s smoking cigars with livengood right now. please!
April 1st, 2009 at 2:52 PM
I thought last night they had meetings with players? saying they had their man..
Enough of this bullhonky!
This guy has had 4 months to find a coach and now this?
Next thing the players will leave/ transfer one by one..
This whole thing is one big mess..
April 1st, 2009 at 2:53 PM
ESPN has just reported that Mustafa Shakur will be the next Arizona Basketball coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:53 PM
I’ve heard the Capel news on the radio and I’m way out in Alabama.
April 1st, 2009 at 2:56 PM
Ugh, I know I said I was over this, but I agree with Paul Z
I have a hard time getting it through my THICK SKULL how the hell you get 5 months to hire a coach, and you end up with a dud.
Unfreakingbelievable!
I wish I had 5 months to complete projects at work, anyone else want a 5 month deadline? Holy cow.
April 1st, 2009 at 3:00 PM
yeah the sad thing is you know capel was never on livenbad’s short list, so bascially Jimmy did nothing worthwhile in the last 5 months and 3 days ago looked at the list of coaches and though OH SHIT! and started throwing money around – Capel is biting, thank god – or we hope so!
April 1st, 2009 at 3:02 PM
Here is a Big RED button that says PANIC! Alarm will sound when times look dire. Wildcat faithful should I press it or let one of you do it?
April 1st, 2009 at 3:04 PM
Yea, the more we go down that list though, the more those coaches will feel like the Fat kid who gets picked last. How fun is that?
April 1st, 2009 at 3:04 PM
Damn, this feels like a big game of Musical Chairs, the music has stopped, and Livengood has Arizona standing alone. It seems like this guy doesn’t have a clue as to how he needs to close these coaches: Get Lute and Livengood in a Limo – send them to Dixon’s house. Make him get in the car, don’t take no for an answer; drive him to a private airport where a private jet awaits equipped with a full bar and some smokin’ hot ladies. Announce to all of the Tucson media that Dixon is arriving from the airport and have a police motorcade him to McKale, ticket-tape parade style. Have the money – 2.5 Million for the 1st year, IN CASH behind you. And congratulate him for being offered the job. BANG. There’s your coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 3:06 PM
Bay Cat Nate for AD!
April 1st, 2009 at 3:07 PM
Man, I wish it were that easy…
April 1st, 2009 at 3:08 PM
Hey Javier,
On your Vegas odds section you have Capel and Few at 15-1. Both names that have been floated around heavily today as likely candidates. But you also have Jamie Dixon at 15-1 a name we have not heard much about in the rumor mills today, anything going on there, or just wishful thinking?
April 1st, 2009 at 3:12 PM
Livengood
01/15/94 – 04/02/09
April 1st, 2009 at 3:12 PM
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/basketball/ncaa/mens-tournament/04/01/pitino/index.html
Don’t say we didn’t tell you so.
April 1st, 2009 at 3:25 PM
So let me get this straight. Livengoods strategy was to start with the top guy and work his way down until someone bites? Sounds like the wrong strategy to me.
Its almost 5pm and still no announcement. Why is our coaching search such a roller coaster ride while other schools just get who they want first try.
April 1st, 2009 at 3:29 PM
because livengood is incompitent
April 1st, 2009 at 3:31 PM
offer capel two million dollars and he will leave
offer dixon 2.5 and he cant say no
both these guys make 1 mil
April 1st, 2009 at 3:31 PM
because livengood is incompitent
classic
April 1st, 2009 at 3:35 PM
knowing how livengood operates you know he is low balling capel with like 1.5 per year, if not the deal would already be done.
Enough about waiting for kentucky that is already old news.
April 1st, 2009 at 3:37 PM
Seriously,
UK was old news since 6:30 AM our time.
IF in fact livengood is after Capel or Dixon, I’m most certain he is lowballing them. So I share your sentiment. Wouldn’t be surprised he offers them less than what they currently make.
April 1st, 2009 at 3:39 PM
I keep seeing the Capel thing on the ESPN screen on TV.. What the heck? I thought he was out..???
Geez this is killing me.. How hard is it to hand a decent coach a 2.5 mil per year check?
This whole thing is a whirling dirvish..
April 1st, 2009 at 3:46 PM
This is brutal – My productivity over the last 2 days has dropped to virtually nothing. Goazcats.com is confident that Few and Capel are both out.
“…As of right now, it’s safe to assume that Jeff Capel, Mark Few, Bruce Pearl, Tubby Smith, Mark Fox, Reggie Theus, Lon Kruger and Randy Bennett are no longer in the picture….”
Not sure who that leaves, considering Izzo and Patino are both are pipe dreams. Floyd? Romar?
April 1st, 2009 at 3:50 PM
What’s the news with Dixon? Why has nobody mentioned him? No media outlet has contacted him? Wouldn’t he come out and say “I’m staying at Pittsburgh” if he were staying?
April 1st, 2009 at 3:51 PM
Actually, Dixon is the obvious omission from that list… Though, I’ve read over and over again that he’s in love with Pitt and there’s no way he’d take the job. Argh…
April 1st, 2009 at 3:52 PM
if money is the reason we’re not ending this infuriating saga, i give up. first we hand calipari a blank check, now we’re low-balling guys? we’re waiting for the UK buzz to die down? we’re considering an NBA-loser-gone-also-ran-PAC10-team-coach in floyd?
ugh
April 1st, 2009 at 3:56 PM
““…As of right now, it’s safe to assume that Jeff Capel, Mark Few, Bruce Pearl, Tubby Smith, Mark Fox, Reggie Theus, Lon Kruger and Randy Bennett are no longer in the picture….””
Glad to see Livengood has had to ditch plans A – X and is now on plan Y
Is Rosbough still alive?
April 1st, 2009 at 3:58 PM
what is goascats.com saying about capel
April 1st, 2009 at 4:05 PM
If Livenbad really did screw this up ( I still don’t understand how ) why should he still get paid?
April 1st, 2009 at 4:18 PM
Actually, the same site (goazcats.com) reported the following last night:
“…Four names I can tell you right at this moment that are no longer prospective candidates: Rick Pitino, Jamie Dixon, Tom Izzo and Tim Floyd.”
So, if you add these names to those reported by the same site today, the list of remaining candidates is pretty thin. I’m not sure I trust anyone at this point, however Goazcats.com has been relatively conservative and consistent in their reporting on this story.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:20 PM
C’mon; take a deep breath guys! Everyone’s so quick to assume the worst when, in truth, we simply have no idea what’s happening.
Capel would be a great choice. The only down side is that, if he does really well, Duke would likely be his next step up the coaching ladder. But loyalty isn’t assured from anyone who’s name isn’t Kerr. If not Capel, hopefully another young up and comer. Please, God, not a past-his-prime retread. My fear about Lavingood is he may be biased toward the retreads, the guys with the “record.” But there’s no point worrying ’bout it. Like it or not, Lavingood’s the one who gets to make the call.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:22 PM
Didn’t goazcats report it was Pitino some day, and then Kruger the next?
I don’t believe anyone or anything anymore. Though I do believe that Livengood screwed this all up.
We should take his salary (like 400k right?) add that as a hiring bonus for the next coach.
Russ Penell for next AD anyone?
April 1st, 2009 at 4:23 PM
I’m as anxious about this as anyone. Started following AZ hoops in the Fred Snowden days, enjoyed skateboarding down the ramps of the newly built Mckale Center when I was a kid. Graduated in ‘84. But here’s the gig, we have no facts, just speculation, and no one else likely has facts, either. Goazcats doesn’t know jack.
There are only 3 possibilities for why an announcement has not yet been made:
1. The selected coach is still coaching.
2. They have their agreement and want to wait until the news cycle clears so they can make a bigger impact upon announcement
3. Livengood is just striking out at every turn
obviously we’re all hoping it ain’t #3. In order, I think the most likely scenario is #2, followed by #3, then #1. If Friday comes and goes with still nothing, then I say it’s even money between #1 and #3, praying it’s #1.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:24 PM
+1 Parallax857 Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 4:20 pm
C’mon; take a deep breath guys! Everyone’s so quick to assume the worst when, in truth, we simply have no idea what’s happening.
Capel would be a great choice. The only down side is that, if he does really well, Duke would likely be his next step up the coaching ladder. But loyalty isn’t assured from anyone who’s name isn’t Kerr. If not Capel, hopefully another young up and comer. Please, God, not a past-his-prime retread. My fear about Lavingood is he may be biased toward the retreads, the guys with the “record.” But there’s no point worrying ’bout it. Like it or not, Lavingood’s the one who gets to make the call.
———————————
Bellisimo! The lone voice of reason on this here forum.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:27 PM
Thanks.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:28 PM
As of right now, it’s safe to assume that Jeff Capel, Mark Few, Bruce Pearl, Tubby Smith, Mark Fox, Reggie Theus, Lon Kruger and Randy Bennett are no longer in the picture.
GOAZCATS.com feels extremely confident about who the coach is, we are just waiting for confirmation.
———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
In that report, the writer did not mention Floyd, Dixon, Izzo, Wright, or Pitino, it could be one of those most likely Floyd. Because when asked if its Floyd he did not respond. Now he did respond to most like P.J. Carlesimo is out, and Pastner and said they are not in.
A press confrence is set for tommorow at 4:00 p.m., which means they probably got their coach. Now the A. Department and the AD has not confirmed the press confrence, but most with sources in the UA believe there will be a p. confrence tomorrow.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:29 PM
Also I forgot to mention that Sendek might be a dark horse in the coaching search, but is not likely.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:30 PM
Dear University of Arizona faithfuls:
I am pleased to announce that the hiring of a new head basketball coach for your University of Arizona Wildcats is imminent.
The news conference is scheduled for tomorrow at 1100AM and will be held at the main conference room (Hopi Hall) inside the Administration building.
I look forward to sharing this exciting news with all of you and thank you for all your patience and understanding.
Bear down,
J. Livengood
April 1st, 2009 at 4:31 PM
so let’s get this straight:
goazcats.com is reporting (according to posters here) that, “Jeff Capel, Mark Few, Bruce Pearl, Tubby Smith, Mark Fox, Reggie Theus, Lon Kruger and Randy Bennett are no longer in the picture” today and said last night that, “Rick Pitino, Jamie Dixon, Tom Izzo and Tim Floyd” are out of consideration.
who the F does that leave? the baylor guy? some NBA reject? certainly no on who will “win the press conference”!
this is the darkest day i’ve had in 30 years of UA fandom if NONE of the above coaches can be had…how low can we go? and if we’re being shunned by the likes of kruger, bennett and fox, can we really expect any serious consideration from the big boys? the longer this goes on, the more despirate we appear…gawd i hope livengood has something done and is going to (pleasantly) suprise us tomorrow or friday….
April 1st, 2009 at 4:31 PM
Yeah, I know, be patient. But, with all the obsessing I’ve been doing over this deal I’m gonna get fired if they don’t hire a coach by the end of the week.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:33 PM
Right there with you, Rick – I grew up less than 1 mile from campus and graduated from the U of A. Also used to skateboard down the ramps (albeit a few years later than you).
My money is on #2… I’m not thrilled with JL’s performance over the years, but do not believe he’s entirely incompetent. I think Cal was his #1 choice and he’s resorted to a more than capable fallback, who will be announced tomorrow. I also think everyone will be pleasantly surprised by it. It’s all conjecture at this point… probably somewhat irrational. Par for the course for those of us who have an irrational love for and loyalty to the U of A.
April 1st, 2009 at 4:35 PM
No announcement forthcoming from the UA until Tuesday, after the Final Four is history. Take it to the bank!
