The Valparaiso Beacons Fan Zone Forum

"Potential targets could include Ohio's John Groce, Bucknell's Dave Paulsen, Northern Iowa's Ben Jacobson and Valparaiso's Bryce Drew. Craig Robinson is a former NU assistant who has done decently at Oregon State. He's also Michele Obama's brother."


http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/columnists/greenstein/ct-spt-0318-northwestern-basketball--20120318,0,2011513.column (http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/columnists/greenstein/ct-spt-0318-northwestern-basketball--20120318,0,2011513.column)

Teddy Greenstein is just pulling names out of a hat.

Greenstein was definitely throwing names around when he mentioned Illini fans' favorite Shaka Smart as an option because Smart's wife was an NU journalism school grad student.

Quote from: Valpo89 on March 17, 2012, 11:37:54 PM
Teddy Greenstein is just pulling names out of a hat.

True, but the point is that Bryce's name is now among the ones pulled out of the hat.

Teddy went to Northwestern. That's probably how he knows about Smart's wife.

Quote from: valporun on March 18, 2012, 12:03:37 AM
Greenstein was definitely throwing names around when he mentioned Illini fans' favorite Shaka Smart as an option because Smart's wife was an NU journalism school grad student.

What's the problem with Smart?  Or you're just saying there's no way he'd take the Northwestern job?

didn't shaka just sign a substantial extension with vcu after last season's final four appearance?

Shaka will have the pick of jobs in the SE and around the country. NW, as much as I would love that job, is not the place for Shaka. Illinois would be a better landing spot for him or Robinson. Tommy Amaker might be a better name to pull out or a Chris Collins. Both are used to schools with rigorous admissions standards. I hear Wake Forest would like NW to steal their coach. (SI).

Quote from: valpo84 on March 18, 2012, 09:20:22 AM
Shaka will have the pick of jobs in the SE and around the country. NW, as much as I would love that job, is not the place for Shaka. Illinois would be a better landing spot for him or Robinson. Tommy Amaker might be a better name to pull out or a Chris Collins. Both are used to schools with rigorous admissions standards. I hear Wake Forest would like NW to steal their coach. (SI).

I never understood Wake getting rid of Gaudio, but glad that Colorado got Tad Boyle out of the situation.  Not sure Carmody would do any better at Wake.

I have nothing wrong with Shaka Smart. I just don't think he's a good fit at Northwestern. I've also heard there are many financial limitations in terms of what he would make at NU compared to what he's making at VCU currently and in the future of his contract extension. Illinois gives him better options for recruiting, scheduling, venues, and a wider budget for recruiting. Northwestern has the recruiting limitations of academic guidelines that a lot of kids who would want to play for him from the Chicago or Illinois borders couldn't meet. Illinois would give him that chance to really recruit Chicago, and potentially keep Jabari Parker committed to them as a part of the 2013 recruiting class.

Quote from: vuweathernerd on March 18, 2012, 08:34:56 AM
didn't shaka just sign a substantial extension with vcu after last season's final four appearance?

From wikipedia

Quote
On April 4, 2011, Smart agreed to an 8-year contract extension with the VCU Rams, increasing his base pay from $350,000 to $1.2 million per year, prior to any performance bonuses.

Two days after Butler beat them in the final four.

Compare to Brad Stevens, also from wikipedia

Quote
On April 8, 2010, Stevens signed a long-term deal with Butler, extending his contract through the 2021–22 season.[65] Financial terms of the contract were not disclosed; however, Butler president Bobby Fong had publicly stated that the university could afford to increase Stevens' base salary to approximately US$1,000,000 a few days prior.[66] Stevens had previously made US$395,000 plus benefits in base salary, a relatively low figure for a successful Division I head basketball coach.[67] His total compensation for 2009–10 was estimated at US$750,000.[68] Stevens' has received a raise after each of his three seasons at Butler and his contract contains a buyout clause estimated in the high six or low seven figures.

(I left the footnotes in this time, there was even another at the end.)

Three days after losing to Duke in the final.

He's NOT just pulling names out of a hat.

Anyone hear about Bryce on SMU's short list??? No mention of an actual contact though...they also said that Tulsa's HC was the frontrunner. Also, I didn't even know that Northwestern was looking for a HC...

They aren't - yet.  Teddy G. thinks they might be

Who would take the NW job that has a better chance elsewhere?  They still haven't made an NCAA tournament appearance.  Bryce would not leave for a NW, SMU, Illinois, etc.

Quote from: valpotx on March 19, 2012, 11:43:07 AM
Who would take the NW job that has a better chance elsewhere?  They still haven't made an NCAA tournament appearance.  Bryce would not leave for a NW, SMU, Illinois, etc.

LOL okay..

Stl, most radio and newspaper guys in sports in Chicago think that Carmody will be gone. Would any of the coaches from mid-majors being named for some of these openings want the NW job with the limited resources and contract money, plus having an exceptionally small recruiting window to work with?

I maintain that it is going to take a special university & situation to steal Bryce away.  It will happen someday, but not in the near future.  NW is a crap job, as is SMU.  SMU is basically UT, Baylor, and TCU's little b*$%# in area in regards to sports, and does not give funds for basketball.  Illinois is a possibility in the future, but does not have the safety that Bryce probably wants.  Also, they will have some good candidates to choose from, and will be able to have the pick of the litter from the top mid-major coaches (ones that have won in the NCAA tourney as a coach).

tx, if only SMU could ever get past the death penalty saga, and get some promise back into their programs. I think it will continue to be a crap job because they'll never get people around there to support it.

I think that SMU has become more relevant in football with June Jones, but it will take much more to become a Top 20 team year-in year-out.  I think Baylor has shown that if you put effort and money into the program, you can have success. 

Yes, SMU has become a little more relevant in DFW in football.  If you can just keep some of the kids in area, you can have a top 20 team.  TCU proves this every year.  DFW is hit by almost every D-1 football program, that if SMU spent more money, it would also be at that level.

That might be the problem, putting the money into the program could bring the NCAA investigators very quickly to make sure they aren't reverting to old practices. I saw the Pony Exce$$ 30 for 30, and how that payment scandal rocked the entire DFW area, even if the people weren't alums, but casual followers of the program. They were devastated and angered at the culprits of this mess. I'm guessing there are some people in DFW who wish that Ron Meyer was imprisoned and subject to the death penalty for what he did to the program in its heyday.

While it will probably happen, I don't think getting rid of Carmody is the answer at NW? Bryce's name will continue to come up as long as he keeps winning. Being in a 1 bid league (when Butler leaves) will factor in his decision to stay or go.

Since when did the HL become a multiple-bid league?  For all intents and purposes the league has been, is, and will remain a 1-bid league.  90% of those bids in recent years have been earned by Butler.  If they leave, someone else will represent the HL instead.  If that one bid is a 15 instead of an 8 or a 12 it will have little to do with Butler leaving and everything to do with lousy recruiting going on right now by several HL programs and some poor quality coaching to boot.  The teams in this league (and their fans) need to stop fretting about what Butler may or may not do and spend more time worrying about their own program and figuring out what THEY can do to elevate the image and profile of the league.  Living off the coattails of someone else's success is so weak...

Quote from: valporun on March 18, 2012, 12:03:37 AM
Greenstein was definitely throwing names around when he mentioned Illini fans' favorite Shaka Smart as an option because Smart's wife was an NU journalism school grad student.

Smart has turned down the Illinois job.

http://www.suntimes.com/sports/11442761-419/shaka-smart-turns-down-illinois-coaching-offer.html (http://www.suntimes.com/sports/11442761-419/shaka-smart-turns-down-illinois-coaching-offer.html)

Hmm, not surprised.  He has a cushy situation at VCU, and is still paid $1.2+ million each year.  You get on the hot seat at Illinois every few years if you are not making the Final Four.

Its not always about the money. I hope we can say the same thing when the time comes.

ESPN reporting that Bill Cormondy will be back with Northwestern next year.

Quote from: ValpoHoops on March 22, 2012, 12:31:05 PM
ESPN reporting that Bill Cormondy will be back with Northwestern next year.

I think that is the right choice.

Things might get confusing at NW what with Bill Carmody now having to exist with Bill Cormondy.

