https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/
Snippet:
QuoteDane Fife – former Indiana, Michigan State assistant
Fife left his alma mater after one season as an assistant, but still has love for the Hoosiers and the state of Indiana. Before he spent ten seasons under Tom Izzo at Michigan State, Fife was one of the youngest head coaches in the country at IPFW where he went 82-97 in six seasons (34-27 in the last two). Other mid-majors have courted Fife over the years and he nearly took the Duquesne job back in 2017, but Valpo provides an opportunity to back onto the sidelines in a state he is familiar with (and is very familiar with him!).
Bryce Drew – Grand Canyon head coach
Valpo should at least try to bring Drew home. His Grand Canyon salary isn't public but it is very possible (likely?) that he is the highest paid coach in the WAC and might have to take a pay cut to come back. Drew has a good thing going at GCU and could be holding out for a better job, but if the financials work out it would be hard to count out the alma mater.
Chris Lowery – Northwestern associate head coach
It's been more than 10 years since his last head coaching gig, but Lowery has spent that time as a right hand man at the highest level, first for Bruce Weber at Kansas State and now for Chris Collins and the resurgent Northwestern Wildcats. Lowery's tenure at SIU stagnated after a hot start in which he went to three-straight NCAA Tournaments (with the Salukis' third-ever trip to the Sweet Sixteen in 2007. He was fired in 2012 after going 8-23 but finished with an overall record of 145-115. The 50-year old is an Indiana-native and has plenty of MVC experience.
Billy Donlon – Clemson associate head coach
Donlon is in his first season at Clemson after a three-year tenure as head coach at Kansas City which just wasn't the right fit. He was successful in his six-year tenure at Wright State and his firing in 2016 was a shock in CBB circles, as he had just completed his third 20-win season in four years and finished 2nd in the Horizon. Donlon originally hails from the Chicago suburbs and has spent much of his coaching career in the Midwest.
It's currently 70 degrees and sunshine in Phoenix right now when valpo is most likely cloudy cold and snow on the ground.
Bryce isn't coming back.
Go with Donlon. Chicago suburb product from a great HS of current college coaches - Scheyer, Collins
From that list, Donlon would be my pick.
But I will always be a Tonagel fan.
Donlon's Clemson salary is $450K.
https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/2022/04/25/clemson-coach-adds-donlon-dixon-to-mens-basketball-staff/50140079/
Had previously signed a 6 year, $350K contract with UMKC. Bailed out on UMKC after 3 seasons (46-39). Twitter chatter after Clemson lured him away says that Clemson had to buy him out of the UMKC contract for $800k.
Think he'd go back to a UMKC/Valpo-like situation? Think we can afford him?
The only reason Bryce would come back would be because he grew up here and feels a connection to it. We have a worse program, worse pay, worse facilities, worse fan base, and worse weather than GCU. Not to mention he has a good thing going there and will probably get another P5 chance by continuing his success there. Coming back to Valpo would unnecessarily put that at risk, as it would be harder to dig us out of this hole than to continue his success where he is now.
Other than that, there are a lot of names on that list that I really like. However, I wouldn't expect many of them to actually end up as candidates when the job opens. We have a new athletic director that has his own connections and those will likely be used to the full extent. We simply don't have enough to offer to most of those "name brand" candidates, that another mid major with a job opening can't. Our job isn't special to them, and based on the current position of our program, salary capability, and facilities, we are likely at a disadvantage to most programs that will be hiring. The only ones that might be partial to us are people that have previous connection to the school, and in that case they likely fly below the radar of both Small and Padilla seeing that they just got here last year.
I had wondered how UMKC achieved a few winning seasons, and it makes sense that it was due to Donlon. He drove a top Wright State program. From this list, I would be fine with either Donlon or Fife.
What about Ohio State assistant Jake Diebler? OSU is paying him $500K.
Since Lottich is at 345 and University is low on cash. A P5 lead assistant is most likely out of question.
Looking at a lead assistant at a mid major or an up & comer at a small Major are more realistic than the list above
Is Valpo going to lower the job salary?
Phoenix weather is only nice for a few months in the winter. It was over 100 degrees for 145 days in 2022, and who wants to spend almost 30 days where it's over 115 degrees. And as many comedians like to point out, it doesn't matter whether it's dry heat or not, it's still 115 degrees.
Weather smeather. Please, everyone, FORGET about Bryce as a candidate - EVER.
Bryce's teams play in front of wild, sold out (7000 capacity) crowds. He has a winning percentage there of over 70%.
I could not find GCU salary figures but he left Valpo for $16.3 million over 6 years. That's $2.6 million a year. He got bought out, of course. Spent a year with ESPN, then signed with Grand Canyon. He replaced former pro Dan Majerley who wasn't working for peanuts.
And despite what some think was an amicable split, I believe the Drews had it up to here with the low level of support provided by penny pinching Valpo. They had the same vision for VU's future as most of us continue to harbor, yet they were continually denied (as have we). They are gone. Bryce will never coach a Valpo team ever again.
We were blessed with 6 years of Gene Bartow and 28 years of the Drews. Let's just move on.
"Go with Donlon. Chicago suburb product from a great HS of current college coaches - Scheyer, "
I feel we've had our fair shake at a Chicago suburb product ;)
Former OSU assistant Ryan Pedon is getting $550K at Illinois State. I would think Valpo would have to match the salary of $500K for Jake Diebler. It's unreasonable to expect the loyalty discount even for an alumnus.
if you hire Donlon........get used to 48-43 games. Good job at Wright State, never got them to the big dance.
Lottich is a New Trier product, Donlan is from the cradle of college coaches. big difference.
How this guy is not on the radar is beyond, especially when Tonegal is on the list. We need to at least contact him.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_McCollum
Quote from: usc4valpo on January 15, 2023, 11:00:47 AM
How this guy is not on the radar is beyond, especially when Tonegal is on the list. We need to at least contact him.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_McCollum
Agree. See my post in the Tonagel string.
My post was a snippet, not the entire list. From the OP article, here is the entire list. Seems like some of you didn't go the link provided in the OP.
Dane Fife – former Indiana, Michigan State assistant
Fife left his alma mater after one season as an assistant, but still has love for the Hoosiers and the state of Indiana. Before he spent ten seasons under Tom Izzo at Michigan State, Fife was one of the youngest head coaches in the country at IPFW where he went 82-97 in six seasons (34-27 in the last two). Other mid-majors have courted Fife over the years and he nearly took the Duquesne job back in 2017, but Valpo provides an opportunity to back onto the sidelines in a state he is familiar with (and is very familiar with him!).
Bryce Drew – Grand Canyon head coach
Valpo should at least try to bring Drew home. His Grand Canyon salary isn't public but it is very possible (likely?) that he is the highest paid coach in the WAC and might have to take a pay cut to come back. Drew has a good thing going at GCU and could be holding out for a better job, but if the financials work out it would be hard to count out the alma mater.
Chris Lowery – Northwestern associate head coach
It's been more than 10 years since his last head coaching gig, but Lowery has spent that time as a right hand man at the highest level, first for Bruce Weber at Kansas State and now for Chris Collins and the resurgent Northwestern Wildcats. Lowery's tenure at SIU stagnated after a hot start in which he went to three-straight NCAA Tournaments (with the Salukis' third-ever trip to the Sweet Sixteen in 2007. He was fired in 2012 after going 8-23 but finished with an overall record of 145-115. The 50-year old is an Indiana-native and has plenty of MVC experience.
Billy Donlon – Clemson associate head coach
Donlon is in his first season at Clemson after a three-year tenure as head coach at Kansas City which just wasn't the right fit. He was successful in his six-year tenure at Wright State and his firing in 2016 was a shock in CBB circles, as he had just completed his third 20-win season in four years and finished 2nd in the Horizon. Donlon originally hails from the Chicago suburbs and has spent much of his coaching career in the Midwest.
Terry Johnson – Purdue associate head coach
Johnson doesn't have any head coaching experience but his strong ties to the area, going back to his playing days at Anderson HS (IN). He played and coached at Fort Wayne, later spending 14 years working under Chris Holtmann at Butler and Ohio State. He is back in Indiana right now, having joined Matt Painter's staff at Purdue in 2021 (and part of the first two Boiler teams to ever be ranked #1 in the country).
Ed Schilling – Grand Canyon assistant coach
Bryce Drew might be out of reach, but his assistant Ed Schilling should be a candidate in his own right. Schilling graduated from Lebanon HS (IN) and started his career out coaching at several high schools in the state. His tenure at Wright State (1997-2003) was not great (75-93, no postseasons) but that was now 20+ years ago and the 57-year-old has done quite a bit since then. He's at GCU now after two seasons at Indiana, four at UCLA and four as the head coach at Park Tudor HS in Indianapolis.
Ben McCollum – Northwest Missouri St (Div II) head coach
Some D-I program is going to hire McCollum, one of the brightest stars in all of D-II and a four-time National Champion as a head coach (currently the triple-defending champ!). Jumping from Northwest Missouri State to a high-major might be a stretch, but a stop at a Midwestern mid-major first could be a really smart career move for the 41-year-old. He has nothing left to prove in the MIAA (the Bearcats are having yet another magnificent season) so it shouldn't be long until he makes the move.
Greg Tonagel – Indiana Wesleyan (NAIA) head coach
Just like NCAA D-II to high-major D-I is a stretch, NAIA D-II to mid-major D-I might be too far to leap in one move. But Indiana Wesleyan head coach Greg Tonagel is a Valpo alum who was a two-time captain and played in four NCAA Tournaments under Homer Drew. He has been great at IWU, becoming head coach in 2005 at just 24 years old after spending one season as DBO at his alma mater. The Wildcats have won three NAIA D-II National Championships under Tonagel and he was named NCOY in each of those seasons (2014, 2016, 2018). He may be more in line for a staff position under a different Valpo hire, but he needs to at least be on the list of candidates.
Tom Crean – former Georgia, Indiana, Marquette head coach
Another former head coach who needs the right opportunity to get his career back on track, Tom Crean is obviously familiar with the state after his nine-year tenure at Indiana. While IU fans may have been split on his coaching abilities but Crean is widely regarded as a great talent evaluator and recruiter. The Valpo program has tradition, history and a dedicated fan base, but the stakes are much lower there – Georgia seemed like a good idea, as a football school, but Crean's tenure there was not great. A chance to coach in the Midwest again without the pressure of a name brand program seems like a great fit.
Cuonzo Martin – former Mizzou, Cal, Tennessee, Missouri State head coach
There are plenty more former high-major coaches that we could call out, but Cuonzo makes sense due to his ties the area. The Illinois-native played and coached at Purdue just an hour and a half south of Valpo. He's been the head coach at four different D-I schools, most recently at Missouri, and has MVC experience having spent three seasons at Missouri State. Cuonzo also has experience in March, going to four NCAA Tournaments, four NITs and winning the CIT back in 2010. Martin is a great recruiter and underrated coach, and the job he did at Cal looks more and more amazing every week (maybe they will try to get him back?).
Tom Crean lol
We have a Bruce Weber thread and one for Tom Crean. We also have threads for JR Blount and Greg Tonnegal.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 15, 2023, 12:19:50 PM
Quote from: usc4valpo on January 15, 2023, 11:00:47 AM
How this guy is not on the radar is beyond, especially when Tonegal is on the list. We need to at least contact him.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_McCollum
Agree. See my post in the Tonagel string.
Who can keep track? :(
In addition we have traveled from a FIRE LOTTICH IMMEDIATELY thread on to a Its time to fire Lottich thread to this new topic speculating on potential Lottich replacements. Since we are near total agreement that we need to move on with a new coach, why don't we add Bruce Weber to the new list that Just Sayin now posted and keep our discussion in one place?
This topic was started yesterday ::) and already has more replies that the Evansville game thread! :o. That kind of shows us where we are at.
Quote from: justducky on January 15, 2023, 01:05:37 PM
We have a Bruce Weber thread and one for Tom Crean. We also have threads for JR Blount and Greg Tonnegal.
Quote from: VULB#62 on January 15, 2023, 12:19:50 PM
Quote from: usc4valpo on January 15, 2023, 11:00:47 AM
How this guy is not on the radar is beyond, especially when Tonegal is on the list. We need to at least contact him.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_McCollum
Agree. See my post in the Tonagel string.
Who can keep track? :(
In addition we have traveled from a FIRE LOTTICH IMMEDIATELY thread on to a Its time to fire Lottich thread to this new topic speculating on potential Lottich replacements. Since we are near total agreement that we need to move on with a new coach, why don't we add Bruce Weber to the new list that Just Sayin now posted and keep our discussion in one place?
This topic was started yesterday ::) and already has more replies that the Evansville game thread! :o. That kind of shows us where we are at.
1.
Fire Lottich Immediately was started by Chairback on November 1.
2.
It's time to fire Lottich was started by mj on December 10.
3. Let's Speculate? Potential Valparaiso head basketball coach was started by Just Sayin on January 14.
You could argue the December 10 post could have latched on to the November 1 post, but it was over a month later.
Speculating about a replacement doesn't fit in a topic about firing Lottich. It assumes that has aready happened.
Go ahead and add Bruce Weber and put it in the new coach speculation thread, not the fire Lottich thread.
Hope you are no longer confused Ducky.
Quote from: Just Sayin on January 15, 2023, 01:23:40 PMThis topic was started yesterday ::) and already has more replies that the Evansville game thread! :o. That kind of shows us where we are at.
Quote2. It's time to fire Lottich was started by mj on December 10.
1. Fire Lottich Immediately was started by Chairback on November 1. January 7
3. Let's Speculate? Potential Valparaiso head basketball coach was started by Just Sayin on January 14.
Just getting the sequence right. Chairback's string was an escalation of mj's December 10 string.
Guys.... Let's be real.... Tom Crean and Bruce Weber aren't coming to Valpo
Terry Johnson would be an excellent hire, but I'm not sure how likely that is. He makes over $300K at Purdue, and Micah Shrewsberry recently went from Purdue assistant to Penn State head coach. Johnson might be waiting for a power conference job.
Go with Donlan or McCullum, although McCullum would be a home run. With Small as AD, Valpo should once hire outside of the family.
What constitutes "the family"?
Discount anyone in the Drew coaching tree? E.g., Powell, Schilling
Discount any Valpo alum? E.g., Diebler. Tonagel.
Valpo is down on cash right now. Lottich makes 345, that is probably a ceiling offer unless you grab some larger investors.
That pretty much eliminates anyone in the P5 outside of GA and end of bench guys. It eliminates ESPN employees and Power 5 retreads.
Our best bet is lightning in a bottle with a D2 or successful NAIA coach. Tonagel seems like a great fit, or Paul Cosaro from Uindy.
Valpo has taken lumps in the Midwest recruiting in all sports. It'd be nice to get people in who have that connection. Butts in seats, even if the ceiling is a .500 record
Quote from: usc4valpo on January 15, 2023, 03:22:45 PM
Go with Donlan or McCullum, although McCullum would be a home run. With Small as AD, Valpo should once hire outside of the family.
Smart will send initial feelers out in a wide net. Donlon could very well be included in that initial exploration. But he is an Associate HC at an ACC school already making more than VU can afford to pay. He's on track for an eventual P5 head coach gig, plus why would he go back to a struggling mid-major with budget problems? Fuggetabouthim.
The more I think about it, the more I'm convinced that no P5 assistant
with solid credentials would even consider Valpo in its present condition. Go back to when Bryce left, however, and that would have been a different story. We had a buyers' market going there, but went short-sighted and cheap. Come to think of it, it was almost a '98 dedux. Bryce's departure was big news. He signed for $16.3 mil. But Valpo did not leverage that exposure into attracting a proven winner to continue the legacy. Ah, 20/20 hindsight. But I digress......
No doubt McCollum has the credentials on paper. As does Tonagel and a few other D-II/NAIA HCs looking to move up the ladder. And I'm sure there are a bunch of D-I mid-major top assistants who would see Valpo as a good stepping stone (however, I, personally, would be leery of anyone who did not have successful HC experience). And despite what I wrote in the previous paragraph, Smart might have a super connection from his previous stints who he thinks can do the job and would be willing to come to Valpo.
But our discussions on this board are totally irrelevant at this point. Just a lot of conjecture and speculation without any well-informed basis, just subjective opinions and emotional ideas.
The first hurdle - will Valpo even consider eating Matt's contract in order to make a change? Captain Obvious speaking here and suggesting that there's no sense in discussing great candidates until that happens and the first domino falls.
Wisconsin, Canada , Netherlands , and Georgia are the demographic of the guys that play on the roster. There is no local pipeline.
You think (insert players name here) large support group are driving down for a Thursday game against Evansville.
Meanwhile 8/14 Evansville players hail from the Midwest. They have roots. Those 3k tickets more per game add up over a season.
Get a proven winner from a lower level. Who can bring in local talent. Will get buy in from the locals if their kids are on the team. Get Valpo basketball back in the black financially. Then chase winning
62 - if Lottich isn't let go by the end of this season, we know undoubtedly where Valpo is going regarding athletics, and that is complete apathy. At this time, If Valpo can't make a change for the better over $300k or so, they should drop all sports to D3.
Yep.
But few of us view the purpose of Smart's hiring as overseeing the transition to DIII. I still have faith that Valpo will find a way through this. Beware the Ides of March ;D. It should be an interesting month. Go Dune Puppies!
Even looking at this purely from an alumni relations and public relations point of view (and I realize it's more than that), it's hard to imagine VU deciding to downsize to D3 during the foreseeable future. But at least for MBB, the results of the next coaching hire will say a lot about that future.
Picking up on VULB#62's comment, in addition to presumably not hiring Small to manage such a transition, I can't imagine Small accepting the AD position with that understanding of his charge. Not exactly a good resume optic for future jobs to have a bullet point about facilitating a transition from D1 to D3, unless that becomes a sad, in-demand skill set among mid-majors.
Understood, but if a change is needed and being D1, a few hundred grand should not trump over doing the right thing.
Oru's Paul Mills is a perfect example.
Learned under Scott drew at Baylor took a pay cut to go to ORU.
ORU rolling from what used to be a dead program in the summit.
Please not Dane Fife! Not a big fan of Donlon either. I would like to go younger. Diebler likely isn't going anywhere yet, Ohio State was his dream job. He used to tell me all the time that he would bolt to be an assistant there in a heartbeat. At some point, maybe he leaves to get some experience to try to be the head coach, but that time is not now. (Although Diebler with Buggs as assistant would be pretty sweet).
A few other names:
Chris Victor from Seattle U – widely regarded as one of the best mid-major coaches. Not sure the salary situation and a very good chance he waits to grab a bigger job (like Washington or Washington State) down the road. But, I would at least reach out.
Dusty May – has done a nice job rebuilding FAU. Connections to IU. Could be an opportunity to come back to Indiana and take a better job but with less pressure than Power 5. Also, FAU is a little overrated, they are performing well but how good of a coach is he really?
Yasir Rosemond – assistant coach and massive recruiter for IU. Younger coach that relates well to players. Excellent recruiter (which we really need). Also worked under Avery Johnson. Has ties to Midwest, South, and West Coast. Under the radar potential hire. Again, probably would have to take a pay cut, but at least worth a call to see if he wants to be a head coach.
IMHO, Valpo men's bb is in full airplane stall mode. Pilot Matt continues in a desperate attempt to pull us out of it, but in reality it's already too late. This plane will officially crash and burn sometime in early March in St. Louis.
So then what? Bring in a new coaching staff and start over, right? So, how does the university cover its financial obligation to pay Matt's '23-'24 salary? And, isn't it reasonable to suppose that Luke Gore and possibly others have similar contract terms? We could easily be talking about $500-600k to clear the deck for a new coaching staff. Given the university's multi-faceted financial pressures at present, I'm guessing that the decision will be made (out of necessity) to ride out the Matt Lottich era to the end. Just my 2 cents.
Wh - if that's the case, Valpo needs to give up D1 athletics.
Donlan is a pedigree from the cradle of college coaches, and as an alum on this HS, I support him. However, McCullum would be the home run, but I doubt Valpo could get him.
I always thought ACs were year-to-year contracts?
Alternatively, we roll out the same ol' same ol', we likely eat $500k in lack of attendance/concessions/gear sales and we continue as a doormat to the MVC.
Can someone do better with our limitations? 500k question.
I doubt the assitants are on multi year deals.
Most likely, you guys are right. According to a survey a few years back of D-1 assistant coaching salaries, 75% are year-to-year. I would not have guessed that.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=q_LVncscf0Y
More coach Ben McCollum at NW Mo. St. and seeking Div. 1 opportunities.
Quote from: usc4valpo on January 28, 2023, 08:12:12 AM
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=q_LVncscf0Y
More coach Ben McCollum at NW Mo. St. and seeking Div. 1 opportunities.
Nice interview. Some good responses to Katz's questions. Key takeaway #1: "stay true to the process." #2: stays away from the xfer portal and builds culture around tough kids who want to stay for 4 years. And #3: he ain't going anywhere unless he can make a difference with the kids and the community.
IMO, Valpo could check each of those boxes.
I get that McCollum has a terrific record. But we do we really want a D2 coach? I don't really think that makes a "splash" in terms of recruiting or excitement on campus. We need to galvanize the program and not sure this will do the trick.
Quote from: mp91 on January 30, 2023, 01:44:24 PM
I get that McCollum has a terrific record. But we do we really want a D2 coach? I don't really think that makes a "splash" in terms of recruiting or excitement on campus. We need to galvanize the program and not sure this will do the trick.
Check out what Indiana State's D2 coach is doing with wins over Drake, UNI and Southern Illinois and now sit 2 games off the lead. I think we would be very pleased with those results. He is just in his second year. I think there would be a pretty big buzz around a hire like that.
I doubt McCollum would be interested, it may not be a good fit. But if you are going to place Tonegal in the discussion, then the D2 limitation argument is bogus.
I can imagine a scenario where Matt is not only retained as head coach next year, but is awarded a new 3-year contract, as well. From a recent PO Victory Bell article about Ben Krikke's options next year:
"Then there is staying. Krikke is beloved in Valparaiso and another season in brown and gold would cement his status as one of the program's all-time greats. With Maximus Nelson and Ibra Bayu ready to take big steps forward after a year in the program, Preston Ruedinger back from a shoulder injury and a talented trio of newcomers, the outlook is bright for the 2023-24 Beacons."
Here's how the scenario plays out. First, the administration determines that it can't afford to buy Matt out; thus, he returns next year. Next year we actually do perform better as PO suggests, and seemingly out of the blue Matt is awarded with another 3 year contract. So, why would they roll the dice for another 3 year cycle: (1) the administration knows there is no money to invest in a new facility, (2) the university isn't in a position to initiate a capital fundraising campaign let alone build, and (3) to get an experienced head coach with a winning D-1 record willing to try to turn around a losing program with a dreadful venue in a difficult league will cost way more than $350K/year.
I've said it before - Matt Lottich, and Matt alone, may very well decide the long term fate (return to success or catastrophic failure) of Valparaiso University men's basketball. Grab some popcorn and snuggle in.
Quote from: wh on January 30, 2023, 03:33:15 PMI can imagine a scenario where Matt is not only retained as head coach next year, but is awarded a new 3-year contract, as well. From a recent PO Victory Bell article about Ben Krikke's options next year: "Then there is staying. Krikke is beloved in Valparaiso and another season in brown and gold would cement his status as one of the program's all-time greats. With Maximus Nelson and Ibra Bayu ready to take big steps forward after a year in the program, Preston Ruedinger back from a shoulder injury and a talented trio of newcomers, the outlook is bright for the 2023-24 Beacons." Here's how the scenario plays out. First, the administration determines that it can't afford to buy Matt out; thus, he returns next year. Next year we actually do perform better as PO suggests, and seemingly out of the blue Matt is awarded with another 3 year contract. So, why would they roll the dice for another 3 year cycle: (1) the administration knows there is no money to invest in a new facility, (2) the university isn't in a position to initiate a capital fundraising campaign let alone build, and (3) to get an experienced head coach with a winning D-1 record willing to try to turn around a losing program with a dreadful venue in a difficult league will cost way more than $350K/year. I've said it before - Matt Lottich, and Matt alone, may very well decide the long term fate (return to success or catastrophic failure) of Valparaiso University men's basketball. Grab some popcorn and snuggle in.
This is a well-reasoned thoughtful and realistic assessment of the state of the program and I have a sinking feeling that this is exactly how things will play out. The problem is that betting on a big year from a star player like we did when we hired Lottich in the first place to keep Peters is not as we have come to find out a good approach to program building. That first year looks fine as it did in our case but after that the coach is on his own and has to prove himself able to sustain the momentum. While we can vigorously and legitimately debate the extent to which Matt is responsible for the failings of the program I believe the reality is clear and I have felt this way since the Chicago State debacle: The Matt Lottich era has been a failure and it is impossible to see success especially on any kind of sustained level as long as Lottich heads the program.
This is Valpo's sixth year in the MVC. By this point, Loyola (who came to the MVC in worse shape than Valpo was in as a program had already ascended to a power albeit on a seemingly temporary basis given their early performance in the A-10. Valpo by contrast has four victories in conference play all of which have come against teams either tied with (Illinois State) or below (Evansville UIC) Valpo in the standings. Moreover, Valpo has taken more double digit losses (5) in MVC play than they have wins (4). Is this the new standard of Valpo basketball? "At least we beat the perennial also-rans\cellar dwellers and aren't the worst of the worst?" I certainly hope not. I certainly hope that competing for conference championships is still the goal. Judging by Valpo's performance in other sports namely women's soccer and women's volleyball it is still the goal and it is achievable if the right leadership and players are in place.
Valpo's conference record includes 3 losses to MVC Newcomers Murray State and Belmont. Murray State after a slew of transfers and a new coach sits three games better than Valpo in the standings. Belmont with a young team (like Lottich used to always remind us that we were) is tied for first. So much for the "tough transition to the MVC" crutch we used to give him. Let us also remember that Murray and Belmont come to the MVC from a far worse conference than the Horizon League was at the time we left it meaning they consistently got to pad their records against lesser competition than we did and they're STILL outperforming our Year 6 team in Year 1. It should also be mentioned that two of the double digit losses Valpo has suffered so far were to Belmont. This alone presents a stinging indictment of Lottich's performance but even this doesn't tell the whole story.
I will concede PO is likely right and the premise of his article is sound: we should improve next year. We'd better improve. But if Matt has any ability to actually build a program that improvement should not hinge on whether Krikke stays or goes. The problem is that it's hard to see whether there will be too much improvement even if he stays. We've had relative stability recently even in this era of constant transferring the past year or two and we're still getting poor results on the court. If continuity isn't the issue anymore then what is it if it's not coaching? It's not like we're even talking about the team that looked like it was slowly ascending a few years ago with improving win totals and conference positioning. What we've seen this year looks more like our earliest MVC teams if not worse. It's clear that the program is going backwards and the conference (even though this year has been a down year) is only going to get tougher as Murray and Belmont continue to get acclimated and\or more expansion takes place.
As the excuses (transfers toughness of the conference transition "young team" etc. ) fade away it becomes increasingly clear that Matt bears significant responsibility even if he escapes total responsibility for Valpo's lackluster (to be kind) on-court performance. At this point the only way Matt can reasonably hope to stay is if the university simply lacks the money for a buyout; and if that's the case then we've got far bigger problems and truly need a miracle. There is no justifiable reason outside of finances to keep him on as Head Coach. Even if that means we lose some players we see as building blocks because of it the sooner we rip the band-aid off the better. This program needs a new start. I don't know who the right person is to lead it but a change is sorely needed. The facts presented here are now too glaring to ignore. Maybe it is overly harsh to call the Lottich\MVC-era Valparaiso Beacons a "catastrophic failure" but it is an obvious failure nonetheless. That fact is no longer in dispute.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on January 30, 2023, 08:20:17 PMThere is no justifiable reason outside of finances to keep him on as Head Coach.
This 15 word sentence pretty well sums things up.
I can definitely see that the scenario discussed by wh is a realistic possibility - specifically how finances play into the decision. However, the $425K from the football buy game with New Mexico State does likely create a ~$300K windfall for the athletic department - which could be applied to a buyout. Another realistic alternative to the scenario painted by wh is that they let the contract expire and then hire a new coach - avoiding the buyout.
I really don't think avoiding dismissal (and possibly resigning) Coach Lottich is the best move...though I wish that were not the case because he seems like a genuinely good person. Reasons: 1. I have never seen a system within his coaching style and, at times, it has just seemed like he lets the star players do whatever they want, 2. He cannot retain his best players. I know everyone sees the loose transfer rules as a foregone conclusion that you just have to plan for major turnover each year, but I don't necessarily agree. Recruiting the right players who thrive in a system can dramatically reduce turnover (though, of course, the limited NIL at Valpo versus larger schools will always create challenges). 3. Repeated missed expectations.
Looking at college basketball coach dismissal and retention decisions over the last 18 years.
Matt Lottich is in his sixth year at Valparaiso.
Among all teams in the twelve strongest conferences (of which the MVC is one):
-A White coach after his 6th season has a 4.5% probability of being dismissed (it is higher for non-White coaches).
-Valpo's current winning percentage is 43.5%. That winning percentage triples the likelihood of dismissal (winning percentage has no effect at a 61% winning percentage).
-Valpo's prior year winning percentage was 43.75%. That prior year winning percentage increases the likelihood of dismissal by about 50% (estimated from the non-linear coefficients, since calculating the non-linear prediction would take a fair amount of time).
-Coach Lottich was an assistant at Valpo, which increases the probability of dismissal by about 55%.
-Valpo is a private university, which decreases the probability of dismissal by about 39%.
-If we assume that Valpo has no players that will eventually play in the NBA, that decreases the probability of dismissal by about 4%.
-Valpo's financial support is about 0.8 standard deviations below the average for all teams in the top 12 conferences. This reduces the likelihood of dismissal by about 19%.
-The Missouri Valley Conference's strength is about 1.0 standard deviation below the average of the 12 conferences. This reduces the likelihood of dismissal by about 6%.
-Matt Lottich has not developed any prestige in his position (from awards or nationally recognized accomplishments). This increases the probability of dismissal by about 12%.
Thus, among all coaches in the twelve major conferences over the last 18 years, the probability of a coach like Matt Lottich being dismissed is about:
4.5 x 3 x 1.5 x 1.55 x 0.61 x 0.96 x 0.81 x 0.94 x 1.12 = ~15.8%
Note that performance is a huge non-linear factor in this model. A winning percentage of 31% doubles the likelihood of dismissal relative to 43.5%.
Non-significant factors that were included in the models: age, different AD, whether the team is from FBS, lack of NCAA sanctions, whether the team was in the preseason AP Top 25, recruiting ranking, coach's prestige prior to being hired, the degree of strategic change from the prior season.
(This is calculated using results from two studies - one published and the other not yet published)
What's sad in today's Div. I athletics at Valpo is a possible outcome to keep him to save 300K to 400K. Would this circumstance happen at any other MVC school that wants to actually compete?
In the grand scheme, 300K should be a noise factor in making a decision. Quit throwing nickels like manhole covers Valpo and move on!
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 01, 2023, 08:59:25 AM
What's sad in today's Div. I athletics at Valpo is a possible outcome to keep him to save 300K to 400K. Would this circumstance happen at any other MVC school that wants to actually compete?
In the grand scheme, 300K should be a noise factor in making a decision. Quit throwing nickels like manhole covers Valpo and move on!
Next year forgo scheduling 2-3 home games vs schools like Trinity and Stonehill and get bought to play @ power 5 schools. Your deficit of 300K is almost cut in half. I would rather see the University get paid to loose to UNC over loosing to Chicago State for free.
Quote from: VALPO LI on February 01, 2023, 02:31:47 PM
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 01, 2023, 08:59:25 AM
What's sad in today's Div. I athletics at Valpo is a possible outcome to keep him to save 300K to 400K. Would this circumstance happen at any other MVC school that wants to actually compete?
In the grand scheme, 300K should be a noise factor in making a decision. Quit throwing nickels like manhole covers Valpo and move on!
Next year forgo scheduling 2-3 home games vs schools like Trinity and Stonehill and get bought to play @ power 5 schools. Your deficit of 300K is almost cut in half. I would rather see the University get paid to loose to UNC over loosing to Chicago State for free.
There are always 2 sides to scheduling. There has to be a power 5 school that wants to host your team. That has not been the case as of late.
every P5 team want to have a scheduled win over a ham and egger.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 01, 2023, 06:00:07 PM
every P5 team want to have a scheduled win over a ham and egger.
Not as much as they used to. Most P6 (include the Big East here) conferences are playing more conference games and they are doing agreements with other conferences for "challenges". Add holiday tournaments and the number of buy games has dramatically decreased. Historyman raises a very good point.
Loved your comment, vu84v2. I don't know how accurate your stats are but it is very interesting reading and in general makes alot of sense. I have to chuckle when comments are made that $300,000 to $400,000 shouldn't make a difference regarding a coaching change. I wonder how many mid-major schools would agree that that amount of money would not make any difference in hiring or firing a coach that is currently under contract, especially if it is a private mid-major program.
64 - I would say Evansville might be concerned although they are drawing fans. But feel free to chuckle, as Bradley, Belmont and Drake wouldn't think twice regarding making a change for their programs for the better. $200K to 400K would have minimal
effect in their decision. We are a member of the MVC, let's act accordingly and quit striving to be mediocre.
I have heard somewhere that the VU budget is in the $100 million range. So I guess you have to look at the cost-benefit of eating $300-400k and how well you can measure the outcome.
The PR impact and perception cuts both ways; internal with staff and external with alumni and fans. It's very hard to measure either one. But that's why the Pres. and AD make the big bucks.