April 1st, 2009 at 4:42 PM
+1 UNCTarHeel’N'Zona Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 4:28 pm
As of right now, it’s safe to assume that Jeff Capel, Mark Few, Bruce Pearl, Tubby Smith, Mark Fox, Reggie Theus, Lon Kruger and Randy Bennett are no longer in the picture.
GOAZCATS.com feels extremely confident about who the coach is, we are just waiting for confirmation.
———————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————-
In that report, the writer did not mention Floyd, Dixon, Izzo, Wright, or Pitino, it could be one of those most likely Floyd. Because when asked if its Floyd he did not respond. Now he did respond to most like P.J. Carlesimo is out, and Pastner and said they are not in.
A press confrence is set for tommorow at 4:00 p.m., which means they probably got their coach. Now the A. Department and the AD has not confirmed the press confrence, but most with sources in the UA believe there will be a p. confrence tomorrow.
————————————–
Ricky Pitino has already gone on record, and abso-LUTE-ly state he’s not going to Arizona.
And what would the East Valley Tribune as well as ESPN radio gain by releasing a spurrious report regarding Capel.
Nonetheless, I’m getting out the prayer beads, and mediatating on Capel as the next head coach of Arizona. LMFAO
April 1st, 2009 at 4:50 PM
Amazing the “Gloom and Doom” attitude of folks around this city, on this blog and associated with this program.
I have never heard such absolute pessimism over ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. YES NOTHING. Nothing has been announced, nobody has officially been ruled out except Pitino and Calipari, yet the doomsday crew on this site and around this town are ready to go jump off the Grand Canyon – based on WHAT? RUMORS….
NOBODY except for a handful of people – and my guess is none of them are blogging on this site – know who the top choices are, where things are at, etc. YET, the doomsday crew continues to assume the worst.
Folks need to get a grip on reality, get back to your lives, etc. etc. Trust me, no matter who is picked to be the next coach of the CATS, the sun will rise in the east and set in the west tomorrow and the day after and so on…
April 1st, 2009 at 4:52 PM
voice o Buddha Says:
Ricky Pitino has already gone on record, and abso-LUTE-ly state he’s not going to Arizona.
And what would the East Valley Tribune as well as ESPN radio gain by releasing a spurrious report regarding Capel.
Nonetheless, I’m getting out the prayer beads, and mediatating on Capel as the next head coach of Arizona. LMFAO
————————————————————————————————
I know Rick Pitino and some other coaches like Izzo Few, have gone on record that they will not come to Arizona. BUT I KEEP AN OPEN MIND BECAUSE I LIVED IN MIAMI WHEN NICK SABAN SAID NO WAY HES GOING TO ‘BAMA, THEN A WEEK LATER HE WENT, so thats why I dont rule anyone out till Arizona hires someone.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:01 PM
Tim Floyd on campus as we speak talking to Livengood. He’s are next coach
April 1st, 2009 at 5:02 PM
“Folks need to get a grip on reality, get back to your lives, etc. etc. Trust me, no matter who is picked to be the next coach of the CATS, the sun will rise in the east and set in the west tomorrow and the day after and so on…”
Wow! Thanks for the reality check. How did I get on this silly blog dedicated to a topic of interest to me? What was I thinking? I’m going to go reintroduce myself to my wife now… Haven’t seen her since Lute retired. Maybe I’ll go watch the sun set in the west – Might be the last chance I get if we hire Kruger.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:05 PM
wow this just in, according to KVOA 6 oclock news Tim Floyd is in Tucson as he speak looking around campus and then having a meeting with Livingood.
What does everyone think about Floyd?
April 1st, 2009 at 5:05 PM
Maybe I’ll go watch the sun set in the west – Might be the last chance I get if we hire Kruger.
————————–
Priceless!
April 1st, 2009 at 5:06 PM
Barnum & Bailey Ringling Bros. presents Jim Livengood “Clown of the Century”. I’m already expecting the worst from this guy. Watching him on tv reminds me of your dad’s dickish boss double fisting Chivas in the Marriott bar.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:06 PM
frizbom1 Says:
Tim Floyd on campus as we speak talking to Livengood. He’s are next coach
-0——————————————————————————————-
Got proof???????????
April 1st, 2009 at 5:07 PM
Junior-
The angst is centered around an inept athletic director. I am happy to see some people have the rabidness and hunger to become a powerhouse again.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:11 PM
Floyd? Meh. I mean, we could do worse but that’s what I thought when Jimbo hired Mack. I don’t know. Floyd’s a good coach and a pretty good recruiter but I’d still be disappointed. I’d really rather have a young guy like Dixon or Capel who have the potential to get even better than someone like Floyd who is a “what you see is what you get” type.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:12 PM
Its reported and confirmed by Gambo and Ash of 620Ktar in PHX and others, that a booster gave Livengood $10mil. for the coaching search. The booster is being kept a secret, and how the money will be spend. It might be to buyout a contract, or to pay a coach his salary and spread the money out over years to pay the next coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:13 PM
I’m not trying to knock the Oklahoma media because they are working hard on this too. But the fact that Capel has been in Norman all week really bears no weight on Arizona’s pursuit of him. Was Calipari seen in Lexington before Kentucky hired him? No. UK officials traveled to Memphis and communicated by phone before securing him. Also, the UA has been engaged in informal talks with him for some time. The interest is mutual from what I have been told.
Without a press conference tomorrow, the UA now runs a risk of not announcing its next coach until next Tuesday or Wednesday because most of the coaches are bound for Final Four activities starting Friday. By the sounds of it, people in Tucson can’t wait that long. Livengood is certainly aware of this. The more this drags, the more it becomes a PR issue.
As for Dixon, media reports suggest Dixon is content working for the Pitt athletic administration. Nothing has changed with that, at least in the public eye.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:13 PM
in my opinion floyd is a slimeball who will get us into trouble down the road. he’s proven nothing at any of his stops in college or the pros…he’s gotten a few good one-and-done recruits at SC, but this will not fly at arizona. there is no way we return to prominence behind floyd….
gawd i’m depressed…
April 1st, 2009 at 5:16 PM
Floyd is the kind of retread I could I could see Lavingood going for. Someone perceived as “safe” who, in truth, is no such thing. Kind of like Mac.
Now I’m not saying Floyd is incompetent like Mac was. Not at all. A good coach and recruiter. But not who we need in Tucson. Not a guy who can win the press conference or inspire much enthusiasm in Tucson.
I hope reports of Floyd are way off.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:16 PM
Top candidate identified
Josh Gershon
GOAZCATS.com Senior Editor
Talk about it in Premium Hoops Suite: Inside McKale
GOAZCATS.com
Jim Livengood hosted Tim Floyd in Tucson today.
The leader in Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood’s search for a new men’s basketball coach has been identified.
GOAZCATS.com has learned that the Wildcats’ top target is USC’s Tim Floyd.
Floyd arrived via private plane originating from Santa Monica at approximately 2:00pm Tucson time.
GOAZCATS.com’s Jason Scheer was on location and witnessed Livengood and Floyd depart the plane and head immediately to an SUV. The two men left the airport to an undisclosed location.
As GOAZCATS.com reported earlier today, other candidates are no longer a priority, as discussions appear serious with Tim Floyd. No other information is known at this time.
It is not known whether or not a final agreement has been reached, but if Floyd does plan on taking the job, an announcement could come as early as Thursday or Friday. Otherwise, UA would presumably continue its search with other candidates.
GOAZCATS.com and Jason Scheer will have more on this situation shortly.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:18 PM
Javier, thanks for the great work! Any idea what the delay is if Capel is JL’s guy? Other schools have moved very quickly in either getting or keeping the guy they wanted. What’s Livengood waiting for?
April 1st, 2009 at 5:19 PM
kvoa will have coaching update after commercials.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:21 PM
If Lavingood didn’t bother to contact Capel or Dixon, setting his sights first on Cal, then Patino, then Floyd — he really is hopeless.
Please let it not be so.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:21 PM
There you have it you OPTIMISTS!
I knew Jim Livengood would FUCK it all up, and there you go!! Sorry about my vulgarity. It’s just that 25 years of excellence have gone down the fucking trash thanks to Livengood. WOW.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:23 PM
Ok let’s just say by some miracle this idiot stumbled in and did get a deal with either Jay Wright or Izzo. Could this be why the delay and the secrecy?
If nothing is done by Friday this could be a possibility, any information on why Wright has not come up in the rumor mill? Hell, everything else has.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:23 PM
Someone please tell me the Floyd reports are April Fool’s pranks.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:27 PM
No, it is confirmed.
Tim Floyd is our next coach.
KVOA reports UA only contacted Cal, Few and Floyd.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:29 PM
so according to goazcats Capel AND Floyd have been in tucson today…..sounds like they don’t know what they are talking about. Last time i believe what is on their site, lame.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:31 PM
At this point, we’d be lucky to get Floyd. Was he worth all the secrecy and delays? Definitely not.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:32 PM
This just in — Looks like Floyd is our man..”
GOAZCATS.com has learned that the Wildcats’ top target is USC’s Tim Floyd.
Floyd arrived via private plane originating from Santa Monica at approximately 2:00pm Tucson time.
GOAZCATS.com’s Jason Scheer was on location and witnessed Livengood and Floyd depart the plane and head immediately to an SUV. The two men left the airport to an undisclosed location.
As GOAZCATS.com reported earlier today, other candidates are no longer a priority, as discussions appear serious with Tim Floyd. No other information is known at this time.
It is not known whether or not a final agreement has been reached, but if Floyd does plan on taking the job, an announcement could come as early as Thursday or Friday. Otherwise, UA would presumably continue its search with other candidates.
GOAZCATS.com and Jason Scheer will have more on this situation shortly.”
April 1st, 2009 at 5:33 PM
you know… maybe this is all smoke and mirrors… trying to hold us off until the coach is done playing.
I have got to believe that JL knows Flord will not in any circumstances win the presser.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:33 PM
UNCTarHeel’N’Zona Says:
April 1, 2009
TOP CANDIDATE INDENTIFIED
Josh Gershon
GOAZCATS.com Senior Editor
Talk about it in Premium Hoops Suite: Inside McKale
GOAZCATS.com
Jim Livengood hosted Tim Floyd in Tucson today.
The leader in Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood’s search for a new men’s basketball coach has been identified.
GOAZCATS.com has learned that the Wildcats’ top target is USC’s Tim Floyd.
Floyd arrived via private plane originating from Santa Monica at approximately 2:00pm Tucson time.
GOAZCATS.com’s Jason Scheer was on location and witnessed Livengood and Floyd depart the plane and head immediately to an SUV. The two men left the airport to an undisclosed location.
As GOAZCATS.com reported earlier today, other candidates are no longer a priority, as discussions appear serious with Tim Floyd. No other information is known at this time.
It is not known whether or not a final agreement has been reached, but if Floyd does plan on taking the job, an announcement could come as early as Thursday or Friday. Otherwise, UA would presumably continue its search with other candidates.
GOAZCATS.com and Jason Scheer will have more on this situation shortly.
nOPE that is true Go on http://arizona.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=931011.
Floyd is in the UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA CAMPUS EARLIER, EVERYTHING IS TRUE
IF YOU HAVE ACCESS TO GOAZCATS.COM, YOU CAN CONFIRM THE STORY, FLOYD WILL LIKELY BRING S. HILL BUT R. SIDNEY, NOEL JOHNOSN I DO NOT KNOW ABOUT BUT IS LIKEY THEY COULD COME. AND MOST LIKELY UA WILL GET A COMMIT VICTOR RUDD.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:35 PM
This is no smoke and mirrors.