In all seriousness, ValpoTX is right.  Bryce and Scott are two completely different things.  I went to HS with Bryce, and this is where he grew up--high school, then college.  Scott didn't...Valpo was more of a job to him...not a knock, just the truth.

Bryce, however, is more like his dad--who never moved up when he had the chance ('98 especially).  They have a home here; his parents are here for the long run.  It would have to be an amazing offer and not for several years yet.  (me, I'm hoping for never. :)

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 22, 2012, 04:11:44 PM
Things might get confusing at NW what with Bill Carmody now having to exist with Bill Cormondy.

In all seriousness, ValpoTX is right.  Bryce and Scott are two completely different things.  I went to HS with Bryce, and this is where he grew up--high school, then college.  Scott didn't...Valpo was more of a job to him...not a knock, just the truth.

Bryce, however, is more like his dad--who never moved up when he had the chance ('98 especially).  They have a home here; his parents are here for the long run.  It would have to be an amazing offer and not for several years yet.  (me, I'm hoping for never. :)

This may be the best post ever by Crusader03 ... er ... LaPorteAveApostle.

Since that is the second reference to me being someone else, when I couldn't possibly be, since I just found out about this website two days ago, I decided to scour these message boards (which thankfully doesn't take long).  I found this "crusader03" whining about Keith Freeman before disappearing.  Shortly thereafter, I start posting, and we all know correlation implies causation...oh wait, what? It doesn't?

You're kidding, right?  If you think i'm the new version of anyone else, then you're wrong. Any admin can back me up.  It's insulting on multiple levels--for one, this other guy's writing betrays that he couldn't carry my water intellectually--but it's inhospitable.  I thought this might be a more fun site than MGoBlog because it would necessarily be more manageable size-wise, and therefore hospitable--but if it's going to be narrow-minded and provincial, and, astoundingly, less personable than the largest team-specific site on the web, then you can keep on posting for the same twelve people, and chasing off anyone who tries to join.

Funny!

Whose avatar is that, by the way? 

LaPorte, the avatar pic you have is of University Historian/Archivist Mel Doering from his days as the Uhlan mascot.

Thanks!  That makes me feel better.

I was hoping someone would guess, and guess correctly, but I will share in the interest of good will.

That is my former boss in the VU Archives, Melvin Doering '51 (?ish) (Valpo Athletics Hall of Fame 2002) serving as the live Mascot in the early days.  Back cover of the 1953 Football Media Guide!

I don't know that any of us could hope to be as big of Crusader fans--or as instrumental in their success--as that great man was (and hopefully still is).  What a great man!

EDIT:  YES!!!!!  THANK YOU VALPO RUN!  My faith in this board is restored!

As long as Mel Doering is still alive, and telling stories of Valparaiso University of yester-year, he will continue to be the biggest of Crusader fans.

Supporting the "reincarnation" meme is the fact that someone used the same avatar on the last incarnation of this board.

I can't quite place who it was...  did they make the transition, but switch avatars?  Or not (initially?) make the transition?

But, I suppose, all of this really belongs "Off Topic" some place.

That is funny.  I "settled" for the great Mel D because I couldn't find a digitized picture of the great Jim Ford anywhere (when I was in junior high I tried mightily to style my hair like him.  sad, i know.)

I was classmate to Mel Jr.

Quote from: agibson on March 23, 2012, 11:03:22 AM
Supporting the "reincarnation" meme is the fact that someone used the same avatar on the last incarnation of this board.

I can't quite place who it was...  did they make the transition, but switch avatars?  Or not (initially?) make the transition?

But, I suppose, all of this really belongs "Off Topic" some place.

I was thinking the same thing and actually did a quick search to see who else had that avatar but no luck.

I can vouch for LaPorte... he is *not* a reincarnation. 

That avatar screams "TD" for some reason...

Thank you, valpo04, very much.  Now back to VU sports. (TD?)

Maybe a "Mel Appreciation Thread" is now in order : )

Quote from: LaPorteAveApostle on March 23, 2012, 11:10:52 AMMaybe a "Mel Appreciation Thread" is now in order : )

In the threads about the university, for sure. While he does fit in the athletics threads, a lot of people here would wonder why he was being discussed there.

Hey, kids - miss me??

Rumors running hot and heavy around town that Bryce Drew is high on the short list for the vacant University of Tulsa job, and may be interviewing today.  Others who are considered serious prospects include ORU head coach Scott Sutton, Kansas assistant Danny Manning, and University of Central Oklahoma head coach Terry Evans.

What say ye:  Would Bryce be willing to take the job, for somewhere around 400K a year?

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 26, 2012, 09:19:51 AM
Hey, kids - miss me??

Rumors running hot and heavy around town that Bryce Drew is high on the short list for the vacant University of Tulsa job, and may be interviewing today.  Others who are considered serious prospects include ORU head coach Scott Sutton, Kansas assistant Danny Manning, and University of Central Oklahoma head coach Terry Evans.

What say ye:  Would Bryce be willing to take the job, for somewhere around 400K a year?

I'd fall off my chair.  I'd say no chance was the only chance.  Seems like a lateral move and not that much more money.  After we make it to the Sweet Sixteen next year, his options will increase dramatically.   ;)

And backr, how do you feel about the step down in conferences?  Seems like a sure 15 seed to me...

Quote from: vu72 on March 26, 2012, 09:26:12 AM

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 26, 2012, 09:19:51 AMHey, kids - miss me?? Rumors running hot and heavy around town that Bryce Drew is high on the short list for the vacant University of Tulsa job, and may be interviewing today.  Others who are considered serious prospects include ORU head coach Scott Sutton, Kansas assistant Danny Manning, and University of Central Oklahoma head coach Terry Evans. What say ye:  Would Bryce be willing to take the job, for somewhere around 400K a year?

I'd fall off my chair.  I'd say no chance was the only chance.  Seems like a lateral move and not that much more money.  After we make it to the Sweet Sixteen next year, his options will increase dramatically.   ;) And backr, how do you feel about the step down in conferences?  Seems like a sure 15 seed to me...

ORU has been trying to get into a Texas-based conference for over 40 years.  I don't care who we're playing - I'm just glad I don't have to drive to South Dakota for our conference tournament with snow chains on my car.

Within five years, the teams in the Southland will throw every available resource into their athletic programs, just to complete with ORU.  If there's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that NOBODY likes losing to li'l ol' Oral Roberts.  Sure fire way to get your coach fired, and your alumni to donate.

Back on topic:  is there a price tag at which Bryce would take the job?  TU fans are all agog, and seem to think he's the second coming...of Scott Drew.

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 26, 2012, 09:35:42 AM

Quote from: vu72 on March 26, 2012, 09:26:12 AM

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 26, 2012, 09:19:51 AMHey, kids - miss me?? Rumors running hot and heavy around town that Bryce Drew is high on the short list for the vacant University of Tulsa job, and may be interviewing today.  Others who are considered serious prospects include ORU head coach Scott Sutton, Kansas assistant Danny Manning, and University of Central Oklahoma head coach Terry Evans. What say ye:  Would Bryce be willing to take the job, for somewhere around 400K a year?

I'd fall off my chair.  I'd say no chance was the only chance.  Seems like a lateral move and not that much more money.  After we make it to the Sweet Sixteen next year, his options will increase dramatically.   ;) And backr, how do you feel about the step down in conferences?  Seems like a sure 15 seed to me...

ORU has been trying to get into a Texas-based conference for over 40 years.  I don't care who we're playing - I'm just glad I don't have to drive to South Dakota for our conference tournament with snow chains on my car.

Within five years, the teams in the Southland will throw every available resource into their athletic programs, just to complete with ORU.  If there's one thing I've learned over the years, it's that NOBODY likes losing to li'l ol' Oral Roberts.  Sure fire way to get your coach fired, and your alumni to donate.

Back on topic:  is there a price tag at which Bryce would take the job?  TU fans are all agog, and seem to think he's the second coming...of Scott Drew.

The University of Tulsa is a private, non-sectarian institution that is formally related to the Presbyterian Church (USA) by a mutually articulated covenant with the Synod of the Sun.

http://www.utulsa.edu/about-TU/HistoryofTU.aspx (http://www.utulsa.edu/about-TU/HistoryofTU.aspx)

It really doesn't fit the Drews in any way.