Quote from: valpo64 on February 02, 2023, 10:27:54 AM
Loved your comment, vu84v2. I don't know how accurate your stats are but it is very interesting reading and in general makes alot of sense. I have to chuckle when comments are made that $300,000 to $400,000 shouldn't make a difference regarding a coaching change. I wonder how many mid-major schools would agree that that amount of money would not make any difference in hiring or firing a coach that is currently under contract, especially if it is a private mid-major program.
valpo64 - Thanks. The data is from two studies - one published in a peer-reviewed journal and the other under review with a peer-reviewed journal. The stats and models better be accurate, otherwise the lead author on these two studies examining executive dismissal (i.e., me) will be in trouble.
Head coach at Ohio State thrown out of game. Jake Diebler taking over head coaching duties and trying to lead team to victory over Wisconsin.
Quote from: tiny707 on February 02, 2023, 07:57:04 PM
Head coach at Ohio State thrown out of game. Jake Diebler taking over head coaching duties and trying to lead team to victory over Wisconsin.
I didn't watch that game so I don't know when he was thrown out. KP gives quarterly scores. Assuming Jake coached the last two quarters, Jake coached the team with a winning margin in the 3rd quarter of 6 and 5 in the 4th quarter. Nice run to get back in the game but no cigar.
..........Q1 Q2 Q3 Q4 T
Wisc 21 22 12 10 65
Oh St.16 11 18 15 60
Our athletic budget is in the $100million range and we're complaining about $300K-$400K? Or is that VU's entire operating budget which would be a different matter entirely? Also speaking as an alum I have to say that the constant mediocre to bad results with nothing being done about it are having a negative effect on my enthusiasm and I am NOT the only person who feels this way based on the other alums I talk to. Everyone is thoroughly disgusted or has given up. I know it's just a small section of the fanbase but I'm sure the feeling isn't just confined to me and my friend group. A change needs to be made especially if our athletic budget really is that huge. If that's the case the amount we're talking about is miniscule and should bear no weight in the calculation.
Quote from: crusadermoe on February 02, 2023, 03:14:36 PM
I have heard somewhere that the VU budget is in the $100 million range. So I guess you have to look at the cost-benefit of eating $300-400k and how well you can measure the outcome.
The PR impact and perception cuts both ways; internal with staff and external with alumni and fans. It's very hard to measure either one. But that's why the Pres. and AD make the big bucks.
The latest tax return available from the IRS for VU reveals expenses, but doesn't break it down by department.
https://apps.irs.gov/pub/epostcard/cor/350868125_202006_990_2021051118083749.pdf
Valpo's annual athletic expenses for the academic year July 2020 to June 2021 were $11.3M. Universities are required to report their revenues and expenses to the US Dept of Education and the data is readily available on the US EADA website (as it is for 99% of universities). $2.16M of that is men's basketball.
Okay that number makes far more sense and considering that that number is down from where I've seen it before I can understand the financial trepidation surrounding decisions like this. Our budget seems like it's at or near the bottom of the MVC which might help explain our lack of competitiveness. Maybe it's not so much a will problem the money simply isn't there and we have to rely on these tournament credits for needed cash infusions unless and until we can get a coach that can take us out of the doldrums.
OK, more data on financial support of men's basketball in the MVC
2020-2021 Academic Year
1. Loyola $3.8M
2. Bradley $2.7M
3. Drake $2.6M
4. Northern Iowa $2.4M
5. Missouri State $2.2M
6. Valpo $2.16M
7. Illinois State $2.1M
8. Southern Illinois $1.9M
9. Evansville $1.8M
10. Indiana State $1.7M
Since COVID was a shock that affected schools in different ways, here is the last pre-COVID academic year (2018-2019)
1. Loyola $4.3M
2. Bradley $3.8M
3. Northern Iowa $$3.6M
4. Missouri State $2.8M
5. Drake $2.6M
6. Evansville $2.6M
7. Southern Illinois $2.5M
8. Illinois State $2.4M
9. Valpo $2.4M
10. Indiana State $2.1M
Reported revenue in this database is a bit strange, since it is not fully clear what comprises revenue (e.g. to what degree is tuition paid by non-scholarship athletes revenue), but:
For 2020-2021, average reported men's college basketball revenue in the MVC was $2.45M. Loyola was the highest at $3.8M and Valpo was seventh at $2.0M. Drake, Northern Iowa and Indiana State were the only schools reporting profit, Valpo reported a loss of about $140K.
For 2018-2019, average reported men's college basketball revenue in the MVC was $2.9M. Loyola was the highest at $4.3M and Valpo was eighth at $2.46M. Valpo was the only school reporting a profit (about $50K), though many reported breaking even.
Valpo was also the only MVC school reporting a profit in 2019-2020 from men's basketball (~$170K). Drake reported a steep loss for that academic year (~-$$1.3M)...but then reported about $1M in profit the following year.
Bottom line: Valpo is in the lower half of spending among MVC men's basketball programs, but their budget reduction following COVID was less (as a percentage of total expenses) than most MVC schools.
So the takeaway then is that we simply aren't spending enough which raises questions of overall commitment? I mean weren't we outspent by some in the HL and it didn't matter then. I still come down on the side of it being a personnel issue first and foremost though a bit more financial backing could probably help if it were feasible.
I'm hoping on March 6th a press conference is called that a coaching search has begun.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on February 03, 2023, 01:07:03 PM
So the takeaway then is that we simply aren't spending enough which raises questions of overall commitment? I mean weren't we outspent by some in the HL and it didn't matter then. I still come down on the side of it being a personnel issue first and foremost though a bit more financial backing could probably help if it were feasible.
It comes down to the right leader leading the program and having adequate facilities. We have neither right now.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on February 02, 2023, 10:22:32 PMOur athletic budget is in the $100million range and we're complaining about $300K-$400K?
Now is pretty funny! IU athletic budget shows they spent 102,000,000.
Here is an article showing expenses by school.
https://www.sportico.com/business/commerce/2021/college-sports-finances-database-intercollegiate-1234646029/
Here's another article--which is obviously outdated, showing revenues of 15.7 million and expenses of 13.5 million
https://www.collegefactual.com/colleges/valparaiso-university/student-life/sports/#:~:text=Did%20the%20Valpo%20Athletics%20Program,paid%20out%20%2413%2C496%2C863%20in%20expenses.
Quote from: vu72 on February 05, 2023, 01:05:18 PM
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on February 02, 2023, 10:22:32 PMOur athletic budget is in the $100million range and we're complaining about $300K-$400K?
Now is pretty funny! IU athletic budget shows they spent 102,000,000.
Here is an article showing expenses by school.
https://www.sportico.com/business/commerce/2021/college-sports-finances-database-intercollegiate-1234646029/
Here's another article--which is obviously outdated, showing revenues of 15.7 million and expenses of 13.5 million
https://www.collegefactual.com/colleges/valparaiso-university/student-life/sports/#:~:text=Did%20the%20Valpo%20Athletics%20Program,paid%20out%20%2413%2C496%2C863%20in%20expenses.
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BTW, VU2014 walked that $100 mil figure back and acknowledged it was incorrectly high about 6 posts ago.
But thanks for the added info. It's good stuff. I looked at the second one that I bolded. It was compiled before VU dropped MSO, but it is very informative anyway. In that year, Valpo saw $15+ million in athletic revenue and had $13+ million in related expenses. While revenue specifics are not revealed, it showed that athletics at Valpo ran at a profit (~ $2.2 million) -- including sports like bowling and swimming that were "profitable." Baseball was a big revenue generator (> $1.5 million) considering the size of the roster. Football accounted for almost a million and a quarter in revenue -- of course it would with 96 athletes. I can only assume that a major contributor to the plus column is tuition and fees brought in by the, at the time, 489 male and female athletes (minus financial aid?).
The "profit" is IMHO not a real profit because athletes absorb that while being on their "other" job -- being a student and having to pay professor and admin salaries, etc., it does reflect how important athletics are in bringing in the bodies.
Quote from: VU2014 on February 05, 2023, 11:25:10 AM
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on February 03, 2023, 01:07:03 PM
So the takeaway then is that we simply aren't spending enough which raises questions of overall commitment? I mean weren't we outspent by some in the HL and it didn't matter then. I still come down on the side of it being a personnel issue first and foremost though a bit more financial backing could probably help if it were feasible.
It comes down to the right leader leading the program and having adequate facilities. We have neither right now.
After watching the Valpo game last night, I later watched much of the Saint Mary's - Gonzaga game (at Saint Mary's). We would all love Valpo to achieve at the same level as Saint Mary's. Furthermore, Saint Mary's offers a good comparison to Valpo - similar enrollment, slightly lower endowment. Why is Saint Mary's consistently good? First, they have a coach who has a clear system and demands that the team play within that system. Second, they recruit players who work within that system and find an advantage in recruiting (tremendous connections in Australia).
My point? The priority, far and away, is to find the right leader for the program - one who can implement a system (and there are many possible systems), get players who fit that system, and find success within that system. By prioritizing players who fit the system, I also think that you reduce the likelihood of transfers (another example of this, albeit in a bigger conference, is Marquette - regardless of a player's talent level, they are not going to be recruited and will not play at Marquette if they do not embrace Smart's system...and Marquette had no outgoing transfers after last season). Facilities? Sure, that would be nice - but Saint Mary's' facility is worse than the Arc.
That's exactly what McCollum said in his video with Andy Katz.
84: curious how one might describe Coach's "system"
Systems can vary, but they dictate a style of offensive and/or defensive play. Saint Mary's, for instance, has a system that emphasizes patient half-court sets that reduce the overall number of possessions. Wisconsin is the same. In another example, Marquette under Shaka Smart emphasizes motion and ball movement on offense and disruption via deflections on defense. For Providence or UConn, it is physical play that focuses on controlling the paint on the offensive and defensive ends. For Villanova, it is constant ball reversal to the open three point shooter - and everyone can shoot the three. Some systems are more subtle, but there are clear go-to's based on situation or when the team is struggling (e.g., Kansas). For each of these teams, they prioritize getting players who fit in that system...and players get less time if they don't work within that system.
I am definitely in the non-D2 coach camp.
That's a move you make when things are going well and you have a stable program, with sustained success. That's when you can take a big swing. We are not in that situation. D2 coaches are high risk and high reward. But, they bring no name recognition (to fans or players) and are in a completely different recruiting pool (so, they have no prior relationship with any potential transfers or HSers). Those are two major, major negatives.
We need someone to galvanize the program. Think about some of the options. I think Dusty May is overrated but at least he can say "hey I have coached a top 25 team." Big Ten assistants can say "I can make you the next TJD or Ayo, here is what I did with them." Plus, you might be able to get a player to come with them (someone like Anthony Leal is not getting playing time at Indiana, bring his assistant, maybe you get him to come him.
Whatever Valpo does. It has to benefit recruiting and it has to get players/fans excited. Picking a D2 coach no one has ever heard of is the complete opposite. No matter how good a coach he is, if we don't have the players/talent or the excitement around the program, it's not going to succeed. I would rather keep the current staff and save up some money than go D2.
Disagree - this guy at NW Mo St. s a proven commodity. Multiple national championships and they play decent basketball in D2. His teams are better than 100 teams in D1 and his coaching has been exemplary.
I agree USC. Coaching is coaching. Good coaches know their limitations (and every coach has limitations) and they find assistants to bolster those areas. But it is still 5 players, two baskets and a ball. It's what you do with those components that makes the difference.
Fordham this season is a good example. For a generation since Digger Phelps, Fordham basketball has been a losing proposition. Then they hired a former Villanova assistant. Last season they slogged their way to 16-16. Villanova came calling and snapped the guy up to fill their open HC position. One of his assistants who was never a DI HC, was promoted to HC. He immediately put his stamp on the team, changed an improving culture into a tough, take no prisoners culture in his first year. As of last week they were in second place in the A-10 (are you paying attention Loyola?). They lost to Richmond recently but the Richmond coach was quoted as saying something like this is not the Fordham that everyone was used to in the past. One year, pretty much the same kids, a new coach, a new vibe, a new result. Coaching matters; good coaching matters a lot. And good coaching is not restricted to what NCAA level one is coaching at.
I have no doubt that either McCollum or Tonagle would've produced at least 5 or 6 more wins at this point with our current players.
One thing about McCollum is that he's basically a lifer at NWMoSt. Played there. Assistant there. HC there. He's been there 13 years or so and it's inconceivable that he hasn't been approached about a position at a higher level. He may simply be happy there and I doubt he's sitting around just waiting for the call from Valpo.
Great comments. I doubt MCCollum would go to Valpo with great gig at NW Mo. St. watching them the past two years, I am really impressed with their ball movement and defense.
He won't say it of course, but have a feeling Lottich wants to move on and waiting for Valpo to pull the plug. Maybe he is in quiet quitter mode as seen recently in the work environment.
Mike Brey announced today he is not retiring and will be available on the coaching market.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 09, 2023, 05:33:56 AM
Great comments. I doubt MCCollum would go to Valpo with great gig at NW Mo. St. watching them the past two years, I am really impressed with their ball movement and defense.
He won't say it of course, but have a feeling Lottich wants to move on and waiting for Valpo to pull the plug. Maybe he is in quiet quitter mode as seen recently in the work environment.
Say what you will about Lottich but the guy is insanely competitive. With his childhood and upbringing he needed to compete for everything he got in life. There is no quit in him.
Do I think it's time to move on? Absolutely, but I'll never question the guys drive to succeed. He's a competitor at heart.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 08, 2023, 09:31:16 PM
I agree USC. Coaching is coaching. Good coaches know their limitations (and every coach has limitations) and they find assistants to bolster those areas. But it is still 5 players, two baskets and a ball. It's what you do with those components that makes the difference.
Fordham this season is a good example. For a generation since Digger Phelps, Fordham basketball has been a losing proposition. Then they hired a former Villanova assistant. Last season they slogged their way to 16-16. Villanova came calling and snapped the guy up to fill their open HC position. One of his assistants who was never a DI HC, was promoted to HC. He immediately put his stamp on the team, changed an improving culture into a tough, take no prisoners culture in his first year. As of last week they were in second place in the A-10 (are you paying attention Loyola?). They lost to Richmond recently but the Richmond coach was quoted as saying something like this is not the Fordham that everyone was used to in the past. One year, pretty much the same kids, a new coach, a new vibe, a new result. Coaching matters; good coaching matters a lot. And good coaching is not restricted to what NCAA level one is coaching at.
I have no doubt that either McCollum or Tonagle would've produced at least 5 or 6 more wins at this point with our current players.
Completely disagree with this – particularly the thesis of your argument.
First, coaching is always great coaching, true. But, Valpo's problem is not just coaching – it's recruiting, culture, reputation, and interest. There is so much more to being a D1 coach than coaching. Being a great D2 coach is a completely different proposition than D1. And, college basketball is riddled with D2 coaches that failed for this reason. If our only problem was coaching, I could see taking a big swing, but we can't afford to do that now.
Secondly, and more importantly, you are a bit off on the Fordham situation. In fact, Fordham actually supports the opposite conclusion you were looking for. To start, Fordham had not had a .500 or better season since 2007. So, the Villanova assistant going 16-16 in his first year was actually a major improvement. Plus, he quickly added numerous players in the transfer portal, including one who is one of the best players in the A-10 today and a major reason for their success this season. Similarly, Neptune also secured the highest recruit, Will Richardson, the school brought in in over 15 years. Thus, Neptune rebuilt the culture and talent nucleus of the team in just one season. He was a large part of the foundation for success they have now. Moreover, the new coach was not purely a D2 guy. He spent numerous years at Penn State and also was an assistant under Neptune. Therefore, I think Fordham is actually more of a shining example of why you should go after a power conference assistant, rather than a D2 guy.
We need better recruits and a better culture quickly. That is something a well-known power conference assistant or highly regarded lower level head coach can bring that a D2 coach cannot.
Quote from: mp91 on February 14, 2023, 11:50:56 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 08, 2023, 09:31:16 PM
I agree USC. Coaching is coaching. Good coaches know their limitations (and every coach has limitations) and they find assistants to bolster those areas. But it is still 5 players, two baskets and a ball. It's what you do with those components that makes the difference.
Fordham this season is a good example. For a generation since Digger Phelps, Fordham basketball has been a losing proposition. Then they hired a former Villanova assistant. Last season they slogged their way to 16-16. Villanova came calling and snapped the guy up to fill their open HC position. One of his assistants who was never a DI HC, was promoted to HC. He immediately put his stamp on the team, changed an improving culture into a tough, take no prisoners culture in his first year. As of last week they were in second place in the A-10 (are you paying attention Loyola?). They lost to Richmond recently but the Richmond coach was quoted as saying something like this is not the Fordham that everyone was used to in the past. One year, pretty much the same kids, a new coach, a new vibe, a new result. Coaching matters; good coaching matters a lot. And good coaching is not restricted to what NCAA level one is coaching at.
I have no doubt that either McCollum or Tonagle would've produced at least 5 or 6 more wins at this point with our current players.
Completely disagree with this – particularly the thesis of your argument.
First, coaching is always great coaching, true. But, Valpo's problem is not just coaching – it's recruiting, culture, reputation, and interest. There is so much more to being a D1 coach than coaching. Being a great D2 coach is a completely different proposition than D1. And, college basketball is riddled with D2 coaches that failed for this reason. If our only problem was coaching, I could see taking a big swing, but we can't afford to do that now.
Secondly, and more importantly, you are a bit off on the Fordham situation. In fact, Fordham actually supports the opposite conclusion you were looking for. To start, Fordham had not had a .500 or better season since 2007. So, the Villanova assistant going 16-16 in his first year was actually a major improvement. Plus, he quickly added numerous players in the transfer portal, including one who is one of the best players in the A-10 today and a major reason for their success this season. Similarly, Neptune also secured the highest recruit, Will Richardson, the school brought in in over 15 years. Thus, Neptune rebuilt the culture and talent nucleus of the team in just one season. He was a large part of the foundation for success they have now. Moreover, the new coach was not purely a D2 guy. He spent numerous years at Penn State and also was an assistant under Neptune. Therefore, I think Fordham is actually more of a shining example of why you should go after a power conference assistant, rather than a D2 guy.
We need better recruits and a better culture quickly. That is something a well-known power conference assistant or highly regarded lower level head coach can bring that a D2 coach cannot.
More than anything, Valparaiso needs someone with some serious energy and vision. To overcome the subpar facilities and lack of overall investment from the university, someone will really need to have a strong gameplan for how to win at Valpo and subsequently work very hard to get there. I agree on the thought of a power conference assistant, as they understand the importance of talent acquisition, but that will require Valpo to pay their head coach more than what they currently do. Are they willing to do that?
Matt Lottich had a rough upbringing? Interesting. He went to HS at New Trier in Winnetka, the Hoi Polloi of public high schools in Illinois.
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on February 14, 2023, 12:11:48 PMI agree on the thought of a power conference assistant, as they understand the importance of talent acquisition, but that will require Valpo to pay their head coach more than what they currently do. Are they willing to do that?
I don't think that's accurate.
Here is info on Big Ten assistant coaches salaries written four years ago so maybe a little outdated:
Published assistant coach salaries for
Ryan Pedon, Ohio State — $395,000
Orlando Antigua, Illinois — $350,000
Kevin Broadus, Maryland — $327,000
Mike Schrage, Ohio State — $325,000
Tom Ostrom, Indiana — $315,000
Terry Johnson, Ohio State — $300,000
Bruiser Flint, Indiana — $300,000
Karl Hobbs, Rutgers — $300,000
Brandin Knight, Rutgers — $300,000
Dwayne Stephens, Michigan State — $287,000
Ed Schilling, Indiana — $275,000
Jamall Walker, Illinois — $275,000
Dane Fife, Michigan State — $267,500
Mike Garland, Michigan State — $267,500
Armon Gates, Nebraska — $256,000
Here is an article written in June of 2021, so also a little outdated, which shows Matt made $346,334:
Men's basketball
#* Porter Moser, Loyola — $1,096,244
Ben Jacobson, Northern Iowa — $900,000
* Brian Wardle, Bradley — $708,920
Dan Muller, Illinois State — $564,000
Bryan Mullins, Southern Illinois — $475,000
Dana Ford, Missouri State — $438,368
* Matt Lottich, Valparaiso — $346,334
@ Darian DeVries, Drake — $334,706
Josh Schertz, Indiana State — $300,000
% Walter McCarty, Evansville — $225,619
No stretch at all to think we could land one of these guys without breaking the bank. Even a small pay cut might be worth it to become the head guy and build his own program.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 14, 2023, 01:28:17 PM
Matt Lottich had a rough upbringing? Interesting. He went to HS at New Trier in Winnetka, the Hoi Polloi of public high schools in Illinois.
Touched on it in this story that netted me a Lisagor Award from the Chicago Headline Club.
https://www.nwitimes.com/sports/college/valparaiso-university/vus-matt-lottich-and-milwaukees-todd-townsend-are-forever-brothers/article_4790ab93-86f2-5f83-9858-0b419dcd7bdc.html
Quote from: mp91 on February 14, 2023, 11:50:56 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 08, 2023, 09:31:16 PM
I have no doubt that either McCollum or Tonagle would've produced at least 5 or 6 more wins at this point with our current players.
Completely disagree with this – particularly the thesis of your argument.
First, coaching is always great coaching, true. But, Valpo's problem is not just coaching – it's recruiting, culture, reputation, and interest. There is so much more to being a D1 coach than coaching. Being a great D2 coach is a completely different proposition than D1. And, college basketball is riddled with D2 coaches that failed for this reason. If our only problem was coaching, I could see taking a big swing, but we can't afford to do that now.
Secondly, and more importantly, you are a bit off on the Fordham situation. In fact, Fordham actually supports the opposite conclusion you were looking for. To start, Fordham had not had a .500 or better season since 2007. So, the Villanova assistant going 16-16 in his first year was actually a major improvement. Plus, he quickly added numerous players in the transfer portal, including one who is one of the best players in the A-10 today and a major reason for their success this season. Similarly, Neptune also secured the highest recruit, Will Richardson, the school brought in in over 15 years. Thus, Neptune rebuilt the culture and talent nucleus of the team in just one season. He was a large part of the foundation for success they have now. Moreover, the new coach was not purely a D2 guy. He spent numerous years at Penn State and also was an assistant under Neptune. Therefore, I think Fordham is actually more of a shining example of why you should go after a power conference assistant, rather than a D2 guy.
We need better recruits and a better culture quickly. That is something a well-known power conference assistant or highly regarded lower level head coach can bring that a D2 coach cannot.
19, I think you missed my points. We agree that good coaching (i.e. " the system." and the day to day actual coaching chops) exists regardless of level. That is why I mentioned that either McCollum or Tonagel, who are good in-game, Xs and Os decision makers would have already won 5 or 6 more games
with the current players.My second point was precisely that Fordham turned itself around immediately (which accurately you highlight) by making a HC change. That was to underscore a need for change regardless of level. Related to that I must correct your assertion that I said that the assistant that took over for Neptune was a D-II guy. Nowhere did I state that. My reference to the guy who's in there now was to further illustrate that change (this time a quantum leap over the previous year's quantum leap) can happen -- in the Fordham situation, it's a case of lightning striking the same spot twice.
Finally, we agree to disagree on whether it is
impossible for a former D-II HC to recruit better and immediately change the culture. I do think it's possible and depending on the candidate it might not be that big of a swing.
Does anyone know if ML has a contract through the 24-25 season? If so, goodness that's two more years of this subpar mediocrity.
Picking the brain of two Valpo Legends on what it takes to succeed at Valpo and what are good coaching qualities? (Wishful thinking?)
I would 100% ask and tap into Homer and Bryce opinion on the next HC hire. Hypothetically if this is what this meeting was about, the timelines up. If we were moving on from Lottich, AD Small would be doing his homework now and tapping into his connections a few months before hand. Take the meeting now with Homer and Bryce a few weeks before conference tournaments start.
The announcement of moving away from Lottich would happen probably within a week of Arch Madness wrapping. Start the search early when most coaches are ending their seasons if tourney play isn't in their teams future. AD Small and President Padilla would 100% want to be at the Final 4, because it's a gathering of coaches and pretty much used as a networking event. If they could lock in on a candidate by then they could start recruiting their future staff right then and there.
I'm saying Jake Diebler (Ohio State might have a coaching change soon) or Roger Powell should be two guys in the mix for obvious reasons, but I hope we don't limit ourselves to just the Valpo Coaching Tree. I think since AD Small is an outsider, he definitely wouldn't limit himself like that. He's from Iowa State so I'd be very interested in looking at the last few Iowa State Coaching Staffs and see if a hire has a connection to those recent coaching trees.
https://twitter.com/charles_small15/status/1626221828309135360?s=46&t=CDsC28Dq2xwSf30LrwMaSA
Homer is looking pretty sprightly! Maybe he'd like to be on the sidelines again for a few seasons!
Just kidding.
I think. ???
It's been shot down but I think Roger Powell would be awesome.
Up & Comer, Illinois roots, Big game experience... One can wish.
If only I could've been a fly on the wall to listen in on the conversation Dr. Small had with Bryce & Homer ... or, even better, to get in the mind of Dr. Small and know what he was *thinking* while meeting with these two Valpo legends. I'm sorry, but there's no way - given his basketball regimen personally, professionally, and administratively - that he thinks this program is progressing in any way, shape, or form.
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 17, 2023, 04:53:41 PM
It's been shot down but I think Roger Powell would be awesome.
Up & Comer, Illinois roots, Big game experience... One can wish.
Here's the issue, Roger knows about the facilities at Valpo and that nothing has changed. He also knows that there are much better opportunities out there and the right one will come calling. Why waste Preacher's time at Valpo? Been there done that.
Quote from: historyman on February 17, 2023, 10:38:58 PM
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 17, 2023, 04:53:41 PM
It's been shot down but I think Roger Powell would be awesome.
Up & Comer, Illinois roots, Big game experience... One can wish.
Here's the issue, Roger knows about the facilities at Valpo and that nothing has changed. He also knows that there are much better opportunities out there and the right one will come calling. Why waste Preacher's time at Valpo? Been there done that.
Just because he said no earlier in his career when thought he wasn't ready to be an HC doesn't mean he wouldn't say yes now. It sounds like wants to be an HC now and has been rumored as a candidate for recent MVC HC openings in recent years.
I wouldn't rule out Roger Powell. He would know what he's signing up for and the challenges. A complete rebuild is needed here
I like Roger but I want a proven HC
This thread is an epic waste of time
Valpo will not pay out a contract of this magnitude for someone "not" to coach
Like it or not Matt Lottich is our HC for the remainder of his contract
We do not have the resources nor the alumni base(donors) to pay to make a change
Start with trying to make WBB better-not hard to do as they are at an all time low
It shows that the President and AD are serious about improving athletics-while not having to come up with 500 k give or take
23, if you think the thread is a waste of time, then don't read it.
It may give others enjoyment to participate in these exercises.
Nice that you enjoy discussing a man losing his job.
Really seems you embody the spirit of a Lutheran University.
Quote from: beacons23 on February 18, 2023, 01:33:45 PMStart with trying to make WBB better-not hard to do as they are at an all time low
It shows that the President and AD are serious about improving athletics-while not having to come up with 500 k give or take
I'm not sure they are at an all time low but they must be very close. OK. Who would you reccommend taking over for coach Evans?
Quote from: justducky on February 18, 2023, 03:46:51 PM
Quote from: beacons23 on February 18, 2023, 01:33:45 PMStart with trying to make WBB better-not hard to do as they are at an all time low
It shows that the President and AD are serious about improving athletics-while not having to come up with 500 k give or take
I'm not sure they are at an all time low but they must be very close. OK. Who would you reccommend taking over for coach Evans?
Unlike most of the "basketball experts" here I have no idea how to find a new coach.
I would leave it to the new AD -someone actually who has been at a high level in Athletics -rather than some that think their season ticket payment or small donation each year permits them to criticize a program-coach and school.
It is hilarious reading some of the comments here...10 dudes that have it all figured out
Quote from: beacons23 on February 18, 2023, 03:54:48 PM
Quote from: justducky on February 18, 2023, 03:46:51 PM
Quote from: beacons23 on February 18, 2023, 01:33:45 PMStart with trying to make WBB better-not hard to do as they are at an all time low
It shows that the President and AD are serious about improving athletics-while not having to come up with 500 k give or take
I'm not sure they are at an all time low but they must be very close. OK. Who would you reccommend taking over for coach Evans?
Unlike most of the "basketball experts" here I have no idea how to find a new coach.
I would leave it to the new AD -someone actually who has been at a high level in Athletics -rather than some that think their season ticket payment or small donation each year permits them to criticize a program-coach and school.
It is hilarious reading some of the comments here...10 dudes that have it all figured out
Aww, c'mon now. No one is about to storm the AD's office and take over for him. This thread is borne of frustration and concern over the direction of the MBB program. It's also what being a passionate sports fan in general is all about. You speculate, you rant, you propose your fixes.
I do get that the conversations hit closer to home at a smaller school and discuss a coach who has been a stand-up guy throughout his time at VU. FWIW, I think that many here have expressed their views couched in a tone of respect towards Coach Lottich. Assuming his eventual departure from Valpo, I hope he learns from this experience and gets another chance, at which he succeeds marvelously.
A lot of head coaches who do great things in their careers start with an initial hiccup or two. Hey, I live in Boston, and the HC of the local pro football team happened to be fired by the Cleveland freaking Browns before he was hired here. Go figure....
Lottich is a decent guy, no one on this board questions that. This is not like the Dale Carlson coaching situation. I think Lottich wants to move on and there could be a compromise on his contract payout. The apathy is high right now and will get worse if a change isn't made. Small might have second thoughts taking the AD job if he see himself in a scenario that does operate like a Division 1 program. and BTW, these actions do not contradict the integrity of being Christian/Lutheran school, which is a bogus comment.
Complaining about this board..lol. Wisconsin fans want Greg Gard fired. I am more concerned when apathy sets in which I believe has.
Has it been confirmed there's a buyout in Lottichs contract? One would hope there isn't and that the university was smart about the contract. A lot of people on this board wanted Lottich gone when they somehow decided to give him an extension. I hope they made an easy out clause in the contract for the university if it kept going poorly.
Quote from: beacons23 on February 18, 2023, 01:33:45 PM
This thread is an epic waste of time
Valpo will not pay out a contract of this magnitude for someone "not" to coach
Like it or not Matt Lottich is our HC for the remainder of his contract
We do not have the resources nor the alumni base(donors) to pay to make a change
Start with trying to make WBB better-not hard to do as they are at an all time low
It shows that the President and AD are serious about improving athletics-while not having to come up with 500 k give or take
The devil is really in the details of the contract and if there is opt outs. I don't see the University paying a large opt out fee. If it were a $50K or $75k opt opt out maybe there would be a discussion. Regardless Ad Small and Pres Padilla owe Alums and fans an explanation or at least hint to an insider such as Paul Oren a hint of future plans for the program and that includes the Coach.
Honestly, I think Coach Evans is a much better Coach than Lottich. I'm not opposed to moving on from her once her contracts up, but I'm less concerned about the leader of the WBB program.
The primary focus and investment should go towards the MBB program. It's Valpo's premier program that has the greatest impact on the University. A dollar spent on MBB could go farther in terms of a return on investment for the University. A long and good Mens NCAA Tournament run not only is great marketing but every small school that has a good run sees increased engagement from potential enrollment in the school. A good run would be a boost in admissions. Not to mention when the Men's Basketball Team is strong morale is high with Alums and fans. When morale is high, the university has an easier time raising donations.
Quote from: VU2014 on February 19, 2023, 11:20:12 AMHonestly, I think Coach Evans is a much better Coach than Lottich.
Not to split hairs but I would change "much better coach" to "somewhat better coach".
Quote from: VU2014 on February 19, 2023, 11:20:12 AMI'm not opposed to moving on from her once her contracts up, but I'm less concerned about the leader of the WBB program.
If WBB were our flagship sport we would already have 5 pages of comments and suggestions about finding her replacement. I just don't think her over reliance on outside shooting with insufficient inside help will ever produce a consistent winner in Valley level play.
With the art fire sale and liberal arts professors trying to keep their stand while instructing a handful of students, I'm now doubt a change is going to be made with the men's basketball program. Valpo really needs to figure out their identity and what they want to be. Also, and I hate to be blunt because there is some pain in this situation, with the declining enrollment which appears to be the trend, keeping academic programs and majors where they have a few students does not make sense. There are other universities and colleges, likely with better programs, that these students can transfer to. This would not be a mass exodus of transfers and it would make Valpo better off economically.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 19, 2023, 12:16:55 PM
With the art fire sale and liberal arts professors trying to keep their stand while instructing a handful of students, I'm now doubt a change is going to be made with the men's basketball program. Valpo really needs to figure out their identity and what they want to be. Also, and I hate to be blunt because there is some pain in this situation, with the declining enrollment which appears to be the trend, keeping academic programs and majors where they have a few students does not make sense. There are other universities and colleges, likely with better programs, that these students can transfer to. This would not be a mass exodus of transfers and it would make Valpo better off economically.
It's 2 or 3 paints things. Wouldn't classify it as a fire sale but I understand your point.
The declining enrollment is not unique to Valpo. It's happening across the country. Young people, particularly young Men are choosing to not attend college because they don't see the ROI anymore. 20-40 years ago the college degree route was a slam dunk to higher wages and more stability in your career. With the age of globalization offshoring work beyond blue collar jobs, that social contract has been broken for the American people. Overall if you look at stats, a college degree on average still leads to higher wages based on the degree a student choose. Liberal Arts degrees empirically are not a wise ROI choice. But if a student chooses the "correct" degree (career path) a degree is well worth it. Example: STEM careers, business, Nursing, etc are generally much safer from a career prospects standpoint. Valpo should prioritize investing those career academic majors. If I were the board I would look to expand academic options for STEM and even more trades/technical fields. I'm not sure how that would work. But there will always be a demand for trades. Maybe the University does a collaboration with a local trades school and buys or merges. It would be a tradition 4 year path, but maybe they the 2 year trades experience and the Valparaiso offers a few years of operation management training.