Livengood is so out of synch with the real world, and this game. It has obviously outgrown him.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:36 PM
Watch Dixon bolt for USC now.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:36 PM
I’m not liking the looks of this at all. KVOA is reporting on their website that Floyd is in town meeting with Livengood. As quiet as the local media have been on the subject, you’ve got to think it must be true if they’re reporting it and if it is true it’s got to be because Floyd is JL’s choice. Man, I so hope I’m wrong. But it’s not like the pros where you bring everyone in for an interview. If they’ve got Floyd in town it’s almost certainly because he’s our new coach. This is depressing.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:38 PM
Top candidate identified
Josh Gershon
GOAZCATS.com Senior Editor
Talk about it in Premium Hoops Suite: Inside McKale
GOAZCATS.com
Jim Livengood hosted Tim Floyd in Tucson today.
The leader in Arizona athletic director Jim Livengood’s search for a new men’s basketball coach has been identified.
GOAZCATS.com has learned that the Wildcats’ top target is USC’s Tim Floyd.
Floyd arrived via private plane originating from Santa Monica at approximately 2:00pm Tucson time.
GOAZCATS.com’s Jason Scheer was on location and witnessed Livengood and Floyd depart the plane and head immediately to an SUV. The two men left the airport to an undisclosed location.
As GOAZCATS.com reported earlier today, other candidates are no longer a priority, as discussions appear serious with Tim Floyd. No other information is known at this time.
It is not known whether or not a final agreement has been reached, but if Floyd does plan on taking the job, an announcement could come as early as Thursday or Friday. Otherwise, UA would presumably continue its search with other candidates.
GOAZCATS.com and Jason Scheer will have more on this situation shortly.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Here is the link for all you non believers,
http://arizona.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=931011.
TIM FLOYD IS LIKELY THE NEXT HEAD COACH OF ARIZONA WILDCATS
Floyd was in the UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA CAMPUS EARLIER, EVERYTHING IS TRUE
IF YOU HAVE ACCESS TO GOAZCATS.COM, YOU CAN CONFIRM THE STORY, FLOYD WILL LIKELY BRING S. HILL BUT R. SIDNEY, NOEL JOHNOSN I DO NOT KNOW ABOUT BUT IS LIKEY THEY COULD COME. AND MOST LIKELY UA WILL GET A COMMIT VICTOR RUDD.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:38 PM
I copied this right off of goazcats.. It could be just an interview.. Hopefully this is not some way to get him a pay raise at SC and make us look like a fool..
I will say this USC does not lose anyone on their roster this year plus they add Sydney who is so good next year plus Hill.. Both have given verbals only..
I think Floyd can really recruit well and imagine what he would do at UA compared to SC… Capel would be good too..
Both of these coaches have Mickey D all americans for 09..
I’m just hoping Floyd would bring Sydney and Hill with him.. can you imagine if Bud and Hill stayed along with Wise? We would be stacked for next year..
Or if Capel brought his two studs with him.. both have only verbals in place…
Wishful thinking but I think we all owe ourselves some happy thoughts today fans..
April 1st, 2009 at 5:39 PM
if USC gets Dixon, i will lose my mind
April 1st, 2009 at 5:40 PM
IF USC GETS DIXON, BE HAPPY ASU WILL LOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSSSSSSSSSSSEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE HERB SENDEK TO PITT NO DOUBT ABOUT IT. SETH DAVIS SAID THAT IF DIXON LEAVES FOR ANY PROGRAM HERB SENDEK WILL BE AT PITT. NOT S. MILLER.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:41 PM
Looks like we have some goazcats.com contributors on here today, stop plugging your site, we don’t care. You are the same people that said Lon Kruger was getting the job. The free 7 day trial is even too much for the quality of your info.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:41 PM
USC absolutely gets Dixon!
That’s what competent AD’s do. You know…THEIR JOB! Yikes.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:43 PM
I think Sydney may go to UCLA since it came down to those two schools..
I tell you what this could be a blessing in disquise..
Floyd will bust his butt and get every once of energy out of his players.. He is a high energy guy who is full of passion and can R E C R U I T… Midwest who is already on the west coast and the guy would be thrilled to carry on Lute’s legacy..
Floyd won’t demand as much with the new facilities and he does not need a lear jet or Bentley to go see recruits..
April 1st, 2009 at 5:45 PM
Thank god im moving to seattle in 2 months… I will still have access to a credible team.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:46 PM
No way Dixon goes to SC and goes hair to hair with his best friend Ben..
No way fans! You are way off on that one..
I would bet the house on it..
April 1st, 2009 at 5:46 PM
awesome way to go Smiling Jimmy, if we can get Dixon let give USC Dixon a pac-10 friend.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:47 PM
Don’t listen to dcast. Keep those goazcats.com copy paste coming.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:49 PM
It’s not just goazcats.com that’s reporting it. KVOA is reporting on their website that Floyd is in town meeting with Livengood. I don’t trust fan sites, but it’s hard to believe a local network affiliate would report it if it isn’t true.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:51 PM
Tim Floyd: yuck.
Can’t we find some talent outside the PAC-10? WTF happened to Capel???
April 1st, 2009 at 5:52 PM
I don’t think Tim Floyd would be such a bad hire.
He can recruit.
He’s got a somewhat decent track record for winning.
He turned USC around (somewhat) from the Henry Bibby days.
He also has that NBA experience that recruits love.
I think he’d definitely have to up his game a little bit to be on par with what we were expecting. But I think he could do it.
UofA fans are definitely going to be disappointed with Livengood if he announces Tim Floyd as our next coach, and it will definitely not “win the press conference.” But I think, from a basketball perspective, Tim Floyd could work out really well.
Let’s also hope he’s able to snag a couple of his 2009 USC recruits as he makes his way to The Old Pueblo.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:53 PM
Floyd is basically a poor man’s Calipari, great recruits, shady middlemen, but with average results.
April 1st, 2009 at 5:56 PM
Floyd may not be the hot chick on T.V. but just may be the one to cook dinner for the next 15-20 yrs. He CAN recruit, and every time ‘ZONA faced u.s.c. they were ready to play, no doubt about the passion either. I agree with Paul, this maybe a blessing in disguise.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:02 PM
Javier,
As long as we’re talking Pac-10 coaches like Floyd, is Mike Montgomery completely out of the picture? I haven’t seen his name mentioned. He wouldn’t be the first coach to leave a place after only a year and Arizona is a definite upgrade from Cal. Just wondering…
April 1st, 2009 at 6:04 PM
Please hear me out. And let me preface this by saying I too am frustrated, and disappointed, with how this entire process has transpired. I graduated in 99 and was a sophomore when they won it all. I too have very high standards for UofA.
We are all being too hard on Tim Floyd and let me tell you why.
First of all he can recruit. All over the country. UofA will likely get Solomon Hill and would have a good chance with Sidney, and all of USC’s recruits. People don’t go to USC b/c of USC basketball, I would imagine it’s because of Floyd. He has midwest ties and has successfully recruited in the south. He has ties to LA now. And remember, his Iowa State teams were very good. He got them to the Elite 8 where they lost a tight game to eventual champ Michigan State. Iowa State hasn’t done anything since he left. Also bear in mind both Taj Gibson and Demar Derozan considered UofA but instead went to USC. Imagine if they were on the team this year…
Secondly, he had USC in the tourney for three straight years for the first time ever. USC is at best the fifth most popular sports team in town. UCLA basketball and USC football dwarfs them. So does the Lakers and Dodgers, and probably the Kings. And I have lived in LA for five years so I have some insight. Yet he gets guys to go there. Can you imagine if he was at a school like UofA, wich is the only game in town?
Third, he holds UofA in the highest regard. WHen he was hired at USC, he pissed off a lot of people out here by stating Arizona is the standard in the Pac 10. I believe he would love to coach UofA, and that is important, especially in light of everything.
Fourth, he has coached in the NBA. Yes, it was a disaster even by his own admission, but from what I read that carries a lot of credibility with recruits.
If you take a step back and think about it, it is actually a very good hire. If he can get Iowa State to the Elite 8, he can get UofA to the Final Four at least.
Think about it…Hill, Sidney, Wise, Victor Rudd, Horne, and Fogg. Can you say 26 yrs in a row?
Just think about it…
April 1st, 2009 at 6:04 PM
Stop rationalizing. After all of the potential names, and an entire half year to plan, a shady coach is the BEST he can do?
A coach who ADMITTED he sucked in the NBA?
Bottom line: Livengood blew it.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:05 PM
I am okay with it as long as he brings all of those recruits with him. Have any of them signed LOI’s?
I am just releived that the end is near and we can get to work.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:07 PM
A funny thing just happened on the CBS College Basketball site. I looked at it an hour ago and a link was there titled: Parrish: ‘Zona search targets Few . An hour later, I hit the refresh button and the link says: Parrish: ‘Zona search targets Floyd.
If it wasn’t so important to us, it would be funny.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:08 PM
And he coaches defense…
April 1st, 2009 at 6:09 PM
I’m not rationalizing; I think he is a good hire, I really do.
Would I prefer Pitino, Izzo, Cal etc? Of course. But given everything that has happened I can certainly more than live with Floyd
April 1st, 2009 at 6:09 PM
People don’t go to USC b/c of USC basketball, I would imagine it’s because of Floyd.
——————-
Well, I think the beautiful girls, the weather, the USC brand name, the beach and being in the country’s 2nd-largest media market probably don’t hurt recruiting either. I mean, I’ll give Floyd a chance but I’m still not happy.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:15 PM
You will all understand…..when I rip off my U of A t-shirt tomorrow, Hulk Hogan style, and have an Arizona State shirt on underneath. I will then hit Mike Candrea over the head with a steel chair.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:15 PM
” Sources told CBSSports.com that athletic director Jim Livengood opted to go this direction after being rebuffed to varying degrees by several coaches, among them Gonzaga’s Mark Few, new Kentucky coach John Calipari, Michigan State’s Tom Izzo, Tennessee’s Bruce Pearl, Pittsburgh’s Jamie Dixon and Louisville’s Rick Pitino.”
this article doesn’t mention livengood was also rejected by Bill Walton, Big Bird and The Shamwow guy… nice clue Jimmy.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:16 PM
Pete, those are points well taken. But tell me, why didn’t Derozan just go to UCLA then? Or Gibson?
Fellas, I do not want to argue with fellow Wildcats. I love UofA too, and I love the passion on the board. And I am frustrated too, believe me. I’m just stating my opinion. If it was Randy Bennett, or Theus, or Kruger, you would not see me on here defending the pick. I
April 1st, 2009 at 6:21 PM
As UA basketball submerges to the depths of OBSCURITY and IRRELEVANCE, what else is buzzing around the old pueblo?
Maybe I’ll catch a sidewinders game, OH…Wait.
Watch LiveBAD offer floyd 4 Million per season.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:22 PM
do you know where USC is? I mean, where it is physically located? It’s a pit, nowhere near the beaches. Had to go there a few times for some medical stuff, not a nice area.
But yeah, this definitely feels and smells like a “had to settle for our 5th choice” kind of hire.
Bummer.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:24 PM
Pistol-I agree. USC has a lot of advantages for a kid wanting a quality school and a fun time too.
Too bad that the UA got shut out in the quest for the best. But Floyd my surprise us and grow into the job. And he’s a big plus over perennial NCAA tournament flame out artist Few.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:24 PM
I’d rather have Pastner or Dunlap.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:26 PM
LivenBAD never wanted a top coach. He was looking for a bargain. He never contacted anyone making over 1 Mill. Hence Why Floyd is our man.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:26 PM
10 million dollar donation for tim floyd?!