Also do they call it TU because those are the first 2 letters in Tulsa??????

I like that name "Synod of the Sun."  Maybe if they change the name to the "Sunland" Conference you'll get more recruits. Or they'll think it's in Florida. 
Conference of the Sun? League of the Sun? Fun in the Sun Conference? Sun Life Conference? Conferences can reap large revenues from naming rights of conferences?
Horizon Bank Conference? Summit Brewing Company Conference?
Conferences wouldn't have to call themselves "BIG" anymore.
Oscar Meyer Weiner Conference? Midwest Industries Conference? Farmland Dairies Conference?
Allstate Conference? State Farm Conference? Wells Fargo Conference? Caterpillar Conference? Amerigroup Conference? Symantec Conference? Southwest Airlines Conference? No Charge for two 50+ RPI teams (better known as baggage)  ;D

Absolutely no chance that he leaves for the University of Tulsa, are you kidding me?  A traditional underperformer in basketball is not going to draw Bryce away.  It would take a solid basketball school with at least some type of recent success.

Bryce's name front and center in Tulsa World article:

http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/TU/article.aspx?subjectid=94&articleid=20120325_29_B1_CUTLIN623737&allcom=1 (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/TU/article.aspx?subjectid=94&articleid=20120325_29_B1_CUTLIN623737&allcom=1)

Tulsa fans and media can speculate all they want.  I would lose a lot of respect for Bryce if he left for a program like Tulsa lol

Not sure Bryce would want to leave the area with the current health situation of his parents.

Quote from: FWalum on March 26, 2012, 01:26:00 PM
Not sure Bryce would want to leave the area with the current health situation of his parents.

Who's to stay that his parents wouldn't look to be somewhere between Tulsa and Waco???

...then can someone please tell me why he is reportedly meeting with TU officials today? 

Everyone seems to be in agreement that the only reason he hasn't already interviewed with Tulsa is simply because he's been with the extended family in Atlanta, where Scott's Baylor bunch was playing.

Is he just curious what TU might offer?  Or, is he trying to get a bump in salary from Valpo?

Reported where?  Link please.

And no, I don't miss you one bit.

If I weren't interested in a job, I would not interview.

If Bryce believes in his ability as a coach, maybe he looks at the Tulsa opening as an opportunity to succeed in C-USA and to continue to move up the coaching ladder in another couple years. Maybe he looks and sees they have more resources, better facilities, a more supportive administration and then thinks this is his logical next step.

I would not dismiss this report out of hand. And if it's not this job opportunity, there will be others in the very near future.

Hey, if he actually interviews for the Tulsa job as 'reported,' more power to him.  If he gets it, great, good for him.  I just don't see the logic in moving to a team that Valpo would usually beat each year, in a conference situation that is going to be in flux for many years to come (how long can this 'alliance' last with 16-20+ members?), and being the smallest FBS school in the nation.  If you just finished your first year as a HC and have everyone coming back, why would you leave now, instead of when better opportunities would come about after an even better second year??

Quote from: crusaderboy on March 26, 2012, 02:18:26 PM
If I weren't interested in a job, I would not interview.

If I knew I never wanted to leave Valpo, maybe I wouldn't interview.  If I thought, maybe some years down the road, I'd consider the right move, then a Tulsa interview might be good "practice".

Even if I wasn't interested, if they were _really_ interested, and I made it clear I wasn't going to take the job, and they _still_ wanted me to come, I might do it as a sort of a fact finding mission.  I've just gotten my first year of head coaching experience.  Let's go some place for a couple of days, think about their program, think about all the same issues I face everyday, from a different perspective.  Could be worthwhile.  Even if I know I don't want the job. 

Maybe that process even helps Tulsa to evaluate other candidates, etc.

Quote from: StlVUFan on March 26, 2012, 01:53:44 PMReported where?  Link please. And no, I don't miss you one bit.

I would, but when I try, your forum keeps telling me I'm not allowed to post external links.
Maybe it's afraid I might send you to some website that lists Valpo's 0-3 record against the Summit League this past season... :dance:

You need five posts. Then you can posts links. Go ahead and find something else you could comment on on this board.

Sounds like giving advice to the mouse to peak out at the cat.

Quote from: valpotx on March 26, 2012, 02:32:16 PMin a conference situation that is going to be in flux for many years to come

if Butler leaves, will this not be the case with the Horizon as well?

Quote from: valpotx on March 26, 2012, 02:32:16 PMIf you just finished your first year as a HC and have everyone coming back, why would you leave now, instead of when better opportunities would come about after an even better second year??

Because you always strike while the iron is hot. Exhibit A: Chris Lowry.

I think that Tulsa's history is being way undervalued here:

The last 23 years they have had 3 (04/05/06) losing seasons.  Between 1994 and 2003 they made 8 NCAA appearances including 1 Elite 8 and 2 Sweet Sixteen years.  They won the NIT in 2001 and the CBI in 2008. They have played in the NIT in 2009 and 2010 and had a winning record this season.


Former coaches who moved up...Nolan Richardson, Tubby Smith and Bill Self. 

When we lose Butler, we will replace them with at least one team.  Our conference is much less likely to have future teams poached from it, because we would be losing our only nationally relevant program.  This 'alliance' will continue to have teams poached from it by the highest rated conferences, and they will replace with football-playing FBS programs.  Can you see other HL teams being taken by the higher conferences? 

Yes, you strike while the iron is hot, but Tulsa is not even close to the step up he should take.  You can wallow away in Tulsa recruiting against the other Oklahoma and Texas schools that pilfer the area, and end up out of a job after a few years.  If he makes the jump to another school, I see it after next season when he takes us to the NCAA, and his name is even more talked about by better programs.

Quote from: valpotx on March 26, 2012, 02:32:16 PM
Hey, if he actually interviews for the Tulsa job as 'reported,' more power to him.  If he gets it, great, good for him.  I just don't see the logic in moving to a team that Valpo would usually beat each year, in a conference situation that is going to be in flux for many years to come (how long can this 'alliance' last with 16-20+ members?), and being the smallest FBS school in the nation.  If you just finished your first year as a HC and have everyone coming back, why would you leave now, instead of when better opportunities would come about after an even better second year??

Why leave?  So maybe in 5 or 10 years he can coach in a BCS conference like his brother?  He's only 37.

IMO, there is a greater potential for flux with the conferences who may lose members because of the MWC/CUSA relationship (like the WAC) than those two conferences themselves.  If Bryce was interviewing for the University of Idaho job then I would agree with you.  However, according to this article, CUSA and the MWC may merge and may expand to more than 16 teams: 

http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/18061858/merging-or-sharing-either-way-cusa-and-mwc-working-together (http://www.cbssports.com/collegefootball/story/18061858/merging-or-sharing-either-way-cusa-and-mwc-working-together)

Nothing yet is certain.  Nonetheless, CUSA is clearly a step up from where Bryce is now, and as someone mentioned, offers better facilities than what he currently has to work with.

Quote from: valpotx on March 26, 2012, 02:52:43 PM
When we lose Butler, we will replace them with at least one team.  Our conference is much less likely to have future teams poached from it, because we would be losing our only nationally relevant program.  This 'alliance' will continue to have teams poached from it by the highest rated conferences, and they will replace with football-playing FBS programs.  Can you see other HL teams being taken by the higher conferences? 

Yes, you strike while the iron is hot, but Tulsa is not even close to the step up he should take.  You can wallow away in Tulsa recruiting against the other Oklahoma and Texas schools that pilfer the area, and end up out of a job after a few years.  If he makes the jump to another school, I see it after next season when he takes us to the NCAA, and his name is even more talked about by better programs.

I don't necessarily disagree with anything you are saying here, or have said in the other posts. I am just trying to point out the other side of it.
And if you are Bryce, and confident in your abilities, there is no way you think you wallow away in Tulsa, like Doug Wojcik. You see yourself as the next Nolan Richardson, Bill Self or Tubby Smith, who have been previously mentioned as having Tulsa on their resumes.

Quote from: crusaderboy on March 26, 2012, 02:18:26 PM

Maybe he looks and sees they have more resources, better facilities, a more supportive administration and then thinks this is his logical next step.