The University needs to be in the mindset of "Evolve or die". What worked 20 years ago, will not be a sustainable educational plan for students or business plan for the University. The University needs to be customer centric and focused on returning value for the students. IF that means finding new target market changing the customer you cater to, that difficult decision needs to be made. I would pivot away from educational programs with low career earnings potential and focus on careers are growing fields and high earnings potential. If that means we move away from the Liberal Arts school title, so be it. Difficult choices need to be made and leadership needs to have the stomach to make people angry.
I really pray Mark LaBarbera was competent enough to write in opt outs into the contract extension....
https://twitter.com/jonrothstein/status/1288482118306344960?s=46&t=XFsLB1vxu7rwNeaCIccVCA
I feel bad for Padilla and Small in how they have to handle this situation with cash deficit issues and a few loud, naive students and professors making it even more confronting. Small is likely limited to make decision best for the athletic program because of this.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 20, 2023, 09:19:11 AM
I feel bad for Padilla and Small in how they have to handle this situation with cash deficit issues and a few loud, naive students and professors making it even more confronting. Small is likely limited to make decision best for the athletic program because of this.
I attended a faculty meeting with Padilla and his cabinet last week in which all the details of the art sale plan and the Board's overall budget were offered. For the sake of ethics, I cannot repeat any of the conversation here.
However, two open letters to Padilla and the board strenuously objecting to the art sale have been composed: one by about 100 faculty, including the most revered and respected figures on campus, and another by nearly 400 students to be presented to the student senate for a proposal. There is also talk of a possible alumni letter forthcoming. Rather than "a few loud, naive students and professors," the perspective on campus appears overwhelmingly against Padilla's decision. I have heard no support for the plan. In fact, following the faculty meeting, objections to the art sale have only strengthened. The plan may take place, but the unfortunate consequences will be even greater division and distrust, as well as a further weakening of morale in the university community.
On another point, I agree with you that an art sale, combined with faculty displeasure over current compensation discussions, would rule out any idea of a buyout or other large expenditures in athletics.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 20, 2023, 09:19:11 AM
I feel bad for Padilla and Small in how they have to handle this situation with cash deficit issues and a few loud, naive students and professors making it even more confronting. Small is likely limited to make decision best for the athletic program because of this.
Painting this as "a few loud, naive students" is an understatement.
Figure we're less than 2 weeks from getting an initial answer to the question which is will Valpo make a change in the first place.
If this is still being discussed 2 weeks from today, it probably isn't happening.
https://iowa.forums.rivals.com/threads/valparaiso-university-students-protest-plan-to-sell-three-paintings-including-a-georgia-o%E2%80%99keeffe.413197/
I hate to see Valpo selling wonderful art pieces, but if needs to survive, you have to make decisions like this.
So there was a report that a grand total of 20 students protested outside Padilla's office regarding the art sale. All were art, creative writing and theatre majors that have a loud, naive voice in programs requiring general funding from the rest of the colleges to stay afloat. Who knows, they may have been influential in the stupid mascot decision.
Lottich is going to keep his job for reasons beyond the control of Padilla and Small.
Although I don't believe Lottich is going anywhere this year unless he chooses to do so, in addition to my previous suggestion, should the position open up, of a possible future candidate, J.R. Blount an Assistant Coach of Iowa State, I would add Brandin Knight, Associate Head Coach at Rutgers (formerly at Pittsburgh and brother of NBA's Brevin Knight). Admittedly, I am disregarding any economic elements (I don't doubt they could make higher salaries elsewhere) and focusing solely on the fact that if they want a head coach position, both have past personal connections with AD Small, which could be a compelling factor.
Quote from: valpopal on February 20, 2023, 10:23:48 AMI attended a faculty meeting with Padilla and his cabinet last week in which all the details of the art sale plan and the Board's overall budget were offered. For the sake of ethics, I cannot repeat any of the conversation here.
However, two open letters to Padilla and the board strenuously objecting to the art sale have been composed: one by about 100 faculty, including the most revered and respected figures on campus, and another by nearly 400 students to be presented to the student senate for a proposal. There is also talk of a possible alumni letter forthcoming. Rather than "a few loud, naive students and professors," the perspective on campus appears overwhelmingly against Padilla's decision. I have heard no support for the plan. In fact, following the faculty meeting, objections to the art sale have only strengthened. The plan may take place, but the unfortunate consequences will be even greater division and distrust, as well as a further weakening of morale in the university community.
On another point, I agree with you that an art sale, combined with faculty displeasure over current compensation discussions, would rule out any idea of a buyout or other large expenditures in athletics.
I find this very strange. There is a meeting that was designed to foster transparency. The budget is revealed and the disgruntled salary starved faculty does not see any merit in an action plan approved by 22 highly successful people, that potentially helps return the enrollment to previous levels.
You didn't see ANY merit in their plan???
Very real possibility that Matt may stay through his contract. And I think you have to support him. It may not be a winning year (most likely will not be, especially with Krikkes future up in air)
But Lottich did not ask for this situation, he took the extension in good faith. Valpos problems (leave it at that) are not because of a struggling basketball team. There could have been pay cuts across the board over the 2010s. (Salaries are avl and comparable to other similar sized universities online). No sense crying over spilled milk.
The art sale is a major sign of struggle, the students of non profitable majors protesting should be a non factor in decision making (most will graduate check their loan status and realize that art degree would have been a lot more affordable at a state school)
I've said this before, I am not on campus or close to situation, Valpo needs to operate as a failing business and bring business minded people into decision making. They need to cut costs and provide an affordable product. Plain and simple. Valpo is not a brand anymore that will guarantee 5000 undergrad.
Just looking on Twitter. Valpo University 11k followers, Valpo Basketball 9K, Valpo Football 27k. Not really related but that's a massive disparity.
Lottich has a large part in creating this situation. He has ran the schools flagship program to a state where hardly anyone cares about it anymore. The fact that he even remotely has a chance to be the head coach next year is absurd.
Was it him or was it the University and exposure of the game. Bryce picked guys from overseas and Canada and found his role guys from the Midwest (Alec Peters aside).
Players from overseas are getting recruited to big time schools, euro league can sign guys at 14 to their programs, Canada is a recruiting hotspot.
The Universities basketball facilities are outdated and that only heightened in the MVC. Transfer portal is a massive part of the game now, Bryce only had one guy xfer up (Brandon Wood)
Is it a Lottich thing , Valpo thing, Jimmy and Joes thing, Outside sources thing. Probably a combo of all three. Not to mention the jump to the MVC.
I think Matt was dealt a bad hand and listen. If any one of our jobs offered us an extension and a raise to do the same job, we are taking it 10/10 times. It is not his fault that the University does not have the funds to swallow a contract they offered (nor the donors but that is a whole other story)
And to the crowd saying he should step away from 345k in good faith....... Come on now.
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 20, 2023, 06:34:29 PM
Was it him or was it the University and exposure of the game. Bryce picked guys from overseas and Canada and found his role guys from the Midwest (Alec Peters aside).
Players from overseas are getting recruited to big time schools, euro league can sign guys at 14 to their programs, Canada is a recruiting hotspot.
The Universities basketball facilities are outdated and that only heightened in the MVC. Transfer portal is a massive part of the game now, Bryce only had one guy xfer up (Brandon Wood)
Is it a Lottich thing , Valpo thing, Jimmy and Joes thing, Outside sources thing. Probably a combo of all three. Not to mention the jump to the MVC.
I think Matt was dealt a bad hand and listen. If any one of our jobs offered us an extension and a raise to do the same job, we are taking it 10/10 times. It is not his fault that the University does not have the funds to swallow a contract they offered (nor the donors but that is a whole other story)
Who's responsible for bringing the Jimmies and Joes into the program?
The Coach, but the school/facilities enable which Jimmy and Joes you can realistically get and retain
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 20, 2023, 06:34:29 PMBryce only had one guy xfer up (Brandon Wood)
Richie Edwards transferred up to Arizona St then redshirted a year because of it but when elligible barely saw the floor.
I've been as tough on ML as anyone else, but I also recognize that he's been HC during a time of massive change in college basketball and at VU.
In the fall of 2016 Valpo enrolled a total of 4,439 students. In the fall of 2022 Valpo enrolled 2,964.
That's a massive drop of students in a short period of time and may help to explain why the ARC isnt as packed as before. Then you have the transfer rule change and the NIL money and suddenly the world is a very different place.
Quote from: mj on February 20, 2023, 07:58:59 PM
I've been as tough on ML as anyone else, but I also recognize that he's been HC during a time of massive change in college basketball and at VU.
In the fall of 2016 Valpo enrolled a total of 4,439 students. In the fall of 2022 Valpo enrolled 2,964.
That's a massive drop of students in a short period of time and may help to explain why the ARC isnt as packed as before. Then you have the transfer rule change and the NIL money and suddenly the world is a very different place.
The enrollment drop from 2016 to present is a serious matter, but keep in mind that the 2016 figure included ~400-425 law students. My guess is that the law students weren't exactly packing the ARC, but more importantly, the drop in core undergraduate enrollment looks, well, less awful taking that into consideration.
16 - good talking points but Lottich is the leader to make this program successful and the program is on the down. Lottich has had 7 years to prove himself and he has not met expectations. I get the other excuses, but he should be let go. However, since Valpo is strapped for cash and is apathetic toward athletics, they will keep him based on the contract. It's a sad situation that Padilla and Small cannot make decisions based on lack of funds.
That being said, sell the art, build what you need and keep Valpo sustainable.
USC, no doubt the program should move forward.
But it's not Matt's fault the school cannot move forward, and no man in their right mind will walk away from 345k to coach basketball.
That's all I'm saying. If somehow the University can move forward without crippling themselves they should. However if they are selling campus art to get out of the red. Not sure much is there.
16, excellent points. At the end, Valpo will keep Lottich primarily for financial reasons and not because he is the ideal for the job. Pretty sad situation.
Sell the art and clean things up Valpo!
#1 priority needs to be boosting enrollment. If the University manages this effectively and doesn't deteriorate the academic standards and achieve it in a cost effective way it will allow them to level set the budget. That may mean class sizes need to increase. That won't make faculty happy but it will allow VU to address some of the wage concerns.
Valpo isn't selling Art to stay out of the red. They're selling art to accelerate the renovations that they believe they need now vs something that can/want to fundraise or borrow money for. Any school like valpo needs to find their equilibrium between size and cost to run. That's going to mean we need to increase enrollment and retain students and also maybe shrink down again. Nothing is static in academia, programs cut now can be brought back later, or make way for new ones. Programs excelling now may shrink over time.
Same thing with sports. Programs down low can bounce back, and programs at the top of their game can falter quickly. AGain the goal is balance. I want us to be comparable to the other schools in coach pay and resources for students (arena is nice yes but resources matter more) and then when or if we struggle we won't be able to blame it on anything else but the coach.
Valpo has always prided doing a lot of things that you wouldn't expect for a small school but at the expense of maybe keeping things afloat through lower salaries/making more with little. It's time to invest and sometimes investing means shrinking.
So......I think it's foreseeable that during the years to come, a good number of regional, private universities with ok-to-mediocre D1 sports programs will drop down to D3 as institutional finances continue to pose a challenge. When I say ok-to-mediocre, I mean not only on the court/field performance, but also in fan support and interest from the student body. And once a few recognized schools do this, it could start a small cascade.
I think VU is at a crossroads in terms of its marquee D1 sports program, in ways that ripple out to every other intercollegiate sport at the University. I don't know what that means in terms of head coaching options. A contract is a contract, and breaking it means that -- in essence -- for the next 2 years, VU could be paying in the neighborhood of $750-850k to cover salaries for a new HC and the former one.
If it goes this route, then the new guy had better be the right pick, and that should be accompanied by other measures to bring back the MBB program and the fans. I cringe when I hear the phrase "go big or go home," but that might be the stakes at this juncture, especially given financial challenges facing the rest of the University.
Not sure who is behind this twitter account but they are speculating on names for Valpo HC job.
https://twitter.com/cbbsearchfirm/status/1628108102330351633?s=46&t=YdD4uM1tLl3kCHZzESsGUw
https://twitter.com/aceinathletics/status/1628109616461627392?s=46&t=YdD4uM1tLl3kCHZzESsGUw
Chris Beard is available....
yeaaaah. Chris Beard's career is a chalk outline right now. Guy needs help in his personal life. Won't be coaching anytime soon unless he takes a G League assistant job or ends up overseas. Pitino is the only guy that has 9 lives
Barry Hinson? 16 years in the Missouri Valley and 2 at Oral Roberts
We should at least inquire. You never know what kind of answer Barry might come up with.
He surprised a lot of people when he resigned from his head coach position at Southern Illinois.
Quote from: historyman on February 21, 2023, 09:44:26 PM
Barry Hinson? 16 years in the Missouri Valley and 2 at Oral Roberts
We should at least inquire. You never know what kind of answer Barry might come up with.
He surprised a lot of people when he resigned from his head coach position at Southern Illinois.
Love Barry but we don't need a retread coach. No disrespect to him. He would be a phenomenal tv color analyst
There are many ways to handle a new coaches contract and still pay a buyout of prior coach if your short funds right now. It happens in everyday employment contracts. You can work them 100 different ways to make it work. Same thing with buyouts. Many times you can rework those if there is a benefit to both parties. You can lose future employment opportunities if you don't save face sometimes when being severed.
The reality is the job is/will be attractive. It's a D1 job in the MVC, with a program that has had prior success over a long period of time. But you can only hold on to your prior press clippings for so long.
This will be an interesting few weeks ahead. Probably one of the most important in program history. Either keep the coach and publicly talk about what success looks like going forward and corrective steps, move on and start fresh with a new roster next year, or keep your head in the sand and things will continue to get worse.
Quote from: AB on February 21, 2023, 08:58:59 PM
yeaaaah. Chris Beard's career is a chalk outline right now. Guy needs help in his personal life. Won't be coaching anytime soon unless he takes a G League assistant job or ends up overseas. Pitino is the only guy that has 9 lives
Valpo won't be the one to hire Beard, and it may not happen in this cycle, but you can count on him getting a college job in the next few years. Someone will hire him.
Barry Hinson, guy never won anything. He wasn't bad but I think there's a number of higher ceiling candidates out there, I would take his performance over Lottichs though.
Quote from: NotBryceDrew on February 22, 2023, 11:44:53 AM
Barry Hinson, guy never won anything. He wasn't bad but I think there's a number of higher ceiling candidates out there, I would take his performance over Lottichs though.
Barry may take the job with the low salary just for the challenge of it. Barry is a disciplined individual and would be better than Lottich which is a very key factor.
Current lower level coaches I'd take a look at (with last 3 year records):
Preston Spradlin 65-29 - Morehead State
John Becker 55-21 - Vermont
Rober Jones 60-23 - Norfolk State
Steve Lutz 42-21 - A&M Corpus Christi
Richie McKay 67-24 - Liberty
Paul Mills 62-27 - Oral Roberts
Eric Henderson 63-23- South Dakota St
Have to wonder if any of these proven small major guys could be brought over
Good research, 16.
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 22, 2023, 07:01:43 PM
Current lower level coaches I'd take a look at (with last 3 year records):
Preston Spradlin 65-29 - Morehead State
John Becker 55-21 - Vermont
Rober Jones 60-23 - Norfolk State
Steve Lutz 42-21 - A&M Corpus Christi
Richie McKay 67-24 - Liberty
Paul Mills 62-27 - Oral Roberts
Eric Henderson 63-23- South Dakota St
Have to wonder if any of these proven small major guys could be brought over
I can't speak to all of these, but for guys like Becker and McKay that have been at those jobs for a long time, why would they leave? $300-400K from Valpo isn't going to get any of those guys.
Agreed. Why take on a rebuilding challenge for that. Stay where you are, be successful again for a season or two, and punch your ticket to a much bigger paying job/stage.
Barry Hinson is a name that would be perfect to replace one of our assistant coaches, honestly. Maybe it isn't Lottich so much as Gore, Bowen or Holloway that are holding things back? Loyalty to assistant coaches can only go so far. Gore has been at Valpo since he was a GA back in 2002. Bowen is on his second go around at VU, and he wasn't a great D2 head coach at Bemidji St. I don't know enough about Holloway. In terms of these three, maybe it's time to cut one of them, and bring in a Barry Hinson-type who has coaching pedigree at the MVC/D-I level to be a stronger mentor to Lottich? Yes, I know...most of you want to cut Lottich because you don't like he's not a Drew, but some coaches realize their strengths are within, instead of access to longtime assistant coaches. I mean look at a lot of the Power 5s. Sure, some assistants stay around because they are good at a specific thing, like recruiting or coaching a specific part of the offense or defensive. At Valpo, I don't see that from our assistants. I just see three guys on the bench holding clipboards, or Bowen kicking back like he's the coaching guru that had 500 wins somewhere else, but doesn't show it in his demeanor.
I also would love Barry Hinson, personally. Remember, he took over an 8-23 SIU program handcuffed by APR and had them as a 2-4 seed 4 straight years in years 4-7. The guy has proven success rebuilding from the bottom up.
Also, his 2006 Missouri St team was 21 in RPI. If they weren't objectively robbed, the "Barry Hinson never made an NCAA Tournament" knock would've never been a thing.
An interesting note concerning Barry Hinson. Currently, he's the Associate AD / NIL @ Oklahoma State.
https://okstate.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/barry-hinson/1874
He's an OK State graduate & was born in Marlow, OK.
During the height of the pandemic, his position was cut. But he voluntarily continued & showed up to work daily. That's dedication!!!
Unless Dr. Small has such a strong relationship with him and/or he's strapped for cash, I don't see him leaving OK State. That's dedication!
If I were him (assuming he's not strapped for cash and/or itching to leave his home state for NWI), I wouldn't leave that position to take on the unknowns surrounding this Valpo bball program ...
Quote from: Chairback on February 22, 2023, 07:20:30 AM
There are many ways to handle a new coaches contract and still pay a buyout of prior coach if your short funds right now. It happens in everyday employment contracts. You can work them 100 different ways to make it work. Same thing with buyouts. Many times you can rework those if there is a benefit to both parties. You can lose future employment opportunities if you don't save face sometimes when being severed.
The reality is the job is/will be attractive. It's a D1 job in the MVC, with a program that has had prior success over a long period of time. But you can only hold on to your prior press clippings for so long.
This will be an interesting few weeks ahead. Probably one of the most important in program history. Either keep the coach and publicly talk about what success looks like going forward and corrective steps, move on and start fresh with a new roster next year, or keep your head in the sand and things will continue to get worse.
Though I agree that a negotiated buyout should cost VU less than the 2 remaining years (taking from what others have posted here) on Coach Lottich's contract, I can't imagine him walking away for less than one year's severance. And frankly, I wouldn't blame him a bit for holding out for that, for the sake of his finances and family.
And while a year's severance at over $300k may be an acceptable deal at an institution that has some cash to spare (albeit painfully), it's an awful look for a school that has just laid off scores of promising tenure-track faculty and long-time valued employees, and is now about to sell off the most valuable pieces its own art museum to upgrade student housing. And keep in mind that that figure represents the total salaries of an entire small academic department at VU...and it's not as if morale within the current faculty should be disregarded.
The ideal thing would be for an anonymous donor to step up and cover the severance as a specified use gift. I've never heard of that occurring anywhere, but if you want to enable a transition that is fair to an outgoing coach who has given his best and is not going to anger a good cross-section of faculty and maybe some students, that's the way to go.
What is buyout of assistants? We really need a reboot of both offense and defense.
Maybe Bryce or Powell know of a young up and coming talented coach that needs an opportunity to lead a team's offense or defense
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on February 23, 2023, 07:33:56 AMQuote from: valpofb16 on February 22, 2023, 07:01:43 PMCurrent lower level coaches I'd take a look at (with last 3 year records): Preston Spradlin 65-29 - Morehead State John Becker 55-21 - Vermont Rober Jones 60-23 - Norfolk State Steve Lutz 42-21 - A&M Corpus Christi Richie McKay 67-24 - Liberty Paul Mills 62-27 - Oral Roberts Eric Henderson 63-23- South Dakota St Have to wonder if any of these proven small major guys could be brought over
I can't speak to all of these, but for guys like Becker and McKay that have been at those jobs for a long time, why would they leave? $300-400K from Valpo isn't going to get any of those guys.
Making an argument that a move from Morehead St or Oral Roberts to Valpo would be a move up is a tough one to make as well. Of the listed maybe the Norfolk St and the A&MCC guys would make the most sense.
Quote from: covufan on February 23, 2023, 01:28:10 PMWhat is buyout of assistants? We really need a reboot of both offense and defense. Maybe Bryce or Powell know of a young up and coming talented coach that needs an opportunity to lead a team's offense or defense Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Assistants typically work year to year contracts so any buyout would be a complete surprise.
My worry is that, unless we see a larger commitment to the program from the university, we're going to have similar results with a new coach.
Maybe we keep Lottich but replace the assistants? Something has to change.
Quote from: JD24 on February 23, 2023, 01:48:26 PM
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on February 23, 2023, 07:33:56 AMQuote from: valpofb16 on February 22, 2023, 07:01:43 PMCurrent lower level coaches I'd take a look at (with last 3 year records): Preston Spradlin 65-29 - Morehead State John Becker 55-21 - Vermont Rober Jones 60-23 - Norfolk State Steve Lutz 42-21 - A&M Corpus Christi Richie McKay 67-24 - Liberty Paul Mills 62-27 - Oral Roberts Eric Henderson 63-23- South Dakota St Have to wonder if any of these proven small major guys could be brought over
I can't speak to all of these, but for guys like Becker and McKay that have been at those jobs for a long time, why would they leave? $300-400K from Valpo isn't going to get any of those guys.
Making an argument that a move from Morehead St or Oral Roberts to Valpo would be a move up is a tough one to make as well. Of the listed maybe the Norfolk St and the A&MCC guys would make the most sense.
I don't think Lutz will leave A&MCC. He's a Texas guy, though he did spend a number of years in West Lafayette under Matt Painter. He got A&MCC into the tournament in his first year last season and could do it again this year. Not crazy to think he could get a better job than Valpo.
Quote from: valporun on February 23, 2023, 09:34:48 AMBarry Hinson is a name that would be perfect to replace one of our assistant coaches, honestly. Maybe it isn't Lottich so much as Gore, Bowen or Holloway that are holding things back? Loyalty to assistant coaches can only go so far. Gore has been at Valpo since he was a GA back in 2002. Bowen is on his second go around at VU, and he wasn't a great D2 head coach at Bemidji St. I don't know enough about Holloway. In terms of these three, maybe it's time to cut one of them, and bring in a Barry Hinson-type who has coaching pedigree at the MVC/D-I level to be a stronger mentor to Lottich? Yes, I know...most of you want to cut Lottich because you don't like he's not a Drew, but some coaches realize their strengths are within, instead of access to longtime assistant coaches. I mean look at a lot of the Power 5s. Sure, some assistants stay around because they are good at a specific thing, like recruiting or coaching a specific part of the offense or defensive. At Valpo, I don't see that from our assistants. I just see three guys on the bench holding clipboards, or Bowen kicking back like he's the coaching guru that had 500 wins somewhere else, but doesn't show it in his demeanor.
Hinson would never come here to be an assistant and thanks but no thanks even as a head coach. He is the definition of a mediocre coach and schedules super soft in the non con which leaves his teams often woefully unprepared for conference play. I'd rather take a swing on a Tongael type and fail than hire Hinson. We know what we're getting there and it isn't good at least with a guy like Tonagel the potential exists for it to turn out amazing. Secondly those who want to move on from Lottich don't give a rip (and never did) that he's not a Drew. We care that he's not winning. Full stop. We care that he's had seven years now (six in the MVC) and is consistently garnering the same or worse results as he was when we first arrived in the MVC even with relative stability and continuity on the roster. We care that the program isn't near where it was before he took over and shows no signs of getting anywhere close to that level again. We care that nobody cares anymore and attendance is now about half what it was before. His last name has nothing to do with any of this. His coaching and the results (or lack thereof) that it delivers has everything to do with it.
That said your point is an interesting one that maybe it's an assistant holding him back but isn't it an indictment on Lottich if he can't recognize that and make the appropriate changes? Also after seven years that should have been figured out and dealt with so even if it is true Lottich bears responsibility for not fixing it at this point and there is no point in trying a refresh of the assistant coaching staff unless it comes as part of a new head coach bringing in his guys. Enough is enough and eventually someone has to answer for these results. Unfortunately--whether it's deserved or not--that often has to be the one in charge.
David81 - I liked you hope that someone would provide a gift for a Lottich severance package. However, let's assume that happens - now there will be loud folks complaining that the money could be used to keep the art, hold on to a remote major, etc.
Second thought - if they keep Lottich, which I think will happen strictly based on a cash deficit, I want to see the Valpo spin doctors promote how this program is in the right direction. There will be comments where they will be buffing a turd.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 23, 2023, 05:05:57 PM
David81 - I liked you hope that someone would provide a gift for a Lottich severance package. However, let's assume that happens - now there will be loud folks complaining that the money could be used to keep the art, hold on to a remote major, etc.
Second thought - if they keep Lottich, which I think will happen strictly based on a cash deficit, I want to see the Valpo spin doctors promote how this program is in the right direction. There will be comments where they will be buffing a turd.
usc4valpo, that's why I said it has to be a donor-specified use. That way if someone has a problem that the donation is being used to buyout a coach, they can take it up with the donor. (And as you know, I'm among those who are not happy about the art sell off.)
Let's face it, unless VU starts raising money again (and I'd add, without selling off various appendages), everything will be seen as a zero-sum game. That's never a good morale builder in higher ed (or in many other institutions).
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 23, 2023, 05:05:57 PMI want to see the Valpo spin doctors promote how this program is in the right direction. There will be comments where they will be buffing a turd.
I see a need for outside help. So----
WANTED
Experienced turd buffer. Must be able to keep a straight face while your nose is growing. Pay is dependent on the level of turd luster achieved and art sale proceeds.
81 - selling the art is not a pleasant experience. However, are these desperate times? I am simply lost and will never understand the financial situation. We have a $250m endowment, why not tap into it?
The spin for 2022/2023 season:
1.) We were very close in 5 or 6 games. If we would have won those...
2.) It is tough with transfers. Takes time for them to gel and learn D1 basketball.
Quote from: tiny707 on February 23, 2023, 09:10:43 PM
The spin for 2022/2023 season:
1.) We were very close in 5 or 6 games. If we would have won those...
2.) It is tough with transfers. Takes time for them to gel and learn D1 basketball.
These things can be true and also frustrating/annoying to hear. The season would have a completely different feel had Valpo won those six games. Bryce Drew's career would have a completely different feel if his shot doesn't go in against Ole Miss, or Ryan Broekhoff's shot doesn't go in against Green Bay. Or Matthew Fisher-Davis doesn't foul Northwestern. We can spin these things until we're dizzy.
Good teams win close games...
Ryan B's shot. Yes! But the play before.....Bugs dribble drive and dish to Kenny in the corner to make it a one point game. It's the other plays we forget. Bottom line....our point guard play didn't seal the deal and make winning plays in the final two three minutes of each of those five six close losses. Edwards has done a lot of nice little things this year, but their is a reason he was at DII. Got had ample opportunity to close out games and didn't (set guys up, make a jumper, finish at the basket etc...). I realize its a team effort and other factors played a part in our losses. We can't close games this year, why we are at the bottom.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 23, 2023, 08:48:15 PM
81 - selling the art is not a pleasant experience. However, are these desperate times? I am simply lost and will never understand the financial situation. We have a $250m endowment, why not tap into it?
In MOST cases the principle dollars of an endowment can not be spent. Non-Profits are governed by the Uniform Prudent Management of Institutional Funds Act (UPMIFA). UPMIFA is a uniform state law that provides fundamental rules for the investment of funds held by charitable institutions and the
expenditure of funds donated as "endowments." Most university endowments are made up of smaller endowed gifts that have restrictions as to how and for what they can be used. UPMIFA generally stipulates that the principle of an endowment can not be invaded and that only 4-5% of what would hopefully be 7-8% of income from investments can be distributed each year. In plain English, you can not just "tap" into an endowment. As you may have guessed, some individual endowments (that make up the larger general "endowment") actually went underwater this past year and therefore did not have a distribution.
Financial situation will make it tough to move on, but there could be a creative solve in there.
Maybe give Tonagel the shot at head coach. Structure the deal so first year or two are low to not only account for the risk we are taking in an NAIA coach but also to offset the buyout for Lottich. Have an option to extend after year two at a set much higher amount should he perform well.
We take a risk on Tonagel, he takes a gamble on himself. I would be excited to see what he could do in D1 and he may be one of the only coaches we would consider that would be willing to take a gamble like that.
Quote from: tiny707 on February 23, 2023, 09:10:43 PM
The spin for 2022/2023 season:
1.) We were very close in 5 or 6 games. If we would have won those...
2.) It is tough with transfers. Takes time for them to gel and learn D1 basketball.
I think you're unintentionally pointing out a key problem here. When you're adding transfers, particularly ones with just one year of eligibility, why rely on ones who will need to adjust to Division-I basketball? There's a clear talent gap between Valpo and the better teams in the MVC.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 23, 2023, 05:05:57 PM
buffing a turd.
This may be the single greatest phrase ever written on this board.
If I were the new AD, I'd be scheduling program evaluations with the players of both programs the day after the season ends. That's the quickest way to find out whether keeping either staff for another year is at all tenable.
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 23, 2023, 08:48:15 PM
81 - selling the art is not a pleasant experience. However, are these desperate times? I am simply lost and will never understand the financial situation. We have a $250m endowment, why not tap into it?
To pick up on usc4valpo's and FWWalum's comments, VU cannot use interest generated by restricted endowment gifts for other than the designated purposes (e.g., an endowed scholarship fund) or draw down the principal on restricted endowment gifts, period.
VU can use interest generated by unrestricted endowment funds as it wishes. And it can potentially draw down on
unrestricted endowment principal because there are no limits on its use, but for fiduciary and practical reasons it should do so only with great care and caution. The practical reason is this: Endowment principal is intended to throw off interest in perpetuity. Raiding endowment principal is akin to raiding one's 401k before retiring, and like the latter, should only be done when extenuating circumstances require it, e.g., financial exigency.
Keep in mind that an endowment around $250m, while certainly reflecting considerable growth over the years and competitive with a good number of peer institutions, is going to provide approx. $10m in usable revenue based on a standard 4% yield. That's a modest amount, much of which is spoken through designated endowment gifts and ongoing budget needs. (Again, it's very similar to an average % draw on a 401k.)
So......it means among other things:
1. It may be possible, though likely unadvisable, to draw on unrestricted endowment principal to cover a buyout for a departing coach ($375k-$750k); and,
2. It may be slightly possible, though even more unadvisable, to draw down on unrestricted endowment principal to pay for residence hall fixes and enhancements.
Quote from: DuneHwx on February 24, 2023, 10:32:00 AM
If I were the new AD, I'd be scheduling program evaluations with the players of both programs the day after the season ends. That's the quickest way to find out whether keeping either staff for another year is at all tenable.
Question No. 1: Do you believe this program can consistently compete for an MVC championship under the current head coach and staff?
What would it take to get you to stay?
I need help understanding: What's there to gain from talking with the players? Is there anything these players could say that would necessitate keeping ML around *IF* the AD were even considering moving away from him? I'm sure he's a nice guy and could be a "good" coach in general. But, at some point, this has to be a results-driven industry.
Quote from: David81 on February 24, 2023, 11:13:35 AM
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 23, 2023, 08:48:15 PM
81 - selling the art is not a pleasant experience. However, are these desperate times? I am simply lost and will never understand the financial situation. We have a $250m endowment, why not tap into it?
To pick up on usc4valpo's and FWWalum's comments, VU cannot use interest generated by restricted endowment gifts for other than the designated purposes (e.g., an endowed scholarship fund) or draw down the principal on restricted endowment gifts, period.
VU can use interest generated by unrestricted endowment funds as it wishes. And it can potentially draw down on unrestricted endowment principal because there are no limits on its use, but for fiduciary and practical reasons it should do so only with great care and caution. The practical reason is this: Endowment principal is intended to throw off interest in perpetuity. Raiding endowment principal is akin to raiding one's 401k before retiring, and like the latter, should only be done when extenuating circumstances require it, e.g., financial exigency.
Keep in mind that an endowment around $250m, while certainly reflecting considerable growth over the years and competitive with a good number of peer institutions, is going to provide approx. $10m in usable revenue based on a standard 4% yield. That's a modest amount, much of which is spoken through designated endowment gifts and ongoing budget needs. (Again, it's very similar to an average % draw on a 401k.)
So......it means among other things:
1. It may be possible, though likely unadvisable, to draw on unrestricted endowment principal to cover a buyout for a departing coach ($375k-$750k); and,
2. It may be slightly possible, though even more unadvisable, to draw down on unrestricted endowment principal to pay for residence hall fixes and enhancements.
In Valpo's latest tax return 990, from 7/1/2019 to 6/30/2020, Part X (Balance Sheet), line 27 and 28, it shows:
Net Assets Without Donor Restrictions: $54,847,567
Net Assets With Donor Restrictions: $368,516,850
"Net Assets" is generally referred to as assets minus liabilities, what would be available after all current debt is paid. You still have to look where the liquid net assets are and ignore the fixed net assets.
The cash is there if you look at where the cash is in this tax return.
Cash-non interest bearing $8,527
Savings and temporary cash investments $7,709,968
Investments, public traded securities $21,760,946
Investments, other securities $254,248,709
Total: Rounded roughly $292.2 million
Not all of these investments can or should be sold immediately. But these are the liquid and near liquid assets. There is no disclosure I can find (it might be there in the fine print) that breaks these numbers down between restricted and unrestricted but the overall unrestricted net asset figure shown above of $54.8 million is roughly what they could use for discretionary, unrestricted available cash and near cash funds. Every program and interested party is fighting for these funds I'm guessing. All depends on priorities. The wigs say they are serious about the men's basketball program. Will they put their money where their mouth is? Probably not.