I love this site but today has been ridiculous. I’m only believing and reading what Javier writes, luckily I can cut 3 hours of wasted time out of my day trying to follow this sinking ship.
I bid everyone adieu!
April 1st, 2009 at 6:28 PM
REPORT: ARIZONA TO NAME TIM FLOYD AS ARIZONA COACH ACCORDING TO ESPN NEWS TUNE IN TO SEE IT
April 1st, 2009 at 6:30 PM
BREAKING NEWS:
Livinstupid is interviewing Obama tomorrow!!! Oh no wait the NCAA will not allow telepromters in every corner for somebody else to send in the directions.
Oh wait the other problem is Hillary and Bin Laden wouldn’t accept lesser roles as assistans. Oh well!
April 1st, 2009 at 6:31 PM
pardon me while I vomit.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:33 PM
5 months and this is what Livengood comes up with?
Really?
April 1st, 2009 at 6:33 PM
Floyd. WTF? Watch USC will get a better coach like Dixon or Few.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:34 PM
I must say when I got a tip last night that Tim Floyd was in the mix, I found it hard to believe (that’s why I didn’t devote more space to it on the blog). But as I wrote in the blog, it’s a no-brainer for Floyd to coach at Arizona instead of USC. He can rule Tucson. He can never rule LA. Floyd is from the south and is very humble. The LA lifestyle is not his cup of tea. Tucson is more his pace. I am also certain that former UA assistant Phil Johnson, a lifelong Floyd aide like Rosborough was to Olson, is selling Floyd on the positives in coaching in Tucson. Love him or hate him, Floyd can coach and recruit. Has the UA recruited a player the likes of O.J. Mayo in the last decade? That’s all you have to ask.
Also, Floyd has a deep respect for Olson and there is a mutual respect, evidenced by Olson being able to hire his close friend in Johnson. If Floyd does come to Tucson — I find these reports of him and Livengood stepping off a private plane into an SUV like something out of Hollywood — chalk one up for the UA volleying back to USC after the Trojans stole Larry Smith almost 20 years ago.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:34 PM
Honestly, I would rather have had Dunlap than Floyd.
I’m not joking.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:35 PM
Okay so after a lengthy 5 month search for the coach of a perrenial powerhousee school this is the best JL can produce? i mean Floyd is not a bad 6th or 7th option but come on now. one thing that he brings to the table is his ability to recruit good players. but Come on man. this is how JL will be remembered by hiring a tier 3 coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:37 PM
Wikipedia already has this for Tim Floyd
Personal life
Born in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Floyd is a 1977 graduate of Louisiana Tech University. He earned a bachelor’s of science degree in health and physical education from Louisiana Tech. He originally was a walk-on player at The University of Southern Mississippi, but he transferred to Louisiana Tech and was a scholarship player there.
Floyd and wife Beverly have one daughter, Shannon. Floyd has now been hired as the head coach for the Arizona Wildcats and is expected to continue the U of A’s streak of 25 consecutive NCAA appearances.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:38 PM
Javier……you make some valid points and I liked Floyd when he was at New Orleans, thought he was an up and comer back then.
But make no mistake, he did NOT recruit OJ Mayo. Mayo recruited him. He just called up, dictated terms and how communication would go down, Mayo was in charge of that process from beginning to end. Floyd did nothing to get Mayo.
So, aside from Mayo, tell me about Floyd’s recruiting prowess? That’s not a smart-assed or rhetorical question, I’m serious. Has he recruited anyone of note besides Mayo? I hope so.
He just strikes me as a moderately above average coach who has the potential to be good and never great, your quintessential 20-10/3rd place in the Pac 10 and get to the tourney most years and occasionally get to a sweet 16 kind of guy.
We just hired the Dick Tomey of basketball coaches.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:39 PM
Floyd didn’t recruit Mayo. Remember that it was Mayo who cold-called Floyd and asked to be accepted.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:40 PM
As for Montgomery leaving Cal after one year to coach Arizona: He’s more classy than that. He most likely would love the opportunity to coach the UA but the timing isn’t right.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:41 PM
Javy, are you suggesting that we’re snagging Floyd from USC because of some vendetta over Larry Smith seems? If that is a reason, then Livengood is nuttier than we all here have speculated!
April 1st, 2009 at 6:41 PM
Good point boxner1, but Mayo called Floyd. That should say something about Floyd’s reputation with a high-profile recruit.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:42 PM
I will no longer support UofA if he is hired. Didnt go to school at Zona I am from Chicago been a fan since I was 12, I will just stick with my alma mater. When Floyds gone I will come back. Livengood should be fired on the spot…
April 1st, 2009 at 6:43 PM
I don’t see how this wins the presser….
Uk gets cal
We get Floyd. Yup. We win the presser allright.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:43 PM
Rick, have you heard of Demar Derozan? I think he was #2 in the class last year
April 1st, 2009 at 6:44 PM
This hire is a joke. I pray the media reports are wrong. If Floyd is really going to be our coach, then Livengood should be fired. This is a disaster.
Well, we had 22 great years from Lute, a couple where he was retired in place, then the embarrassment of the last 2 years, and now this.
It was fun while it lasted. I’ll still remember listening on the radio (no TV coverage) of Arizona beating Syracuse with Rony Seikaly back in ’87 (I think) at the Great Alaskan Shootout, the euphoria that we were competing on the national stage, playing with the big boys.
Was fun while it lasted.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:44 PM
I do remember Mayo wanting to go to LA for the big market exposure.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:47 PM
What Floyd has done at USC is built a solid, middle-of-the-PAC team with some serious, high profile recruits. I am not impressed by him, nor the type of players he has recruited. He has not done more with less, but, in my mind, less with more. If this guy had pulled off a couple Pac-10 chamionships (last month’s tournament win doesn’t count), then by all means sign me up. But COME ON, is this really the best we can do? Steal away another Pac-10 coach? Seriously? This is so stupid if its true. I can hear the ASU crowing already. Makes me sick.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:48 PM
Please say this is an elaborate April Fools Joke and Jamie Dixon will show up at the press conference tomorrow.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:48 PM
I hope I’m wrong, I hope Floyd is the right guy.
The positives are that he’s very unlikely to bolt for the NBA, he’s unlikely to bolt for another school. He’s the kind of guy you hire for the long haul, who I could see being happy to spend the next 20 years at AZ. By all accounts he’s a good, decent guy and a tireless worker.
But he’s always come off to me as the rumpled guy down the hall who never quite is prepared for the big meeting but you can’t bring yourself to give him an ass chewing, so you take the good with the bad but can never count on him to step up and hit one out of the park.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:49 PM
Report: Floyd to take Arizona job
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4035206
April 1st, 2009 at 6:49 PM
Ok Javier,
I am in the group that really wanted Cal, Izzo, Pitino or Dixon, but was realistic that they were likely untouchable. So where does this rank in your mind compared to the next level of coaches, Few, Miller, Capel?
April 1st, 2009 at 6:50 PM
That’s an excellent metaphor, Rick.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:51 PM
5 MONTH SEARCH AND WERE GETTING FLOYD? THIS HAS TO BE AN APRIL FOOLS JOKE. I THOUGHT WE WERE GOING TO GET SOMEBODY WHO HAD RECENT SUCCESS….THIS IS SUCH BULLSHIT
April 1st, 2009 at 6:51 PM
the report just went up on ESPN’s web page. Not definitive, they’re citing a local news source in Phoenix.
Sure sounds like it’s a done deal, though.
So much for “Izzo WILL be AZ’s next coach”.
Bet we don’t hear from that clown again.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:51 PM
Just wondering, is there ANYBODY out there who is satisfied with this hire?
April 1st, 2009 at 6:52 PM
It’s hard to justify Floyd if he could have gone after Capel. I’m assuming Dixon was contacted and said he wasn’t interested.
I think people would have an easier time accepting a coach who isn’t at the top of everyone’s list, such as Capel, if he were also seen as a young up-and-comer. Floyd isn’t that. He’s as good a coach as he ever will be. Perhaps Arizona will offer the magic fit and he’ll make us forget Olson. More likely, he’ll be a place holder for a few years, until Lavingood is gone — and then we’ll take another shot at getting a big name to take us back to elite status. If he can keep the Tourney streak going, I could deal. Not a horrendous choice — considering Lavingood was making the selection. But I’d much rather have Capel and would be surprised if he wasn’t interested.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:52 PM
Solomon Hill and Renardo Sidney (McDs all american) have only committed verbally. Both went to the same high school, and may be a package deal at this point. However, Sidney may be Brandon Jennings part duex, as his elligability is in question.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:53 PM
Ugh. Don’t ask me for any more money U of A. I feel nauseous.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:53 PM
have been meaning to say this, and it’s off topic, but Javier, it’s good to see you surface again. What are you doing in Vegas?
We moved from Tucson in ‘97, a few months after the championship run. I always enjoyed reading your stuff, sincerely. The paper was less for your leaving.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:54 PM
If sidney was going to be Ok at USC, then academically he’ll be just fine at UA.
I doubt they will come though.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:55 PM
I SHOULD HAVE CALLED THIS MONTHS AGO WHEN I SAW FLOYD OUTSIDE OF THE MCKALE TICKET OFFICE AFTER USC SHOOT AROUND GOING OUT TO LUNCH WITH A BUNCH OF T-LOCS….true story
April 1st, 2009 at 6:56 PM
Yes, Javier. I was in Tucson from 89-94 at the UA, and enjoyed reading your articles online after I left. Good to have you part of the mix, even if it is a sad state of affairs…
April 1st, 2009 at 6:57 PM
Jim Livingood’s office number is (520) 621-4622. Call him. This is a disgrace of a hire. He couldn’t sell Arizona Basketball and therefore, he shouldn’t be the Arizona AD.
April 1st, 2009 at 6:57 PM
Maybe Floyd can bring some recruits with him…maybe Sidney? and of course Solomon Hill would be a lock to be a Wildcat
BearDownZona
http://WWW.WILDCATSPORTSNEWS.COM
April 1st, 2009 at 6:57 PM
To heck with you Floyd bashers!
Don’t show up at the games.. You are not true Wildcats..
He was one of the only guys backing Lute when all the turmoil was going on..
What a bunch of babies some of you are..
FYI- Floyd would bring in more talent than pretty boy Few would anyday..
He won the conference tourney and gets 110% out of his teams..
Just because he does not wear a Armani suit and wants to own his own lear jet you are ready to throw him overboard. Face it fans we should feel lucky if we get Floyd at this point.. Get it thru your heads Dixon and Pitino and Izzo were never interested.. Maybe in 05 they would have been but not now..
Think of what Floyd has done right next to Ben at a non-hoops school..
He has two top 15 studs for next year one of which UCLA wanted in Sydney..
He knows the score and what as at stake. Mayo contacted him to begin with..
It will be interesting to see if he can bring Solomon Hill and Sydney with..
Seriously some of you really crack me up..
With plan A and B failing this would be a great hire..
April 1st, 2009 at 6:59 PM
The positives are that he’s very unlikely to bolt for the NBA, he’s unlikely to bolt for another school. He’s the kind of guy you hire for the long haul, who I could see being happy to spend the next 20 years at AZ.
——————————————–
Floyd is 55. I’m not sure we want him to still be coaching in 20 years regardless of well he does. Been there, done that.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:01 PM
I for one am not happy with this hire. I think Liven-Bad really botched this and I hope he gets boo’d off the stage tomorrow at the press conference. Looks like ASU and UCLA will be the perenial powerhouses of the Pac 10 and we will be a solid 3rd. I think Capel should have been our man and from what I have read they didnt even approach them. I hope we arent paying Floyd a bunch of money.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:04 PM
Floyd does not need a three piece suit or a Bentley and a lear jet to get the job done.. The guy is passionate and wants to win and demands it.