The Administration (this one and the last) continues to play Russian roulette with our basketball program by refusing to commit to major renovation of the ARC.  Very possibly Bryce has already had his first post season discussion with the AD and heard the same song and dance his Dad heard for years.  If I were a young talented coach who fully understands that our woefully inferior facilities could be detrimental to my career and there is no commitment to do anything about it, I'd be looking for the first good opportunity to get out.  If something isn't done about this - and soon - our successful BB program is in serious jeopardy IMO.  This situation is no different than anything else in life - there is no such thing as a free lunch.  If you aren't willing to commit the resources necessary to remain competitive at the level at which you've chosen to compete, then get out and quit stringing everyone along (including all of is).

Quote from: bbtds on March 26, 2012, 02:42:13 PMYou need five posts. Then you can posts links. Go ahead and find something else you could comment on on this board. Sounds like giving advice to the mouse to peak out at the cat.

Gee - thanks.

And, THAT is how you catch Capone post No. 5.

Quote from: StlVUFan on March 26, 2012, 01:53:44 PMReported where?  Link please. And no, I don't miss you one bit.

Here ya go, StlVUFan - always gratifying to have someone ask me a favor while they put me down in the same breath:

Everything You Need To Know About The Bryce-Drew-To-Tulsa Rumor (http://lmgtfy.com/?q=Bryce+Drew+%2B+University+of+Tulsa) 

I guess my whole view on this is that Scott's situation was a lot different.  He was moving into a BCS conference after his one year, and was given the security that he would have many years to turn the situation around.  Baylor has massive financial resources, and finally decided to commit it to athletics more.  If Bryce went to a Tulsa or a Northwestern, he would not get these same assurances/resources.  Yes, being confident, I am sure any new coach thinks they are the one to make it all happen.  However, if he wanted to jump to a mid-level team, he is better to hold out for a high level MVC or higher level MWC/ConfUSA team.

Knowing Bryce's personality and having watched him grow since he was in middle school, I find it hard to believe anything other than an incredibly outrageous offer and, more importantly, to a fairly prominent basketball program would cause him to even consider leaving the area and distance himself from family at a time when his parents' health is of such a concern. Tulsa does not fit the description. 

Quote from: wh on March 26, 2012, 02:58:54 PM

Quote from: crusaderboy on March 26, 2012, 02:18:26 PM

Maybe he looks and sees they have more resources, better facilities, a more supportive administration and then thinks this is his logical next step.

The Administration (this one and the last) continues to play Russian roulette with our basketball program by refusing to commit to major renovation of the ARC.  Very possibly Bryce has already had his first post season discussion with the AD and heard the same song and dance his Dad heard for years.  If I were a young talented coach who fully understands that our woefully inferior facilities could be detrimental to my career and there is no commitment to do anything about it, I'd be looking for the first good opportunity to get out.  If something isn't done about this - and soon - our successful BB program is in serious jeopardy IMO.  This situation is no different than anything else in life - there is no such thing as a free lunch.  If you aren't willing to commit the resources necessary to remain competitive at the level at which you've chosen to compete, then get out and quit stringing everyone along (including all of is).

I guess we'll have to agree to disagree on this one.  Did facilities attract our new guy from South Florida?  How about Rowdy?  The weather sure is better than Australia or Miami, right?  Players want to win and play a certain style and for a certain coach.  Some change their mind when they find out their abilities don't match up with the current coaches thinking.  Hmmm, I won't list all the guys who fill this mode.  Homer has lamented the fact that things could have been better with better facilities, yet we have had great success inspite of it, and not for just a couple of years until everybody woke up and realized the facilitites wouldn't be changed over night-- or over a few decades for that matter. 
If Bryce leaves I'll be disappointed as I was with Scott's decision.  If you think we won't attract another great young coach (Greg Tonagel??) , think again.

Do I wish we had a better arena? Sure.  Next guys like Lemke will call our new 6,000 seat place "small time" (check out his comments about teams that might move up from the Horizon--Loyola for example), then what?  The pressure will be on the build a 10,000 seat one and so it goes.  Somehow, inspite of our crappy facilities, we won the conference championship.  Ask Nebraska how their new "practice facility" complete with TVs in the cans, is working out for them.

And finally, who is "stringing everyone along?  Has Mark promised new facilities?  He has added a new practice facility (renovated Hilltop), new floor and a new scoreboard, all over the last few years.  There is a "plan" of sorts for a renovation of the ARC but nothing said or publicized so no one can say they were "strung along".  Sorry for the rant.  Somehow I'm still wound up and excited about our success and future success, not about what we could be if only...  There will always be someone with a bigger and better this or that.  The arms race will go on, just perhaps without Valpo.

maybe this will make everyone feel better about life at the moment:
https://twitter.com/#!/DaveSittler/statuses/180730833462767616 (https://twitter.com/#!/DaveSittler/statuses/180730833462767616)

(I think this issue is something we're all forgetting here with debates over spending and facilities:  his parents are (t)here, and they are not well.  add that in to next year looking loaded, so if he even is interviewing it's for a) practice b) getting name out there for a time of leverage c) firing a shot across administration/community bows about keeping him d) all the above.)

Despite the link I don't see anything that indicates that Bryce is interviewing today.  Would I blame him if he did?? Absolutely not, I would almost always interview with someone that was interested in my talent even if I had very little interest in taking the job.  That's life, he would be a fool not to look at all options. I just don't think this is the right time, but then again I was surprised when Scott made his decision.

Perception is sometimes construed as reality.  The mere mention that Bryce may be out there talking to others could bode well for the BB program even if he's now back home watching Dancing with the Stars tonight and never got on a plane.  I like that he's hot and I hope it convinces the administration to upgrade a whole bunch of stuff (I'm a Brown Field guy but would love to see upgrades all over the place).  Though Valpo has been a mid-major for some time, I think for the first time the VU powers that be might finally understand what that really means in terms of committing to D-I.  The old Mid-Continent did not have those pressures.

EB: a direct link to a specific article reporting that he is interviewing with TU, not a google summary.  I'm not spending meaningful minutes in my day chasing down your wild goose chase.

Quote from: StlVUFan on March 26, 2012, 06:56:15 PM
EB: a direct link to a specific article reporting that he is interviewing with TU, not a google summary.  I'm not spending meaningful minutes in my day chasing down your wild goose chase.

His link was active earlier. Try this:

http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/TU/article.aspx?subjectid=94&articleid=20120325_29_B1_CUTLIN623737 (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/TU/article.aspx?subjectid=94&articleid=20120325_29_B1_CUTLIN623737)

Quote from: StlVUFan on March 26, 2012, 06:56:15 PMEB: a direct link to a specific article reporting that he is interviewing with TU, not a google summary.  I'm not spending meaningful minutes in my day chasing down your wild goose chase.

Oh. My. Gosh.

That was a joke.

Because I'M "not spending meaningful minutes in my day chasing down" the future of YOUR basketball coach.

I'm just trying to figure out where Bryce Drew ranks in the TU search, in hopes of determining whether ORU might lose Scott Sutton to our inter-city rival.

Based on what I found (or more accurately, DIDN'T find) on your forum this morning, you might not have even known about Bryce-to-Tulsa by now if I hadn't told you.

As for the rest, you're on your own.

I saw that article.  It's got nothing about him interviewing, just that they want him.  It might be a safe guess, but I have yet to see an overt report of that detail.

EB:  This is your story so far, nothing more.  It's a whole lot of nothing until I get more info.  I'm not going into some panic on a mere rumor from a troll.

Quote from: StlVUFan on March 26, 2012, 08:31:04 PMI'm not going into some panic on a mere rumor from a troll.

damn it. we had just gotten rid of one, now another creeps out of the woodwork.

*sigh*

I wasn't expecting a ticker-tape parade, but come on - "a troll"? 

I HAVEN'T BEEN ON HERE IN YEARS!!

I didn't even know you had switched forum providers - was really wondering why no one had posted on the old board since 2010 or whenever it was.

But, hey - that's fine.  It's all good.  Just wondered what you guys might happen to know about the topic; never dreamed it would be breaking news on here.

If I hear anything else about Bryce coming to Tulsa, I guess I'll just save it for Twitter...