Yes, this does not mean that these numbers reflect today's balance, which could be more or less than the balances when the tax return was prepared.
If the majority of the team is committed to leaving unless the staff is fired then that is probably information the administration should take into consideration. Also, they might be able to give insight into why the current program is the way it is. If there are factors at play that won't be fixed with a change in regime then that is also information the admin should know.
Quote from: vuny98 on February 24, 2023, 08:15:22 AMFinancial situation will make it tough to move on, but there could be a creative solve in there. Maybe give Tonagel the shot at head coach. Structure the deal so first year or two are low to not only account for the risk we are taking in an NAIA coach but also to offset the buyout for Lottich. Have an option to extend after year two at a set much higher amount should he perform well. We take a risk on Tonagel, he takes a gamble on himself. I would be excited to see what he could do in D1 and he may be one of the only coaches we would consider that would be willing to take a gamble like that.
Tonagel may do that but its setting everyone up for failure. Noone knows who he is in D1 and no players worth a damn are coming to play for a coach they dont know, is new to D1, and only has a contract for a year or two. You have to at least express belief in him by giving him a longer term contract to get going and well, we all know what can happen during long term contracts.
If we wanna get it done, eat the money now and load up on some buy games for the first part of the season while helping the new coach recruit with the experience of playing these venues/teams.
Quote from: DuneHwx on February 24, 2023, 01:59:07 PM
If the majority of the team is committed to leaving unless the staff is fired then that is probably information the administration should take into consideration. Also, they might be able to give insight into why the current program is the way it is. If there are factors at play that won't be fixed with a change in regime then that is also information the admin should know.
That scratches the surface pretty good, but the main reason you talk to the players is to gain and absorb more information from every possible source to make better-informed decisions. It is also valuable in cross-referencing/confirming/discounting information gathered from other sources. From what I see in Small, he is a questioner and a listener. He does not shoot from the hip and carefully measures the data/info he collects. In addition to internal discussions, I know he has already formally "chatted" 1 on 1 with some athletics fans to get their ideas and input and that is ongoing.
I wonder how open the players would be with Small regarding the status of the program, as something said by a player detrimental to the program or Lottich could put them in the so called doghouse. It's kind of like someone speaking their mind at a company with human resources or a high level meeting, which could leave a dagger in them for the rest of their careers.
I saw this situation after a company does an employee survey and then they want to get feedback on the results. When it comes to the negative aspects, you hear the crickets and the leadership gets huffy about it.
Player interviews by the AD should only be done if there is a serious issue above play performance or losing games. We are just losing and nothing else. You cannot involve the players in this. It has to be results based, overall program progress.
I'm sure AD Small has already defined what success and expectations are to the coaching staff. He seems sharp and invested. Everything I have seen so far shows he is good. I see him as a strength for the university.
One thing that no one from the university has publicly said or declared is there will be no coaching change. With all the chatter and even PO's coverage on it you'd think someone would say something to squash the talk. Sure, no response is needed but it would keep the heat off the coaching staff if you did publicly address it. It could even help them.
Kinda (but not vehemently) disagree, Chairback, on two elements of your reply.
The first is "we're just losing, nothing else." That's a big nothing. Yes, the players are hanging in every game to the end. Nobody has accused them of quitting on the team/program. But it's how they are losing, the qualitative aspect vs. the quantity that is symptomatic of deeper root causes. That is something the AD has got to get to the bottom of, and any information source should be mined, before anything is discounted or dismissed.
Second, a good administrator always undertakes exit interviews to collect information from those leaving. It's just good business practice (and MBB is business). While returning players might feel a bit threatened, graduating seniors should not have have that concern. Hell, even if we went 30-0, Small would be well served by joining in exit interviews with departing players. As a matter of fact, having representative exits for all departing players would be a good practice across the board, but I digress. So Small could start with exit interviews. However, if certain disconcerting themes emerge, then he might want to dig a bit deeper on the player side, but that may not be necessary.
These are not player evaluations; these interviews are program focused. It should be an open-minded AD asking good questions in the pursuit of honest opinion and more information. And Small does not strike me as the type of guy to go into any of his fact-finding in an adversarial manner.
And on a totally different note from the Bradley string, I totally agree with you on a 6pm start. I quickly checked all the other MVC team home schedules and could not find any of the other 11 teams scheduling evening games that early. Why are we the only ones?
Quote from: Just Sayin on February 24, 2023, 01:52:49 PM
Quote from: David81 on February 24, 2023, 11:13:35 AM
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 23, 2023, 08:48:15 PM
81 - selling the art is not a pleasant experience. However, are these desperate times? I am simply lost and will never understand the financial situation. We have a $250m endowment, why not tap into it?
To pick up on usc4valpo's and FWWalum's comments, VU cannot use interest generated by restricted endowment gifts for other than the designated purposes (e.g., an endowed scholarship fund) or draw down the principal on restricted endowment gifts, period.
VU can use interest generated by unrestricted endowment funds as it wishes. And it can potentially draw down on unrestricted endowment principal because there are no limits on its use, but for fiduciary and practical reasons it should do so only with great care and caution. The practical reason is this: Endowment principal is intended to throw off interest in perpetuity. Raiding endowment principal is akin to raiding one's 401k before retiring, and like the latter, should only be done when extenuating circumstances require it, e.g., financial exigency.
Keep in mind that an endowment around $250m, while certainly reflecting considerable growth over the years and competitive with a good number of peer institutions, is going to provide approx. $10m in usable revenue based on a standard 4% yield. That's a modest amount, much of which is spoken through designated endowment gifts and ongoing budget needs. (Again, it's very similar to an average % draw on a 401k.)
So......it means among other things:
1. It may be possible, though likely unadvisable, to draw on unrestricted endowment principal to cover a buyout for a departing coach ($375k-$750k); and,
2. It may be slightly possible, though even more unadvisable, to draw down on unrestricted endowment principal to pay for residence hall fixes and enhancements.
In Valpo's latest tax return 990, from 7/1/2019 to 6/30/2020, Part X (Balance Sheet), line 27 and 28, it shows:
Net Assets Without Donor Restrictions: $54,847,567
Net Assets With Donor Restrictions: $368,516,850
"Net Assets" is generally referred to as assets minus liabilities, what would be available after all current debt is paid. You still have to look where the liquid net assets are and ignore the fixed net assets.
The cash is there if you look at where the cash is in this tax return.
Cash-non interest bearing $8,527
Savings and temporary cash investments $7,709,968
Investments, public traded securities $21,760,946
Investments, other securities $254,248,709
Total: Rounded roughly $292.2 million
Not all of these investments can or should be sold immediately. But these are the liquid and near liquid assets. There is no disclosure I can find (it might be there in the fine print) that breaks these numbers down between restricted and unrestricted but the overall unrestricted net asset figure shown above of $54.8 million is roughly what they could use for discretionary, unrestricted available cash and near cash funds. Every program and interested party is fighting for these funds I'm guessing. All depends on priorities. The wigs say they are serious about the men's basketball program. Will they put their money where their mouth is? Probably not.
Yes, this does not mean that these numbers reflect today's balance, which could be more or less than the balances when the tax return was prepared.
But we cannot assume that the University can tap into even some of that $54.8m freely. The annual yield from that principal (assuming it's unrestricted endowment principal) is probably around $2-2.5m, and it's quite likely that there are important designated budget lines that eat up a lot of that money even if it's not restricted. And if we're talking about diverting that money to pay a buyout of say, $400k, to an outgoing coach, then it's quite possible that live, active programs will be diminished or closed and that more people will be laid off to pay a coach who is not coaching.
This is the challenge with zero-sum funding. Someone wins=someone loses. It's an institutional culture of scarcity, and sometimes -- as with the art work question -- it pits people against each other at a time when you need all hands on deck.
Just thought I'd check in here for a second to say this...
1) I have truly no idea what is going to happen a week or so from now.
2) I don't believe anything that happens on the court in the next week will change anything. Lose on Thursday. Make it to Saturday/Sunday. I'm guessing whatever is going to happen has already been decided. Stay. Gone. Staff shake up.
Interesting times to be sure.
What about Gregg Marshall? He's familiar with the valley. This program needs a jolt of energy
Quote from: valpolaw on February 24, 2023, 09:29:28 PMWhat about Gregg Marshall? He's familiar with the valley. This program needs a jolt of energy
Terrible human being. Doesn't fit Valpo AT ALL. Hard pass. I'd rather keep Lottich than hire a man like Marshall.
Quote from: David81 on February 23, 2023, 01:03:00 PMThe ideal thing would be for an anonymous donor to step up and cover the severance as a specified use gift. I've never heard of that occurring anywhere, but if you want to enable a transition that is fair to an outgoing coach who has given his best and is not going to anger a good cross-section of faculty and maybe some students, that's the way to go.
If only there was a Valpo affiliated person who was willing to donate those kind of funds. But there isn't at the moment.
Are you all buying lottery tickets?
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on February 24, 2023, 09:33:00 PM
Quote from: valpolaw on February 24, 2023, 09:29:28 PMWhat about Gregg Marshall? He's familiar with the valley. This program needs a jolt of energy
Terrible human being. Doesn't fit Valpo AT ALL. Hard pass. I'd rather keep Lottich than hire a man like Marshall.
Even if VU was stupid enough to offer him a job at, say, $400k annually, he, in turn, would be stupid to take it as he is collecting $7.5 million in a buyout over six years. What gets me is that some of the crap he pulled at Wichita State should have been grounds IMO for firing for cause and zero buyout. He did some despicable stuff.
62 - an exit interview with seniors may not be effective either. some seniors may need help between the end of the season and graduation and saying something negative may negate any support or favors.
It goes back to the movie GoodFellas, where Henry learned 2 critical lessons in life after getting pinched - "Never rat on your friends, and always keep your mouth shut."
Quote from: usc4valpo on February 25, 2023, 09:00:06 AM
62 - an exit interview with seniors may not be effective either. some seniors may need help between the end of the season and graduation and saying something negative may negate any support or favors.
Favors, help in what respect that an AD can fail to give, stop or restrict? Pocket money? Assuming the Good Fellas scenario, tell profs to fail someone or deny physical therapy for an injury?
Quote from: historyman on February 25, 2023, 05:08:28 AM
Quote from: David81 on February 23, 2023, 01:03:00 PMThe ideal thing would be for an anonymous donor to step up and cover the severance as a specified use gift. I've never heard of that occurring anywhere, but if you want to enable a transition that is fair to an outgoing coach who has given his best and is not going to anger a good cross-section of faculty and maybe some students, that's the way to go.
If only there was a Valpo affiliated person who was willing to donate those kind of funds. But there isn't at the moment.
Are you all buying lottery tickets?
At some schools, the President could make a call and it would happen. Maybe a discreet chat with a wealthy board member who happens to support the MBB team, followed by an announcement that a buyout will be subsidized by an anonymous alum. VU doesn't appear to be at that level right now.
I do wonder if there are alums out there who have done well and could be brought into a higher giving circle. A few years ago, I worked with the Development Office on an estate gift and found them to be extremely appreciative and helpful even though my gift is a modest one. But that's for another thread on this board.
Alumni donors come from school pride. Which appears to be at an all time low.
valpofb16...I totally disagree with your assessment of pride in our school. My wife and I have it and I am sure that many others on this board have it also. As for the men's b-ball program...that's another story.
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 25, 2023, 01:18:28 PM
Alumni donors come from school pride. Which appears to be at an all time low.
Without dismissing any of the current concerns and controversies discussed on this board, I think we should keep in mind:
1. VU managed to successfully wrap up a major fundraising campaign in the midst of a global pandemic. Because such campaigns are long-term investments in a university that come in over time (esp. the bequests), this couldn't be leveraged to avoid the awful layoffs and program cuts. But this was no small achievement in the current overall situation and demonstrated a respectable level of support from alums.
2. Many, many other universities similar to VU -- longstanding, quality academic institutions that fall outside of the charmed circle of wealthy, elite schools -- are facing similar challenges with enrollment and finances. It doesn't necessarily make VU's challenges easier to navigate, but it does provide a perspective of understanding of the systemic dynamics facing schools like Valpo.
People who took the above comment personally.
Was nothing personal. Just what's been collected from board, enrollment, general discussion of school decisions, branding, etc.
Yes. I am sure there are still people ou there who bleed brown and gold. I am one of those few. But I believe it's also fair to say Valpo is far from its Apex in terms of alumni support.
Agree $302,000,000 endowment campaign is very successful.
Tweet from Roger Powell
https://twitter.com/RogerPowellJr/status/1629741470667411456/photo/1
Quote from: historyman on February 26, 2023, 12:25:01 PM
Tweet from Roger Powell
https://twitter.com/RogerPowellJr/status/1629741470667411456/photo/1
Future Valpo Coach?
We'll know if University is moving on from Lottich probably in the next few weeks.
Paul O, once Valpo gets bounced from Arch Madness you have to ask the question, if he thinks he's coming back next season.
The University needs to give a response with a few days, even if it's "sources close to the Athletics Department" confirm Lottich will be coming back next season. The follow up question needs to be asked if Lottich is on the hot seat and in jeopardy of losing his job. Even if it's a "no comment" the question needs to be asked.
Quote from: VU2014 on February 26, 2023, 12:44:39 PM
Quote from: historyman on February 26, 2023, 12:25:01 PM
Tweet from Roger Powell
https://twitter.com/RogerPowellJr/status/1629741470667411456/photo/1
Future Valpo Coach?
We'll know if University is moving on from Lottich probably in the next few weeks.
Paul O, once Valpo gets bounced from Arch Madness you have to ask the question, if he thinks he's coming back next season.
The University needs to give a response with a few days, even if it's "sources close to the Athletics Department" confirm Lottich will be coming back next season. The follow up question needs to be asked if Lottich is on the hot seat and in jeopardy of losing his job. Even if it's a "no comment" the question needs to be asked.
Without question.
Quote from: Pgmado on February 26, 2023, 12:47:05 PM
Quote from: VU2014 on February 26, 2023, 12:44:39 PM
Quote from: historyman on February 26, 2023, 12:25:01 PM
Tweet from Roger Powell
[tweet]1629741470667411456[/tweet]/photo/1
Future Valpo Coach?
We'll know if University is moving on from Lottich probably in the next few weeks.
Paul O, once Valpo gets bounced from Arch Madness you have to ask the question, if he thinks he's coming back next season.
The University needs to give a response with a few days, even if it's "sources close to the Athletics Department" confirm Lottich will be coming back next season. The follow up question needs to be asked if Lottich is on the hot seat and in jeopardy of losing his job. Even if it's a "no comment" the question needs to be asked.
Without question.
(https://pics.me.me/good-answer-memegenerator-net-good-answer-good-answer-family-feud-54134064.png)
We should know within 24 hours of the buzzer of the final game in the Tournament. There's nothing to contemplate at this point and I would hope the Univ. knows what they are going to do.
If we hear nothing, it probably means he's going to survive.
In all honesty, as a professor at the University, and an independent sports writer, I would hope Pgmado plays the ethics card, and leaves this question unasked, if no one else asks it first...
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 25, 2023, 11:11:30 PM
People who took the above comment personally.
Was nothing personal. Just what's been collected from board, enrollment, general discussion of school decisions, branding, etc.
Yes. I am sure there are still people ou there who bleed brown and gold. I am one of those few. But I believe it's also fair to say Valpo is far from its Apex in terms of alumni support.
Agree $302,000,000 endowment campaign is very successful.
valpofb16, thank you for the above, but really, I think it's just a frustrating and concerning time for anyone who cares about the University, its people, its sports teams, etc.
So, there will be healthy differences of opinion at times, some healthy venting, a bit of exasperation. It's all good though. Better to be engaged than disengaged!
I always appreciate your contributions to these discussions. And from even before I started actively posting here, I've found that your updates & insights on the football team are invaluable!
Ben fouled out again.
Question(s):
Is Ben just trying to do too much himself?
Or
Is he defensively unskilled/too slow/has lead feet?
Or
Are teammates lax in defense forcing Ben to overcompensate?
Or
As the go-to guy, are teams targeting him?
Or
Has he been placed in a position (or out of position) that puts him too much in foul jeopardy?
Or
What??????
So....... How does our best player wind up fouling out so much, or why has he sat many a first half with 2 fouls? I can't remember Rowdy or AP coming close in PFs per game. We need him on the floor, but I'm probably overreacting.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 26, 2023, 08:00:19 PM
Ben fouled out again.
Question(s):
Is Ben just trying to do too much himself?
Or
Is he defensively unskilled/too slow/has lead feet?
Or
Are teammates lax in defense forcing Ben to overcompensate?
Or
As the go-to guy, are teams targeting him?
Or
Has he been placed in a position (or out of position) that puts him too much in foul jeopardy?
Or
What??????
So....... How does our best player wind up fouling out so much, or why has he sat many a first half with 2 fouls? I can't remember Rowdy or AP coming close in PFs per game. We need him on the floor, but I'm probably overreacting.
Look at his minutes played. This not only exposes him to committing more fouls simply because of time on the court, but also when you're tired the likelihood of an exhausted foul increases markedly.
Also, while I don't think he's trying to do it all, he's always giving it a maximum effort on a team with a modest talent ceiling. For a guy who isn't naturally super quick and fast, it means constantly hustling. Fouls will follow.
I hope he has a great pro career. He's grown his game every year, he gives it 150%, and he's been loyal to his school.
The last call was pretty terrible. You could see all ball by Kirkke's arm and I am not being a homer. The announcers tried to compare it the foul one of the racers had a play earlier. Their guy clearly fouled Krikke. By the letter of the law Kirkke brought his arms down so they called a foul. couple fouls in the first half very ticky tacky on him. A couple of penetrators initiated the offense and went into to him to "draw contact" Kobe should have had atleast one and one in the second half and Krikke as well. Once again team played not too loose when things got tight. Had opportunites to extend the lead when Murray went cold for 5 6 minutes.
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 25, 2023, 11:11:30 PM
People who took the above comment personally.
Was nothing personal. Just what's been collected from board, enrollment, general discussion of school decisions, branding, etc.
Yes. I am sure there are still people ou there who bleed brown and gold. I am one of those few. But I believe it's also fair to say Valpo is far from its Apex in terms of alumni support.
Agree $302,000,000 endowment campaign is very successful.
Knowing that there was a critical need for new nursing facilities, a new basketball venue, competitive dorm facilities, and who knows what else, the university opted to conduct a $300M endowment campaign that can't be used for capital expenses. So now it has a big, fat savings account it can't touch, a checking account with no money to do anything but pay bills, and a tapped out donor base. Good luck.
Quote from: wh on February 26, 2023, 08:38:55 PM
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 25, 2023, 11:11:30 PM
People who took the above comment personally.
Was nothing personal. Just what's been collected from board, enrollment, general discussion of school decisions, branding, etc.
Yes. I am sure there are still people ou there who bleed brown and gold. I am one of those few. But I believe it's also fair to say Valpo is far from its Apex in terms of alumni support.
Agree $302,000,000 endowment campaign is very successful.
Knowing that there was a critical need for new nursing facilities, a new basketball venue, competitive dorm facilities, and who knows what else, the university opted to conduct a $300M endowment campaign that can't be used for capital expenses. So now it has a big, fat savings account it can't touch, a checking account with no money to do anything but pay bills, and a tapped out donor base. Good luck.
Most major fundraising campaigns are built around a mix of endowment gifts and capital gifts, with a good share of the money coming in over time and as bequests. The "big, fat savings account it can't touch" is how other universities build their endowments, which, in turn, generate monies every year in virtual perpetuity. It's how you create ongoing scholarships to attract & support more students, chaired professorships to cover salaries of high-quality academics, and funds for campus events -- as well as unrestricted funds that can be used every year at the Board's discretion. If VU had played this long-term game back in the day, then it would be in much better financial shape today. But it wasn't until the Schnabel presidency in the 80s that a more sophisticated ground game of fundraising started to develop.
That said, I can't imagine that VU would've said no to any donor willing to immediate put up millions to upgrade residence halls, build a new sports facility, etc. Some universities have alumni/ae bases where such gifts are possible. VU apparently does not, at least right now. If it did, then today you'd be reading about some alum who has offered to buy the O'Keefe painting for $15m cash up front and donate it back to the museum for display indefinitely as part of their family art collection.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 26, 2023, 08:00:19 PMBen fouled out again.
It's not like he fouled out with 5 mins left in the game. He fouled out on essentially the last play of the game in OT and 41 mins on the court.
I sometimes think Valpo doesn't foul enough. That can be read as I don't think the team plays aggressive enough defense. I think it was the previous game where they only had 10 fouls in the game. I don't know how you do that if your playing defense.
...and while I'm soapboxing...how does Darius DeAvario end up taking the final shot in regulation? A good coach gets the ball in his best players hands at the end of the game and/or the best players make sure they have the ball in their hands at the end of the game. That would not be the backup point guard who's shooting a stunning .200 from 3 this season.
Quote from: JD24 on February 26, 2023, 11:32:50 PM
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 26, 2023, 08:00:19 PMBen fouled out again.
It's not like he fouled out with 5 mins left in the game. He fouled out on essentially the last play of the game in OT and 41 mins on the court.
I sometimes think Valpo doesn't foul enough. That can be read as I don't think the team plays aggressive enough defense. I think it was the previous game where they only had 10 fouls in the game. I don't know how you do that if your playing defense.
...and while I'm soapboxing...how does Darius DeAvario end up taking the final shot in regulation? A good coach gets the ball in his best players hands at the end of the game and/or the best players make sure they have the ball in their hands at the end of the game. That would not be the backup point guard who's shooting a stunning .200 from 3 this season.
This team has no rim protector that would allow aggressive defense in the front court. Further, three main players, Nelson, Barret, and even Krikke are not very quick. Their defense is more positional, not one that leads to turnovers. Krikke is actually a pretty good one on one defender. He gets in trouble when he has to switch off on smaller players who get into his body going to the rim. He also gets in trouble when he has to act as rim protector cause he hasn't got the body for it.
And yes, this team is terrible at getting the ball to their best offensive players in the final seconds of games. But really, teams know that if they double Krikke and force the team to the perimeter, chances are pretty good that Valpo will miss any kind of three point shot. Valpo just does not have any players that can take that shot and knock it down at the end of a game
One should not be alarmed that Ben fouls out often...he plays more minutes than anyone...he is the best threat to beat our opposition so the best way to get him off the floor is to go right at him when one gets the chance. That approach is nothing new. It has worked for years and with no other support for Ben, he is very vulnerable for our opponents to attack when Ben is on the floor. I can't remember another Valpo player who had to carry a load like he has done the last couple of years. He has been a great representative for VU both on and off the floor during his career. I would love to see him back next year.
I've heard some people speculate that Lottich will remain because it will be the only way to entice Krikke to stay if he opts into his 5th year rather than going Pro. Personally I think Krikke will transfer regardless of Lottich's status with the Team.
I think keeping Lottich for another year for 1 players eligibility status is not a wise decision. But I personally think Lottich is staying due to the contract situation regardless.
I've never heard so much open support to move on from Lottich in my time as a Valpo Fan. Everyone knows it's time to move on and it's not working but we're being held we're potentially going to be held hostage by a contract.
A fan and alum brought up an interesting point on Twitter yesterday. His thought process was that AD Small never would have taken the Valpo AD job without knowing the contract status of Lottich and if he could have been able to opt out of it and get "his guy" in the job. No AD wants to tie their career success to someone they didn't hand pick. I get that thought process at large schools with huge Athletics Dept budgets, but at Valpo I feel like we need to work with the hand you're dealt and you work to fix the issue until you can make a hire yourself.
It's an interesting theory. I just don't think we have a way out of this contract unfortunately. Lottich is not going to walk away from that $ and he's an insanely competitive guy.
I really wish I had a better sense of what will happen in the coming weeks. If we can't get out of the deal, I want to know for sure if we are stuck with him until the 24-25 season. Is there absolutely no opt outs and I think we know as a group the University won't pay him to go away....
https://twitter.com/valpo_hoops/status/1629985072035123200?s=46&t=Pqe0bsn1a0E1WcgtZngXYA
Quote from: wh on February 26, 2023, 08:38:55 PM
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 25, 2023, 11:11:30 PM
People who took the above comment personally.
Was nothing personal. Just what's been collected from board, enrollment, general discussion of school decisions, branding, etc.
Yes. I am sure there are still people ou there who bleed brown and gold. I am one of those few. But I believe it's also fair to say Valpo is far from its Apex in terms of alumni support.
Agree $302,000,000 endowment campaign is very successful.
Knowing that there was a critical need for new nursing facilities, a new basketball venue, competitive dorm facilities, and who knows what else, the university opted to conduct a $300M endowment campaign that can't be used for capital expenses. So now it has a big, fat savings account it can't touch, a checking account with no money to do anything but pay bills, and a tapped out donor base. Good luck.
You never thought you were the most positive guy at Valpo but your negativity has gone to a new level. I know I want to sound many alarm bells about how serious the financial situation is at Valpo but there is light at the end of this tunnel because no matter what Valpo has always had quality people and very loyal people. VALPO WILL SURVIVE!!!
The mass exodus of football program coaches has me wondering two things:
1. Is money normally allocated to the football positions being moved to cover the costs of a buyout (they won't be equal but can help).
2. Are things so bad that not only can the school not get rid of Lottich because of finances but they can't hold on to the football staff nearly in any way.
Quote from: JD24 on February 27, 2023, 11:59:11 AM
The mass exodus of football program coaches has me wondering two things:
1. Is money normally allocated to the football positions being moved to cover the costs of a buyout (they won't be equal but can help).
2. Are things so bad that not only can the school not get rid of Lottich because of finances but they can't hold on to the football staff nearly in any way.
The Valpo Football program is a stepping stool for Coaches. I don't mean that in a degrading way. Valpo offers a good opportunity for young coaches to leap frog into higher profile gigs.
I wouldn't read too much into the coaching departures. Valpo losing coaches to programs that are scholarship programs is almost a compliment. Obviously you'd love for Coaches to stay long term, but as long as Valpo remains in the Pioneer League (non-scholarship) this will always happen, especially if the program sees a decent amount of success.
I assume most, if not all of the posters on this board are concerned alumni.
The final buyout is much larger than what has been discussed on this form. It is not the 345k number.
Unless he steps down (unlikely) , or a donor walks in to cover the buyout (unlikely). Lottich will be the basketball coach moving forward.
It is not a University that is unwilling to move, it's a University that is unwilling to cripple itself for its basketball program.
The highly praised Homer Drew went :
1990: 4-24
1991: 5-22
1992: 5-22
Then turned the ship around. Lottich inherited a 30-7 team. He went 24-9 year one and they made a major conference jump.
I get they were 11-20 this season. It's not like he slept and forgot how to coach.
It's a changed landscape in a much harder Conference. And frankly Valpo may not have the infrastructure or NIL support to compete immediately in the MVC.
Valpofb16, when did Bryce start playing at VU? 1993?
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 27, 2023, 02:00:51 PM
I assume most, if not all of the posters on this board are concerned alumni.
The final buyout is much larger than what has been discussed on this form. It is not the 345k number.
Unless he steps down (unlikely) , or a donor walks in to cover the buyout (unlikely). Lottich will be the basketball coach moving forward.
It is not a University that is unwilling to move, it's a University that is unwilling to cripple itself for its basketball program.
The highly praised Homer Drew went :
1990: 4-24
1991: 5-22
1992: 5-22
Then turned the ship around. Lottich inherited a 30-7 team. He went 24-9 year one and they made a major conference jump.
I get they were 11-20 this season. It's not like he slept and forgot how to coach.
It's a changed landscape in a much harder Conference. And frankly Valpo may not have the infrastructure or NIL support to compete immediately in the MVC.
I think you are correct, we are stuck with Lottich for 2 more years.
I will say, that the University and Athletics Dept owe it to Fans and Alums to nip this conversation in the butt, if they know for a fact he's going to be the Coach for 2 more seasons. They don't have to give their reason or be completely transparent. But they need to signal to a Reporter like Paul Oren that they are committed to him for 2 more years. We'll know it's because the $, but you don't have to outright say it.
Quote from: tiny707 on February 27, 2023, 03:51:56 PM
Valpofb16, when did Bryce start playing at VU? 1993?
Bryce was a freshman in 1994-95. At the time, David Redmon was a senior and the Mid-Continent Conference lost its automatic bid because the "big boys" at the time bolted for what would become the Horizon League. Wright State, Cleveland State, UIC, Northern Illinois, Green Bay and Milwaukee led the exodus. All of them were traditionally better than Valpo at the time.
Due to that exodus, the Mid-Con tournament champion did not get the automatic NCAA bid OR get to play in the NIT. Valpo ended its season with a dramatic triple-OT win over Western Illinois at the ARC. Bryce and David both shined.
I agree the University / Small / Padilla could come out and say Matt is our guy.
If my memory serves correct Valparaiso has fired one coach "prematurely" in the 12 years I have followed the school.
That was Dale Carlson , with a 3-43 record. With one game left on the contract
Was Tom Smith's contract just not renewed or was he let go prior to the end of his contract? Anyone from that era know?
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 27, 2023, 04:54:06 PM
I agree the University / Small / Padilla could come out and say Matt is our guy.
If my memory serves correct Valparaiso has fired one coach "prematurely" in the 12 years I have followed the school.
That was Dale Carlson , with a 3-43 record. With one game left on the contract
An injustice. He was THISCLOSE to turning it around. 🥴😂
Kudos to ML's agent if his buyout is north of $300k. I mean seriously. Consider how hard we have to work for that amount of money. Consider how long it takes most of us (90-95%) to earn that money. Oh, and we act like being an NCAA D-1 basketball coach is the only results-driven industry? Most people (90-95%) who work don't have expectations. Can they not continually offer excuses to justify their lack of production? This is a business. And, it's a game - literally. It has to be about wins & losses to a point. Why do they play? In part, to win. Right? To entertain people, bring in revenue that supports the other athletes & school at large, represent the university with pride, win championships, etc.? It is, after all, a sport. A game. That's why there are wins and losses counted and records kept. That's why banners are hanging from the rafters. That's why courts are named after people.
And, yet, we should feel sorry ... etc.? Like I said, kudos to his agent for sure.
That Homer Drew comparison is a cop out. Valpo was a different program then. There are expectations now. Expectations Lottich is not meeting and has really never met. Lest we forget that that 24-9 year was a massively disappointing underachievement (albeit for circumstances beyond his control). Also the tougher conference argument which I used ot give a ton of credence to holds no water after we saw what Murray and Belmont just did. Murray and Belmont came from a worse conference than the HL that Valpo left was. They should have been even less prepared to handle the jump than Valpo was and yet...
Belmont went 14-6 in year one tied for 3rd.
Murray State went 11-9 in year one and finished ahead of Valpo.
Murray State also did this with a new coach who took over in the middle of the offseason and after a mass exodus of players. It took Valpo until what? Year 4? Year 5 to even finish .500? A depleted Murray State did it in year one.
Belmont notched a higher finish than Valpo has EVER HAD in the MVC in year one.
Additionally Murray and Belmont went a perfect 4-0 against Valpo.
Even UIC beat Valpo once this year. That's 1-5 for Valpo against the newcomers with a possibility of it becoming 1-6 at Arch Madness.
The numbers don't lie. The Matt Lottich era has been nothing short of an abject failure. He cannot retain his job unless there is simply no money to buy him out.
And if that's the case we are in a lot of trouble.
I'm not requesting anyone feeling sorry for Matt. I'm telling the way it is. He will be back.
Can continually gripe, stop supporting or can accept facts and support through rough period ahead.
1314:
Who sets these expectations? Valpo has been in back half of conference preseason poll for a half a decade.
Murray State has had two LOTTERY picks since 2015. And a current top 5 NBA MVP candidate is an alum. Wonder why the uptick in recruiting?
Belmont had a first round pick in 2019. And has a coach that had already turned around Lipscomb before arriving at Belmont.
And to your final point. Yes program is in trouble.
Quote from: VULB#62 on February 27, 2023, 05:50:21 PM
Was Tom Smith's contract just not renewed or was he let go prior to the end of his contract? Anyone from that era know?
I think Smith left on his own, frustrated with a lack of support that was probably promised to him when he took the job.
Or maybe the writing was on the wall, can't remember. I think there was a bit of controversy at the time, but it didn't keep him from being inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fam after he had a successful run at a Division II school in Missouri.
I cannot imagine having to talk about this for another year. What would March of 2024 be like if we are all at this point already. It's exhausting as a fan.
The good thing is none of us know. It's all speculation on contract, buyout, available cash, etc.. No one knows the facts.
You just told the faculty that you sold art for reasons that you need cash. Now you tell them that you need to pay two basketball coaches simultaneously for two years; at a rate of $345k+ unknown buyout and a new "upgrade coach" who would cost more.
Just bite the bullet, point out the high points of the Lottich years (chiefly March 2020 when they shocked #1 Loyola upset as an #8 seed and reached the Arch Madness finals.) Last week was a great time to say that going into the MVC week and the first full seating tourney since 2020. Then point to Matt's high character in the mold of Valpo's values. Say nothing more. You can't fire him. The board and Padilla can't talk out of both sides of their mouth about urgent cash shortages. If Matt were a liability off the court, it's a different story.
Well - assuming we hear confirmation one way or the other concerning ML's future at Valpo after Arch Madness comes to a close - at least we'll be able to put the speculation to rest. I'll hop on a few more times to gripe about it for cathartic fandom purposes. Then, I'll enjoy March Madness in all its glory, pulling for the upsets, & playing the bracket games. All the while, Valpo basketball will fade into a repressed memory. I'll blow the dust off my Valpo fandom once the college football season fleshes itself out. I'll restore some hope again - at least for a few months. Season ticket? Certainly not. Attend a game or two? Most likely. Financially contribute? Hard pass.