Really some of you need to get over the glory years.. Lute screwed up the last two years and most of these coaches see the train wreck and do not want the job.
Floyd thrives on this situation and would get us back on track in no time.
Workman like coach who recruits unlike Few..
He makes his teams play D which is what Ben and Herb do..
Blessing in disquise…
We will see what everyone is saying when he pulls S. Hill and Sydney here..
April 1st, 2009 at 7:08 PM
Paul…..hope you’re right. You make some good points.
But lose the “you’re not true Wildcats” schtick. That’s just stupid.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:09 PM
Right on Paul. Even if you don’t like the pick you should support Floyd. That doesn’t mean you can’t be pissed at JL.
You guys- wake up and be glad at least Floyd wanted the job.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:12 PM
seems kind of revisionist and petty to be dogging few at this stage of the game. ok, he passed on our job offer, get over it. he wasn’t my choice, but to trash him like this is lame…especially saying he’s a weak recruiter! let’s see, he’s built a perrenial tournament team in spokane F’ING washington! (no knock on spokane, BTW, i’ve been and like it, but it’s not exactly the easiest place to attract 18 yr. old hoops stars to) and you think he’s taken a WCC team to the NCAAs (and won a lot of tourney games) by being a crappy recruiter? i don’t buy it.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:13 PM
someone needs to punch livengood in the neck.
R.I.P Arizona Basketball. Sleep well old friend!
April 1st, 2009 at 7:14 PM
I think Floyd will do a decent job and hopefully will flourish even more at the UofA. USC was a joke until he built the program from nothing. Is he the sexiest choice, or even one worth 6 months of waiting for, hardly, but he’s our coach now. He has my support, but that doesn’t change that Livengood is a complete clown.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:21 PM
any truth to the rumor that ESPN hates UA?
i hadn’t thought it before this whole fiasco, but now even their coverage of the floyd reports is sad:
stu scott just gave it 10 seconds during halftime of the suns game and they showed the worst disheveled, cowlick-having, rumpled suit and crummy tie footage i’ve ever seen!
or maybe that was the best footage they could find of him!!!!
ugh.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:29 PM
This is bad the only guy we could get to interview and its Floyd this is a bad hire can we say cellar dwellers Zona will be the next Four season’s Oregon.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:31 PM
I just hope Pastner can replace Floyd in a few years…
April 1st, 2009 at 7:31 PM
Fire Floyd and Livingood is the new slogan at Arizona
April 1st, 2009 at 7:31 PM
Not a terrible hire, could have been worse obviously but also could have been much better. Put another way, I don’t expect USC fans are going to be thanking us or anything. I think JL can claim Floyd meets the criteria he laid out and probably he technically does. I feel more confident with Floyd’s recruiting ability than say, Few.
Also just to respond to the comments that he’s the type who would stay for 15-20 years, I doubt it. Floyd is 55 so I doubt he will coaching here into his mid 70s.
Perhaps a good scenario is Floyd can keep things decent for some years, giving Pastner time to become the next big thing and take over for a while.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:34 PM
Arizona is no longer a Powerhouse Basketball program its not even mediocre. This SUCKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 7:35 PM
Can’t wait to win the press conference tomorrow. I’m psyched!
April 1st, 2009 at 7:37 PM
Zonacat_vols, do you know what you are talking about? Next season’s Oregon? I bet Wise stays and they get Victor Rudd and Solomon Hill. They might get Sidney too. THey could makie the dance next year.
Let’s see what happens before you say it’s a mediocre program.
By the way, are you a Wildcat or Tennessee fan? I’m confused
April 1st, 2009 at 7:39 PM
Check out the top 150 high school players in rivals. Tim Floyd can recruit. If he can bring some of these players with him, next year will look pretty good.
http://basketballrecruiting.rivals.com/viewrank.asp?ra_key=1642
April 1st, 2009 at 7:40 PM
So what has Livinstupid been doing for the past 18 months knowing Olson was at an end? Why wasn’t he rallying the boosters and rounding up money to solidify a package that would bring a top notch coach here.
I’m willing to give Floyd a chance I think he is hungry and he can recruit. Take a look a the big man Renardo Sidney he signed, this guy is a monster and would be huge addition to this program if he decides to follow.
He was overshadowed by football and UCLA, I would have preferred somebody else but I thnk he will bring many victories here in the long run.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:44 PM
I will say this Soloman HIl who originally commited to UA will follow FLoyd To Arizona, Now SIdney (5 star MIicky D’s All-American) will most likey follow Floyd too. He may want to stay in LA but UCLA does not have more scolarships to offer, he would have to walk on at UCLA, which aint gonna happen. Noel Johnson (4star) will also follow Floyd, if USC allows him to get out of his LOI. Soloman Hill and Renardo Sidney have not signed they’re LOI’s so they will most likey follow Floyd. And look like ARizona will get a commit from VIctor RUDD (3star) he has not commited but he has Arizona as High Intrest according to SCouts.com, and has a scholarship offer from UA.
SO with that recruiting class Floyd would be bringing with him, along with A Jacobson, WIse, Horne, Johnson, FOgg and others. ARIZONA looks like its streak of 25 would most likey extend to 26.
Will Floyd win at UA, I dont know if he gets talent he will. Like Calipari he isnt a great coach x’s and o’s coach, but he can recruit. A coaching recruiter will win more than a pure coach. I can give an example, USC pete carroll with games decided by 5 points or less he is 3-9 and that proves he isnt the best coach, but why does he win he gets talent. Now i’ll give you an example of a pure coach, BOise Stated C Peterson, he is a pure coach, when games are decided by 5 pts or less he has like .800 win%%, but why did his team get blown out by TCU this bowl game, TCU had wayyyyy better talent, just proves that talent beats coaching anyday, players determine the outcome not coaches.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:46 PM
paul z I completely agree with you. People that say they will no longer support the U of A because of a Tim Floyd hire are shallow half-assed fans who shouldn’t let the door hit them on the way out. We don’t need people like that.
The Arizona basketball program has been a wonderful uplifting thing for the people of this community. Lute gave us something to hold our heads up about, something to really care about. Although the U of A program has been very high in stature over the past 20 plus years, the past couple of years, with the loss of at least two classes of highly regarded recruits had to make the job a tougher sell.
The fact that we are not getting our first, second or third pick does not mean that the man is a lousy coach with no credentials. Floyd has a lot going for him, not the least of which is the fact that he is very familiar with west coast recruiting circles and can hit the ground running. Many of the coaches from other parts of the country would have had to spend a lot of time familiarizing himself with the people and players here.
I say that we need to get behind whoever the coach is and stop whining like a bunch of very spoiled babies. If you can’t do this, you are not worthy of calling yourself an Arizona fan.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:47 PM
If Wise stays along with Fogg and Horne, that is three solid starters.
Add Sidney and SolomonHill and that is a top 5 Pac-10 squad easy. Just need to add a couple more unsigned recruits in the next couple months and we could actually field a more than decent team next year. It all depends on Wise and Sidney of course, as i believe Solomon is near 100% lock to come to UA now. he said from the start he would consider Arizona after they hired their next coach, let alone it be Floyd who he committed to already.
All in all, a decent hire. look at the glass half full, because if you look at it half empty youll drive your self nuts!
BearDownZona
April 1st, 2009 at 7:47 PM
Michael Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 7:37 pm
…THey could makie the dance next year…
———————————————————————————————-
i was counting on a hire that would give us a little more prospect than “could”.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:49 PM
Well I’m starting to buy into this crap now.
Hey, nothing wrong with buying recruits right? Look at UK.
Kinda of nice to land those 3 Top 100 Recruits He’s got. Sidney, Solomon Hill, Noel Johnson add Victor Rudd you got yourself a team.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:55 PM
Look…I am disappointed but only because of all the rumors. I got my hopes elevated. I enjoy Floyd’s style of basketball. It is very entertaining. At the end of the season, once they were healthy, they were a top 15 club. They nearly knocked off Izzo and his squad. One think we should all be praying for know is that Dixon STAYS PUT. If he jumps at the opportunity to move back to LA UA, and all the other teams in the PAC, will be looking up for a long time. Howland and Dixon would have a lock on nearlly all Elite level talent in SC. The one question mark with Floyd is whether or not he will be able to recruit at the same level when he leaves LA’s hotbed.
At worst Floyd can plug the holes (recruiting wise) of a sinking ship.
April 1st, 2009 at 7:58 PM
I am literally sick to my stomach.
If this is all we can get then we are all delusional…
Livengood needs to go…
The least we could do is wait out this weekend and talk to Wright to see if he is interested…we have nothing to lose now…
Floyd, to me, is not impressive. His Iowa State years were plentiful because of one player, whose name I can’t even remember (big power forward player of the year candidate) and even then they blew it in the tourney the year after the elite eight, when they were supposed to be good…they year they got to the elite eight they were under the radar and when everybody was looking for them, look what happened.
Floyd squeeks in with Mayo last year on a controversial call at the end of the Pac 10 tourney opening round game vs ASU…
We are in some serious trouble… DeRozian did not start playing until the last two weeks of the season, he was a bust until then…
Please wait one more week and go for Wright…I can’t take this anymore…
I grew up in AZ and remember the days when Lute brought his teams around for scrimmages in the rural areas…ever since then I have been hooked…but I am faltering now…we are slipping back in to mediocrity at best…
we are in trouble!
April 1st, 2009 at 7:58 PM
Soloman Hill who originally commited to UA will follow FLoyd To Arizona, Now SIdney (5 star MIicky D’s All-American) will most likey follow Floyd too. He may want to stay in LA but UCLA does not have more scolarships to offer, he would have to walk on at UCLA, which aint gonna happen. Noel Johnson (4star) will also follow Floyd, if USC allows him to get out of his LOI. Soloman Hill and Renardo Sidney have not signed they’re LOI’s so they will most likey follow Floyd. And look like ARizona will get a commit from VIctor RUDD (3star) he has not commited but he has Arizona as High Intrest according to SCouts.com, and has a scholarship offer from UA.
SO with that recruiting class Floyd would be bringing with him, along with A Jacobson, WIse, Horne, Johnson, FOgg and others. ARIZONA looks like its streak of 25 would most likey extend to 26.
Will Floyd win at UA, I dont know if he gets talent he will. Like Calipari he isnt a great coach x’s and o’s coach, but he can recruit. A coaching recruiter will win more than a pure coach. I can give an example, USC pete carroll with games decided by 5 points or less he is 3-9 and that proves he isnt the best coach, but why does he win he gets talent. Now i’ll give you an example of a pure coach, BOise Stated C Peterson, he is a pure coach, when games are decided by 5 pts or less he has like .800 win%%, but why did his team get blown out by TCU this bowl game, TCU had wayyyyy better talent, just proves that talent beats coaching anyday, players determine the outcome not coaches.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:01 PM
from an SC fan:
check what this usc fan was saying. I hope he is right
Floyd has basically killed SC and brought UofA back from the dead in one move.
How did he kill SC? SC will likely now lose Taj and Demar AND HACKETT (doubt the new coach keeps his dad) and not get MoMo Jones. Whereas before USC was going to replace Taj and Demar with Sidney and Hill/Johnson and MoMo Jones, USC will likely now lose Sidney, Hill and Johnson. Hill always wanted to go to Zona, so it is basically a done deal that he is gone and Johnson was coming to USC for Floyd, as was MoMo Jones. USC can also say goodbye to Franklin who was a Zona lean before Lute retired, Polee because his dad won’t be a school employee and Boatwright.
If all of this happens next years team will be one of the worst in the Pac10.