I don't mind OldTitan/Eaglebackr coming on here to provide this information.  I know that he fanned the flames in the past, but it didn't look like his intent this time around.  Now, he admits on the ORU board that he likes to 'poke us,' but I would say I would like to do the same thing to ORU fans after only winning 1-2 games against them in my 4 years of baseball...they don't like us because we consistently won in basketball in the Mid-Con, just like I don't like their baseball team because they consistently beat us  :)

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 26, 2012, 11:18:25 PM
*sigh*

I wasn't expecting a ticker-tape parade, but come on - "a troll"? 

Of the 2 posters who referred to you as a troll (which of course you're not), nerd is a young VU grad and great fan but probably wasn't around for our Mid Con days.  Personally, I think of you as a worthy adversary from days gone by. You used to drive Rick absolutely bonkers, and it was pretty entertaining.  Anyway, you're right.  None of us had a clue about this Tulsa thing until you brought it to our attention.  Whether Tulsa actually has Bryce on a wish list or it's just one sports writer's fantasy or whether Bryce actually has any interest, we'll just have to stay tuned.  Please let us know if you learn of more developments.

From the Tulsa World:

http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/TU/article.aspx?subjectid=94&articleid=20120327_94_B1_CUTLIN679426 (http://www.tulsaworld.com/sportsextra/TU/article.aspx?subjectid=94&articleid=20120327_94_B1_CUTLIN679426)

Folks, I am not talking about the general news that TU is interested in Bryce.  That is real news I wouldn't have been aware of, had EB not let us know.

However, EB just had to throw in a little tweak with his line about Bryce actually having an interview scheduled with TU - a bit of non-news at this point, in spite of the word "reportedly".  My question, "reported by whom" was met with a joke reply, which is par for the course.  Until I see confirmation of that tidbit, I remain firm in my position, which is to not take that part seriously.

Quote from: wh on March 27, 2012, 07:14:27 AM

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 26, 2012, 11:18:25 PM
*sigh*

I wasn't expecting a ticker-tape parade, but come on - "a troll"? 

Of the 2 posters who referred to you as a troll (which of course you're not), nerd is a young VU grad and great fan but probably wasn't around for our Mid Con days.  Personally, I think of you as a worthy adversary from days gone by. You used to drive Rick absolutely bonkers, and it was pretty entertaining.  Anyway, you're right.  None of us had a clue about this Tulsa thing until you brought it to our attention.  Whether Tulsa actually has Bryce on a wish list or it's just one sports writer's fantasy or whether Bryce actually has any interest, we'll just have to stay tuned.  Please let us know if you learn of more developments.

close - i was a freshman in 06-07, our last year in the mid-con. and i think i vaguely remember eaglebackr from the old board. and i don't know that what i wrote clearly stated my opinion. don't get me wrong, the part about our recently departed under-bridge dweller was true, but i try to allow people to generally build a larger resume before i bust out that tag. backr, i'd like to apologize for what i wrote, and doing so in a way that was so unclear to my real meaning.

I don't mind standing alone on that front, nerd.  I go way back, and nothing I saw changed, but if you weren't around back in his heyday of stirring things up around here or if you saw it differently, I don't mind if you don't back me up :)

Eaglebackr was a pot stirrer back in the day. I felt a lot of his posts were meant to draw up come banter with our opposing schools, which it obviously did, considering how many of us went over to the ORU board and made comments there, and then brought those opinions back to the Voy board or the Proforums board before this one to keep the discussion going. I definitely have no problems with EB posting here, as he tended to add some things. I think we're just caught up in all the coaching changes and conference jumping talk to really sit back and think about what is going on in NCAA basketball, and how it is widely neglecting the future of the student in this country that just happens to only be at their respective institution because they happen to be 6'7", and can play basketball.

I love the reappearance of the EagleBackr. Glad you found the board.
I also wondered about how our old pal HugeORUFan was doing as well.
Honestly, I totally stopped paying attention to anything ORU has done since Valpo left the Mid-Con.
Didn't know about BD being chased by Tulsa, so it was good to see the link to the Tulsa World. In one of the photos, Scott Sutton's hair appears to be quite gray. :)
All the trips to the Dakota's, Oakland and Soutern Utah must have taken quite a toll.

You guys crack me up.

Latest rumor, via Al Jerkins on 'The Sports Animal" sports talk radio in Tulsa:  Bryce is the recommendation of the professional search firm hired by TU a couple of weeks ago.

It was thought all weekend that Bryce would interview Monday, but apparently that didn't happen for some reason - no one seems to know if that's because he isn't/never was interested, or if TU has simply decided to go another direction.

Danny Manning, assistant at Kansas, seems to be gathering some traction, and Bryce's name isn't coming up near as much now as it was a few days ago, so it looks pretty good for you guys keeping your coach.

Meanwhile, ORU's Scott Sutton is now being mentioned for the vacated Kansas State job, so I'm off to irritate some Wildcats on their message board.

Peace...

Don't let the door hit you in the butt, EB.
I for one didn't like you in the past, an opinion that hasn't changed.

Quote from: StlVUFan on March 27, 2012, 08:22:26 AM
Folks, I am not talking about the general news that TU is interested in Bryce.  That is real news I wouldn't have been aware of, had EB not let us know.

However, EB just had to throw in a little tweak with his line about Bryce actually having an interview scheduled with TU - a bit of non-news at this point, in spite of the word "reportedly".  My question, "reported by whom" was met with a joke reply, which is par for the course.  Until I see confirmation of that tidbit, I remain firm in my position, which is to not take that part seriously.

Well, we are all glad you are not wasting your precious time on chasing EB's "reported" rumors about Bryce having an interview at Tulsa.
;)

Well, he didn't interview at Tulsa, but DID interview with Mississippi State on Monday!  ESPN reports he was supposed to speak with Tulsa on Tuesday, but wasn't interested in coaching at Tulsa, as we figured.  This MSU interview has me much more worried, as they can provide a much better overall package and structure than Tulsa.  Hopefully just some feeling out on his part for a few years from now.  Doesn't an administration have to approve of other schools contacting their coaches under contract?  I know that you don't want to stand in the way of someone's career, but losing 2 Drews after one season each?  Seems like we are being used if this happens...

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7745899/mississippi-state-bulldogs-interview-bryce-drew-valparaiso-crusaders-sources-say (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7745899/mississippi-state-bulldogs-interview-bryce-drew-valparaiso-crusaders-sources-say)

Quote from: valpotx on March 28, 2012, 02:05:57 AM
Well, he didn't interview at Tulsa, but DID interview with Mississippi State on Monday!  ESPN reports he was supposed to speak with Tulsa on Tuesday, but wasn't interested in coaching at Tulsa, as we figured.  This MSU interview has me much more worried, as they can provide a much better overall package and structure than Tulsa.  Hopefully just some feeling out on his part for a few years from now.  Doesn't an administration have to approve of other schools contacting their coaches under contract?  I know that you don't want to stand in the way of someone's career, but losing 2 Drews after one season each?  Seems like we are being used if this happens...

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7745899/mississippi-state-bulldogs-interview-bryce-drew-valparaiso-crusaders-sources-say (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7745899/mississippi-state-bulldogs-interview-bryce-drew-valparaiso-crusaders-sources-say)

Oh boy, wouldn't that heat up things between them and Ole Miss!

Assuming the story is true, this is a VERY sobering development.  Clearly, Bryce is open to new coaching opportunities.  Heck, we don't even know but what he initiated the contact  with MSU (directly or indirectly).  Even if nothing materializes from this, I think it's likely only a matter of time and Bryce will be headed for greener pastures.  If next season unfolds the way we all think it will, his stock will only continue to rise.

Looks like Eaglebackr deserves an apology from some people :)

I told you guys when he was hired, he won't be here long.

I never disputed that Bryce was scheduled to interview at Tulsa.

I disputed that it had been *reported*.  It had not been.

Now, it has been.

I assume Bryce won't be leaving now, considering he's bringing a back a team full of seniors coming off a league championship. But I could definitely see him leaving after that. Even if he intends to stick around for 4 or 5 years, I think he would still have to go through the song and dance of interviewing with other teams every off season, just to avoid people thinking he'll be like Homer and stick to one place.   