Quote from: Dr. T on February 28, 2023, 09:26:46 PM
Well - assuming we hear confirmation one way or the other concerning ML's future at Valpo after Arch Madness comes to a close - at least we'll be able to put the speculation to rest. I'll hop on a few more times to gripe about it for cathartic fandom purposes. Then, I'll enjoy March Madness in all its glory, pulling for the upsets, & playing the bracket games. All the while, Valpo basketball will fade into a repressed memory. I'll blow the dust off my Valpo fandom once the college football season fleshes itself out. I'll restore some hope again - at least for a few months. Season ticket? Certainly not. Attend a game or two? Most likely. Financially contribute? Hard pass.
Subscribe to TheVictoryBell.com?
Paul - yes, I am a subscriber.
You can't please everyone all the time. Sell the art, clean up the dorms and get rid of ML. do the right thing. Make Valpo great again!
MVGA.!!!!
Cool, we may have something here. How do we handle this? Miv Gah? Em Vega?
😀
Sorry, USC, I couldn't resist.
Let's have fun with this storm. I am tired of hearing with can't be done. We can't sell art, the theatre and creative writing majors will march and say bad things to the president. Valpo needs to show some guts, at least Padilla is trying and not just conforming to what can't be done. Be creative, explore solutions.
Min gah!
The Moody's downgrade points to how the Board needs to proceed, and proceed quickly. This from the report:
The downgrade to Baa2 reflects a large structural budget imbalance, with weak operating performance and debt service coverage likely over the next several years. Liquidity is already very thin, inclusive of draws under a working capital line, and will erode further, with the pace of decline dependent on the ability to successfully implement in a timely way initiatives to realign its program and expense structure with enrollment amid a difficult regional student market. The university generated a nearly 8% operating deficit in fiscal 2022 and the deficit for fiscal 2023 is forecast to be substantially worse, with below 1.0x debt service coverage from regular operations.
So borrowing more money--for the dorm remodel--would be very costly, and probably impossible.
The report also gives us the needed action:
FACTORS THAT COULD LEAD TO A DOWNGRADE OF THE RATINGS
- Failure to make progress towards stabilizing enrollment in fall 2023 with growth in net student revenue
This isn't a concern that needs to be addressed in the next few years, it is a NOW issue--THE FALL OF 2023 ISSUE. Painful as the sale of the art is to valpopal and others, it provides the cash necessary to MOVE NOW--not later, to address the elephant in the room--WE NEED TO INCREASE ENROLLMENT.
It took courage on the part of the board and President Padilla. I applaud then for making a very hard decision when no other option has been presented to face this reality head on.
If we assume that MBB is a draw for new and returning students, then MBB could be seen as an enrollment investment. However, that would only come from improved W/L. A coaching change now very likely would not result in W/L improvement for a few years. That would not address the "Now" problem in 72's note above. However, not making a change simply (in my uneducated opinion) kicks the can down the road.
I would imagine that the University has a lot of tough decisions ahead that will make today's decisions pale.
One other piece I sometimes think about is that Valpo choose to promote an assistant coach with little experience. I think there can be a case to say we knew that there would be growing pains, we knew we were handing him a difficult situation that would require him to learn on the job. Here are the signs we think that he is starting to figure things out: XXX, here is the benchmark we've sent for the the next two years: XXXX.
Speaking to enrollment. Id like to have a budget sheet for the University.
I have had recruits message me saying Valpo is top choice, not enough aid. Only to turn around and go nonscholarship elsewhere.
Has Valpo enrollment decided they'd rather have an empty room than a student paying 30% list price? I would think in Valpos situation you take something over nothing right?
Note: I think this generation is wisening up to the predatory lending that went on in the late 2000s / early 2010s. Many private institutions are dealing with same issues.
Too much of a discount rate is not good for a university's budget sheet because you than may need two students to net the same amount of money vs one student who is wiling/able to pay more. That's a dangerous game around enrollment because you could theoretically increase enrollment while not increasing money brought in.
Quote from: valpofb16 on March 02, 2023, 10:01:34 AM
Speaking to enrollment. Id like to have a budget sheet for the University.
You can get the FY2022 audit results (with the associated financial statements) here https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/350868125 (https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/350868125).
This does not break out all of the budget line items, yet it gives a sense of the University's financial situation.
Quote from: valpo95 on March 02, 2023, 10:13:47 AM
Quote from: valpofb16 on March 02, 2023, 10:01:34 AM
Speaking to enrollment. Id like to have a budget sheet for the University.
You can get the FY2022 audit results (with the associated financial statements) here https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/350868125 (https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/350868125).
This does not break out all of the budget line items, yet it gives a sense of the University's financial situation.
As a numbers guy I found the report pretty fascinating. The University is a very complex organization.
A few quick observations: Salaries increased from 46 mil to 53 mil; Endowment payout: 23 mil v. 16 mil; Operating Revenue 119.6 v. 116.2, but, net loss of 1.1 mil v. a gain of 8.6 mil. Cash and cash equivalents 18.1 mil v. 13.7. Bad news, the endowment fell to 338 mil v. 367.
VU72, do you know whether the endowment decrease was simply market valuation loss?
Quote from: 4throwfan on March 02, 2023, 11:02:25 AM
VU72, do you know whether the endowment decrease was simply market valuation loss?
A little confusing but looks like a small decline in asset value coupled with the distribution size:
Changes in Net Assets With Donor Restrictions
Private gifts and grants 3,221
Other endowment income 278
Split-interest agreements (1,238)
Investment (loss) income (519)
Endowment payout (23,756)
Net gain (loss) on endowment investments (2,162)
Return of grant funds (4,770) -
Net assets released from restrictions (4,438)
(Decrease) increase in net assets with donor restrictions (33,384)
If helpful to the conversation surrounding the decline in enrollment, that data is public
https://www.valpo.edu/institutional-effectiveness/institutional-research/enrollment-data/ (https://www.valpo.edu/institutional-effectiveness/institutional-research/enrollment-data/)
Quote from: Dr. T on March 02, 2023, 12:24:12 PM
If helpful to the conversation surrounding the decline in enrollment, that data is public
https://www.valpo.edu/institutional-effectiveness/institutional-research/enrollment-data/ (https://www.valpo.edu/institutional-effectiveness/institutional-research/enrollment-data/)
Going from approx. 3200 undergrads to approx. 2200 in a span of five years isn't ideal, to say the bare minimum.
Quote from: vu72 on March 02, 2023, 10:47:11 AM
As a numbers guy I found the report pretty fascinating. The University is a very complex organization.
A few quick observations: Salaries increased from 46 mil to 53 mil; Endowment payout: 23 mil v. 16 mil; Operating Revenue 119.6 v. 116.2, but, net loss of 1.1 mil v. a gain of 8.6 mil. Cash and cash equivalents 18.1 mil v. 13.7. Bad news, the endowment fell to 338 mil v. 367.
vu72, I figured you might like to see those numbers. As far as I can tell, the 2022 buy-outs were part of the salary line item. The Board may have authorized a larger endowment pay-out to cover those one time costs.
Any warm body not named Lottich will do.
Murray is killing us. All their transfers in are coming together just at the right time 🙄. It's not like the Butler beatdown in Carlson's last FB game, but none-the-less pretty devastating.
Seriously, I think that Matt, one day, will be a very good college coach. Unfortunately, he was thrown in the pool without any swimming lessons and over the past seven years he was splashing around just trying to keep his head above water. He needs to step back, absorb lessons from the experience and the wisdom of more experienced head coaches, and develop a sound approach. It'll take a few years and he has the coach/player relationship stuff pretty much down — hell, he is a genuine human being which has always been clear. Now it's the Xs and O and the mid-game strategy and adjustments that he has to learn - stuff you aren't always capable of figuring out yourself.
Another year at Valpo will not give Matt that overnight.
Quote from: valpofb16 on February 27, 2023, 04:54:06 PM
I agree the University / Small / Padilla could come out and say Matt is our guy.
If my memory serves correct Valparaiso has fired one coach "prematurely" in the 12 years I have followed the school.
That was Dale Carlson , with a 3-43 record. With one game left on the contract
Most would say it was way overdue
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Looking at the financial statements is revealing in many ways. When you see that some of the highest paid employees for the entire university were Law Professors, it makes you wonder. This shows how painful, and necessary, the closing was. Law School Faculty were literally paid millions of dollars the last year to honor the commitment to about a dozen students who remained.
Is anybody over here actually watching MVC basketball or have you ceased being fans of the game? There is more in life than Matt Lottich.
Hot off the press. I encourage everyone to read Paul's latest article.
QuoteWay-Too-Early look at 2023-24 Valpo Basketball
MBB: Two big questions entering offseason will shape next season
Paul Oren
https://www.thevictorybell.com/p/way-too-early-look-at-2023-24-valpo
I also posted that recommendation on another thread. Its very good!
Valpo better move fast. Chris Beard in talks with Ole Miss.
Quote from: tiny707 on March 06, 2023, 08:49:01 PM
Valpo better move fast. Chris Beard in talks with Ole Miss.
I think our basketball team could be called "
NEW MISS" because it
MISSed it's chance after beating Ole Miss in 1998. And it's been up first but then straight down after that.
Quote from: tiny707 on March 06, 2023, 08:49:01 PM
Valpo better move fast. Chris Beard in talks with Ole Miss.
Well, I'm not worried there. Chris Beard would never have taken the Valparaiso job, and Valparaiso would never have hired Chris Beard.
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on March 07, 2023, 07:22:13 AM
Quote from: tiny707 on March 06, 2023, 08:49:01 PM
Valpo better move fast. Chris Beard in talks with Ole Miss.
Well, I'm not worried there. Chris Beard would never have taken the Valparaiso job, and Valparaiso would never have hired Chris Beard.
Agreed.
Surprised/not surprised that a guy with very fresh character issues is already getting strong interest.
But the last thing VU needs is to be even in the conversation. Talk about unneeded headlines.
Hot take: the post about Chris Beard was made in absolute jest.
Boeheim is now available. 🤠
And more seriously, I wondered how many folks would note that Syracuse also announced his replacement.
Such is life in the P5 lane.
Quote from: David81 on March 08, 2023, 06:22:47 PM
Boeheim is now available. 🤠
Quote from: Dr. T on March 07, 2023, 08:32:28 PM
Hot take: the post about Chris Beard was made in absolute jest.
Boeheim and Beard? I'm just hoping it's someone with a bit of experience whenever someone does take over from Lottich.
The former Texas Tech coach, Mark Adams, just became available. I mean he would fit right in at Valpo.
Texas Tech coach Mark Adams steps down following suspension (usatoday.com) (https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/big12/2023/03/08/texas-tech-coach-mark-adams-steps-down-following-suspension/11432571002/)
Adams spent decades coaching college basketball in Texas at all different levels. He came to Texas Tech in 2016 as a member of former coach Chris Beard's staff and was elevated into the top job when Beard left for the Texas job in 2021. A Texas Tech graduate, Adams went 43-25 in his two seasons leading the Red Raiders, including a Sweet 16 appearance last year.
[/size]
[/size]"Adams was encouraging the student-athlete to be more receptive to coaching and referenced Bible verses about workers, teachers, parents, and slaves serving their masters," the statement read. "Adams immediately addressed this with the team and apologized.
Quote from: historyman on March 08, 2023, 11:39:01 PM
The former Texas Tech coach, Mark Adams, just became available. I mean he would fit right in at Valpo.
Texas Tech coach Mark Adams steps down following suspension (usatoday.com) (https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/big12/2023/03/08/texas-tech-coach-mark-adams-steps-down-following-suspension/11432571002/)
Adams spent decades coaching college basketball in Texas at all different levels. He came to Texas Tech in 2016 as a member of former coach Chris Beard's staff and was elevated into the top job when Beard left for the Texas job in 2021. A Texas Tech graduate, Adams went 43-25 in his two seasons leading the Red Raiders, including a Sweet 16 appearance last year.
[/size]
[/size]"Adams was encouraging the student-athlete to be more receptive to coaching and referenced Bible verses about workers, teachers, parents, and slaves serving their masters," the statement read. "Adams immediately addressed this with the team and apologized.
haha I'm assuming, this was sarcastic?
Because, yeah, hiring an old coach accused of racist comments and spitting on players is not exactly what a program in need of a change of culture and public perception needs.
Patrick Ewing is now available too! :lol:
Maybe a player-coach? I bet he could still block a shot or two! :)
But seriously, decisions are being made elsewhere.
Patrick Ewing at Valpo would be great but a dream.
Patrick Ewing
Valpos last two hires outside of family ties were a head coach at IU - Southbend and a Horizon League assistant.
We are either getting Tonagel or someone 95% of us have never heard of
Quote from: mp91 on March 09, 2023, 03:20:25 PM
Quote from: historyman on March 08, 2023, 11:39:01 PM
The former Texas Tech coach, Mark Adams, just became available. I mean he would fit right in at Valpo.
Texas Tech coach Mark Adams steps down following suspension (usatoday.com) (https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/ncaab/big12/2023/03/08/texas-tech-coach-mark-adams-steps-down-following-suspension/11432571002/)
Adams spent decades coaching college basketball in Texas at all different levels. He came to Texas Tech in 2016 as a member of former coach Chris Beard's staff and was elevated into the top job when Beard left for the Texas job in 2021. A Texas Tech graduate, Adams went 43-25 in his two seasons leading the Red Raiders, including a Sweet 16 appearance last year.
"Adams was encouraging the student-athlete to be more receptive to coaching and referenced Bible verses about workers, teachers, parents, and slaves serving their masters," the statement read. "Adams immediately addressed this with the team and apologized.
haha I'm assuming, this was sarcastic?
Because, yeah, hiring an old coach accused of racist comments and spitting on players is not exactly what a program in need of a change of culture and public perception needs.
One thing it does provide is a change of culture and public perception. Adams would probably find a way to win too.
Okay, okay, big sarcasm!
(https://www.yourtango.com/sites/default/files/styles/body_image_default/public/2020/sarcastic-memes-i-love-sarcasm-like-puncing-people.png)
Patrick Ewing would be a horrible hire for a school like Valpo. Valpo needs a coach who implements a system and then gets the right players to fit that system (as stated before, think of teams like Saint Mary's, Wisconsin, maybe Belmont, now Marquette). I see a lot of Big East basketball and Ewing had no system whatsoever.
vu84v2 - just kidding about Ewing, but it would be cool to see him on the sideline.
I still go with Ben McCollum at NW Mo St., but he is looking for something better.
Meanwhile, in the MVC, I'm hearing rumblings of Darian DeVries to Notre Dame. My oh my how different of a trajectory we're on ...
Quote from: Dr. T on March 11, 2023, 09:56:07 PMMeanwhile, in the MVC, I'm hearing rumblings of Darian DeVries to Notre Dame. My oh my how different of a trajectory we're on ...
Wow a little Karma there. Do I disremember or didn't Drake try to hire Homer when Bryce was a sophomore?
I think Drake was going after Homer after 98 Sweet 16 season when his stock was high.
DeVries is an excellent coach and has gotten more interest being "Des Moines' team". He would be excellent at Notre Dame and may bring his son with him.
As for McCollum:
https://bearcatsports.com/news/2023/3/11/mens-basketball-northwest-hammers-southern-arkansas-in-ncaa-first-round-94-69.aspx
Meanwhile.....
Indiana Wesleyan dropped a second round OT final in the NAIA National Championship to finish 21-10.
I like Amir Abdur Rahim from Kennesaw State.
This game got Lottich a contract extension... a healthy reminder to not make huge decisions based on emotion...
https://twitter.com/livestrong83062/status/1632770380359258112?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
Being in oru country, many were afraid what oru basketball would look like after Sutton was let go, for not letting his brother go....it's safe to say that oru more than landed on its feet. The new and young AD, I graduated high school with in small town Oklahoma, picked the right coach. Conference championships and a sweet 16 oru is trending in the right direction after parting way with a long time coach.
Don't think it was a good fit or would ever happen, but kampe would have done a better job than ML. Let's be honest just about every coach from our old conference would have done better
Tom Kleinschmidt from De Paul College Prep.
Quote from: VU2014 on March 12, 2023, 12:27:39 PM
This game got Lottich a contract extension... a healthy reminder to not make huge decisions based on emotion...
https://twitter.com/livestrong83062/status/1632770380359258112?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
So if Kiser or Gordon had turned the ball over we might be better off today? You could be right.
Bryce going to the dance again.
Was talking to a buddy who coached soccer at Grand Canyon
During Bryce's first year. He told me that Grand Canyon budget is 4x larger than the next school in the WAC and that he should go to the tourney every year (though he was a 5 seed in the WAC).
So the opposite of his time at valpo.
Quote from: tiny707 on March 12, 2023, 12:38:36 PM
Tom Kleinschmidt from De Paul College Prep.
Maybe an explanation on why Kleinschmidt would be a good fit at Valpo would be in order here.
Quote from: oklahomamick on March 12, 2023, 08:02:11 PM
Bryce going to the dance again.
Was talking to a buddy who coached soccer at Grand Canyon
During Bryce's first year. He told me that Grand Canyon budget is 4x larger than the next school in the WAC and that he should go to the tourney every year (though he was a 5 seed in the WAC).
So the opposite of his time at valpo.
When Bryce started at GCU, the WAC was a mere skeleton. It was on the verge of non-existence. After they gobbled up a large portion of the Texas part of the Southland Conference...they'll be challenged now.
Quote from: historyman on March 13, 2023, 03:36:09 AM
Quote from: tiny707 on March 12, 2023, 12:38:36 PM
Tom Kleinschmidt from De Paul College Prep.
Maybe an explanation on why Kleinschmidt would be a good fit at Valpo would be in order here.
Kleinschmidt is way too Catholic! Other than Padilla being at Valpo, there is nothing at Valpo for Kleinschmidt to leave DePaul College Prep for. Kleinschmidt maybe be in consideration down the road as an assistant on the DePaul staff, depending on what happens with the current head coach.
Another name to kick around is Kellen Sampson.
He is the head-coach-in-waiting, but might be worth giving him a call just in case he doesn't want to wait for his dad to retire. Widely regarded as one of the top assistant coaches in the country.
He could get better offers and, financially, probably would make about the same salary as he currently does as an assistant (reportedly around $300,000), so it make more sense for him to just wait. But, you never know.
Plus, we can get some Indiana/Sampson family redemption!
Love his dad. He's either waiting for him to retire or take the Texas tech job.
Its been too long. With all the portaling today and players now available, we need to get a start on recruiting them. Since nothing has been announced or even signaled/leaked, im getting the feeling that ML will be back next year.
And if a change still does happen, its another roadblock for the program and successor unless they have done all of this on the sly and will have a replacement named shortley thereafter (unlikely).
Judging how we're actively recruiting the transfer market apparently, it sounds more and more like Lottich is coming back.
Paul, said wait until we get closer to the Final 4 for more potential news.
Here is food for thought...could it be someone other than Matt L who is fishing the transfer portal trying to get a behind the scenes jump on things for next year before any coaching change is announced?
Quote from: valpo64 on March 14, 2023, 07:31:13 AM
Here is food for thought...could it be someone other than Matt L who is fishing the transfer portal trying to get a behind the scenes jump on things for next year before any coaching change is announced?
Yes, maybe a coach currently with a school in Arizona that will be playing in Denver and eating Rocky Mountain Oysters is fishing the transfer portal for Valpo and will take the Valpo head job after his "Grand" team exits (or wins :-)) the Big Dance. Think about the fact that Dr. Small visited with a certain coach and his father and got a pic taken and posted it.
One can always dream big. :P
Uh. Visit Grand Canyon University if you ever get the chance.
Sunshine 90% of the time. 80% of the facilities are new. Attendance in their 7,000 seat arena were filled at 102% this year.
So you're telling me there's a chance. Offer him the O'Keefe? It does fall into the southwest genre.
Quote from: crusadermoe on March 15, 2023, 03:09:30 PM
Uh. Visit Grand Canyon University if you ever get the chance.
Sunshine 90% of the time. 80% of the facilities are new. Attendance in their 7,000 seat arena were filled at 102% this year.
So you're telling me there's a chance. Offer him the O'Keefe? It does fall into the southwest genre.
fa·ce·tious/fəˈsēSHəs/
adjective
treating serious issues with deliberately inappropriate humor; flippant.
"a facetious remark"
Not the staff shake ups many were looking for...
https://twitter.com/valpoathletics/status/1636367389154590721?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
Well, that was inspiring.
Well, I for one have my mind changed now! We're for sure progressing nicely with this BIG TIME news.
Quote from: Dr. T on March 16, 2023, 09:42:31 PM
Well, I for one have my mind changed now! We're for sure progressing nicely with this BIG TIME news.
I have no insider knowledge, but my gut says no changes are coming... the AD needs to make some kind of indirect comment. If they are sticking with ML, give some kind of signal to fans about the future
People stopped supporting the program. Has anyone stepped up to buy out the contract? Seems likely not, and were stuck between a rock and a hardspot, so we will continue on.
You know reflectively the only group that I have heard besides my few friends that I talk to about Valpo MBB and this message board no one has expressed disatisfaction with the head coach. If you were forced into the decision about keeping the head coach how would you handle it?
Historyman - this shows the apathy or lack of interest toward the basketball program. I would presume most don't care whether or not Lottich gets dismissed. Sad situation.
There was an article written about Matt being on the hot seat. It is a know topic. The university needs to do the proper thing and address it.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Quote from: usc4valpo on March 17, 2023, 06:06:20 AM
Historyman - this shows the apathy or lack of interest toward the basketball program. I would presume most don't care whether or not Lottich gets dismissed. Sad situation.
I'm sorry, what did you say, I wasn't paying attention.
:-)
It will work out. When does GCU play? When will the Lopes season be over?
approximately 6:35 pm CDT tonight. It might all be over soon.
Quote from: historyman on March 17, 2023, 07:45:00 AM
Quote from: usc4valpo on March 17, 2023, 06:06:20 AM
Historyman - this shows the apathy or lack of interest toward the basketball program. I would presume most don't care whether or not Lottich gets dismissed. Sad situation.
I'm sorry, what did you say, I wasn't paying attention.
:-)
It will work out. When does GCU play? When will the Lopes season be over?
approximately 6:35 pm CDT tonight. It might all be over soon.
Perhaps Bryce is practicing Pacers getting ready for a long run?
Though I have not personally reached out to express my desire to help pay for the buy-out of ML, I have tried contacting the AD as a donor & alum to express my thoughts & concerns. My email was sent back in January. No response.
When receiving the mail asking for donations etc. - I read through the literature and thought about it for a few days. Then, I ended up recycling it. I will not financially support the institution unless/until it's apparent that the concerns are being heard.
I would, however, support specific NIL-related deals that I'm confident directly support the athletes if they were made known. I am not in a position to make decisions concerning the direction of the program. I'm just a fan, VU grad, & resident. All conjecture on my behalf concerning what should be done is purely subjective and carries no weight. But, I can only do my part to try and voice such concerns.
We live in a much different world than the one that existed a few years ago, let alone when I attended VU. More than ever, the ease of access to entertainment is at a finger length's distance. So, it's relatively easy to find entertainment when needed with or without VU. I'd prefer to allocate my time & monies to VU for such entertainment. When it's no longer entertaining, however, it's hard to justify doing so.
Quote from: Just Sayin on March 17, 2023, 08:36:26 AM
Quote from: historyman on March 17, 2023, 07:45:00 AM
Quote from: usc4valpo on March 17, 2023, 06:06:20 AM
Historyman - this shows the apathy or lack of interest toward the basketball program. I would presume most don't care whether or not Lottich gets dismissed. Sad situation.
I'm sorry, what did you say, I wasn't paying attention.
:-)
It will work out. When does GCU play? When will the Lopes season be over?
approximately 6:35 pm CDT tonight. It might all be over soon.
Perhaps Bryce is practicing Pacers getting ready for a long run?
I think some of you will be surprised what Homer & Bryce think of Valpo & their home town. Why would they even talk to Dr. Small in the middle of a basketball season?
I reached out to both MLB and the compliance department last year with some questions about NIL and what would be permissible. Two voicemails and two emails: Zero response.
Quote from: NativeCheesehead on March 17, 2023, 10:13:17 AM
I reached out to both MLB and the compliance department last year with some questions about NIL and what would be permissible. Two voicemails and two emails: Zero response.
You have to admire their consistency
Quote from: historyman on March 17, 2023, 10:12:03 AMI think some of you will be surprised what Homer & Bryce think of Valpo & their home town. Why would they even talk to Dr. Small in the middle of a basketball season?
If Bryce could schedule us home and home with his B team and Scott home and home with his
C D team then maybe we could compete and draw in a few fans just for the nostalgia value?
For those speculating on DII coaches moving up, the coach of Fairleigh Dickinson...who just knocked out Purdue as a 16 seed...came from St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill NY a DII program. FDU won 4 games last season and have won 21 games this season thus far.
@JD24 - I'd say FD is progressing more than nicely ;D
They must believe in the process.
There was a writing contest involving one of Charles Dickens' children. Unfortunately the Dickens' child didn't win. But later it was discovered that the winner had plagiarized in their writing. An impartial judge was asked who he thought had won the contest and he said,
"Fairly, Dickens' son."
I wonder if Enfield at USC is on the hot seat. It seems like they recruit well but underachieve on the court.
Also, is Painter considered one of the best coaches in the country?
Three Candidates that I would like to see interviewed are:
Roger Powell
Jared Nuness
Greg Tonagel
Ben Mc Collum now!
Not interested in any Valpo alums or past coaches/assistants with all do respect to Tonagel, Powell, Diebler, Nuness, or any of the rest. Valpo is in desperate need of a fresh start. A new perspective and above all new leadership as the press release called it is in order. A break from the past legitimizes Valpo as a serious basketball program.
Thank you Gore, Bowen, Drews, Powell, Tonagel, Diebler, etc. Its time for a new era of Valpo basketball to begin. We have tried to hang on to the past for far too long.
As far as I am concerned Lottich was an outsider and as far as I am concerned should never been considered after Powell turned down the job. It was very short sighted. We had a good team and the thought was the best way to continue the success that other programs like Butler and Gonzaga had was they hired from within. So, based on that, Lottich was hired. But, Lottich never had any intention of following coaching style that Bryce, Homer or Scott had. Under the Drews, players earned minutes based on Defensive effort. Lottich always emphasized offense first and as result at times he had very lazy players. Working your butt off was never rewarded. It is easy to play on the offensive end, it takes effort to play good defense. Defense travels, the offense will come and go. Also, good defense will lead to better offense.
As far as, Powell is concerned, I always loved his energy and enthusiam. That energy was contagious and it helps tremendously in recruiting. He has worked for exceptional programs, most recently Gonzaga. Nuness has been part of the Baylor program for 11 years now and has learned from probably the best turnaround program in NCAA history. He again has tremendous people and leadership skills. Tonagel has run a very successful D2 program, he was one of the best defensive players to ever play for Valpo and I would expect that is still very important to him. History has shown that Coaches from exceptional D2 programs translates well to D1.
Tonegal is NAIA, not D2. Get McCullom.
Someone has JR Blount and Brandin Knight
https://twitter.com/low_madness/status/1639020287642443777?s=46&t=oTpFf3Ed9_YqiEoFBi4EpQ
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Brandin Knight is set to make $625,000 next year at Rutgers.
Blount and Small were at Iowa State at the same time. Blount's 2022 salary as Asst. was $290,875. He could be within Valpo's budget.
Quote from: cmack on March 23, 2023, 08:43:16 PM
Not interested in any Valpo alums or past coaches/assistants with all do respect to Tonagel, Powell, Diebler, Nuness, or any of the rest. Valpo is in desperate need of a fresh start. A new perspective and above all new leadership as the press release called it is in order. A break from the past legitimizes Valpo as a serious basketball program.
Thank you Gore, Bowen, Drews, Powell, Tonagel, Diebler, etc. Its time for a new era of Valpo basketball to begin. We have tried to hang on to the past for far too long.
Tonagel runs a good program. Scholar athletes and a winning program. VU bringing in Tonagel would be like Baylor bringing in Scott. Time will tell but Tonagel recently lost in the 2nd round of the NAIA tournament. Maybe related, maybe not.
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Paul just released his list of candidates in The Victory Bell. Check it out.
I second VULB#62's tout of Paul's detailed look at possible hires, including short profiles, at The Victory Bell.
(And because I'm a big believer in journalists being paid for their writing, with the coming developments in the MBB program, and the optimism over the coming football season, among other things, now would be a great time to enter a paid sub to TVB. 😃🤓😜)
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 24, 2023, 07:47:54 AM
Paul just released his list of candidates in The Victory Bell. Check it out.
Who was on his list?
The usual names? Or anybody new/different?
https://twitter.com/low_madness/status/1639261206715170828
I love all of those names listed from Major Madness.
Tonagel over McCullom? seriously?
It's only cause of the Valpo ties USC, they should at least be talked about in the same strain. What they have both done is nothing short of remarkable
Brandin Knight seems highly unlike , he made 600+ at Rutgers , would at least be asking for a 33% pay cut
All the way back in the middle of December I wrote the following on this board introducing JR Blount:
If there is a coaching change, three criteria will be in play. 1) Charles Small will depend on his personal connections, and those Valpo connections of the past fans remember (Tonagel, Diebler, etc.) will matter much less than links to Small's background at Iowa State (or Arkansas and Pittsburgh). 2) Even if VU wanted them, Valpo will not have the money to consider top tier former head coaches (like Crean or Weber); and if the university did pay a large sum, the faculty would revolt. 3) Small's history as a Vice President for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, as well as Padilla's emphasis on DEI, would likely be a part of what shapes their decision.
For instance, the type of individual Valpo probably would seek would be a successful assistant coach like Iowa State's JR Blount, a former player at Loyola, a former assistant coach at Drake, and the leader for a social justice program while an assistant coach at Colorado State, where he also apparently had a good reputation as a recruiter. I'm not saying he would be hired; I am just speculating, citing him as an example of the level we might expect in a candidate.
In a follow-up post a month later, I suggested the name of Brandin Knight as a possible candidate for similar reasons, though I acknowledged there could be more difficulty with the economics and Knight would have to weigh that aspect against the opportunity to be a head coach.
I am sticking with Blount and Knight as two of the top candidates in the perspective of Charles Small and who likely would be approached first. If I were AD, I know I would want someone who has displayed success at a solid program, with whom I have worked in the past, who shares philosophies on coaching, whose personal character background and family life I know well, and whom I feel I can trust fully.
Let's not forget the seance with Homer and Bryce towards the end of the season. Maybe less focused on Homer and Bryce specifically which some or a few tried to make a connection and more on who their recommendations would be.
Thus anyone with a Drew connection, including those of Scott, should be considered from the outside looking in.
Quote from: tjjvalpo on March 23, 2023, 11:16:18 PMBrandin Knight is set to make $625,000 next year at Rutgers.
Most assistants are on one year deals and you're an assistant. Whoever Valpo hires will be a head coach and likely have a 3-5 year deal worth a couple of mil. That might be felt by Knight as the better long range move.
Not everyone is going to have what happened at FDU happen over one season but Tobin Anderson went from Div II to coaching a downtrodden Div I in a weak conference to head coach at Iona.
I supported Matt to follow Bryce so this time around I'll just keep my mouth shut. :-X
54% of D-1 men's bb players are black. Only 24% of D-1 coaches are black. Valpo's % of black and Hispanic faculty members is disgracefully low. A Hispanic President and an African American AD is a good start toward changing that dynamic. Let's keep it going.
So it doesn't matter regarding qualifications, just meet the quotas?
Quote from: wh on March 24, 2023, 05:50:27 PM
54% of D-1 men's bb players are black. Only 24% of D-1 coaches are black. Valpo's % of black and Hispanic faculty members is disgracefully low. A Hispanic President and an African American AD is a good start toward changing that dynamic. Let's keep it going.
Black and hispanic coaches for teams in the top 12 conferences are also significantly more likely to be dismissed than their white counterparts...after controlling for many factors.
Quote from: valpo64 on March 24, 2023, 08:43:30 PM
So it doesn't matter regarding qualifications, just meet the quotas?
No. Just color-blind recognize real coaching talent. That's all.
Quote from: wh on March 24, 2023, 05:50:27 PM
54% of D-1 men's bb players are black. Only 24% of D-1 coaches are black. Valpo's % of black and Hispanic faculty members is disgracefully low. A Hispanic President and an African American AD is a good start toward changing that dynamic. Let's keep it going.
How about hiring the coach best suited to make Valparaiso competitive in the Missouri Valley regardless of color?
As far as I'm concerned it wouldn't bother me if our new coach was a female Russian named "Teddie Lassovich" as long as she won games and was a respectable person who grew the student athletes as human beings.
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on March 25, 2023, 11:30:44 AMHow about hiring the coach best suited to make Valparaiso competitive in the Missouri Valley regardless of color?
In a society where systemic racism exists, color may have competitive value to the degree that it offers relatability to players and it creates a welcoming environment. If you believe systemic racism doesn't exist, then you'd certainly see no strategic value in hiring with color in mind, but you wouldn't necessarily believe it meant sacrificing the other coaching qualities. Are you against Valpo seeking Christian coaches because it reduces the pool of candidates or are you confident that the smaller pool still has enough quality candidates?
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on March 25, 2023, 11:30:44 AM
Quote from: wh on March 24, 2023, 05:50:27 PM
54% of D-1 men's bb players are black. Only 24% of D-1 coaches are black. Valpo's % of black and Hispanic faculty members is disgracefully low. A Hispanic President and an African American AD is a good start toward changing that dynamic. Let's keep it going.
How about hiring the coach best suited to make Valparaiso competitive in the Missouri Valley regardless of color?
I'm all for that, but collectively I don't think college athletic departments have been doing a good job following that principle. Everyone, of course, says they are, but the numbers say differently. I'm not suggesting that it's Valpo's responsibility to bend the curve in a different direction, but I do believe that we need to be highly intentional and sensitive in considering African American candidates.
I think Dusty May would be a good get for Valpo...