As for Zona,
They might be losing Chase and Hill, but I now expect Wise to stay. Him and Kyle Fogg make an excellent backcourt. Horne is also a solid player. As I said before, I expect Hill to follow Floyd and would not be shocked to see MoMo Jones and Sidney follow him too. They will also sign Victor Rudd. In one day, Floyd will have brought a significant influx of talent to UofA and yes it is easier to recruit to Zona than to USC. Players grew up idolizing many of Zona’s current NBA players.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:01 PM
It’s already up on wikipedia
Tim Floyd (born February 25, 1954) is the current head coach of the University of Arizona men’s college basketball team.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Floyd
April 1st, 2009 at 8:03 PM
LA TImes and (LA) Daily News have said that the recruits will most likey follow follow Floyd to Arizona (the ones who havent signt LOI’s.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:05 PM
Anyone can put anything on wikipedia, but this is sounding more and more real.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:06 PM
I am not saying I will not support the Cats, but I can’t believe that there are people out there saying that we could be a top 5 Pac 10 School and might make the tournament,,,have our expectations already been lowered?
We were the dominant team in the West and top five in the country for years…why are we satisfied with anything less, even if JL is?
April 1st, 2009 at 8:11 PM
Well, if this all this about Floyd is true, then JL has screwed the pooch.
This hiring action WILL NOT WIN THE PRESS CONFERENCE!!!! And that was the foundation of JL’s search criteria.
If it’s true then he blew it and right after the non-winning news conference he should offer Dr. Shelton his heart felt apology and letter of resignation effective immediately!!!
This will be a repeat of the mackovic disaster with a soon to be half empty McKale Center (and I’m a season ticket holder and contributor to the program).
I made it through the mackovic fiasco, but don’t think I can survive a basketball equivalent because there isn’t the allure of tailgating!!!!
A personal note for JL — RESIGN BEFORE YOU’RE BURNED AT THE STAKE!!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 8:11 PM
Floyd promised JL that he’d bring Sidney and Hill with him. Guaranteed that’s how it went down
I’m not wild about Floyd and was hoping it was Capel but I think it will be a good solution until Pastner comes back in 5-7 years from learning under Cal at UK
April 1st, 2009 at 8:13 PM
It was inevitable that the program would drop after Lute left. I can understand not being able to land Cal, Izzo, Pitino, Dixon. Sure hope Livingood at least contacted them all. It’s a shame that one can’t just trust that he did.
Still think Capel would have been a better pick, and I’m pretty sure he would have been interested. I don’t understand why we didn’t go in that direction. Way more upside potential. But, yes, Floyd can recruit. Not a horrible result. The fact that we expect so much more really just speaks to how spoiled we are. We’re used to the best. The best floor coaching. Getting great recruits. Being a top notch program.
Any coach would have to think long and hard about that before taking on an assignment like this — particularly with the cupboard so bare. Floyd potentially brings a lot of recruits with him. Let’s just hope he can coach them. Perhaps with a few experienced assistants to help out.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:15 PM
Floyd will be a great pick.
You guys are dreaming if this wouldn’t be a top level hire.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:20 PM
The LA Times is confirming the story and says Arizona asked permission from USC to talk to him yesterday.
http://www.latimes.com/sports/college/basketball/la-sp-tim-floyd-arizona2-2009apr02,0,1909829.story
April 1st, 2009 at 8:24 PM
I like the hire. Hopefully Rudd and Hill are in the bag. If we can get Sydney and another 4 star we might even contend for the tournament next year. If USC hires Sendek and Theus goes to ASU this could end up being awesome.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:25 PM
I was disappointed with the choice at first, but as I reflected on it, I’m liking it more and more. Floyd can coach, he works his ass off and he’s an A level recruiter. Floyd was getting top flight talent to attend a football school. Imagine what he can do with a real basketball school. I’m behind him 100% and I can’t wait until we meet up with those coaches who turned us down, so we can put the hammer to them.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:25 PM
If Floyd can bring some of those recruits with him next season – I think all those “haters” will turn to “likers” pretty quick and the chance of making it 26 in a row will be a reality. Some of them were looking at UA before Lute retired, so this gives them reason to come to Tucson now.
I don’t think Floyd is the best hire by any stretch of the imagination given how long we have been looking – and if this is the best we can do after a 6 month search – WOW..
Lets look at the positives though:
*The guy can flat-out recruit. If he can keep the recruiting train running through Tucson, he’ll be successful here based on pure talent. (I mean, look at the recruits he got to go to USC???) His problem is he didn’t have the role players surrounding them – which I think he can get at Arizona..
* He turned USC around. They actually played MSU very tough in the tourney if you watched that game with young players on the floor – if you remember it was 71-69 when Hackett dropped the ball on a break-away layup which could have tied it at 71. (Instead MSU won 74-69 as USC was forced to foul) The problem he has had is most of his players come for 1-2 years and then jump to the NBA.
* His teams do play some semblance of defense which is more than we can say for any UA team in recent memory…
* He has been successful every place he has been. (Except maybe the Bulls, but he took over right after Jordan left and management gutted the team – but even with New Orleans they were a .500 club and went to the playoffs in his only season with them.)
Not the greatest hire, but also not the worst. Could be a great hire if he gets some of those prized recruits to come with him next year and somehow convince Wise and 1 of the other 2 to hang around.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:25 PM
Does anyone think it odd that Floyd flew back to Cali (rivals)? Or is that normal and he’ll be back for the presser tomorrow? Good news is I think he’ll keep Geary on the staff. I love that guy and it’s a little continuity for the players. It’ll be fun to watch the recruiting headlines over the next few weeks. At least the players will know who their coach is. AGAIN…I LIKE FLOYD!!! No he wasn’t myu first choice but he is definately someone I can get excited about.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:30 PM
Never trust a man with two first names.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:31 PM
AZ Cats, I hear you on the expectations re: tournament, 5th place team. But bear in mind before today people were saying 8 wins, or an Indiana type season. Making the tourney is a short term expectation; I expect more in two or three years.
If Floyd can get Iowa State to the Elite 8, wll..
April 1st, 2009 at 8:33 PM
I like the hire…
Floyd can recruit, wants to be here, has had success at the college level, and knows what it takes to get to the NBA.
I was also thinking, though Floyd is considered “old at 55, who Lute recruited at and after that “old age.
Players such as Bibby, Miles, Terry, Jefferson, Wright, Arenas, Bayless, Budinger, Hill, Walton, Gardner, Woods, Dickerson, etc..surely none of these guys wanted to play for an old ball coach.
Plus,at 55, Lute took Arizona to one Final Four (1988).
Let’s give the guy a chance..
Ohh, get me Sol Hill, Sydney, Noel Johnson, Dwayne Polee, and Gary Franklin….
April 1st, 2009 at 8:36 PM
Livengood(Mackovic+Floyd)=WATF
Liven good need to go, NOW
April 1st, 2009 at 8:37 PM
Some of you need to seriously look at the ramifications of taking a middle of the pack, PAC-10 Coach. Is Tim Floyd a good coach? Yes, nobody’s denying that. But USC is a school that will get someone better than Floyd. Wait and watch – I wouldn’t be surprised if Jamie Dixon is calling USC right now. He has no problem being under another team’s shadow – He’s in Pittsburgh, where football is king. He could go to LA, have his father at every game and develop a nice rivalry with his former boss, Ben Howland. Honestly, I think USC is the ONLY job in the country he would leave Pitt for (especially if he denied ‘Zona). So now, this really is the worst case scenario. Not only is Arizona not a great team nationally, but we just brought Dixon into the mix. This scenario would mean, of course, that out of the 10 teams in the PAC-10, Arizona (who had the #1 coach in the entire league) now employs the 5th best coach, behind Ben Howland, Lorenzo Romar, Mike Montgomery and Jamie Dixon.
This is nothing personal about Tim Floyd – I’m sure he’s a lovely guy, but this decision will be looked upon as the decision which dropped Arizona from the national conscientiousness, and into obscurity.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:38 PM
I’m with Parallax, I get that Pitino, Izzo ect. were unrealistic, but I would have been more excited for a Jeff Capel. However, I can be–and have been–talked into liking Floyd. He brings a lot to the table, as some posters on this site have pointed out, and he might end up being the right guy for the job.
Javier, thanks again for this awesome site. I’ve wasted countless hours on here and really think we have a smarter more thoughtful fan on here than on any of the pay sites. I hope that just because this process is coming to end, that this won’t be the last we here from you, Javy.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:39 PM
Oh, and my neighbor who graduated from ASU just came over to gloat. He brought champagne.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:42 PM
Drink all of his champagne and then send him home
April 1st, 2009 at 8:43 PM
Hey bay cat, didn’t floyds team beat asu for the pac 10 championship?
April 1st, 2009 at 8:46 PM
Bay Cat – tell him to enjoy Pennell once Herb Sendek takes the Pitt job after Dixon fills the USC position.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:46 PM
Since when do we care the Scum Devils fans think of UofA? Seriously.
And aren’t these the same fans that think they have a better program because of the past two years? C’mon guys.
Hopefully we will all agree on this some day. Until then, I will agree to disagree with all you Cat fans. We all want the same thing afterall
April 1st, 2009 at 8:53 PM
Hi all
Nate’s neighbor Nick here. Ill put it in this way, what if you were told that Herb Sendek was leaving ASU and that we (ASU) got Tim Floyd, how would you feel? Happy, right? thats all im sayin.
April 1st, 2009 at 8:57 PM
I wouldn’t be happy if Floyd was at USC. Floyd > Recruiter than sendek. I would be happy if you get Bill Frieder.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:01 PM
Are we REALLY supposed to believe “friends” with champagne?
Come on, even USC drew more fans than ASU.
8,000? for a “top” program?
This is as believable as those nuts who said Pitino purchased a home in Tucson.
As Harden played his way OUT of lottery status – what will happen to Sparky next year?
Stop making stuff up – you are beginning to sound like Andy Katz.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:02 PM
no i would say wow asu might actually be able to reach the sweete sixteen more than once every 40 years
April 1st, 2009 at 9:02 PM
I’d be happy if ASU got that assistant coach they had a few years ago who wore glasses with jewels on them – remember that “guy?”
April 1st, 2009 at 9:02 PM
Bay Cat..
Floyd was/is already being mentioned as a strong candidate to replace Calipari at Memphis and in fact had contact with Memphis on Weds according to Memphis sources. So, whether UA hires Floyd or not, he might go somewhere which means Dixon would still come to USC if that is his “prized” opening.
Not saying that is or is not a reason for UA to grab Floyd, just saying that the whole Dixon scenario is going to play out regardless of who UA hires more than likely. Which would then probably put Sean Miller at Pitt, etc. etc.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:05 PM
ASU with Fat Lever? ranked 3rd at one point…….crowd average? 7,000
ASU with Harden? Ranked highly at one point…..crowd average? 8,000
35 years more and they will average 9,000
at this rate they will catch us in 180 years.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:06 PM
tim floyd is a much better recruiter than dixon and few.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:09 PM
Even IF you think Floyd would be a terrible hire (which is not the case) how is it a good idea to make this program look even worse by being completely hostile to him and producing a half-filled McKale?
You want Arizona to be in that national powerhouse category? I think a potential angst-ridden, crybaby response to our next coach could be the biggest obstacle to that.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:10 PM
sorry nieghbor but sendek does not impress me
April 1st, 2009 at 9:11 PM
cant wait to send the kids to tim floyd basketball camp
April 1st, 2009 at 9:12 PM
The only good thing about Floyd would be the potential to bring a few recruits and just barely make the tourney the next year or two and keep the streak alive. I don’t think he will get us back to the final 4 or beyond. We will still be a better than average Pac-10 team though.