Some MSU people are expecting an announcement in the next 24 hours. will be interesting if it plays out like that...

Unlike Tulsa, this position is one Bryce would have to consider since it is a good program in a prominent conference. Interviewing for this also raises his profile, whether he is hired or not. In addition, on a personal note, Bryce's wife is from nearby Jackson MS, where I believe her parents still live.

My hope is that Bryce returns to Valpo with more leverage to be used for pushing further developments to the program and its facilities by VU.

Starkville is a most interesting situation. The town of Starkville is 24,000. MSU is 23,000 grad & undergrad students. MSU is larger than Ole Miss. The town of Mississippi State, MS officially lies next to Starkville on the east and includes only university property.

It's an hour from I-55, 2 hours from the state capital of Jackson, 1.5 hours from Tuscaloosa, AL, 3 hours from Birmingham and 3 hours from Memphis. Basically nothing like Valpo.

I only put this in to get a feel for the uniqueness of the demographics at MSU: Starkville is 65% White, 30% African American with smaller minorities making up the other 5%. The university is 71% White, 20% African-American, 9% other minorities.

Outside of MSU the biggest attraction is Noxubee Wildlife Refuge Park, which offers innumerable fishing , boating, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Looks like coach "Nep" is chasing the money. Can't blame him,hell the KSU coach just signed with USC for $12M over six years. Show them the money and they will come. I don't know about the rest of you but I'm tired of this Drew bulls--t. It will either be now or later,so let's end it once and forever. Go Bryce (Nep),GO! >:(

Quote from: setshot on March 28, 2012, 08:32:24 AM
Looks like coach "Nep" is chasing the money. Can't blame him,hell the KSU coach just signed with USC for $12M over six years. Show them the money and they will come. I don't know about the rest of you but I'm tired of this Drew bulls--t. It will either be now or later,so let's end it once and forever. Go Bryce (Nep),GO! >:(

So this is an attempt to show anger at Bryce possibly leaving, correct? This is not an attempt to say Bryce is not a good head coach, correct?

If true, then I still don't believe the word nepotism (or slang "Nep") fits here. I believe this is your way of expressing your anger but in a way that is not fruitful to the discussion and really just meaningless derogatory comments.

What a funny thread!  Hilarious to see relatively sedate, long-standing members of this community explode at the (fairly innocent... so far) return of a provocateur from ages past.  (If he was on proboards, I think he predated my time there.)

And great to see setshot revert to form... after so recently celebrating Bryce's season and retiring his (dis?)honorary title.

As for MSU (do two schools use that?  I guess we share VU with Villanova)

Quote from: valpotx on March 28, 2012, 02:05:57 AMWell, he didn't interview at Tulsa, but DID interview with Mississippi State on Monday!  ESPN reports he was supposed to speak with Tulsa on Tuesday, but wasn't interested in coaching at Tulsa, as we figured.  This MSU interview has me much more worried, as they can provide a much better overall package and structure than Tulsa.  Hopefully just some feeling out on his part for a few years from now. 

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7745899/mississippi-state-bulldogs-interview-bryce-drew-valparaiso-crusaders-sources-say (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7745899/mississippi-state-bulldogs-interview-bryce-drew-valparaiso-crusaders-sources-say)

Probably more interesting than Tulsa.  But, this doesn't really sound like an "interview".  Bryce was in-town anyhow to see Baylor play.  It's not _quite_ as simple as interviewing at the Final Four (where I can imagine everybody who's anybody in the game is represented, already).  MSU probably did come out specifically to meet with him, and maybe some other candidates.  But, it doesn't sound too far beyond the "phone interview" stage.  Bryce, if he wanted, could have treated this pretty casually.  "They want to sit down and chat, OK, let's chat."  Pretty different from a multi-day visit to campus.

I'm just wondering what was said to our two new players.  I can't imagine Bryce's future didn't come up, like in "OK, if I come to play at Valpo, what about you? I'm coming because of the style of play, the great facilities, but, most importantly, that YOU are the coach.  So, will YOU be the coach next year?" 

I doubt Bryce would lie to a kid and if he said he wasn't sure about coaching at Valpo, do you really think the players would have committed this early?  Just sayin...

I guess I could google it, but does Miss St have trouble graduating athletes?  Schools in the SEC don't have the greatest track record in regards to athlete academics, outside of Vanderbilt/Texas A&M/Missouri

Quote from: Pgmado on March 28, 2012, 06:12:53 AMLooks like Eaglebackr deserves an apology from some people :)

Apology accepted.

StlVUfan:  if you will turn in your hymnal to Page 4 of this thread, you will see I said "reportedly", not "reported".  HUGE difference in meaning. (https://www.google.com/search?q=definition+of+reportedly&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a#hl=en&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=0gv&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=reportedly&tbs=dfn:1&tbo=u&sa=X&ei=fSpzT9DFNcWe2wWLyon_Dg&ved=0CCoQkQ4&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=ac019615ea70a3af&biw=1255&bih=671)

And, Sparty:  nice to see you join the fray AFTER my exit.  You remind me of the guy who acts like he wants to fight, while posturing behind the guys "holding him back".

Well, I'm right here, sport:  big butt to the door, looking you right in the eye.  "You want a piece of me?  YOU GOT IT!!" (http://youtu.be/ZGPMOoe8iQo)

Quote from: vu72 on March 28, 2012, 09:39:16 AM
I'm just wondering what was said to our two new players.  I can't imagine Bryce's future didn't come up, like in "OK, if I come to play at Valpo, what about you? I'm coming because of the style of play, the great facilities, but, most importantly, that YOU are the coach.  So, will YOU be the coach next year?" 

I doubt Bryce would lie to a kid and if he said he wasn't sure about coaching at Valpo, do you really think the players would have committed this early?  Just sayin...

Bullseye!  If Bryce was going to look at other jobs, he would have told these guys before they committed.  No way he turns his back on those guys, as well as the roster of guys he recruited to Valpo.

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 28, 2012, 10:28:29 AM

StlVUfan:  if you will turn in your hymnal to Page 4 of this thread, you will see I said "reportedly", not "reported".  HUGE difference in meaning. (https://www.google.com/search?q=definition+of+reportedly&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a#hl=en&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=0gv&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=reportedly&tbs=dfn:1&tbo=u&sa=X&ei=fSpzT9DFNcWe2wWLyon_Dg&ved=0CCoQkQ4&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=ac019615ea70a3af&biw=1255&bih=671)

Noted.  In the context in which you used it, it was quite reasonable to interpret it as "reported".  Obviously that doesn't make that interpretation correct, just reasonable.

[To be perfectly clear, these are all hypothetical quotes.  Nothing actual.]

"I'm keeping my options open, but my family's here, I grew up here, I think I could be happy here for many years to come."  I have no idea what Bryce is thinking.  But, I can imagine there are ways to spin it so that 1)If he leave's he's not mislead players, and that 2)Don't send them running. 

Is it a stronger pitch to say, "I have no intentions of leaving in the next four years.", or "I'll definitely be here, God willing, for the next four years."?  Maybe.  Is it necessary?  Probably not.

No matter what he said to the recruits, circumstances change.  I doubt John Groce, who at least appears to be slated to take over the IL job told his recruits coming to Ohio next season that he would consider jumping ship if a big payday came along.  He's also got his strongest team coming back next year at OH.  So did Lickliter at Butler when he left for Iowa.  Not that I have any idea if he'll go one way or the other, but if he does, you'd almost rather he do it when you guys do have a strong team coming back next season.  At least that way the impact wouldn't be the same as if he did it after next season when half the team graduates.  Good luck either way, it's a very nerve racking situation no matter which way it goes.

Quote from: agibson on March 28, 2012, 10:59:08 AM"I'm keeping my options open, but my family's here, I grew up here, I think I could be happy here for many years to come."  I have no idea what Bryce is thinking.  But, I can imagine there are ways to spin it so that 1)If he leave's he's not mislead players, and that 2)Don't send them running. 

Is it a stronger pitch to say, "I have no intentions of leaving in the next four years.", or "I'll definitely be here, God willing, for the next four years."?  Maybe.  Is it necessary?  Probably not.

Gibson, are you quoting an article or making up a hypothetical quote for Bryce there?