Wouldn't be surprised if Dusty May ends up at Penn State.
Quote from: vu84v2 on March 25, 2023, 07:55:22 PMI think Dusty May would be a good get for Valpo...
He would but I have no idea why he'd leave FAU for Valpo. I'd think at least a couple of rungs up would be what he'd do.
Quote from: JD24 on March 25, 2023, 09:05:37 PM
Quote from: vu84v2 on March 25, 2023, 07:55:22 PMI think Dusty May would be a good get for Valpo...
He would but I have no idea why he'd leave FAU for Valpo. I'd think at least a couple of rungs up would be what he'd do.
I was joking. Dusty May is looking at a seven figure salary from someone (agree about Penn State).
Quote from: Valpower on March 25, 2023, 01:21:13 PMare you confident that the smaller pool still has enough quality candidates?
George Costanza always said that the pool causes shrinkage.
Jermaine Kimbrough associate head coach at Arizona State checks all the boxes. Played at Cleveland State. Assistant Coach at Loyola and IUPU Ft. Wayne.
If you want some excitement you hire Indiana Wesleyan asst coach, Jeff Clark.
Quote from: tiny707 on March 25, 2023, 08:49:28 PM
Wouldn't be surprised if Dusty May ends up at Penn State.
Penn State is reportedly hiring the VCU coach (around 3.5 million annually, according to sources, if true). VCU likely to hire internally.
So, that means right now California is the only major job opening. And that is dumpster fire. Interesting to see what he does -might be better off just waiting till next year (unless something opens up or someone retires).
Quote from: wh on March 25, 2023, 01:57:06 PM
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on March 25, 2023, 11:30:44 AM
Quote from: wh on March 24, 2023, 05:50:27 PM
54% of D-1 men's bb players are black. Only 24% of D-1 coaches are black. Valpo's % of black and Hispanic faculty members is disgracefully low. A Hispanic President and an African American AD is a good start toward changing that dynamic. Let's keep it going.
How about hiring the coach best suited to make Valparaiso competitive in the Missouri Valley regardless of color?
I'm all for that, but collectively I don't think college athletic departments have been doing a good job following that principle. Everyone, of course, says they are, but the numbers say differently. I'm not suggesting that it's Valpo's responsibility to bend the curve in a different direction, but I do believe that we need to be highly intentional and sensitive in considering African American candidates.
Equally important for a racially diverse candidate is how comfortable they feel at Valparaiso -- the school and the town. That situation is better than when I was at VU c.1980, but it's still part of the mix of any decision. That said, I agree that Dr. Small's presence, in particular, sends a positive signal to African American coaching candidates.
I'm not tossing bricks from behind a glass house, either. Living in Boston, where racial issues remain sensitive despite genuine advances, some (hardly most or all) African-American athletes are not enthusiastic about playing in Boston. Boston is known to be listed in no-trade clauses for that reason. This topic recurs periodically in the Boston sports press.
This hire may well determine whether VU's fall from relevance among mid-majors during the past five seasons was a temporary decline or a sign of things to come for the long haul. Fingers crossed that the right person shows up soon and, equally important, stays on.
David, from a former MassHole, you have made a great point 😉
No one has talked about religion.
Over the past three decades, Valpo has been coached by someone who has worn religion on his sleeve, and it seems that has increased with each coach -- not a trait associated with Lutheranism. The coaches seem to have been the most fundamentalist group on campus. While the entire football team has a special service at the beginning of their season at the chapel (and it's clear that many have never darkened the door of a church before), even with its Christian bent, I can't remember seeing an athlete in one of the pews.
I have often wondered about the religious chatter and its impact on recruiting. Clearly there was a recruit from Sheboygan who came here because of it (and left because Valpo wasn't conservative enough), and it may be of comfort to parents sending their kids off to college. I wonder how much that has been used to make Valpo stand out in recruits minds either positively or negatively.
Come on - open your eyes :o :o :o here's the next Head Coach for Valpo. Bring back a Drew ::) Dana Drew-Shaw.
Dana Drew lettered in basketball as a point guard from 1990-1995, leading UT to three NCAA appearances and one WNIT berth. She guided UT to three regular season MAC Championships and three MAC Tournament Titles. Drew was first-team Academic All-American twice (1994 and 1995). She was also Academic All-MAC three years from 1991 to 1994.Drew was named MAC Player of The Year and first-team All-MAC in her sophomore and junior years. She was second-team All-MAC as a senior in 1994-95. She also led her team in scoring as a sophomore and junior. She averaged 11.7 ppg as a freshman, 15.0 ppg as a sophomore, 20.1 ppg as a junior and 19.0 ppg as a senior. She sat out the 1992-93 season due to knee surgery, playing just three games that season. Drew was named to the MAC All-Tournament team on four occasions and was the MAC Tournament Most Valuable Player three times. Drew is currently ranked first on the all-time career assists leaders with (659) and fourth in scoring (1,919). As a sophomore she played on the United States Olympic Festival team. As a freshman, she was named to the MAC All-Freshman team. She was MAC "Player of The Week" six times. Drew is married to former UT Academic All-America basketball player Casey Shaw. They live in Italy, where Shaw is a professional basketball player.
Quote from: Valpo Joe on March 27, 2023, 07:57:40 AMBring back a Drew Dana Drew-Shaw.
As I said previously it could be a woman for all I care. A few years back Kampe at Oakland had a woman asst coach. I'm wondering if Dana might be earning enough in the Italian law business these days. Maybe not as a lawyer but there has got to be something she could be helping Italians with. But I could be wrong.
Jake Diebler makes a lot of sense. But my gut says Dr. Small will want to get away from the Valpo Coaching Tree.
Something to keep in mind. If the next HC is Jake Diebler or Roger Powell, I think the chances of Coach Gore staying we Valpo rises. Coach Gore is a very good assistant Coach and an excellent Big Man coach! Not only that but he provides a connection to Valpo Basketball Alums for the past +20 years. He's more than an assistant coach. I really hope Coach Gore stays with the program somehow.
https://twitter.com/toddickow/status/1640193799451295745?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
Quote from: VU2014 on March 27, 2023, 12:10:33 PM
Jake Diebler makes a lot of sense. But my gut says Dr. Small will want to get away from the Valpo Coaching Tree.
Something to keep in mind. If the next HC is Jake Diebler or Roger Powell, I think the chances of Coach Gore staying we Valpo rises. Coach Gore is a very good assistant Coach and an excellent Big Man coach! Not only that but he provides a connection to Valpo Basketball Alums for the past +20 years. He's more than an assistant coach. I really hope Coach Gore stays with the program somehow.
https://twitter.com/toddickow/status/1640193799451295745?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
For completely selfish reasons I second this idea. Having Luke there would still give me some connection back to the Homer days and he is a good coach of extremely high integrity and moral character.
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on March 25, 2023, 11:30:44 AM
Quote from: wh on March 24, 2023, 05:50:27 PM
54% of D-1 men's bb players are black. Only 24% of D-1 coaches are black. Valpo's % of black and Hispanic faculty members is disgracefully low. A Hispanic President and an African American AD is a good start toward changing that dynamic. Let's keep it going.
How about hiring the coach best suited to make Valparaiso competitive in the Missouri Valley regardless of color?
lol I think this is exactly the point the statistic is making. If over half of the players in college basketball are black, but only 1/4 of the coaches are black, then statistics indicate that there are several qualified black candidates that aren't getting opportunities that they should. So, it's not only a ethical/mission-based decision but also attacking a market inefficiency. Therefore, hiring the best suited candidate and exploring a diversity hire are often the same thing.(PS – the idea that any administration would hire someone only because they are black even if they not qualified is a ridiculous take. This would never happen. This is just an excuse used to perpetuate a cycle of the same people over and over getting opportunities. Not saying this is your opinion, just saying have to be cognizant of this false narrative/red herring.)
I think the religious point proffered is an excellent consideration. Not sure if there is necessarily a right answer to the question: is religion helping or harming recruiting? This is a point that definitely should be given much thought. Some programs like Baylor use it to their advantage. But, they are in a much different situation than Valpo. Personally, I tend to be more in the "let's not over emphasize religion" camp. But, I also feel like it is a coach's decision. The coach has to be authentic. If that is part of his personality, then go for it. Yet, in terms of the administration, I don't think we have to say "it has to be" or even "it should be" a religious guy.
Love Diebler. Awesome guy. Just not sure if he wants to leave Ohio State just yet. If he is ready to come to Valpo, I'm down!
Side note: I wonder if we could try to bring back Erik Buggs as an assistant coach (particularly if a familiar face takes over). He has been doing quite well in Tennessee. Would love to see him back at Valpo. Just not sure if he wants to leave Memphis.
I was against the Lottich termination.
We have likely lost Krikke and a top recruit as a result of this move.
Coach Lottich had more than his fair share of bad luck, and his hiring coincided with the move to a much, much tougher conference - a factor much overlooked IMO in assessing the job he did here. He also upheld the integrity and character of the program, two factors that were, again, not given enough weight in judging his overall performance. And you couldn't ask for a better representative of this university.
Paul
Quote from: 78crusader on March 27, 2023, 04:22:54 PM
I was against the Lottich termination.
We have likely lost Krikke and a top recruit as a result of this move.
Coach Lottich had more than his fair share of bad luck, and his hiring coincided with the move to a much, much tougher conference - a factor much overlooked IMO in assessing the job he did here. He also upheld the integrity and character of the program, two factors that were, again, not given enough weight in judging his overall performance. And you couldn't ask for a better representative of this university.
All true. But in the end and before he will ever win as a head coach, Matt needs, as the Brits say, "proper training" under a head coach that will teach him a great deal.
Quote from: 78crusader on March 27, 2023, 04:22:54 PM
I was against the Lottich termination.
We have likely lost Krikke and a top recruit as a result of this move.
Coach Lottich had more than his fair share of bad luck, and his hiring coincided with the move to a much, much tougher conference - a factor much overlooked IMO in assessing the job he did here. He also upheld the integrity and character of the program, two factors that were, again, not given enough weight in judging his overall performance. And you couldn't ask for a better representative of this university.
Paul
The band aid needed to ripped off. We had an all-conference level player and we're still a bottom dweller in the MVC. If Krikke returned and we lost Kobe, did you expect different results.
The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results.
Bad luck can hold up as an excuse for 1-2 seasons, maybe 3 but the proof was in the pudding. 7 years is enough of a sample size to know he wasn't up to the job or ready for the job when he got it.
78crusader -
Lottich had bad luck?
Him being hired to be head coach at valpo was lucky. Being at the right place at the right time.
What d1 program hires a 4th assistant to be the head coach?
He was lucky to be hired as head coach, he was lucky to inherit Alec peters and that senior class. He didn't recruit those players. I've seen the players Lottich recruited. He was lucky to inherit a program that was coming off multiple conference championships and a couple NCAAT appearances. Lucky is the word you're looking for.
A little disappointed in the fan base not getting behind a good valpo basketball player who has been on the bench coaching for a long time. He also part of national championship team and a program that has been much better than Ohio state in the last decade.
don't look to Ohio state. Look south to the big12 and Baylor's Jared Nunes.
Quote from: oklahomamick on March 27, 2023, 07:18:36 PM
A little disappointed in the fan base not getting behind a good valpo basketball player who has been on the bench coaching for a long time. He also part of national championship team and a program that has been much better than Ohio state in the last decade.
don't look to Ohio state. Look south to the big12 and Baylor's Jared Nunes.
I love the guy and would love to have him on the staff but in 13 years at Baylor he has been an assistant coach for 1 year. He has an a variety of roles, but...
Just thinking about a timeline, I would assume we would have our coach by Monday. Maybe not officially announced but very soon after.
You can't go without a head coach for very long. And I'm willing to bet this was in process well before the Thursday announcement. That search firm no doubt had to be already vetted and an agreement signed WELL before Thursday's announcement. Talks with them probably started the week of 3/6-3/10 if not sooner or even initial discussions towards the end of the season. Certainly if funds are needed this conversation started awhile ago for timing of approvals. I'm sure Valpo U's lawyers went over the contract for a week and puts you at 3/13-3/17. 3/20 the search firm starts recruitment process with confidentiality, official announcement happens 3/23.
Something will get leaked before the end of the week.
If any coach was unlucky it was Bryce in Nashville.
If Small is at the Final Four, I'd push it to Wednesday to tie up loose ends and prepare a presser.
Very glad to hear that Valpo wants to try to save the program by making this move. I'm probably outside the mainstream here in that I absolutely do not want VU to limit this search to Valpo alums or the Drew coaching tree or whatever. If there are candidates who make sense from that group to interview, great, but that shouldn't be the determining factor. If you can get a guy like McCollum or a talented HC from a low-major D1 or a promising P5 assistant who have no ties to Valpo, you go get them if they are the best person for the job.
Now for the caveat: while we absolutely, positively have to get this hire right, that's only half of the job. Even the best candidate is going to have their hands tied in recruiting if VU isn't taking tangible, active steps to address the facilities issue. If another coaching staff comes and goes without any movement on this front, this program is going to be consigned to struggle for the long haul. This has to be a priority on a parallel path with getting the new staff in place. And quite frankly, any good coach worth having is going to demand it, as well.
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 27, 2023, 08:53:25 PMIf Small is at the Final Four, I'd push it to Wednesday to tie up loose ends and prepare a presser.
Probably right on a Wednesday presser but I'd bet we hear the name a day or two prior. Somebody will spill the beans somewhere.
Evaluate thoroughly, then execute quickly. Think this through and take time as needed, it is an important decision for the long term, not just for recruiting this year.
It took Valpo 3 weeks after the end of the season to fire Lottich, why would they want to hire a new coach within a week?
Keep all options open, whether or not candidates have Valpo roots. It should not have relevance in making the right decision.
Quote from: usc4valpo on March 28, 2023, 06:03:29 AM
Evaluate thoroughly, then execute quickly. Think this through and take time as needed, it is an important decision for the long term, not just for recruiting this year.
It took Valpo 3 weeks after the end of the season to fire Lottich, why would they want to hire a new coach within a week?
Keep all options open, whether or not candidates have Valpo roots. It should not have relevance in making the right decision.
I really wonder why it took 3 weeks. This will never be mentioned publicly but if had to guess it had to do with securing funding for the buyout.
Quote from: VU2014 on March 28, 2023, 12:15:09 PMQuote from: usc4valpo on March 28, 2023, 06:03:29 AMEvaluate thoroughly, then execute quickly. Think this through and take time as needed, it is an important decision for the long term, not just for recruiting this year. It took Valpo 3 weeks after the end of the season to fire Lottich, why would they want to hire a new coach within a week? Keep all options open, whether or not candidates have Valpo roots. It should not have relevance in making the right decision.
I really wonder why it took 3 weeks. This will never be mentioned publicly but if had to guess it had to do with securing funding for the buyout.
If the school was waiting for the end of the season to begin securing funding, then they really are inept. Should have been an ongoing process as part of the ongoing evaluation of the coach.
It's possible that Valpo was waiting to contact prospective coaches to gauge interest to make sure the right guy(s) at the right price would be available before dumping Lottich. Otherwise I have no idea why it took 3 weeks.
Will be interesting to see the impact of a new coach on our scheduling. I have to assume it will improve. Are the excuses we have used in the past legit and just what we were comfortable with and used to.
Excited to find out.
Based on Smalls interview with Paul Oren it seemed he wanted to give Lotticj a chance to present a plan for improvement and evaluate afterward. Clearly after hearing the plan he didn't feel confident enough it would be successful or he felt that Lottichs assessment of team needs was off base based on what he observed. Charles seems both patient and careful yet also decisive so it makes sense he took this approach. I'm sure putting out feelers related to interest was another piece. We need a big upgrade at coach ti make this move worth it financially
All of this coaching change talk and backround stuff didn't happen in a day of so of Matt's firing. You can bet that Dr. Small has been working on this problem for weeks or months prior to letting Matt go. I feel very confident that Dr. Small had already compiled a list of potential candidates prior to last week and also did some homework on any possible new hire.
If Small has his list, how much added value (at a 30% commission) does the search firm bring other than providing a buffer between Small and all potential applicants? IDK, so just wondering.
Quote from: crusader05 on March 28, 2023, 01:31:02 PM
Based on Smalls interview with Paul Oren it seemed he wanted to give Lotticj a chance to present a plan for improvement and evaluate afterward. Clearly after hearing the plan he didn't feel confident enough it would be successful or he felt that Lottichs assessment of team needs was off base based on what he observed. Charles seems both patient and careful yet also decisive so it makes sense he took this approach. I'm sure putting out feelers related to interest was another piece. We need a big upgrade at coach ti make this move worth it financially
The new AD at Vanderbilt hired because the former AD died told Bryce to prepare his plan for improvement for next year. Bryce did that and on his way to present it, he was fired.
Hearing Ed Schilling is in play. Not sure if he has interviewed, but definitely is a potential target.
Obviously, great track record with IU, UCLA, Memphis, and GCU. From Indiana. Connections to Bryce, Woodson, Alford, and Calipari.
His name came up a couple times. And a source confirmed there is some fire behind the smoke. So we'll see.
MP91, I sure hope Brad Korn is still in play...
So who is going to break the story first? Come on PO don't let Norlander beat you to it! A Victory Bell tweet breaking it helps exposure. Let's go PO!
If they hire Ed Shilling, who does Bryce replace him with? Luke Gore? Matt?
Chairback, wonder if they want to make an announcement before tip off on Saturday?
Quote from: Chairback on March 30, 2023, 02:23:28 PM
So who is going to break the story first? Come on PO don't let Norlander beat you to it! A Victory Bell tweet breaking it helps exposure. Let's go PO!
I'm almost certain I won't get the story first. The only thing I beat Norlander in is our mutual love of Guster, even if he rocks the bumper sticker on national TV all the time.
At this level, when agents get involved, they go to the biggest microphone.
Quote from: Pgmado on March 30, 2023, 03:11:24 PM
At this level, when agents get involved, they go to the biggest microphone.
Great statement. Seems like anyone involved gets their fingers into the money pie.
And they (agents) are players in this hiring dance that we on the board haven't even considered/discussed. Not that it's an added expense to Valpo, but an agent is after the biggest payoff and could steer a guy, who would like to take the job, away cuz the agent makes less.
Quote from: tiny707 on March 30, 2023, 02:46:56 PM
If they hire Ed Shilling, who does Bryce replace him with? Luke Gore? Matt?
Schilling? Based on what exactly? His 1 stint as head coach at Wright State ended in Matt Lottich-esque fashion, only he was fired with 3 years remaining on his contract instead of 2. Also of note, the Wright State gig ended 20 years ago and he has never resurfaced anywhere as head coach since. Apparently, he's effective at the assistant level or he wouldn't have remained in the sport all these years. I'll give him credit for that.
Schilling was hired to lead the Wright State program on March 19, 1997, taking over for Ralph Underhill.[6] He was the head coach for six seasons and went 75-93 in his six seasons. He was dismissed in 2003 with three years remaining on his contract.
Until I read Paul's Victory Bell piece today, in which he made an impassioned argument in favor of a VU insider (Diebler, Powell, Tonagel), I was agnostic on the question of insider vs. outsider. But now I'm persuaded that if one of these three is available and, frankly, affordable (probably not with Diebler), then it's worth taking that chance.
The risk/reward candidate is Tonagel, because of the level at which he's coached, albeit with remarkable success. But if he got the job and turned the program around, it's not as clear that VU would be just a quick stop along the way, as his faith values would cause him to screen a next potential job with criteria that other coaches might not be applying. The guy has been at Indiana Wesleyan for 18 seasons. I'm sure he's fielded tons of inquiries over the years. Give the man credit: When he finds a place that's right for him, he stays.
David81 to your point this old article (2018) touches on all your points you just made. Tonagel is growing on me.
https://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/03/14/tom-davis-indiana-wesleyan-coach-greg-tonagel-just-keeps-winning-and-being-ignored/
Quote from: VALPO LI on March 30, 2023, 07:39:36 PM
David81 to your point this old article (2018) touches on all your points you just made. Tonagel is growing on me.
https://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/03/14/tom-davis-indiana-wesleyan-coach-greg-tonagel-just-keeps-winning-and-being-ignored/
I read that story before, but the fact that Greg did some fishing in the transfer portal and pulled in some quality talent, didn't register till now. That is a prerequisite for coaching today's mid- majors. It's clear that he is a culture builder. His kids play hard for him.
Tonagel is sounding better to me also. How about Greg as head coach and a couple of his former team mates as assistant coaches. Lubos Barton and Jared Nuness. Lubos would have excellent Europe ties while Jared recruits well in the midwest. Greg has his Indiana connections and keep Luke as the associate head coach if he wants it. Luke has done very well recruiting Canada.
WH, I agree on Ed Schilling. I still prefer Brad Korn and then Greg Tonagel. I want a proven head coach that can turn a program around. Assistant coach is a crap shoot.
I want someone who is over-the-top thrilled to assume the role of head coach at Valparaiso University. Someone who can't wait to get here. Overachiever. Relentless recruiter. Adept at teaching fundamentals like proper shooting technique, positioning, boxing out, swarming the ball, etc.
In your opinion, WH, who from the rumored candidate pool might have these qualities which I also would love to see exhibited on the the ARC floor on game day.
Quote68. Brad Korn (Southeast Missouri State)
Make no mistake – every coach on this list has done something right. They've led their team to March Madness when nearly 300 other coaches couldn't say the same. However, with a career record of 44-50 and no 20-win seasons, Korn gets last place. For what it's worth, the Redhawks have improved every year since he's been there.
https://cbbreview.com/2023/03/14/march-madness-2023-ranking-head-coaches/
Mentioned Steve Lutz a few weeks ago from Corpus Christi. Would be a home run hire
Quote from: valpofb16 on March 30, 2023, 09:04:56 PM
Mentioned Steve Lutz a few weeks ago from Corpus Christi. Would be a home run hire
Steve Lutz stresses importance of people as he takes over at Western KentuckyQuoteLutz agreed to a four-year deal with an annual base salary of $650,000.
https://www.midmajormadness.com/2023/3/21/23649104/steve-lutz-stresses-importance-of-people-as-he-takes-over-at-western-kentucky
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 30, 2023, 08:52:26 PM
In your opinion, WH, who from the rumored candidate pool might have these qualities which I also would love to see exhibited on the the ARC floor on game day.
Well, I don't know enough about some of these guys to say, but I do know this. All 3 of our Valpo-connected guys check every box.
Quote from: wh on March 30, 2023, 09:58:31 PM
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 30, 2023, 08:52:26 PM
In your opinion, WH, who from the rumored candidate pool might have these qualities which I also would love to see exhibited on the the ARC floor on game day.
Well, I don't know enough about some of these guys to say, but I do know this. All 3 of our Valpo-connected guys check every box.
I was thinking along the same lines. I'd add Ben McCollum, but it's more of a hunch based on his incredible D-II resume from his first year as a HC, he, like Greg, has never had a losing season in well over 10 years of being the head guy. And all four are young.
Quote from: VULB#62 on March 30, 2023, 10:31:26 PMQuote from: wh on March 30, 2023, 09:58:31 PMQuote from: VULB#62 on March 30, 2023, 08:52:26 PMIn your opinion, WH, who from the rumored candidate pool might have these qualities which I also would love to see exhibited on the the ARC floor on game day.
Well, I don't know enough about some of these guys to say, but I do know this. All 3 of our Valpo-connected guys check every box.
I was thinking along the same lines. I'd add Ben McCollum, but it's more of a hunch based on his incredible D-II resume from his first year as a HC. He, like Greg, has never had a losing season in well over 10 years of being the head guy. And all four are young.
McCollum reportedly turned down the Univ. of Buffalo job and that eventually went to Villanova assistant George Halcovage
Ben McCollum loves his job at Northwest Missouri State, and not desperate to move up unless it is the right fit. If Valpo hired him it would be a home run.
We are moving slower than Buffalo and Temple hires. Probably means targets are passing..
That is not necessarily true. Whatever time it takes, let's do the job right and get a good fit for our unique situation at Valpo. But I sure hope we get the thing settled real soon.
Quote from: tiny707 on March 31, 2023, 09:46:03 AM
We are moving slower than Buffalo and Temple hires. Probably means targets are passing..
Maybe, but sometimes college basketball can be quite regional. Temple hired a Penn State assistant and Buffalo hired a Villanova assistant. I have no idea who Valparaiso is targeting, but I wouldn't be shocked if those two weren't candidates.
Quote from: tiny707 on March 31, 2023, 09:46:03 AM
We are moving slower than Buffalo and Temple hires. Probably means targets are passing..
Unlike state schools, Dr. Small has a specific hiring requirements unique to Valpo. Including the candidate understanding and accepting the faith based nature of the position. Add to that the small town environment, the academic standards required of recruits and the limited budget, and yes, we are moving slower than Buffalo.
State schools probably have similar hiring processes.
It comes down to budget and this is a very low paying high mid major job. Point and case Western Kentucky signing a coach to 300k more than Lottich made from a small major.
The Western Kentucky salary is a slight bump from what I've seen some power 5 assistants earning (Knight , Powell?)
Valpo will get a small division coach or an incumbent assistant at 300k. People don't take 2-300k pay cuts for non guaranteed success
Yes, that's logical. Put me down for Tonagel as I have recommended for two years if Matt left. Greg has passion, the home state "Hoosier" grit. It's tempting to go outside the VU community. But honestly you would need immense Valpo passion to coach in the ARC with shaky promises to build new.
The guy who was expected to take the Temple job pulled away due to administrative turmoil. How does three years of university deficits and a campus roiled with a faculty petition drive compare to Temple? I don't know.
Were any of the assistants named interim HC after Lottich was fired? I didn't see it if that were the case. That's often done when a school wants to hold the roster together while they bring in a new staff. So this could be a sign that the expectation is a blow it up and start over path is wanted by Small, et al.
Quote from: crusadermoe on March 31, 2023, 11:47:13 AMYes, that's logical. Put me down for Tonagel as I have recommended for two years if Matt left. Greg has passion, the home state "Hoosier" grit. It's tempting to go outside the VU community. But honestly you would need immense Valpo passion to coach in the ARC with shaky promises to build new. The guy who was expected to take the Temple job pulled away due to administrative turmoil. How does three years of university deficits and a campus roiled with a faculty petition drive compare to Temple? I don't know.
Buffalo reportedly had three candidates turn them down prior to hiring Halcovage
I'm asking this because I don't know the answer, not because I'm suggesting anything.
If there is a financial issue, I wonder if the financially strapped universities can juice their offers with incentives based on financial return of the team. For example, maybe the lower base-pay offer could include additional payment as a percentage of ticket sales, tv revenue, NCAA tournament payout, etc.
If we have a confident coach with a healthy incentive package, we may be able to 'out bid' other schools only offering guaranteed pay. Actually, the entire staff should be on an incentive package.
Again, I don't know how it works in college athletics, so simply asking if anyone has insight.
Powell, Diebler, & Tonagel are all (3) hires that I'd be 100% supportive of if Dr. Small were to land one of them. I don't see it happening with Diebler, however. He's an Ohio guy & has built up a reputation that far exceeds Valpo. Why take a pay cut to come back & rebuild this program? He's young & has a family he & his wife are raising.
Mark Few is 60 & has been at Gonzaga since 1999. He reportedly makes around $2,000,000 a year. He's from Oregon & a UO grad.- he's a West Coast guy. When he's ready to retire, I see him getting an opportunity at Gonzaga to take over in some athletic administrative role.
Roger Powell is 40 - aka 20 years younger than Few. I see him riding it out and taking over the reins.
Tonagel, however, is the guy I see as being most probable from these three options. I've been vying for him since Bryce left. The Tonagel family is absolutely amazing. They, like the Drews, are a family that Valparaiso would generationally embrace for years to come. Greg, like Homer, is pursuing his doctorate. He's a cerebral, level-headed, family-oriented man of faith. He's been the HC at Wesleyan since 2005.
And, he's a proven coach - I don't care that it's NAIA:
IWU COACHING HIGHLIGHTS:
3: NAIA Div. II National Championships (2014, 2016, and 2018)
25: NAIA Div. II NAIA All-Americans
12: Crossroads League Regular Season Championships
5: Crossroads League Tournament Championships (2010, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2020)
2: NAIA National Player of the Year (2020 & 21: Kyle Mangas)
1: Small College Basketball Player of the Year (2020: Kyle Mangas)
4: Finished Seasons as the No. 1-ranked team in NAIA Division II.
Winningest Coach in Program History
Highest Winning Percentage (.795)
Most Wins (420)
Most NAIA National Tournament Victories (32)
Most National Tournament appearances (13)
Most Crossroads League Regular Season Championships (11)
Most Crossroads League Tournament Championships (5)
As a player, by the way, here's some stats:
AS A PLAYER:
Led Valparaiso to 4 NCAA Tournaments
Won 20 games each of the Four Years as a Starter
Compaq National Play of the Week
Set Single Season Free Throw Record
Academic All-Conference
Two-time Team Captain
Team Chaplain and Bible Study Leader
Quote from: valpofb16 on March 31, 2023, 11:34:14 AMIt comes down to budget and this is a very low paying high mid major job. Point and case Western Kentucky signing a coach to 300k more than Lottich made from a small major.
Your answer covers the whole spectrum.
low, high & mid
Dr. T, spot on. The longer this drags out and the more people drop it becomes more apparent that Greg is the one. Home run. The good thing is they definitely did their due diligence and explored every avenue in the process.
Quote from: Dr. T on March 31, 2023, 10:22:17 PMTonagel, however, is the guy I see as being most probable from these three options. I've been vying for him since Bryce left. The Tonagel family is absolutely amazing. They, like the Drews, are a family that Valparaiso would generationally embrace for years to come. Greg, like Homer, is pursuing his doctorate. He's a cerebral, level-headed, family-oriented man of faith. He's been the HC at Wesleyan since 2005.
If Greg takes the Valpo HC job, his son plays for Valpo, hits an incredible last second three pointer in the 2nd round of the NCAA Tournament called Buck with the younger Tonagel receiving a pass from an identical triplet named Harry whose brothers are Larry & Les that eventually sends the Beacons to the Elite Eight. After 22 years at Valpo, with two of his sons serving as assistant coaches, one taking over at a scandal ridden Texas Christian and eventually taking them to a national championship and his other NCAA highlight son after playing for the Sixers, Nets & Pacers becomes the Valpo HC for six years eventually winning an N.I.T. championship with the help of a highly recruited player from near Decatur, IL. Then and only then will I compare Greg to Homer.
Of course Cleveland native triplet Les Johnson will hate the phrase "Nothing Less" ;)
P.S. I did leave out the 8 MVC championships and 5 Conference USA championships Greg and his sons will win.
P.P.S. Oh yeah, Greg's "The Shot III" son will marry a Nets cheerleader who's father plays Ralph Kramden's son on the show the Honeymooners.
P.P.P.S. Greg's grandson will find a better way to make microwave popcorn that tastes better and become a very VUASC (@valpoarchives) • Instagram photos and video (https://www.instagram.com/p/CQY8shRAhlj/)s in Valpo. Greg's grandson will pay for a 15,000 seat arena with A/C which will be a true state of the art facility.
And I can once again order the $1.00 spaghetti.
Agree with all of the posts here regarding Greg. I think it's going to be him. Great hire if it happens.
How long will the entire Ohio State coaching staff be employed with a another season like they had. Excuses will not buy you time there.
If they don't win quickly and miss another year of tourney that whole staff will be wiped out in a blink.
Quote from: VALPO LI on March 30, 2023, 07:39:36 PM
David81 to your point this old article (2018) touches on all your points you just made. Tonagel is growing on me.
https://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/03/14/tom-davis-indiana-wesleyan-coach-greg-tonagel-just-keeps-winning-and-being-ignored/ (https://www.news-sentinel.com/sports/2018/03/14/tom-davis-indiana-wesleyan-coach-greg-tonagel-just-keeps-winning-and-being-ignored/)
Greg would check all of the boxes for me now. I thought back in 2013 that he still needed some seasoning. However, agreeing with Tom Davis just makes me sick because he is such an ass.
Quote from: 4throwfan on March 31, 2023, 03:28:18 PM
I'm asking this because I don't know the answer, not because I'm suggesting anything.
If there is a financial issue, I wonder if the financially strapped universities can juice their offers with incentives based on financial return of the team. For example, maybe the lower base-pay offer could include additional payment as a percentage of ticket sales, tv revenue, NCAA tournament payout, etc.
If we have a confident coach with a healthy incentive package, we may be able to 'out bid' other schools only offering guaranteed pay. Actually, the entire staff should be on an incentive package.
Again, I don't know how it works in college athletics, so simply asking if anyone has insight.
Yes! Not only is it possible, it's actually pretty common to you have incentives built-in to the contract. This can include a variety of things such as -number of wins, postseason awards, academic performance, etc. At Indiana, Archie Miller actually had bonuses reliant on how they finished in RPI or Kenpom. Lots of different ways to get creative.
Quote from: mp91 on April 01, 2023, 06:28:40 PM
Quote from: 4throwfan on March 31, 2023, 03:28:18 PM
I'm asking this because I don't know the answer, not because I'm suggesting anything.
If there is a financial issue, I wonder if the financially strapped universities can juice their offers with incentives based on financial return of the team. For example, maybe the lower base-pay offer could include additional payment as a percentage of ticket sales, tv revenue, NCAA tournament payout, etc.
If we have a confident coach with a healthy incentive package, we may be able to 'out bid' other schools only offering guaranteed pay. Actually, the entire staff should be on an incentive package.
Again, I don't know how it works in college athletics, so simply asking if anyone has insight.
Yes! Not only is it possible, it's actually pretty common to you have incentives built-in to the contract. This can include a variety of things such as -number of wins, postseason awards, academic performance, etc. At Indiana, Archie Miller actually had bonuses reliant on how they finished in RPI or Kenpom. Lots of different ways to get creative.
Thanks mp91.