Everyone keeps blaming Livengood, but how do we know who he went after and how much was offered? Isn’t it possible that nobody else (at least nobody better than Floyd) wanted to pick up the mess at Arizona next year? Maybe if we had anything going for us next year, we may have been able to been a little bit pickier, but I’m not so sure that Livengood takes the blame on this one.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:13 PM
I dont hate this hire but livengood has got to be fired for this fiasco
April 1st, 2009 at 9:13 PM
Dixon is a way better coach than Floyd, as is Few. Few might not be the right guy for Tucson. Hard to know if he could recruit at this level. He tends to get the most from his limited pool of talent. Dixon may be a flat-out great coach; time will tell. There was no drop off at Pitt after Howland left.
The trouble with top recruits, as someone said above, is they tend to leave quickly. We’ve seen that here at Arizona. Heck, we’ve even seen them leave before they’ve arrived.
In terms of preserving the streak of Tourney appearances, Floyd may have the best shot. If can bring some of his monsters with him. I don’t think anyone else can bring in as much talent as quickly. Not Capel, though he could bring a lot. Not Dixon. Maybe Pitino but he’s obviously not leaving Louisville.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:13 PM
Although I am not the biggest fan of this hire (I thought 5 months might have produced something better), I will continue to support my Wildcats and hope Floyd proves me wrong…..and I really hope he brings all of his recruits with him, that will help ease the sting.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:16 PM
I doubt he’ll bring them all. But even one or two could go a long way. Plus he can bring in a few others. Role players. We need them too. This year we had no bench. Perhaps a JC transfer or two who could be productive on day one.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:25 PM
I think considering what was reading on Fox Sports “Goodman’s” article I was ready to jump off Sabino Canyon last night although I live in Phx. I went to the UA and parents are alumns too and figured that was the end of UA hoops as i knew it..
The thought of Fox or Kruger let alone “Theolonious Theus” I thought it was over so I would make my way up to the old Pueb and just “cash in”..
I did not mean in my earlier article that you guys were not true fans, so my apologies..
I just want everyone to get a good nights sleep and think on the “possible” hire here and what he will bring to a program that is rich in both Pac 10 tradition and NCAA tourney tradition.. I know we all wanted the “big 4″ including myself for months but considering what has happened I feel fortunate Floyd “saw the Light” and gave it a thought..
I do think he will bring a couple if not a few nice recruits with him.. The big thing with Floyd unlike Few is he can really recruit..
What did JL want from the get go? A guy who could recruit well and go against big ben..
Lets be truthful with our Wildcat selves.. Who for the past 20 + years has been our rival in the Pac 10 — U C L A.. What better coach to have to go against the hated Bruins…
I bid everyone a pleasant evening…
Bear Down!!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 9:34 PM
We have to realize that UA was in a mess (has been for the last 3 years) and I think Livengoods Intentions to get a big Time coach were sincere but the only Brave one to take on the mess here was Tim Floyd. Think about, Dixon would’ve had a losing season next year and maybe deal with the lack of scholarships if UA gets penalized by the NCAA. That could’ve been what happened. That could be the reason why nothing has been announced because others that were offered the job contemplated taking on the “mess” here at UA such as Few, Dixon, Capel, etc…
I think Floyd can do better here than at USC. If it is Floyd we have to support him. I’m sure Livengood did his best.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:34 PM
It’s just going to suck comparing the presser with Calipari and Floyd. Cal really, REALLY won that press conference.
Floyd can’t nor will he do the same.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:38 PM
Fans one more thing to mention, lovin all these later posts, some great points…
Think about it.. Floyds prized recruits committed to the current SC program with the current roster which really has no seniors (pre season for next year had SC #6)..
These unsigned recruits will be even more enticed to come to UA with Floyd now that Bud and Hill are most likely gone.. why? MORE PLAYING TIME!!
Maybe this works out much better than we would have thought..
April 1st, 2009 at 9:38 PM
Floyd has nothing to lose- The others did.
Hes Is The BRAVE ONE if he is truly the one.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:40 PM
How many games have been won at a press conference?
April 1st, 2009 at 9:41 PM
Ther will be alot of angry Wildcats- But I agree with Paul- we may have the best guy for the job.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:41 PM
Floyd is a regular guy -
he doesn’t wear cufflinks or suits with broad stripes on them or grease in his hair.
If you call that winning a press conference then maybe you we should hire the “Sham Wow” guy.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:43 PM
Would not be surprised if it is announced tomorrow that Capel or Few took the job.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:44 PM
“If there’s a perception there that the coach that’s selected, if that person is perceived not to be the first choice, that’s a major issue,”
Jim Livengood 11/23/2008
Guess what has happened Mr Jim. I will find you on campus tomorrow and kick you in the junk!
April 1st, 2009 at 9:44 PM
All I can Say- what hell of a APRIL FOOLS day we had.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:45 PM
Wildcats angry?
I don’t think so.
maybe the Sunangels will look at their coach who runs an offense at 10 mph and then look at UA with a high profile name and start their search for a replacement.
What did Van Pely at ESPN say about Harden after he stank up the NCAAs?
Something like, “He plays like a cagey old guy…unfortunately the NBA is played by young guys.”
April 1st, 2009 at 9:45 PM
You guys don’t get it do you?
Winning the press conference means players will start to take notice. How many days was Cal’s face and UK logos plastered all over ESPN? We’ll be lucky if we get a side story, that’s all I mean by that.
But i agree, maybe Floyd won’t be that bad, who knows. Sure feel alot better if he brings those recruits along.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:46 PM
Can someone tell me how in the hell Floyd racing the sidelines with his shirt unbuttoned, tie undone, nervous and frazzled is going to keep THE U b-ball program packing them in and the Athletic Dept in the black?
Capel at least would’ve brought intrigue, excitement, pizazz – and much needed toughness, speed and know-how!
After all, this young up and comer just took his young team of Sooners from Norman – Norman…we’re talkin’ Norman, man!…Norman!! – to the Elite 8!
So this is the best Livengoosd and those “boosters” of ours could do after 6 months and 7 days?!
Shelton should be ashamed of himself, his AD and those “friends” of ours who didn’t have the guts, the starch, the stamina needed to play this game with the big boys.
And where in the hell was the Tucson media – getting scooped by a Phoenix radio station when all that we ever heard was nothing for days, except that this thing was air-tight?
Right.
What a national disgrace.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:48 PM
First of all, we were a hair away from having Kevin O’neill as Arizona’s head coach. Let’s not forget that if Lute hadn’t tried to come back, we would be in year 2 of the Kevin O’neill circus.
I was shocked to hear Floyd mentioned as well. The first thing I thought of was when he was hired at USC, he referred to Arizona as the standard of the Pac-10 and the model he was going to use. Coaches going to another Pac-10 school is rare. Montgomery went to Cal, only after trying the NBA. I believe Raveling left Wazzu to take on USC. I have to remind myself that when USC hired Floyd, I thought, great, that makes the Pac-10 season even tougher. He was a good coach and I thought it was a good hire.
Is Mark Few or Jamie Dixon that much better? Or Jeff Capel? Floyd won at Iowa State. He even won in the NBA. He has won at USC, despite the handicap of being second fiddle at his own school to football, and being second fiddle in Los Angeles to UCLA. I think Floyd will be able to recruit top-notch talent to Arizon immediately. We might even get Renaldo Sydney, which would make his hire worth it right away.
I think if we take a step back and analyze what Tim Floyd can bring to Arizona, it’s a good hire. I would honestly rather have Floyd than some young, quick climbing coach, unproven at a big-conference . Floyd is 55 and will be at Arizona as long as he is successful. He has shown an ability to get top-flight talent.
Oh, and one more thing Floyd can bring to Arizona, besides credibility, recruiting, and stability (as in not looking for a better job), is defense. Floyd is an old-school, Eddie Sutton-Don-Haskins-Hank Iba disciple who believes that defense will win more games. Has anyone seen a UA team play defense lately?
April 1st, 2009 at 9:49 PM
When I see Calipari and even Pitino with their $5,000 suits, cufflinks and greased back hair I think of the photos Tony Mason landing at the Tucson airport after he was hired to replace Young as football coach (you young guys won’t remember that). THAT did not work out.
Floyd?
I think of the parents who will see a real guy.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:54 PM
Yes Capel would have been good also.
Imagine, first an ASU guy and then a Duke guy coaching Arizona.
I was hoping to go the rest of my life not hearing about George “over rated” Raveling’s name again.
He NEVER won anything, he (along with John THompson destroyd team USA in the Olympics so we had to put NBA stars in there, and he tried to change Sean Elliott’s shot at the Olympic trials (after Elliott DESTROYED USC and WSU in his career vs Raveling).
He was NOT a good coach.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:57 PM
hey quick question. does anyone know why Timmy went home tonight and didnt stay in tucson? why does this make me nervous?
April 1st, 2009 at 9:58 PM
So Andy Katz is now saying that Dixon (mind you, the man who would NEVER leave Pitt) might bolt for USC.
That upsets me a bit. Dixon would have been my choice. Dixon never declined, sounds like JL never even offered.
April 1st, 2009 at 9:59 PM
Floyd isn’t in Tucson????
Boy this could get uglier, we should count are blessing with Floyd then.
Who do we want?
Randy Bennett, Scott Drew or Floyd?
April 1st, 2009 at 10:01 PM
Besides, Pitino admitted today that he didn’t go to UNLV because they dropped his wife off at the curb at the Las Vegas airport!!!!
Oh the humanity!!!!!!!
Combine that with the arrogant players he displayed on national TV and be glad we might get a real guy.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:04 PM
honestly the sound of floyd is growing on me. the man has showed he can recruit. in only his second year at SC after turning their program around he landed OJ mayo. and if he can bring in renardo sidney i like arizonas chances next year to contend for the pac 10. but like i said on GOAZCATS.com it said he left for california so it makes me nervous.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:05 PM
I recall how Mac would walk the sidelines in a fancy suit. Big deal; the team blew. Guy couldn’t coach a lick.
Personally, I don’t care how a guy dresses. The issue is whether he can get the job done. As for Floyd, we’ll see. I’m not a big fan of this hire, but it could certainly be worse.
Will be interesting to see how much of the recruiting came as a result of being in L.A. Can he bring the studs to Tucson? Lute could (after many years of doing more with less) — because he was Lute; because he could develop talent; because the NBA brass trusted that Arizona kids were well coached. Floyd won’t have that and he won’t have L.A. Floyd isn’t remotely in the same league as a coach with Olson in his prime, but then who is? Even Pitino can’t hold a candle to Lute.
Like everyone else, I’ll root for the Cats and hope for the best. Not the big press conference win we had all hoped for but, heck, it’s always a craps shoot.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:07 PM
For all we know, he flew home to get his favorite suit…..
I was not comparing Raveling to anyone resembling a good coach, just saying that Floyd’s name kind of took me by surprise because coaches leaving for conference competitors is rare.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:08 PM
What wold Floyd’s favorite suit look like? I shudder at the very thought.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:18 PM
I would rather win 14 Pac-10 games than one press conference. If Floyd’s name had been mentioned from the beginning, or at least a couple of days ago, I would be curious to see everyone’s reaction. Maybe I will feel different after sleeping on it, but I think I am ok with it. I had a list of about 5 names that I would have been happy with: Calipari, Few, Dixon, Pitino, Smith.Due to circumstances, none of them wanted tocome here. Calipari took a 200% percent pay raise. No fault there. Few might just want to stay in the Pacific Northwest. There is no proof that Few would be a success in the Pac-10. The WCC is way below the Pac-10. Dixon might be holding out for an LA job. Or he might be really happy in the Big East. Tubby was grateful to get another job after Kentucky did him wrong and feels that he owes Minnesota for giving him a shot. Jeff Capel recruited one player, Blake Griffin, only after his brother Taylor was already on the team. I would rather have Floyd than someone who has won 5 MEAC, CAA, ABCD, EFGH conference titles.
