The Big East is a pretty large conference, so we’re going to go through the coaching carousel in three parts. The first part deals with all the superstar coaches. They are all good, but some of them are in difficult situations. It’s not a given for them, and we should be honest with ourselves about that.
UCONN–Jim Calhoun is probably retiring soon, but this new president at UCONN is auditing the athletic department. What if she gets tired of him and decides to start afresh before he’s ready? That would be a total shame.
Georgetown–John Thompson III, for my money, probably has a job for life. His father was so successful at the school that it makes sense for them to keep the Thompson name in the coaching seat. Plus, he’s been doing well these past few years. I always seem to try and get them in my final four when I do my brackets. One day, I know they can win one.
Louisville–Rick Pitino has had some problems, and the Cardinals had a down year last year. I don’t think Louisville will ever get tired of him, but what if Kentucky ran off a couple national titles and Louisville went stagnant? Could he get fired? Maybe.
Syracuse–Jim Boeheim is probably close to retiring, but one never knows because his career win total is so high. Plus, he seems like one of those people who might go crazy sitting at home. He’s not going anywhere, he’s got a ring, and his teams are always good. He’s not really ever retiring, is he?
West Virginia–Bob Huggins found a home at West Virginia. When he landed there, no one thought he could get as much out of the program as he has. Frankly, I think he stays for good unless he does something really stupid AND I think he can compete for a title.
Next up: The upstarts
photo credit: Briles Takes Pictures…