Obviously, VU would need to find a coach to agree to some sort of incentive-heavy agreement, but I think that could be something that could solve some issues.
First, VU could offer some sort of retention bonus so that stability is incentivized. For example, there could be a base pay less than Matt's, but could offer, for example, a $500K payment if he stays for 5 years. There would have to 'termination for cause' and 'good leaver' provisions, but that's not hard.
Second, given the university's financial situation, I'd probably try to tie bonus to financials rather than pure performance. For example, maybe he could get a pro rata bonus paid based on MBB revenue growth. If the revenue growth is greater than 10% for each year, then he would 'be in the money'. Could say that revenue growth over 10% would result in receiving percentage of base pay up to a maximum of, say 50%. They could set that max at something like 20% revenue growth. So, if he gets paid, say $300K, then under my example, he would get an additional $150K annually if MBB revenue grows by 20% each year. The benefit of this would be that high pay could be easier to justify to other staff who are not highly paid. Maybe they would want to go on an incentive program for their own compensation.
Third, there could also be other incentives based on W/L (only for Div 1 W's), but again these incentives may need to be secondary, but might be easier to understand for most coaches.
Again, there might not be many coaches that would agree on such things, but it would help get a quality coach for less up-front payment. A Div II coach would likely jump on this (and the incentives would lose effect) simply because the base pay is already more than they make. So, my thinking is geared more toward someone who would have other Div 1 offers from more attractive positions simply so that VU"s offer becomes potentially more lucrative.
Just some thoughts.
Tonegal seems like a decent guy, but don't stick only on the Valpo tree. The NAIA to D1 transition in this day and age of NIL and transfer protocol requires a different cat of a coach.
Ideally, Ben McCollum would be ideal, but doubt it would be a mutual fit. I think McCollum is looking for a higher MVC or Big 12 job.
Just my opinion, but I think we are down to Ed Schilling and Greg Tonagel. Both want the job and meet the Valpo criteria. Small has to get over his "fear" that Tonagel may be too religious or NAIA is too small. Either one will have to help raise money for facilities. UCONN has no NIL players on roster...
Quote from: usc4valpo on April 02, 2023, 10:23:16 AM
Tonegal seems like a decent guy, but don't stick only on the Valpo tree. The NAIA to D1 transition in this day and age of NIL and transfer protocol requires a different cat of a coach.
Ideally, Ben McCollum would be ideal, but doubt it would be a mutual fit. I think McCollum is looking for a higher MVC or Big 12 job.
There are multiple models that work in today's NIL and transfer protocol world. Yes, one model is to continuously attract better talent than your competitors each year via transfers. But another model will emphasize a system and connectedness, in which greater value is placed in players who fit the system and who have the maturity and behavior to connect with their teammates. These types of programs will still have some inbound and outbound transfers, but far less than many other programs. For Valpo, saying its just going to continuously win the recruiting battle for first-year and transfer players may not have the likelihood of success that building a system associated with a specific on-court strategy and getting players to connect with one another has. I honestly don't know if Greg Tonagel is the guy to do that, but from what I have heard and read he may be.
Quote from: tiny707 on April 02, 2023, 10:35:27 AM
Just my opinion, but I think we are down to Ed Schilling and Greg Tonagel. Both want the job and meet the Valpo criteria. Small has to get over his "fear" that Tonagel may be too religious or NAIA is too small. Either one will have to help raise money for facilities. UCONN has no NIL players on roster...
Tonagel is fully entitled to his religious beliefs, but (like anyone) he would need to respect everyone else's beliefs in the work environment. This includes players, athletic department staff, etc.
My guess (from a distant perch, concededly) is that if there are issues with Tonagel's religious beliefs and how he would comport himself as a coach, that they will be openly and honestly discussed so as to leave no room for misunderstanding. If he's announced as the new HC, it will not have been a hastily made decision, given a school whose MBB program is at a critically important crossroads and a guy who has been in his current coaching position for 18 seasons.
Quote from: tiny707 on April 02, 2023, 10:35:27 AM
Just my opinion, but I think we are down to Ed Schilling and Greg Tonagel. Both want the job and meet the Valpo criteria. Small has to get over his "fear" that Tonagel may be too religious or NAIA is too small. Either one will have to help raise money for facilities. UCONN has no NIL players on roster...
I really, REALLY hope Schilling is not in the final two. Would be a disaster in my opinion.
Quote from: vok22 on April 02, 2023, 11:39:01 AM
Quote from: tiny707 on April 02, 2023, 10:35:27 AM
Just my opinion, but I think we are down to Ed Schilling and Greg Tonagel. Both want the job and meet the Valpo criteria. Small has to get over his "fear" that Tonagel may be too religious or NAIA is too small. Either one will have to help raise money for facilities. UCONN has no NIL players on roster...
I really, REALLY hope Schilling is not in the final two. Would be a disaster in my opinion.
Are we honestly considering someone who was so bad at Wright State that they fired him with 3 years left in his contract? Matt Lottich has a better track than Schilling has - in a much tougher league. I'd have more confidence in someone from this board than I would him.
Quote from: wh on April 02, 2023, 11:54:53 AM
Quote from: vok22 on April 02, 2023, 11:39:01 AM
Quote from: tiny707 on April 02, 2023, 10:35:27 AM
Just my opinion, but I think we are down to Ed Schilling and Greg Tonagel. Both want the job and meet the Valpo criteria. Small has to get over his "fear" that Tonagel may be too religious or NAIA is too small. Either one will have to help raise money for facilities. UCONN has no NIL players on roster...
I really, REALLY hope Schilling is not in the final two. Would be a disaster in my opinion.
Are we honestly considering someone who was so bad at Wright State that they fired him with 3 years left in his contract? Matt Lottich has a better track than Schilling has - in a much tougher league. I'd have more confidence in someone from this board than I would him.
I'm sorry but the Schilling to Lottich comparison is ridiculous.
Schilling has been coaching basketball sincr before Lottich was born when he landed the Valpo job. Schilling has so much experience compared to Lottich.
I'm not saying I would like a Schilling hire but I will say he'd be much more prepared to be a head coach than what Lottich was.
Wouldn't it be ironic if Greg has zero interest and never applied. We hype all these "candidates" and it's all just speculation. I hope I'm wrong.
Given Padilla's heightened interest in hiring minorities, someone like Greg or Schilling may be at the bottom of the list, if at all. I'd love to see Tonagel get the job and I'm betting that he will. If Schilling was let go early in his contract, does it matter how long he has been coaching? He would be a bad choice in my view. Greg is squeaky clean.
Quote from: VU2014 on April 02, 2023, 01:34:30 PM
Quote from: wh on April 02, 2023, 11:54:53 AM
Quote from: vok22 on April 02, 2023, 11:39:01 AM
Quote from: tiny707 on April 02, 2023, 10:35:27 AM
Just my opinion, but I think we are down to Ed Schilling and Greg Tonagel. Both want the job and meet the Valpo criteria. Small has to get over his "fear" that Tonagel may be too religious or NAIA is too small. Either one will have to help raise money for facilities. UCONN has no NIL players on roster...
I really, REALLY hope Schilling is not in the final two. Would be a disaster in my opinion.
Are we honestly considering someone who was so bad at Wright State that they fired him with 3 years left in his contract? Matt Lottich has a better track than Schilling has - in a much tougher league. I'd have more confidence in someone from this board than I would him.
I'm sorry but the Schilling to Lottich comparison is ridiculous.
Schilling has been coaching basketball sincr before Lottich was born when he landed the Valpo job. Schilling has so much experience compared to Lottich.
I'm not saying I would like a Schilling hire but I will say he'd be much more prepared to be a head coach than what Lottich was.
If we're going to consider former head coaches who bombed out, let's at least go for a repentant cheater with a winning record. ;)
You guys are just wrong about Ed Shilling. Would Bryce have an older guy on his staff if he didn't believe in his ability to contribute to the coaching staff? You are centering on one decision made at Wright State a long time ago. Ed Shilling was the HS coach of Yogi Ferrel at Park Tudor School. He developed Yogi into an outstanding talent in HS.
Didn't Bryce also get fired at a Div I school? Did we say he was washed up after that?
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 02, 2023, 03:16:28 PM
Given Padilla's heightened interest in hiring minorities, someone like Greg or Schilling may be at the bottom of the list, if at all. I'd love to see Tonagel get the job and I'm betting that he will. If Schilling was let go early in his contract, does it matter how long he has been coaching? He would be a bad choice in my view. Greg is squeaky clean.
From an outsider's perspective, I think Just Sayin is spot on regarding the emphasis likely to be placed on diversity in the hiring. My 'read of the room' is that this is a priority.
If that's right, someone like Tonagel might not be a priority.
Ed Schilling.
Only one job as a head coach in his career. Why no head coach jobs after getting fired? Why didn't a school snatch him up if he is so good? His tenure as assistant wasn't all that long at most gigs.
What makes him the best candidate for Valpo head coach?
As coach:
1995–1996 UMass (assistant)
1996–1997 New Jersey Nets (assistant)
1997–2003 Wright State (Head Coach)
2003–2005 Memphis (assistant)
2013–2017 UCLA (assistant)
2017–2019 Indiana (assistant)
2020–present Grand Canyon (assistant)
Ed Schilling Record at Wright State. Four of six seasons were losing seasons.
Season 21-26 https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/wright-state/men/
As to Bryce, while it was grossly unfair in my view for him to have been fired, he did not win one conference game the year before he was fired. He deserved to be fired.
Quote from: 4throwfan on April 02, 2023, 07:10:13 PM
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 02, 2023, 03:16:28 PM
Given Padilla's heightened interest in hiring minorities, someone like Greg or Schilling may be at the bottom of the list, if at all. I'd love to see Tonagel get the job and I'm betting that he will. If Schilling was let go early in his contract, does it matter how long he has been coaching? He would be a bad choice in my view. Greg is squeaky clean.
From an outsider's perspective, I think Just Sayin is spot on regarding the emphasis likely to be placed on diversity in the hiring. My 'read of the room' is that this is a priority.
If that's right, someone like Tonagel might not be a priority.
I talked to a Valpo Alum who works in another collegiate athletics department and this was brought out up.
Dr. Small was in charge of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at the Iowa State athletics department. The person speculated that a minority candidate might have an edge in the hiring process. Not sure if it's true or not, but I'd thought I'd share with the board.
I just want the best coach possible and someone who fits Valpo's culture.
Hard no on Chris Lowery and Cuonzo Martin. Roger Powell not leaving Gonzaga, JR Blount not leaving Iowa State, Knight makes too much at Rutgers. Haven't heard much rumblings on Terry Johnson from Purdue recently.
Quote from: tiny707 on April 02, 2023, 07:53:54 PM
Hard no on Chris Lowery and Cuonzo Martin. Roger Powell not leaving Gonzaga, JR Blount not leaving Iowa State, Knight makes too much at Rutgers. Haven't heard much rumblings on Terry Johnson from Purdue recently.
On Paul's latest podcast, he did throw out the name Emanuel Dildy, but sounded like more of speculated fit for Valpo. Dildy is known as a great recruiter. He was primary recruiter for JFL
Terry Johnson interview for head coach.
https://vimeo.com/459063014
The Greg Tonagel video talking about fear and running a fearless program inspired me. That is when it clicked for him. Then The Championships started happening. He realized you can do both: win and be a disciple. Not either or. Matt Painer gave him a good plug on the IWU website. I Am Third.
In my opinion, the sentiments regarding Greg Tonagel's Christianity and the expressed fears about his ideological beliefs are a testament to his integrity. If his Christianity is cause for concern, he wouldn't want to be here anyhow.
Yes, he's a Christian. Yes, he's passionate about his faith. Yes, he lives with intentionality. Yes, he lives with integrity. As a Christian, he has a love for God, no doubt. And, he has a love for others. That said, do folks honestly believe he doesn't also love basketball?
He's a basketball coach. He doesn't have to be one - he chooses to be one. Guess what - he was a basketball player. Was his playing career defined by his beliefs? Yes, he led bible studies. And, he was a leader on the court. What if it didn't have to be this OR that? What if someone could be an all-in-Christ follower AND a successful basketball coach?
Agree Dr. T:
Scott Drew is an all in Christ follower and won a national championship.
Tang is an all in Christ follower and successful at Kansas State.
Bryce Drew is an all in Christ follower and has gone to NCAA twice at GCU.
While he's likely not ready to be a head coach, I'd love to see Erik Buggs back in the brown & gold. He's currently an assistant coach and the lead recruiting coordinator at the University of Tennessee Martin. He coached in the high school ranks and worked his way up to UTM. I know he's in Houston right now for the championship. At a bare minimum, I'm hoping he can meet Dr. Small and so forth.
https://utmsports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/erik-buggs/524
Quote from: Dr. T on April 02, 2023, 09:14:10 PM
In my opinion, the sentiments regarding Greg Tonagel's Christianity and the expressed fears about his ideological beliefs are a testament to his integrity. If his Christianity is cause for concern, he wouldn't want to be here anyhow.
Yes, he's a Christian. Yes, he's passionate about his faith. Yes, he lives with intentionality. Yes, he lives with integrity. As a Christian, he has a love for God, no doubt. And, he has a love for others. That said, do folks honestly believe he doesn't also love basketball?
He's a basketball coach. He doesn't have to be one - he chooses to be one. Guess what - he was a basketball player. Was his playing career defined by his beliefs? Yes, he led bible studies. And, he was a leader on the court. What if it didn't have to be this OR that? What if someone could be an all-in-Christ follower AND a successful basketball coach?
At Indiana Wesleyan, Tonagel has been able to blend his devotion to faith and his devotion to basketball. I'm guessing he's been able to do it somewhat seamlessly, which is great for him and his school.
Assuming he's a contender for the job, is Valpo a good a fit on both measures for him? VU has a more diverse student population, especially in terms of faith. And he'll be recruiting and coaching a D1 roster drawn from a more diverse talent pool as well. However, I think it's fair to say that at the mid-major level -- his logical entry point into D1-- Valpo is a known quantity to him, and one that likely remains a special place for him.
Quote from: Dr. T on April 02, 2023, 09:14:10 PM
In my opinion, the sentiments regarding Greg Tonagel's Christianity and the expressed fears about his ideological beliefs are a testament to his integrity. If his Christianity is cause for concern, he wouldn't want to be here anyhow.
Yes, he's a Christian. Yes, he's passionate about his faith. Yes, he lives with intentionality. Yes, he lives with integrity. As a Christian, he has a love for God, no doubt. And, he has a love for others. That said, do folks honestly believe he doesn't also love basketball?
He's a basketball coach. He doesn't have to be one - he chooses to be one. Guess what - he was a basketball player. Was his playing career defined by his beliefs? Yes, he led bible studies. And, he was a leader on the court. What if it didn't have to be this OR that? What if someone could be an all-in-Christ follower AND a successful basketball coach?
There is nothing wrong with being strong in whatever faith you follow. Indeed, as mentioned in another post, the Drews are very strong in their faith. The issue is evangelizing and proselytizing in the workplace. Players, students, staff, etc. all also have a right to their own beliefs and should not be faced with anyone - and especially someone in authority - who pushes their beliefs on them. From everything I know, the Drews did not push their faith on anyone else (though they were strong in their faith). If Greg Tonagel was coach and followed the same principles, then there would not be a problem.
I just want Valpo to win. If the new coach is strong in their faith and wins great. If the new coach is not strong in their faith and wins great. I agree that it shouldn't be pushed on anyone and should remain a personal matter and the new coach needs to respect that but the bottom line is winning. Just win.
QuoteValparaiso
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-coaching-changes-2023-texas-penn-state-vcu-and-cal-all-fill-vacancies/
"Big time name"? Tom Crean? Please no Martin.
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 03, 2023, 06:23:45 AM
QuoteValparaiso
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-coaching-changes-2023-texas-penn-state-vcu-and-cal-all-fill-vacancies/
Norlander is as well-connected as any. Interesting.
I think Big Time Name refers to the Valpo brand vs the coach that's coming in but I could be miss reading it.
https://twitter.com/trillydonovan/status/1642868753812578304?s=61&t=rvVIRCc0Iy1MgHjjNd30UA
Crusader05, you are correct after reading again. Good catch.
If those three names are correct looks like three from Drew coaching tree and one with connection to Small. Valpopal May be correct with his prediction a long time ago. We will see...
Looking at the language:
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
-- Like others, I take "a big-time name at that level" to mean it's a small school with a relatively big brand.
Also, I don't discredit Valpo for having stretch goals. Ex: Why not extend an offer to a coach that could be considered "out of reach"? Good for Dr. Small & Co. to put themselves out there. The worst case = is being turned down. Who cares? At least they can leave the process knowing they did their due diligence and didn't restrict themselves with unnecessary boundaries.
The coaching change has definitely made me excited for the future, which is not something I've felt for a while. Change is good.
Wonder where Matt will land. I'm still betting it's an assistant job. I know others disagree and that's okay.
Trilly Donovan:
One more for Valpo, per @samurai_hoops is Roger Powell (Gonzaga).
Wonder who turned it down? JR? Roger? Jake?
No one commented on what I put in
BOLD. First time, at least for me, that such a statement became public.
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 03, 2023, 06:23:45 AM
QuoteValparaiso
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-coaching-changes-2023-texas-penn-state-vcu-and-cal-all-fill-vacancies/
Pleasantly surprised by the names being mentioned. Just hoping we have enough money left to get some good ACs as well.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 03, 2023, 09:38:05 AM
No one commented on what I put in BOLD. First time, at least for me, that such a statement became public.
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 03, 2023, 06:23:45 AM
QuoteValparaiso
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-coaching-changes-2023-texas-penn-state-vcu-and-cal-all-fill-vacancies/
62, I don't know what that bold portion means. Do you? I was wondering whether you were surprised that the statement was made public, or that it occurred at all.
Quote from: crusader05 on April 03, 2023, 07:50:18 AMI think Big Time Name refers to the Valpo brand vs the coach that's coming in but I could be miss reading it.
That's what I thought as well.
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 03, 2023, 08:39:49 AMTrilly Donovan: One more for Valpo, per @samurai_hoops is Roger Powell (Gonzaga).
Nice of Trilly to admit he reads this board.
Quote from: 4throwfan on April 03, 2023, 11:30:40 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 03, 2023, 09:38:05 AM
No one commented on what I put in BOLD. First time, at least for me, that such a statement became public.
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 03, 2023, 06:23:45 AM
QuoteValparaiso
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-coaching-changes-2023-texas-penn-state-vcu-and-cal-all-fill-vacancies/
62, I don't know what that bold portion means. Do you? I was wondering whether you were surprised that the statement was made public, or that it occurred at all.
I took it to mean that perhaps, just perhaps somehow, a buy-out no longer applied, and that freed up Small to make the decision to let Matt go ?????? That also could have been a strategic leak to take some pressure off the athletic department, but IDK, these guys on Twitter sometimes make stuff up.
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 03, 2023, 02:40:24 PM
Quote from: 4throwfan on April 03, 2023, 11:30:40 AM
Quote from: VULB#62 on April 03, 2023, 09:38:05 AM
No one commented on what I put in BOLD. First time, at least for me, that such a statement became public.
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 03, 2023, 06:23:45 AM
QuoteValparaiso
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/college-basketball-coaching-changes-2023-texas-penn-state-vcu-and-cal-all-fill-vacancies/
62, I don't know what that bold portion means. Do you? I was wondering whether you were surprised that the statement was made public, or that it occurred at all.
I took it to mean that perhaps, just perhaps somehow, a buy-out no longer applied, and that freed up Small top make the decision to let Matt go ?????? That also could have been a strategic leak to take some pressure off the athletic department, but IDK, these guys on Twitter sometimes make stuff up.
I am 99% sure Norlander would've heard that from Lottich's agent. Most of the top voices in national college football and basketball media get their info from agents. He's pretty reputable, though, so I don't doubt it.
I assume that Small & Padilla would not fall for a "name" that makes an immediate headline splash but isn't the right guy for the program and the school.
Even the most anonymous choice won't be for long if he succeeds.
I wonder who turned us down??????
Quote from: David81 on April 03, 2023, 05:16:33 PM
I assume that Small & Padilla would not fall for a "name" that makes an immediate headline splash but isn't the right guy for the program and the school.
Even the most anonymous choice won't be for long if he succeeds.
I wonder who turned us down??????
I'm curious too, but they may not have turned down the school, but rather the offer. Might be higher offers elsewhere.
Keep in mind it's advantageous to the school to get that buyout news out. It's a small PR win for a school in financial trouble
My gut* says Ed Schilling is going to get the job.
I hope it's Jake Diebler, but I can't get a sense of who is in or out right now. The people who are in the know are aren't talking.
Quote from: VU2014 on April 03, 2023, 08:04:34 PM
My guy says Ed Schilling is going to get the job.
I hope it's Jake Diebler, but I can't get a sense of who is in or out right now. The people who are in the know are aren't talking.
My knowledge is based on history. Based on past history Schillings run with Wright state is not impressive. At least Tonagel has a winning program. For those of you who say it's NAIA Homer came from Bethel an NAIA school.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
No! Not Schilling.
I do not believe he has that fire in his gut. This program requires a go-getter with a demonstrated plan for success. The only thing Schilling has to prove is that he has learned a lot by being an assistant since Wright State many years ago. His leadership of a successful program has never been demonstrated. OTOH, Greg has never had a losing season - ever - since he took the IWU job at, what, 24. And he has three national championships under his belt along the way.
But Greg might have been one of the turn-downs. Who knows?
We have no idea whether Tonegal is an option at all. He may just not want to leave.
That said, Schilling doesn't have the profile I'd like. Either a lower Div HC looking to move up or a young assistant looking to make his mark. This has less to do with Schilling's experience as a HC and more that his profile is that of a professional assistant coach.
Agree.
Quote from: VU2014 on April 03, 2023, 08:04:34 PM
My guy says Ed Schilling is going to get the job.
I hope it's Jake Diebler, but I can't get a sense of who is in or out right now. The people who are in the know are aren't talking.
Is your guy drinking? Schilling would be Lottich lite.
Look at his record.
Every coaching change made by teams looking for the best coach hire winners who have demonstrated a winning record. Coaches who get fired typically have losing records. Why would Valpo jump out of the frying pan into the fire by hiring someone who has never had a winning record like Schilling? That would be pure stupidity. Wait longer if you must. Surely you can do better than a wish and a hope from someone whose primary resume is one as an assistant coach and whose only head coaching job was pathetic.
If you think the fan base is angry at the mediocrity we've experienced the past 7 years, just wait until they come to realize the new coach is more of the same. Geesh.
What would motivate a 57-year-old who hasn't been a head coach for 20 years to apply for this job? Or, has he been applying for every mid-major vacancy for 20 years, and Valpo is the only program desperate enough to take him? This has to be a belated April Fools joke. Even if it's true, it's still an April Fools joke.
Everyone chill. Wright State was 20 years ago. Since then he has worked at Memphis, UCLA and IU. Under Calipari, Steve Alford and Archie Miller. Been a coach at March Madness. Knows Indiana for recruiting. Worked at Adidas Nations for player development. Did Lottich develop players or have any of the above experience? Maybe his has a fire to prove everyone wrong as a head coach. I think the candidates everyone wanted either withdrew, said no or weren't interested for whatever every reason. He wants to be at Valpo. Are there any other suggestions of names not mentioned that would come to Valpo with our facilities, salary and financial situation? He is also a man of faith. We are a Christian University so that is part of the gig too. I would suggest watching the You Tube video from GCU from 4-7-20 when he got hired to learn more about him. Assistants with no prior experience are a crap shoot. Porter Moser sucked at ISU. Got Loyola to Final Four and now at Oklahoma. I guess Matt Lottich should never get hired 20 years from now. I have no idea if Ed is the new coach. We will see. Trust the hiring process. Trust Small. Trust the Drew Coaching Tree.
I also would not be shocked if Ed kept Luke Gore and hired Eric Buggs. Not like teams were knocking on our door for our assistant coaches. Matt Lottich has no coaching tree except for Emanuel Dildy and Austin Peters.
Quote from: Valpo1993 on April 03, 2023, 08:10:40 PM
Quote from: VU2014 on April 03, 2023, 08:04:34 PM
My guy says Ed Schilling is going to get the job.
I hope it's Jake Diebler, but I can't get a sense of who is in or out right now. The people who are in the know are aren't talking.
My knowledge is based on history. Based on past history Schillings run with Wright state is not impressive. At least Tonagel has a winning program. For those of you who say it's NAIA Homer came from Bethel an NAIA school.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I think there has been an assumption that Tonagel would take the job if offered. Maybe we need to reconsider our preconceived assumptions.
There is a story (possibly many) to be written about who were the names involved in the search and who were legitimate options.
VU2014, maybe Wright State should have given Ed the last three years? Homer first few years sucked at Valpo. Scott's first few years sucked at Baylor. Takes time back then. No portal. Look at his history post Wright State. I just don't think Greg, Jake, Roger, or Knight are options. Lowery and Martin are hard no for me. Not much left. Been two weeks.
I don't really want Ed Schilling over Jake, Roger or Greg, but I don't want knock the guy.
I'll pose a question to the board. In your careers have you learned and grown as professional in your careers compared to who you were 20 years ago? I sure as hell have learned a lot and have grown as a professional in from when I first started my career (admittedly less 20 years).
Guys, it's a lazy take to say the guy is a lost cause because of a coaching stint from 20 years ago. Sure are there concerns or question marks? Absolutely. Respectfully, if Bryce and Homer Drew are giving a strong recommendation for him as a Coach, I'm sure as hell going to trust their opinion compared to anyone on this board.
It's not a lazy take. It's common sense. Ask yourself, how many D-1 coaching vacancies are filled by a nearly 60 year old man who hasn't been a head coach for 20 years, even if he had some success back then? Now, take the same person, only he was a bust 20 years ago? And, we actually have people who are excited about it. We have officially entered the Twilight Zone.
Ed Shilling is 57 and has been a head coach. The head coach at San Diego State got first head coaching job at San Diego State at the age of 57 and is now 63. The head coach at Miami is 73. Again, give me some NEW names that would love to come to Valpo for the salary, facilities and financial situation. Ed Schilling would have the best resume of any hire we have ever had. Homer came from Bethel. Scott stayed one year. Bryce was an assistant at Valpo. Lottich was an assistant at Valpo with zero head coaching experience. Fear is setting in. Trust Parker, Small and The Drew family. Watch the Ed Schilling video.
Quote from: VU2014 on April 03, 2023, 09:51:22 PMMaybe we need to reconsider our preconceived assumptions.
How about giving any hire a chance to prove his ability to run a successful program and not disparage the person before they even start?
A lot of you should be ready to eat crow!!!!!
Or Her ability to coach. Ed Schillings daughter may be a better coach than him? Hire her.
7 years ago, qualified assistants from any number of conferences and successful head coaches from low major conferences would have jumped at a chance to sit in the big chair at the most dominant program in the HL with its 20 year track record of success and national reputation. Instead, its AD went after the top assistant. When that didn't pan out he settled for a lower level program assistant and here we are - a pile of rubble.
First, I would to thank Mark Heckler and the Board for a lack of vision, Mark LaBarbara for a lack of leadership, and a self-serving faculty for openly resisting any and all attempts to invest in athletics. We have reaped what you sewed.
According to the latest The Victory Bell, Greg Tonagel has opted out. Dang! :-X
How are top assistants with no head coaching experience working out in the MVC? Devries is the only one showing success.
On Ed Schilling: I don't know anything more about the man than what folks have posted here and what a quick look at his Wikipedia page tells me. OK, so 20 years ago he left the HC job at Wright State with a very mediocre record. Since then, he's had a string of assistant jobs (from Wikipedia):
2003–2005 Memphis (assistant)
2013–2017 UCLA (assistant)
2017–2019 Indiana (assistant)
2020–present Grand Canyon (assistant)
Maybe he was never cut out to be a head coach. Not everyone is right for the job. Or maybe he's got the right stuff to be an excellent HC, but his first opportunity didn't go well, and subsequent chances never materialized. In any event, I agree with everyone who says that someone can grow a lot professionally and personally over a 20-year period. (Indeed, let's be sad for those who do not.)
Schilling is not mentioned in this morning's Victory Bell report. So maybe he's not even in the conversation. But if he is, then I'm sure that Bryce's impressions of him will be taken very seriously, as they should be.
The Company We're In: Per Paul's Victory Bell update this morning, Valpo is not exactly in elite company among the schools that still have vacant head coaching positions: "There have been 54 openings on the coaching carousel this offseason and as of Tuesday morning, 43 of those have been filled. Valparaiso joins Cal State-Northridge, Coppin State, Kennesaw State, New Hampshire, NJIT, North Carolina A&T, Sam Houston State, Southern Utah, Utah State and Utah Valley as the other schools with openings."
It's possible, even likely, that we get someone who has been passed over, perhaps on multiple occasions, or not even noticed enough to be passed over. If he turns out to be the right guy for this school, that won't matter.
On Greg Tonagel: Also via Paul's update, I was disappointed to learn that Tonagel was never seriously in the mix. I'm guessing that he wasn't interested. In any event -- as an academic in a world where career ambition sometimes overcomes deeper meaning in one's work -- I admire this guy for staying at a place that's right for him. Maybe someday he goes D1. But I'm sure it won't be because of others' expectations of what constitutes success.
I do really like the names and details mentioned in Paul's article this morning. I would be happy with almost all of them. It also sounds like the two guys I really want for the job were in it as recently as this weekend.
Quote from: David81 on April 04, 2023, 09:46:24 AM
On Ed Schilling: I don't know anything more about the man than what folks have posted here and what a quick look at his Wikipedia page tells me. OK, so 20 years ago he left the HC job at Wright State with a very mediocre record. Since then, he's had a string of assistant jobs (from Wikipedia):
2003–2005 Memphis (assistant)
2013–2017 UCLA (assistant)
2017–2019 Indiana (assistant)
2020–present Grand Canyon (assistant)
Maybe he was never cut out to be a head coach. Not everyone is right for the job. Or maybe he's got the right stuff to be an excellent HC, but his first opportunity didn't go well, and subsequent chances never materialized. In any event, I agree with everyone who says that someone can grow a lot professionally and personally over a 20-year period. (Indeed, let's be sad for those who do not.)
Schilling is not mentioned in this morning's Victory Bell report. So maybe he's not even in the conversation. But if he is, then I'm sure that Bryce's impressions of him will be taken very seriously, as they should be.
The Company We're In: Per Paul's Victory Bell update this morning, Valpo is not exactly in elite company among the schools that still have vacant head coaching positions: "There have been 54 openings on the coaching carousel this offseason and as of Tuesday morning, 43 of those have been filled. Valparaiso joins Cal State-Northridge, Coppin State, Kennesaw State, New Hampshire, NJIT, North Carolina A&T, Sam Houston State, Southern Utah, Utah State and Utah Valley as the other schools with openings."
It's possible, even likely, that we get someone who has been passed over, perhaps on multiple occasions, or not even noticed enough to be passed over. If he turns out to be the right guy for this school, that won't matter.
On Greg Tonagel: Also via Paul's update, I was disappointed to learn that Tonagel was never seriously in the mix. I'm guessing that he wasn't interested. In any event -- as an academic in a world where career ambition sometimes overcomes deeper meaning in one's work -- I admire this guy for staying at a place that's right for him. Maybe someday he goes D1. But I'm sure it won't be because of others' expectations of what constitutes success.
Ed Schilling's name has never came up in any conversation I've had with any person about the Valpo job. Not once.
I do think that it being late in the cycle is not going to be as big a deal. This isn't a job where the most sought after candidate are going to consider it if they're on the market. It's a job where you reach out to people who have a connection or think would be drawn to this type of position. I never really thought we'd get someone with a lot of current head coach experience unless it was DII or someone with a really bad recent record. Are best bets are the coaching tree, personal networks, or someone out there looking to prove themselves who love a challenge.
QuoteHow are top assistants with no head coaching experience working out in the MVC? Devries is the only one showing success.
Jacobson has worked out pretty well for UNI
His entire coaching career
1993–2000 North Dakota (assistant) (UND is his alma mater - class of 93)
2000–2001 North Dakota State (assistant) - under Greg McDermott
2001–2006 Northern Iowa (assistant) - under Greg McDermott
2006–present Northern Iowa - hired as HC when McDermott went to Iowa State
McDermott was an assistant at UND when Jake was a player and 1 year as a coach with him. McDermott hired Jake at NDSU in 2000 and then brought him to UN in 2001.
Quote from: VU2014 on April 03, 2023, 08:04:34 PM
My guy says Ed Schilling is going to get the job.
I hope it's Jake Diebler, but I can't get a sense of who is in or out right now. The people who are in the know are aren't talking.
Is your guy drinking? Schilling would be Lottich lite.
Look at his record.
I should clarify and say my gut* not guy. Sorry guys. Typo.
Maybe I'm a little too down on the coaching search after hearing the Tonagel news and I got cynical that we'd need to settle for Ed.
But Paul's article this morning is encouraging as it indicates that Jake and Roger are potentially seriously in the mix!
I'm all for Jake or Roger!
Quote from: Pgmado on April 04, 2023, 09:58:33 AM
Quote from: David81 on April 04, 2023, 09:46:24 AM
On Ed Schilling: I don't know anything more about the man than what folks have posted here and what a quick look at his Wikipedia page tells me. OK, so 20 years ago he left the HC job at Wright State with a very mediocre record. Since then, he's had a string of assistant jobs (from Wikipedia):
2003–2005 Memphis (assistant)
2013–2017 UCLA (assistant)
2017–2019 Indiana (assistant)
2020–present Grand Canyon (assistant)
Maybe he was never cut out to be a head coach. Not everyone is right for the job. Or maybe he's got the right stuff to be an excellent HC, but his first opportunity didn't go well, and subsequent chances never materialized. In any event, I agree with everyone who says that someone can grow a lot professionally and personally over a 20-year period. (Indeed, let's be sad for those who do not.)