Purely hypothetical (modified the post to reflect that).  I'm not suggesting they're even plausible.  Just exploring possible answers if a recruit asks, "Will you be here for the next four years?  I heard on some internet message board, that you're going to Tulsa."

Quote from: agibson on March 28, 2012, 11:39:54 AM
Purely hypothetical (modified the post to reflect that).  I'm not suggesting they're even plausible.  Just exploring possible answers if a recruit asks, "Will you be here for the next four years?  I heard on some internet message board, that you're going to Tulsa."

Oh good.  Sorry, that makes sense, but when in a state of DEFCON 3 here one reads much more (or less) into things than one should, in the absence of definitive information one way or the other.  Thanks, and I agree with you on that.

Quote from: vu72 on March 28, 2012, 09:39:16 AMthe great facilities

:lol:

As IrishDawg notes this whole interviewing thing could have materialized after our new transfers committed.  Besides, he could still be loyal to them.  All he has to do is take a page out of the Brad Brownell play book and take them with.  They could very easily say, "I committed to play for Coach Drew.  The fact that it's at an SEC school rather than a Mid Major with no commitment to competitive athletic facilities (added for 72's benefit) makes it even better."

Someone tweeted Drew to Miss St a done deal.

From Chris Dortch, Editor of Blue Ribbon College Basketball Yearbook in Chattanooga, via Twitter:

"Word is Bryce Drew to Miss St is a done deal. Good move." (https://twitter.com/#!/cdortch)

oren tweeted the same thing. lord, i hope this isn't true.

but if it is the case, where should we start in our search for another new coach?

Note comment at bottom:

"Someone is saying hold your horses on this done deal stuff."

http://www.tigerdroppings.com/rant/p/32545221/Bryce-Drew-to-Mississippi-State.aspx (http://www.tigerdroppings.com/rant/p/32545221/Bryce-Drew-to-Mississippi-State.aspx)

from jason king via twitter:

Quote
Bryce Drew has interviewed at Miss St, but reports that it's a "done deal" are far - very far - from true.

From Paul Oren:

http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/ (http://www.nwitimes.com/blogs/sports/valparaiso-university/)

For those who question suggestions that Valpo needs to commit to new facilities, I note that among the enticements Mississippi State has to offer Bryce is a brand new $11.2 million state of the art basketball practice facility:

http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253 (http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253)

Quote from: valpopal on March 28, 2012, 04:02:53 PMFor those who question suggestions that Valpo needs to commit to new facilities, I note that among the enticements Mississippi State has to offer Bryce is a brand new $11.2 million state of the art basketball practice facility: http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253 (http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253)

Im with ya...I say pay the man and build.  That is a whole lot easier than trying to rebuild from ground zero...which is what we would have if Bryce leaves now. 

Quote from: valpopal on March 28, 2012, 04:02:53 PM
For those who question suggestions that Valpo needs to commit to new facilities, I note that among the enticements Mississippi State has to offer Bryce is a brand new $11.2 million state of the art basketball practice facility:

http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253 (http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253)

If I win the $500 Million Mega Millions jackpot on Fri. night, the first thing I will do is fix the facility problem.  Book it!

So, if the new practice facility is the turning point, what would you suggest?  An $11.3 million dollar practice facility?  Would 2 or 3 million make a deference or would he say, "nice try, but 11.2 beat the heck out of 2 or 3?  Thanks for playing though and...good luck!

Valpo will NEVER be able to compete with the Miss. State's of the world, does the name "State" mean anything to you?  There will always be a bigger and better facility insured to make players jump higher and run faster.  I'm waiting for numbers.  How much will be enough for a new or renovated ARC?  How much more for the practice facility we just added a few years ago?  How many more flat screen TVs?  And when we committ millions to this process would it be enough to keep Scott or Bryce?  Scott is making 1.76 million.  Would he have stayed if we put, say 15 million into new facilities and offered say, 1 mil?  The bucks seem to be all that matters.  Sad, but true...

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/story/2012-03-29/salaries-continue-rise-shaka-smart-vcu/53828414/1 (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/story/2012-03-29/salaries-continue-rise-shaka-smart-vcu/53828414/1)

Quote from: wh on March 28, 2012, 04:12:21 PM

Quote from: valpopal on March 28, 2012, 04:02:53 PM
For those who question suggestions that Valpo needs to commit to new facilities, I note that among the enticements Mississippi State has to offer Bryce is a brand new $11.2 million state of the art basketball practice facility:

http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253 (http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253)

If I win the $500 Million Mega Millions jackpot on Fri. night, the first thing I will do is fix the facility problem.  Book it!

Thanks!  I'll do the same...wait!  I need to buy a ticket!!   :o

Quote from: vu72 on March 28, 2012, 04:21:15 PM
So, if the new practice facility is the turning point, what would you suggest? 

Nobody is suggesting the practice facility is a turning point, but it certainly adds another element to the appeal of the position, and it highlights again the poor facilities at Valpo, not just in comparison to schools like Mississippi State, but also when compared to other respectable mid-major programs with which VU must compete.

Quote from: vu72 on March 28, 2012, 04:21:15 PMSo, if the new practice facility is the turning point, what would you suggest?  An $11.3 million dollar practice facility?  Would 2 or 3 million make a deference or would he say, "nice try, but 11.2 beat the heck out of 2 or 3?  Thanks for playing though and...good luck! Valpo will NEVER be able to compete with the Miss. State's of the world, does the name "State" mean anything to you?  There will always be a bigger and better facility insured to make players jump higher and run faster.  I'm waiting for numbers.  How much will be enough for a new or renovated ARC?  How much more for the practice facility we just added a few years ago?  How many more flat screen TVs?  And when we committ millions to this process would it be enough to keep Scott or Bryce?  Scott is making 1.76 million.  Would he have stayed if we put, say 15 million into new facilities and offered say, 1 mil?  The bucks seem to be all that matters.  Sad, but true... http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/story/2012-03-29/salaries-continue-rise-shaka-smart-vcu/53828414/1 (http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/story/2012-03-29/salaries-continue-rise-shaka-smart-vcu/53828414/1)

I would think the gesture of practice facility/ARC and a reasonable salary is what they should offer...if he still leaves at least they made the attempt

If Bryce leaves, why not go with Tonagel as others have mentioned?  Hopefully he would stick around for a few years, before success causes him to bolt too...

Quote from: wh on March 28, 2012, 04:12:21 PM

Quote from: valpopal on March 28, 2012, 04:02:53 PM
For those who question suggestions that Valpo needs to commit to new facilities, I note that among the enticements Mississippi State has to offer Bryce is a brand new $11.2 million state of the art basketball practice facility:

http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253 (http://www.hailstate.com/PhotoAlbum.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=16800&PALBID=348253)

If I win the $500 Million Mega Millions jackpot on Fri. night, the first thing I will do is fix the facility problem.  Book it!

And if I win it instead - I'll fix it!  Book It!

Quote from: valpotx on March 28, 2012, 05:40:01 PM
If Bryce leaves, why not go with Tonagel as others have mentioned?  Hopefully he would stick around for a few years, before success causes him to bolt too...

I'm sure Tonagel would be very high on that initial list. 

Quote from: valpotx on March 28, 2012, 05:40:01 PM
If Bryce leaves, why not go with Tonagel as others have mentioned?  Hopefully he would stick around for a few years, before success causes him to bolt too...

Without hesitation my first choice would be Roger Powell, Jr.  He's already here.  He is respected by the players.  He knows the system and he's part of the system.  He can open recruiting doors that Greg never could.  He's also a strong Christian with a personal value system that aligns with the university's.  That said I'm almost certain Bryce would try to convince him to go with him to MSU, so it wouldn't necessarily be a given that he would stay at Valpo.  A lot would depend on his personal goals.

Quote from: wh on March 28, 2012, 06:35:40 PM

Quote from: valpotx on March 28, 2012, 05:40:01 PM
If Bryce leaves, why not go with Tonagel as others have mentioned?  Hopefully he would stick around for a few years, before success causes him to bolt too...

Without hesitation my first choice would be Roger Powell, Jr.  He's already here.  He is respected by the players.  He knows the system and he's part of the system.  He can open recruiting doors that Greg never could.  He's also a strong Christian with a personal value system that aligns with the university's.  That said I'm almost certain Bryce would try to convince him to go with him to MSU, so it wouldn't necessarily be a given that he would stay at Valpo.  A lot would depend on his personal goals.