Floyd is 55 and is ballsy enough to take on the challenge here at Arizona. I believe he will embrace Lute and what has been built and will work hard to restore and develop our program.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:22 PM
One more thing,
If Arizona paid millions of dollars for a BIG TIME name, JL would be villified for spending money in a bad economy, when tuition is going up and jobs are being cut. He is really in a no-win situation.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:25 PM
Hope you are right, Barry. I think the biggest obstacle to getting a coach who would have wowed at the press conference was the shadow of Lute. Any stumble — such as a failure to extend the streak — will be greeted with hostility and comparisons to Saint Lute.
Many don’t think of Olson as a saint now, but just imagine what would happen if we went through a few down years. Particularly with six scholarships, Hill and Bud leaving, and so little talent left on the board, who could blame a Dixon or even a Pitino for not wanting to risk coming into this program and blowing his reputation.
Think of all the coaches who are hot one year and then lose their luster after taking on a new challenge. Pearl, for instance. Who would have be happy if he showed up at the press conference tomorrow?
Whatever else one might say of Floyd, the guy has guts to take on this program at this point in time.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:25 PM
http://www.azstarnet.com/sports/287092
Hansen’s take: funny, curious, and suprisingly, correct
April 1st, 2009 at 10:32 PM
will this search ever come to an end? i just read on SI that although Floyd did come and talk about the vacancy he was never offered the job and simply drove off to the airport and returned to California. like someone said maybe he is getting his best suit. but for some reason i think something is fishy about this. any take on this anyone?
April 1st, 2009 at 10:38 PM
Saw that, what is going on??!!!???
April 1st, 2009 at 10:41 PM
Barry, I applaud your positive outlook, but I disagree with your logic. How many National Titles will Tim Floyd bring to Arizona, especially now that it appears Dixon is on his way to USC? If we dropped 3 million on a coach like Pitino (who swears he was never even CONTACTED by the U. of A.) we are National Title Contenders. Do you have any idea of the amount of revenue that would bring Arizona? In Ticket sales, in merchandise, in booster and alumni donations… The University of Arizona financially can’t lose a top tier basketball program. If McKale stops selling out, and people stop buying Arizona basketball shorts nationally (one of the most popular of all collegiate items by the way) then the downward spiral begins. In four years, when Floyd is fired for his second 16-17 season, guess what – 3 million a season to drop on a Big Name Coach won’t be an option. I know I might take this hire a little too personally, but I started at Arizona the year they won the Championship, and I graduated when they played Duke in the Championship game. I will never forget those times. I want my little brothers and my future kids to experience the magic of watching Arizona making a run in March Madness. There really is no other sporting event like it, but it seems to me like we are throwing that away. To me, Tim Floyd is an above average coach, but not a special coach, and I thought we deserved more.
April 1st, 2009 at 10:50 PM
Well, I’m going to call it a night folks.
As much as ya’ll say Floyd is a blessing in disguise, I’m still VERY disappointed that Livengood didn’t land a top name.
Don’t come to me with that bullcrap that no one wants a rebuilding job. Offer Dixon 2.5M and he’s here. I wonder were all the basketball profit goes? I mean were the hell is that 12M profit from two years ago, and last years 5M profit. This is profit guys, not revenue, this is after ALL expenses are factored. What about the boosters? Are they dormant? Is there really a Kalil, Jim Click, Sarver and Moreno behind this organization or is that all lies too? I firmly believe that with the right price, top coaches would accept the job. We won’t know however, because livengood wouldn’t even make an offer. I doubt for a second he offered Cal, and now all the pitino rumors were debunked. Face it, Floyd is the first guy Livengood offers the job too, because he is a bargain. Probably less than a mill.
Signing off.
April 1st, 2009 at 11:01 PM
Do y’all remember what it feels like after the Cats win a really important game?
Does anyone feel that way about this hiring action?
Is this what “winning the press conference” is supposed to feel like?
I agree that IF Floyd is the guy he may be a good fit. But I still don’t feel like we’ve won anything.
I hope there’s a penalty clause in his contract that says if there aren’t 13,000 plus seats filled in McKale he gives part of his salary back!!!!
Sunny Jim should resign for not meeting his fundamental pledge after 5 months!!!
April 1st, 2009 at 11:37 PM
after reading this blog I am not coming.
worthless front running scum.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:34 AM
I will not be purchasing basketball tickets next season, and will be leading the effort to convince other students to refrain as well.
April 2nd, 2009 at 12:47 AM
no mas u r a moron nobody cares
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:37 AM
No Mas,
You can suck it. The seats will sell out with a wait list. Transfer you tool. Every program rebuilds at some point, if you are a true fan you yell just as loud at every game and support the players. I’m sick of all the negativity, Floyd can recruit and his defense is tough, two things we have not had for a couple years.
Go ‘Cats!
April 2nd, 2009 at 1:42 AM
http://wearesc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=75619
Taj Gibson says he’s not leaving…on his Facebook.
Not sure I believe it but we are fucked if this is true. FYI, the Memphis job is still open and Tim is from that area.
April 2nd, 2009 at 2:58 AM
wow, what a roller coaster. In the last 12 hours I’ve gone from…..
“Tim Floyd? Wow, that sucks”
to….
“OK, this might be a pretty good hire, actually, especially if he can bring a couple recruits”
to…..
“you mean we might not even get Tim Floyd now?”
This is unbelievable. The administration needs to step up here and communicate something. If AZ loses Tim Floyd and has to take another step down from there……….
April 2nd, 2009 at 3:00 AM
and I do want to agree with something some others have said.
Saying someone isn’t a true fan because they don’t like the coaching selection is inappropriate. But those of you who are saying you will no longer support the program, wont’ watch games, will no longer root for the school and team or worse, will actively root against them?
Yes, those people aren’t true fans and can go jump off a bridge. Whether I’m thrilled or bitterly disappointed with our ultimate selection, I’m a Wildcat and this pick isn’t going to change that.
Bear Down.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:16 AM
+2 Michael Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 6:09 pm
I’m not rationalizing; I think he is a good hire, I really do.
Would I prefer Pitino, Izzo, Cal etc? Of course. But given everything that has happened I can certainly more than live with Floyd
———————————
Voila!
And Tim ” Costner” Floyd’s Trojan squad was THREE POINTS away from playing in the Sweet-16. U.S.C. lost by two points to Final Four member Michigan St.
In other words, Floyd basically OUTCOACHED the Maestro of nasty, tough-minded, in-your-face defense, Tommy Izzo!
Izzzo’s Spartan squad won that game because they played eight player’s against Floyd’s six, and were relatively the beneficiary of two or three foul calls in the dramatic last six minutes.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:20 AM
No Mas is an idiot….anybody would gladly take your tickets….why dont you go up the road a 100 miles and join sparky and the other tools at ASU…..that is the fair weather mentality that they have
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:21 AM
why do we care about whats on Taj Gibson’s facebook????? I am going to the coast this weekend but does anybody really care????
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:33 AM
+4 pizzadog Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 8:38 pm
I’m with Parallax, I get that Pitino, Izzo ect. were unrealistic, but I would have been more excited for a Jeff Capel. However, I can be–and have been–talked into liking Floyd. He brings a lot to the table, as some posters on this site have pointed out, and he might end up being the right guy for the job.
Javier, thanks again for this awesome site. I’ve wasted countless hours on here and really think we have a smarter more thoughtful fan on here than on any of the pay sites. I hope that just because this process is coming to end, that this won’t be the last we here from you, Javy.
——————-
I second your notion regarding parallax. That’s why he’s the solo voice of reason in this forum. Unlike Bay area cat, and like-minded minions. LMFAO
Yes, Livengood didn’t hit the grand slam home run the vast majority of Wildcat fans were wishing for, but both Shelton and JL did hit a solo home run in the person of Tim ” Costner” Floyd. LOL
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:39 AM
You guys are ridiculous. The ONLY way any of us have a voice in this is in buying tickets. By continuing to support the athletic program you are giving credibility to all the horrendous choices Livengood has made over the past 15 years.
We have fallen off the face of the earth in the Sears Cup. The Mackovic debacle set us back 5 years in football. The Lute garbage and now this hiring will set us back 10 years in basketball.
I will not support decisions that run the program into the ground.
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:42 AM
-1 Poppa Nutt Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 6:30 pm
BREAKING NEWS:
Livinstupid is interviewing Obama tomorrow!!! Oh no wait the NCAA will not allow telepromters in every corner for somebody else to send in the directions.
Oh wait the other problem is Hillary and Bin Laden wouldn’t accept lesser roles as assistans. Oh well!
————————————-
I abso-LUTE-ly knew something REEKED of negativity in this here forum.
Do some LOYAL Wildcat fandom a favor, poppa WINGED-NUTT, and slither back to the azstarnet forum with the rest of your similar-minded henchmen! LMFAO
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:45 AM
-1 OC_Wildcat Says:
April 1st, 2009 at 7:01 pm
I for one am not happy with this hire. I think Liven-Bad really botched this and I hope he gets boo’d off the stage tomorrow at the press conference. Looks like ASU and UCLA will be the perenial powerhouses of the Pac 10 and we will be a solid 3rd. I think Capel should have been our man and from what I have read they didnt even approach them. I hope we arent paying Floyd a bunch of money.
———————-
Then, do the vast majority of astute-minded LOYAL Arizona fandom a mega favor, and switch loyality to U.C.L.A. LOL
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:46 AM
No Mas, then dont support the program…we dont need a bunch of pessamistic morons on this blog…. you dont know what your talking about….every time there is a bump in the road you jump ship….. trust me tickets will be bought, maybe not by you, thank goodness, but by many other arizona fans
April 2nd, 2009 at 6:58 AM
For all you season-ticket holders who now are “switching allegiances” or “not going to games”, etc. – whatever your stupid reason for protesting this hire that you didn’t like..
Can I have your tickets? I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to take my son(s) to see a major college basketball game or two with potential pro players on the floor this season while you sit at home and sulk because Rick Pitino decided he didn’t want to leave Louisville for Arizona.
Thanks and if there are enough of you, I will gladly setup a website so that you can post your tickets there.
April 2nd, 2009 at 7:18 AM
This is true. Real fans will support the program even if it loses. We’ll still find things to be excited about. A freshman point guard who might turn out well. A senior who shows leadership and places the needs of the team first. The chance to take on and beat ASU.
Not saying any of that will happen. Floyd might do a great job. Most of us are not that enthusiastic with the choice, but in truth we don’t know what Livingood was up against. We have no idea whether Dixon or Capel were interested. He made a really bad call with Mac. But AD isn’t an easy job. Dempsey was way better, but even he got lucky with Lute. Who could have predicted our success? If anyone had, Lute would have been lured away by other programs before our program had ever approached. All coaching choices are risky. Even Cal at Kentucky. If things don’t go well, do you think their fans and boosters will be calling for heads to roll?
Be grateful that we have a major program that can pull in a Tim Floyd. I think he’s got a decent chance at being successful. If it turns out he’s not coming, that he wasn’t offered, maybe Livingood has some of the same concerns we do. Perhaps he wants a shot at Dixon or Capel. Why he hasn’t (reportedly) contacted them has me scratching my head, but who knows. We can only speculate (and wait and suffer in silence. OH, HOW WE SUFFER IN SILENCE!!!). ;o)