Schilling is not mentioned in this morning's Victory Bell report. So maybe he's not even in the conversation. But if he is, then I'm sure that Bryce's impressions of him will be taken very seriously, as they should be.
The Company We're In: Per Paul's Victory Bell update this morning, Valpo is not exactly in elite company among the schools that still have vacant head coaching positions: "There have been 54 openings on the coaching carousel this offseason and as of Tuesday morning, 43 of those have been filled. Valparaiso joins Cal State-Northridge, Coppin State, Kennesaw State, New Hampshire, NJIT, North Carolina A&T, Sam Houston State, Southern Utah, Utah State and Utah Valley as the other schools with openings."
It's possible, even likely, that we get someone who has been passed over, perhaps on multiple occasions, or not even noticed enough to be passed over. If he turns out to be the right guy for this school, that won't matter.
On Greg Tonagel: Also via Paul's update, I was disappointed to learn that Tonagel was never seriously in the mix. I'm guessing that he wasn't interested. In any event -- as an academic in a world where career ambition sometimes overcomes deeper meaning in one's work -- I admire this guy for staying at a place that's right for him. Maybe someday he goes D1. But I'm sure it won't be because of others' expectations of what constitutes success.
Ed Schilling's name has never came up in any conversation I've had with any person about the Valpo job. Not once.
Good to know. I heard he was explored as a target. But, if you haven't heard anything, his candidacy must have ended pretty quickly.
Curious though – how many names have you heard regarding the position? I'm assuming there might be a few that ended early and were never shared publicly or mentioned in your articles? So, just wondering how many names you have heard that were actually in the mix/explored? (And, if you're willing to share, what percentage of the names tossed around on social media were accurate? 50%? 75%?)
Perhaps all of you will be put out of your misery tomorrow. Listen for something out of Chicago...
Chicago?
Quote from: mp91 on April 04, 2023, 12:01:41 PM
Quote from: Pgmado on April 04, 2023, 09:58:33 AM
Quote from: David81 on April 04, 2023, 09:46:24 AM
On Ed Schilling: I don't know anything more about the man than what folks have posted here and what a quick look at his Wikipedia page tells me. OK, so 20 years ago he left the HC job at Wright State with a very mediocre record. Since then, he's had a string of assistant jobs (from Wikipedia):
2003–2005 Memphis (assistant)
2013–2017 UCLA (assistant)
2017–2019 Indiana (assistant)
2020–present Grand Canyon (assistant)
Maybe he was never cut out to be a head coach. Not everyone is right for the job. Or maybe he's got the right stuff to be an excellent HC, but his first opportunity didn't go well, and subsequent chances never materialized. In any event, I agree with everyone who says that someone can grow a lot professionally and personally over a 20-year period. (Indeed, let's be sad for those who do not.)
Schilling is not mentioned in this morning's Victory Bell report. So maybe he's not even in the conversation. But if he is, then I'm sure that Bryce's impressions of him will be taken very seriously, as they should be.
The Company We're In: Per Paul's Victory Bell update this morning, Valpo is not exactly in elite company among the schools that still have vacant head coaching positions: "There have been 54 openings on the coaching carousel this offseason and as of Tuesday morning, 43 of those have been filled. Valparaiso joins Cal State-Northridge, Coppin State, Kennesaw State, New Hampshire, NJIT, North Carolina A&T, Sam Houston State, Southern Utah, Utah State and Utah Valley as the other schools with openings."
It's possible, even likely, that we get someone who has been passed over, perhaps on multiple occasions, or not even noticed enough to be passed over. If he turns out to be the right guy for this school, that won't matter.
On Greg Tonagel: Also via Paul's update, I was disappointed to learn that Tonagel was never seriously in the mix. I'm guessing that he wasn't interested. In any event -- as an academic in a world where career ambition sometimes overcomes deeper meaning in one's work -- I admire this guy for staying at a place that's right for him. Maybe someday he goes D1. But I'm sure it won't be because of others' expectations of what constitutes success.
Ed Schilling's name has never came up in any conversation I've had with any person about the Valpo job. Not once.
Good to know. I heard he was explored as a target. But, if you haven't heard anything, his candidacy must have ended pretty quickly.
Curious though – how many names have you heard regarding the position? I'm assuming there might be a few that ended early and were never shared publicly or mentioned in your articles? So, just wondering how many names you have heard that were actually in the mix/explored? (And, if you're willing to share, what percentage of the names tossed around on social media were accurate? 50%? 75%?)
I'm gaining some faith in the decision makers.
As in the leak will come out of Chicago or the coach is based in Chicago?
That could mean a lot
Yeah, have heard of no coaches out of Chicago. Chris Lowery is in Evanston. Emanuel Dildy is in Oklahoma now.
Quote from: valpo tundra on April 04, 2023, 12:13:44 PM
Perhaps all of you will be put out of your misery tomorrow. Listen for something out of Chicago...
"Out of Chicago" has to mean Chicago media. It must be Chris Lowery.
Hope no Chris Lowery. If so, look for Matt Lottich to join Chris Collins staff as an assistant. New Trier and Stanford grad.
https://twitter.com/BigTenNetwork/status/1633156060247650329?s=20
Take a glance at all the glowing comments.
Harrison graduate Chris Lowery named Big Ten Assistant Coach of the Year
By Keaton Eberly
Published: Mar. 9, 2023 at 4:45 PM CST
https://www.14news.com/2023/03/09/harrison-graduate-chris-lowery-named-big-ten-assistant-coach-year/?outputType=amp
Looks like Chris Lowry was successful his first three years at Southern Illinois, making the tournament, perhaps due to having players from the Weber/Painter previous years. Then it went south for him.
Overall Conference
Rk Season Conf W L W-L% W L W-L% SRS SOS PS/G PA/G AP Pre AP High AP Final NCAA Tournament Seed Coach(es)
12 2011-12 MVC 8 23 .258 5 13 .278 -3.51 3.12 62.7 69.2 Chris Lowery (8-23)
13 2010-11 MVC 13 19 .406 5 13 .278 -2.46 1.48 61.0 65.0 Chris Lowery (13-19)
14 2009-10 MVC 15 15 .500 6 12 .333 3.44 1.27 70.1 67.5 Chris Lowery (15-15)
15 2008-09 MVC 13 18 .419 8 10 .444 0.35 3.19 63.4 65.7 Chris Lowery (13-18)
16 2007-08 MVC 18 15 .545 11 7 .611 8.73 5.88 62.6 59.7 24 19 Chris Lowery (18-15)
17 2006-07 MVC 29 7 .806 15 3 .833 13.59 7.53 62.9 56.2 11 14 Lost NCAA Tournament Regional Semifinal 4 Chris Lowery (29-7)
18 2005-06 MVC 22 11 .667 12 6 .667 8.93 4.62 60.4 56.5 Lost NCAA Tournament First Round 11 Chris Lowery (22-11)
19 2004-05 MVC 27 8 .771 15 3 .833 11.54 5.13 67.6 60.7 Lost NCAA Tournament Second Round 7 Chris Lowery (27-8)
https://www.sports-reference.com/cbb/schools/southern-illinois/men/
Valpo can do better. This hire would satisfy the diversity, equity, and inclusion hiring goals of Padilla.
He was left the most talented roster the Valley had seen in 2 decades.
He took them from the brink of being an unstoppable MM program to absolute dumpster fire the second that roster lost the Weber/Painter recruits.
He didn't exactly go out and leave a healthy bridge behind him.
If it's him good f'n luck. You won't find a single other person in the Valley that is going to think it's going to work out.
I'm assuming "news out of Chicago" means Lowery as Evanston is next door to Chicago. There's no one else I can think of that "news out of Chicago" would mean.
Lowery's had success (and failure). He's had a lot of time to learn from that failure. He was just voted Big Ten ACOY. I like him.
Sounds like we have our coach. The telephone game has started.
Are you going to release it PO??
This is what was written about Chris Lowry by the B10 website:
QuoteFor the first time, the Big Ten Conference has awarded the Howard Moore Assistant Coach of the Year Award. The inaugural recipient is Northwestern's Chris Lowery. A defensive specialist, Lowery helped create a drastic defensive improvement in Evanston. In his first season on the Northwestern bench, The Wildcats allowed just 62.3 points per game, 18th in the nation, down from 69.9 points a season ago. A well-respected coach throughout the conference, Lowery helped Audige earn Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors, as Northwestern won a program record 12 conference games.
Numbers per KenPom:
Ok, so Mr. Lowry was responsible for the the defensive improvement this year at Northwestern. Taking a look at defensive efficiency:
2019 - 93.8, ranked 19th in the country
2021 - 93.4, ranked 37th
2022 - 97.2, ranked 73rd
2023 - 94.3, ranked 22nd (Lowry's first year)
If he was solely the defensive coach, it appears that he did help to improve the defense. And points allowed is lower than the previous 5 years, which averaged 68.3 vs 62.8 in 2023 including the tournament.
So he should be given credit for that improvement on defense for this year. But this is only one year and the new players on this year's team may have had more to do with defensive improvement than did Mr. Lowry. Don't you want someone with a few more years under his belt?
What do we know about his offensive coaching? Just that he was not successful after apparently losing the players he inherited from Weber/Painter.
If Valpo wants to take the chance that he suddenly developed a great offensive prowess - by osmosis - while not in fact demonstrating any head coaching experience or providing evidence of being and outstanding offensive coach, well then, hire him. At least President Padilla can be satisfied that he is meeting his goal of hiring minorities. That seems to be the acid test for him, and possibly Dr. Small, who knows?
Yes people do change and improve over time after being fired. But where is one scintilla of evidence that his failure to win has been addressed, improved, overcome, and attributable to his offensive knowledge which has demonstrably produced a winning team? It doesn't seem to be there. He would be a high risk candidate in my view.
Valpo can do better. Keep looking. Don't settle for second or third best.
Had a whole post about all the different reasons we needed to watch Chicago tomorrow but it posted right after Chairbacks comment about us having our coach so deleted it as it seems my 3rd prediction which was "if we have our coach it will leak tonight" might be right.
I would assume that Lowery has been working the Chicago metro recruiting circuit for the past year, developing connections along the way. That alone makes him more attractive than anyone else for getting the Valpo program back on track sooner rather than later. Northwestern is of course a school that places the highest value on academics, so there's also that.
Id be okay with Lowery. We could, and have, done worse.
I think it's important to note that Lowery is a pretty typical career path. As we have mentioned in other posts about growing over 20 years, coaches know they only get so many bites at the apple. When youre young you hop on your first opportunity and believe you'll change everything you dont like. You dont. You move on. Second time around, you make sure the fit is right. Im hoping thats the case here. And someone with experience in the Valley can be a nice thing to have.
Look for VU news incoming on more than one subject in the next day.
Yeah I Feel like a lot of us have sat here and said "Lottich is a good man, he just needs more time" which sounds like a similar situation to Lowery. I'd hate to think that jumping on the Valpo job early and getting a trial by fire will forever be held against Matt as a reason to not give him a chance as a head coach again.
Also, pal, the Strongbow purchase news hit the Chicago Tribune already but I don't pay for a subscription so I couldn't read much past the title
There have been coaches who had success, failed and got fired, and got hired years later and done really well after learning from their mistakes. Lowery's success this year as an assistant indicates his arrow is pointing upwards.
We will see about that if he is hired. Good luck.
It is concerning that a faction of the SIU fanbase credit him with the downfall of their program. That being said, it sounds like his main issue was recruiting. I can imagine he has way more recruiting connections now than he did 20 years ago. However, recruiting woes combined with a program that doesn't exactly have facilities that stand out to recruits is an issue. Further complicated by a CBB environment that means you have to recruit transfers, and sometimes even your own players, year in and year out.
What is the source of this rumor anyway?
Also notable that Paul Oren's post this morning did not mention Lowery.
It came out of a vague reference to watch Chicago tomorrow. People assumed it met him. I think that it could mean him but, it's not a far drive from Milwaukee and Powell is from Joliet. Also, Chicago is Padilla's turf so it wouldn't be surprised if he's just more likely to leak to them OR is holding interviews in the city to avoid people being spotted on campus. Chairback implied the decision has been made already BUT i can't believe if it's a done deal it hasn't leaked yet
News tomorrow "on more than one subject.."? New coach and new facility possibly?
no it was announced that Valpo bought the land and old Strongbow in for a 2.2 million. It's in the General Valpo Forum.
Quote from: vok22 on April 04, 2023, 07:31:47 PMAlso notable that Paul Oren's post this morning did not mention Lowery.
My story only mentioned people that I have heard are candidates for the job. Much like Ed Schilling, the Valparaiso message board is the only place where I've seen Chris Lowery's name mentioned.
Quote from: Pgmado on April 04, 2023, 11:09:03 PM
Quote from: vok22 on April 04, 2023, 07:31:47 PMAlso notable that Paul Oren's post this morning did not mention Lowery.
My story only mentioned people that I have heard are candidates for the job. Much like Ed Schilling, the Valparaiso message board is the only place where I've seen Chris Lowery's name mentioned.
If I recall correctly, Lowery's and Schilling's names first surfaced here:
https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/
This spawned the discussion here.
Quote from: wh on April 05, 2023, 03:30:53 AM
Quote from: Pgmado on April 04, 2023, 11:09:03 PM
Quote from: vok22 on April 04, 2023, 07:31:47 PMAlso notable that Paul Oren's post this morning did not mention Lowery.
My story only mentioned people that I have heard are candidates for the job. Much like Ed Schilling, the Valparaiso message board is the only place where I've seen Chris Lowery's name mentioned.
If I recall correctly, Lowery's and Schilling's names first surfaced here:
https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/ (https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/)
This spawned the discussion here.
Personally if Dr Small got those names from this discussion/podcast/website and then interviewed them and made a wise decision to hire a coach with much more experience and wisdom than they had before when they entered the coaching profession AND Valpo changed back into a winning program I would be especially grateful for those guys dreaming up those names.
One has to wonder how the assistant coaches are evaluated for that Big Ten Assistant Coach of the Year award.
While Dr. Small may look at comments posted on this board, I am sure he isn't taking advice or suggestions from comments found on this board. He is way ahead of this board in analyzing and getting a list of candidates for a potential hire...at least I hope he is.
Quote from: historyman on April 05, 2023, 06:00:18 AM
Quote from: wh on April 05, 2023, 03:30:53 AM
Quote from: Pgmado on April 04, 2023, 11:09:03 PM
Quote from: vok22 on April 04, 2023, 07:31:47 PMAlso notable that Paul Oren's post this morning did not mention Lowery.
My story only mentioned people that I have heard are candidates for the job. Much like Ed Schilling, the Valparaiso message board is the only place where I've seen Chris Lowery's name mentioned.
If I recall correctly, Lowery's and Schilling's names first surfaced here:
https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/ (https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/)
This spawned the discussion here.
Personally if Dr Small got those names from this discussion/podcast/website and then interviewed them and made a wise decision to hire a coach with much more experience and wisdom than they had before when they entered the coaching profession AND Valpo changed back into a winning program I would be especially grateful for those guys dreaming up those names.
One has to wonder how the assistant coaches are evaluated for that Big Ten Assistant Coach of the Year award.
This was the first year where the Big Ten awarded an "Assistant Coach of the Year" award. Lowery got a lot of credit for turning around Northwestern's defense, which was a huge part of them finishing in the top three of the conference this season. This was his first season with Northwestern.
Emanuel Dildy is out of the running per Father Harry. I think he probably made too much as an assistant at Oklahoma. Hopped around a lot too.
Quote from: valpo64 on April 05, 2023, 07:38:46 AM
While Dr. Small may look at comments posted on this board, I am sure he isn't taking advice or suggestions from comments found on this board. He is way ahead of this board in analyzing and getting a list of candidates for a potential hire...at least I hope he is.
Used the word "if"
It was not this board but a podcast/website.
Quote from: wh on April 05, 2023, 03:30:53 AMIf I recall correctly, Lowery's and Schilling's names first surfaced here:
https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/ (https://www.coachesdatabase.com/lets-speculate-valparaiso-head-basketball-coach-candidates/)
This spawned the discussion here.
In my judgement, Lowery is the most high risk high reward candidate. Of course, that's assuming he is or ever was a candidate lol. In any event, he reminds me of Brian Wardle in some respects. Both demand suffocating defensive play as a precondition to playing time. Both are authoritarian - my way or the highway. Wardle attracts talented players who don't mind being coached up because he has proven over time that his approach yields results.
I'm perfectly fine with someone like Wardle. If it's Lowery, so be it. Let's get this search over with, get this train back on the track, point it north, and get on with it.
FWIW:
[tweet]1643796701008875520[/tweet]
What happened to the announcement?
There was a shelter in place warning on campus with a heavy police presence last night. Paul was listening to a scanner while writing his story. Shelter in place was lifted. May be reason for delay?
[tweet]1643954289973547009[/tweet]
Beware these random accounts tweeting out rumors. They usually take a guess and if they're wrong they delete the tweet and nobody remembers. If they're right they crow on the rooftops for months afterwards. I'll believe the hire when a national reporter reports it and PO backs it up. Everything else is just wind.
I was pulling for Roger 7 years ago. I'm certainly pulling for him now.
I have no clue if this is true...
https://twitter.com/juco_kingdom060/status/1643479883060838400?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
The kids were woken up by police coming into their rooms with guns drawn screaming at them to put their hands up.
Quote from: VU2014 on April 06, 2023, 08:54:38 AMI have no clue if this is true... https://twitter.com/juco_kingdom060/status/1643479883060838400?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
I mean, I certainty trust the guy on Twitter with 12 (that is a whole dozen folks) followers and a total of not 1, not 2, but 3 whole posts on his page.
Could be true, buuuuuuuut...
I highly doubt it just because there's no way the university had the dude hired by 12:00am Wednesday and nothing has leaked.
BREAKING!!!
My sources tell me Valpo is in fact hiring a Men's Basketball coach sometime before next season!
Thanks "native" because my sources tell me the same so your conclusion MUST be true.
I'm guessing Roger Powell.
Quote from: DuneHwx on April 06, 2023, 08:57:59 AMThe kids were woken up by police coming into their rooms with guns drawn screaming at them to put their hands up.
Seems like an odd way to come up with a basketball coach don't you think? Maybe a little aggressive.
After all, if the kid doesn't want to coach let him live his own life.
Quote from: vuny98 on April 06, 2023, 09:05:46 AM
Quote from: VU2014 on April 06, 2023, 08:54:38 AMI have no clue if this is true... https://twitter.com/juco_kingdom060/status/1643479883060838400?s=46&t=cNk7taMAYtxNl1Q0_O79Gw
I mean, I certainty trust the guy on Twitter with 12 (that is a whole dozen folks) followers and a total of not 1, not 2, but 3 whole posts on his page.
Could be true, buuuuuuuut...
A John Buggs III is in the transfer portal from UTSA. Could it be verily possible that Lowery told him that he is getting the Valpo job and he wants Buggs to come with, and to sit tight until it's officially announced?
Another suggestion of a possible Powell announcement.
[tweet]1644039298310627328[/tweet]
🤞🏻🙏🏻🤞🏻🙏🏻🤞🏻🙏🏻🤞🏻🙏🏻
Quote from: valpopal on April 06, 2023, 01:13:37 PM
Another suggestion of a possible Powell announcement.
[tweet]1644039298310627328[/tweet]
If true, ya think there might be some Zag games in Valpo's future??
It's getting comical all these people in the know. I really hope Paul gets to break the story. It is the least the University can do for all he does for Valpo sports.
Quote from: chgovalpofan on April 06, 2023, 01:31:46 PM
It's getting comical all these people in the know. I really hope Paul gets to break the story. It is the least the University can do for all he does for Valpo sports.
I'm more concerned about being right than being first. As much as I'm certain who it is, until that ink dries, it's not real.
Quote from: valpopal on April 06, 2023, 01:13:37 PMAnother suggestion of a possible Powell announcement. [tweet]1644039298310627328[/tweet]
They were right about a few other recent moves. I hope they are right here. Much more excited about Powell then I would be Lowery.
This guy Trilly Donovon is pretty good and I've not yet seen him be wrong.
Examples:
https://twitter.com/trillydonovan/status/1642163773233410049
Duane Simpkins got the job.
https://twitter.com/trillydonovan/status/1639392398827479042
https://twitter.com/trillydonovan/status/1641455991521779713
His most recent one. It's very likely to be one of these on Trilly's list:
https://twitter.com/trillydonovan/status/1642883741709107202
Heard it's Roger
I will be satisfied if it's Lowery. Thrilled if it's Roger.
Other candidates may certainly be good - nothing against them, but Roger Powell would be a really good get.
Roger Powell to Valpo? From Gonzaga board:
https://www.guboards.com/forum/bob-zag-s-house-the-home-of-gonzaga-basketball-talk/bz-s-field-house/2216808-roger-powell-to-valpo
Article about Roger Powell. He would be by far the best option from among the names we have seen to be the head coach at Valpo in my view.
https://andscape.com/features/on-this-final-four-trip-gonzaga-assistant-coach-roger-powell-jr-knows-history-awaits/
I read all of the posts. People called such a move "going to the big time." And Valpo " a great university." I'm blushing in embarrassment. They love the guy but wish him well.
From Vanderbilt: https://vucommodores.com/bryce-drew-announces-coaching-staff/
(https://vucommodores.com/wp-content/uploads/2001/04/11901174.jpeg)
Roger Powell, Jr.
Former University of Illinois standout and Valparaiso assistant basketball coach Roger Powell, Jr., joins the Vanderbilt basketball staff as associate head coach after a successful five-year stint with current Commodore head coach Bryce Drew at Valparaiso.
"Coach Powell is a former NBA player who brings great energy to the program," said Drew. "He is fantastic on the floor with the players and does a tremendous job on the road recruiting with players being drawn to his positive personality. After coaching with Roger for the last five years, I am very happy he is at Vanderbilt."
Powell has helped lead the Crusaders to 122 wins in his five seasons as a member of the Crusader coaching staff, including 28 victories in 2014-2015 and a school-record 30 wins in 2015-16. Valpo captured the Horizon League regular season title in four of his first five seasons, while the Crusaders' 2012-2013 and 2014-2015 squads also won the Horizon League tournament championship. The Crusaders have appeared in the postseason in each of Powell's five seasons on staff, making two trips to the NCAA Tournament, two to the Postseason NIT and one to the CIT. Powell was named the top assistant coach in the Horizon League by Next Up Recruits in the summer of 2013.
With the Crusaders, Powell worked with both the post and perimeter players in skill development. He also is heavily involved with the Crusaders' recruiting efforts. In the summer of 2013, Powell served as head coach of an Athletes in Action team which toured Lithuania, and in the summer of 2015, he led an AIA team as head coach on a tour of Poland.
"I am extremely excited and blessed to be a part of Vanderbilt University," said Powell, Jr. "The program has everything I could have hoped for and more in a university. Vanderbilt University has outstanding academics, a great basketball tradition and is located in a truly amazing city. I look forward to being a part of the staff that will help continue to elevate this program to the next level."
A three-year starter for the Illini, Powell earned Honorable Mention All-Big Ten recognition in each of his final two seasons after being named to the Big Ten All-Tournament Team as a sophomore. Powell helped Illinois to three Big Ten regular season titles and a pair of Big Ten tournament championships during his time with the Illini, as well as berths in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament in 2002-2003 and 2003-2004.
Powell's career at Illinois culminated in his senior year of 2004-2005, when he started all 39 games that season for the Illini, averaging career bests of 12.0 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Powell helped Illinois to the most successful season in program history, as the Illini won 29 straight games to open the season en route to finishing 37-2, spent most of the season ranked #1 in the nation and advanced to the national championship game of the NCAA Tournament. Powell closed his four-year Illinois career with 1,178 points, among the top-30 scorers in Illini history, and 531 rebounds.
Following his collegiate career, Powell earned a spot in the Seattle SuperSonics training camp before eventually playing the 2005-2006 season for the Rockford Lightning of the CBA, where he earned CBA Rookie of the Year accolades. He then made the roster of the Utah Jazz for the 2006-2007 NBA season and spent the first half of the season with the Jazz before joining the Arkansas Rimrockers of the NBDL. Powell concluded the 2007 season with the Rimrockers, leading the NBDL with 22.3 points per game and earning the league's Jason Collier Sportsmanship Award, which is awarded to the player who best represents the ideals of character and conduct on and off the court.
Powell spent time in the training camp of the Chicago Bulls in both 2008 and 2010, and spent much of his last four year professional-playing years abroad. He played in the top leagues in Italy (Teramo Basket), Israel (Hapoel Jerusalem), Spain (CB Murcia) and France (JDA Dijon). In his final professional season, Powell played for the Deutsche Bank Skyliners of the Basketball Bundesliga in Germany, where he helped the Skyliners to a second-place regular season finish and a berth in the league semifinals.
Off the court, Powell founded RPJ Ministries Organization, which mentors and trains young leaders to be Godly examples on their sports team and school campuses. He also founded Integrity Sports Corporation, a company focused on building basketball skills and integrity of high school and junior high athletes. Powell is a 2005 graduate of the University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign with a degree in speech communications, and also received his master's degree in Sports Administration from Valparaiso University in 2016. While also at Valpo, he received a certificate in Sports Media.
Powell and his wife, Tara, have a daughter, Bria (5), and a son, Liam (2).
The Powell File
High School: Joliet West
College:
Illinois (2001-05)
Valparaiso (2016)
Education: B.A., Speech Communications, 2005
Masters in Sports Administration, 2016
Playing Experience:
2001-05 – Illinois
2005-2006 – Rockford Lightning (CBA)
2006 – Utah Jazz (NBA)
2006-2007- Arkansas Rimrockers (D-League)
2007-2008 – Siviglia Wear Teramo (Italy)
2008-2009 – Hapoel Jerusalem (Israel)
2009-2010 – Murcia (Spain)
2010 – JDA Dijon (France)
2010-2011 – Skyliners Frankfurt (Germany)
Coaching Experience:
2016-present – Vanderbilt Associate Head Coach
2011-16 (5 years)- Valparaiso Assistant Coach
Hometown: Joliet, Illinois
Wife: Tara
Children: Bria (5), Liam (2)
So when Valpo has decided and reached agreement with the new coach, does the university release brown and gold smoke from the ARC's chimney?
If an announcement is made tomorrow, what a great way to celebrate Easter — sort of a resurrection of our flagship sport.
I also fervently hope that along with the coaching announcement, Small and Padilla also add some sauce, i.e., tangible indications that demonstrate immediate (not 5 years down the road maybe) support for program development (like, improved weight room equipment or PA system replacement or oh, who knows what's really needed right now) for Roger [oops 🙄] whomever is selected to hit the ground running.
does the university release brown and gold smoke from the ARC's chimney?
No, a Beacon of light will shine bright for all to see. From the ARC. Or Long John Silvers our only beacon in town.
Much like ND pulling Shrewsberry, if Valpo can pull Powell back here then the only thing to take away from that is Valpo invested significantly into the program. Powell isnt coming back here to take over Valpo in its current form and resources. Schilling would probably come here in the current form so that was a toss up, Diebler wouldn't (and pulled his name), and Powell wouldnt either. If true, this is significant and brighter days are ahead.
Praying it's Roger.
I had forgotten that Roger was directly responsible for AP coming to Valpo.
https://twitter.com/RogerPowellJr/status/1424480699508170757?s=20
Fingers are crossed on this one. Let's hope it is Powell.
Is it possible that the school holds this until after the weekend. IOW, to avoid announcing on Good Friday they wait until Monday to announce?
I could see them announcing tomorrow but no big press conference or anything until after the Holiday
And if it's Powell, might Krikke and even Doughty be looking at Valpo differently???
If it's Powell then why in God's name was he not the coach all along? Why did he turn us down seven years ago only to take us now when we're in a much worse spot as a program? it doesn't make any sense whatsoever. I hope it's him because I think he'll be great but why didn't he just take the job in the first place if he wants it now?
All of the players wanted Lottich years ago, Powell was never a strong consideration to my understanding.
Norlander's latest. Not much new here.
QuoteValparaiso
Out: Matt Lottich
A late firing in the process, but one that came after the buyout dropped, I was told. This is a small-time program (that needs upgrades) with a big-time name at that level. A few early candidates have turned Valpo down, but be on the lookout for this job to close in the coming days.
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on April 07, 2023, 12:54:29 AMIf it's Powell then why in God's name was he not the coach all along? Why did he turn us down seven years ago only to take us now when we're in a much worse spot as a program? it doesn't make any sense whatsoever. I hope it's him because I think he'll be great but why didn't he just take the job in the first place if he wants it now?
I had thought the same, but even if he wasn't in consideration, I could imagine the lure of a P5 program as the #2 behind Bryce, the payday that comes with that, and the pathway to a P5 head coach job with that move was enticing. Then that fell apart, he ended up in a good spot in Gonzaga, but it has now been 7 years and he has not gotten a head coach opportunity yet. So if he wants to be a head coach, this may be his best opportunity that has come along. And could be the way he proves to a school like Gonzaga that when Few is done he is ready to take the reigns.
I think that also, maybe he knew he wasn't ready yet or had more he wanted to learn/experience before he felt ready.
7 years, career wise, is a really really long time. Someone that turns down a job and than is interested in later doesn't necessarily mean anything other than that the time was not right.
Quote from: David81 on April 07, 2023, 12:23:58 AM
And if it's Powell, might Krikke and even Doughty be looking at Valpo differently???
It's possible, but I'm not sure it's worth losing sleep over. Whether Krikke is on the team or not, it's a stretch to think that Valpo will be competitive next season. Doughty? Who knows, but he's not picked up a P6 offer or anything yet.
With the candidates that have been discussed, I think we will have a banger of a season. If we land Powell we will be Lazarus of the MVC.
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Quote from: VUGrad1314 on April 07, 2023, 12:54:29 AM
If it's Powell then why in God's name was he not the coach all along? Why did he turn us down seven years ago only to take us now when we're in a much worse spot as a program? it doesn't make any sense whatsoever. I hope it's him because I think he'll be great but why didn't he just take the job in the first place if he wants it now?
I think you answered your own question. ;)
I just learned that Roger is a Valparaiso University alum. Master of Science Sports Adm Class of 2016. Come back home, Roger!
https://twitter.com/PeteThamel/status/1644361619508477952
Quote from: vuny98 on April 07, 2023, 08:10:10 AM
Quote from: VUGrad1314 on April 07, 2023, 12:54:29 AMIf it's Powell then why in God's name was he not the coach all along? Why did he turn us down seven years ago only to take us now when we're in a much worse spot as a program? it doesn't make any sense whatsoever. I hope it's him because I think he'll be great but why didn't he just take the job in the first place if he wants it now?
I had thought the same, but even if he wasn't in consideration, I could imagine the lure of a P5 program as the #2 behind Bryce, the payday that comes with that, and the pathway to a P5 head coach job with that move was enticing. Then that fell apart, he ended up in a good spot in Gonzaga, but it has now been 7 years and he has not gotten a head coach opportunity yet. So if he wants to be a head coach, this may be his best opportunity that has come along. And could be the way he proves to a school like Gonzaga that when Few is done he is ready to take the reigns.
Quote from: crusader05 on April 07, 2023, 08:15:40 AM
I think that also, maybe he knew he wasn't ready yet or had more he wanted to learn/experience before he felt ready.
7 years, career wise, is a really really long time. Someone that turns down a job and than is interested in later doesn't necessarily mean anything other than that the time was not right.
I think you are right on crusader05. This article, a few years old talks of Powell's character and decisions he made after Valpo. Basically he felt he wasn't ready to be a head coach at the time Bryce left for Vandy and coaching with Bryce at the power 5 level was very appealing to Powell.
Scroll down to the Valpo questions.
If all the hype about Powell coming over to Valpo is true, I will be a very ecstatic fan!!!!!
https://247sports.com/college/illinois/LongFormArticle/Roger-Powell-Jr-Gonzaga-basketball-Illinois-basketball-coaching-QA-146908425/#146908425_4
Whole lot of tweets out from different sources now saying Roger has agreed to terms and will be the next coach
Quote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on April 07, 2023, 08:22:15 AM
Quote from: David81 on April 07, 2023, 12:23:58 AM
And if it's Powell, might Krikke and even Doughty be looking at Valpo differently???
It's possible, but I'm not sure it's worth losing sleep over. Whether Krikke is on the team or not, it's a stretch to think that Valpo will be competitive next season. Doughty? Who knows, but he's not picked up a P6 offer or anything yet.
Doughty only has offers from schools such as:
Team......KP Rank
St. Bonny 201
Ball St. 171
Eastern KY 149
Nicholls St. 263
IUPUI 360
Southern Ind. 285
Heck, Valpo at 292 wouldn't be my first pick either.
Quote from: Just Sayin on April 07, 2023, 10:53:37 AMQuote from: AlaskaCrusader19 on April 07, 2023, 08:22:15 AMQuote from: David81 on April 07, 2023, 12:23:58 AMAnd if it's Powell, might Krikke and even Doughty be looking at Valpo differently???
It's possible, but I'm not sure it's worth losing sleep over. Whether Krikke is on the team or not, it's a stretch to think that Valpo will be competitive next season. Doughty? Who knows, but he's not picked up a P6 offer or anything yet.
Doughty only has offers from schools such as: Team......KP Rank St. Bonny 201 Ball St. 171 Eastern KY 149 Nicholls St. 263 IUPUI 360 Southern Ind. 285 Heck, Valpo at 292 wouldn't be my first pick either.
Not to belabor a point on this particular recruit on a day where other news is far more important to Valpo but this player will have limited fits within the college game unless he either has hidden some ability offensively or develops it and quickly.
YES! This is the most excited I've been since that MVC Finals run! This is a terrific hire and I think we're on our way back! Seven years overdue but FINALLY WELCOME HOME COACH POWELL!
Quote from: vu72 on April 06, 2023, 08:07:25 PM
Praying it's Roger.
Prayers answered. The Rev would like that.