Totally agree...

Valparaiso head coach Bryce Drew: "I have pulled my name for consideration for Mississippi State."

Tweet from Paul Oren.

Paul Oren ‏ @NWIOren
Reply RetweetedRetweet Delete FavoritedFavorite · Close Open Details
That's all Drew wanted to say this evening. Will go into more details tomorrow, but it appears for the time being that Drew is staying at VU

2m  Paul Oren ‏ @NWIOren
Reply RetweetedRetweet
Delete
FavoritedFavorite · Close Open Details Valparaiso head coach Bryce Drew: "I have pulled my name for consideration for Mississippi State."

https://twitter.com/#!/NWIOren

Bryce tells Oren he's staying
https://twitter.com/#!/NWIOren

Your move, VU.  Are you now going to give the guy a facility worth a damn to work with so he can build a program here or not?

espn confirms as well.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749271/bryce-drew-says-return-coach-valparaiso-crusaders (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749271/bryce-drew-says-return-coach-valparaiso-crusaders)

thank heavens

Quote from: vuweathernerd on March 28, 2012, 07:48:51 PM
espn confirms as well.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749271/bryce-drew-says-return-coach-valparaiso-crusaders (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749271/bryce-drew-says-return-coach-valparaiso-crusaders)

thank heavens

For now.  At some point, another program could come along with the right offer.  I'm sure the SEC was enticing, but maybe not Mississippi State at this time. 

Glad Bryce is staying. This whole exercise could be just a case of "Social Media" gone wild. Mississippi State has enough issues with players leaving the program

Quote from: crusaderjoe on March 28, 2012, 07:41:18 PM
Your move, VU.  Are you now going to give the guy a facility worth a damn to work with so he can build a program here or not?

No, your move, tell us oh great voice from the south, what should we spend so that we can win a conference championship?  Oh wait...

Quote from: crusaderjoe on March 28, 2012, 07:41:18 PM
Your move, VU.  Are you now going to give the guy a facility worth a damn to work with so he can build a program here or not?

Agreed.  The time to commit to building a top mid-major program is now.  If the Administration doesn't see it that way, then no one can fault Bryce for looking at other options.

Well that was a few day ego fest for Bryce.

getting some press on ESPN can't hurt, regardless of the reason.  well, most reasons. :twocents:

Quote from: vu72 on March 28, 2012, 08:09:12 PM

Quote from: crusaderjoe on March 28, 2012, 07:41:18 PM
Your move, VU.  Are you now going to give the guy a facility worth a damn to work with so he can build a program here or not?

No, your move, tell us oh great voice from the south, what should we spend so that we can win a conference championship?  Oh wait...

When will you guys start listening to vu72?  You've won a conference championship, made an NIT appearance, retained your coach, have excellent facilities and have surpassed Butler in athletics excellence.  Move along ... nothing to see here.

Quote from: webbvufan on March 28, 2012, 08:19:54 PM

Quote from: crusaderjoe on March 28, 2012, 07:41:18 PM
Your move, VU.  Are you now going to give the guy a facility worth a damn to work with so he can build a program here or not?

Agreed.  The time to commit to building a top mid-major program is now.  If the Administration doesn't see it that way, then no one can fault Bryce for looking at other options.

Exactly.  This is kind of what I was driving at.  You can't fault Bryce for entertaining other options if the University does nothing.

And VU72, since you're so fixated for numbers, how does the figure $0.00 look to you?  In case you were wondering, that's the total amount of dollars that were allocated to major ARC basketball venue improvements or renovations over the course of capital campaigns that began and ended between the years 2002 – 2008. 

5% of $360M, the total of said campaigns, is $18M.  Find a corporate donor to match or substantially contribute to a renovation project a la the Cintas Center and you might just have something. VU instead settled for zero in that regard.  If VU would have treated its flagship athletic program as an integral part of the University instead of seeing it as something ancillary to it simply because its nature is athletic, the question you've presented is most likely moot because something would have already been done to remedy the current situation. 

Keep chest-thumping though!

Oren tweet at 10 pm

In a move that surprises no one after events of the day, Bryce Drew agrees to contact extension at Valparaiso. Terms not disclosed.

To close the loop, looks like Danny Manning will go to Tulsa.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749070/danny-manning-agrees-coach-tulsa-sources-say (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749070/danny-manning-agrees-coach-tulsa-sources-say)

And, crusaderjoe, and I say this in a positive manner, if it was/is so easy to just wave a wand and have a corporate or other alumni sponsor donate $18 million for an athletic facility (especially during 2008-2012 Recession, I think the University would like to know to whom they should be directing that request, or maybe you should drop into Loke Hall and help the Office of Institutional Advancement as I'm guessing there will be another campaign starting soon. And quite frankly, the ARC itself with the new floor and intimate surroundings is fine. The basketball offices are nice, and they have a practice facility. Yes, a spiffy, all encompassing basketball only facility like Wake Forest has would be a nice goal for the men's and women's programs. But have you been in Cameron. It's in general, a dump. The setaing is atrocious, it's hot, it's uncomfortable, and your knees are in your ears if you try to sit in the bleachers directly behind the benches. The upper tier looks like an old Y gym. They have a very nice weight facility that all the Duke athletic programs use, and the offices are very nice but not too dissimilar to the ARC office, except they are upstairs in Cameron. You know what makes the difference at Duke -- it's not the facility -- it's WINNING, the banners in the ceiling, the pictures of championship teams lining the corridors of the too cramped hallways you have to walk down to get to the wash room, the Championship trophies in the front office, and a tremendous coach sitting in his office designing the next championship.  If you build it does not by itself build championships. There's lots of white elephant stadia and conference centers around the country. Valpo has been able to win because of coaching and players. Yes, I don't disagree that we need to enhance the "fan experience" and the practice and workout facilities. I also agree to blow out the wall and add more chairback seating and corporate boxes on the chairback side, but the University also needed to upgrade a lot of campus first. Now the next phase are these other functions. In the end, academics and students, not the 26 basketball players, needed upgrades first, and that also includes a REC facility for them that would also ease congestion in the ARC for basketball and other sports. Sometimes it's about using resources effectively and cost efficiently in smaller bites than blowing a bunch of money on an elephant.

I have mixed feelings on Bryce returning at this point.  I think he did a great job this season  and I think he will get even better.  Here is my fear.  We are loaded going into next year, let's say we dominate in the Horizon and maybe even go so far as win an NCAA tourney game.  Bigger and better offers will start to roll in for Bryce. Then we will lose our coach AND graduate our entire team.  Suddenly our cupboards are bare, we are without a coach and any recruits we do have are thrown back up in the air. 

Seems to me that if Bryce left this year, the new coach could walk into a great situation set up for success.  He can turn this success around in recruiting his own players right away and do the most to maintain the quality of the program.   The fact that Bryce interviewed anywhere says that he will leave either sooner or later and I wish him the best. 

And by the way, signing an extension does nothing to make me think he is committing to Valpo long term.  All coaches try to maintain contracts beyond the graduation years of their recruits so they can wave them around on the home visits.  However, the reality is, they will bounce when the big time offer rolls in.

A good succession plan Cmack might be to name Roger Powell Assistant Head Coach, pay him some serious bread, and then if (and I mean if) something happens after next year, you have built in continegncy for the players, incoming class and recruits. Having the succession plan in place hedges the bets, and smooths the disruptions. Not to make the Butler fans happy, but theirs and Xaviers succession plans have permitted those programs to remain stable and strong through Collier-Matta-Lickliter-Stevens, and Gillen-Prosser-Matta-Miller-Mack. The alternative is to try to lock Bryce up by with a multi-year big contract like Stevens. Whatever the extension says, I hope it contains similar clauses to Shaka Smart's which has if the coach leaves, he must provide home games to his former school with his new school.

Quote from: bbtds on March 28, 2012, 08:36:05 AM

Quote from: StlVUFan on March 28, 2012, 10:57:35 AM

Quote from: Eaglebackr on March 28, 2012, 10:28:29 AM

StlVUfan:  if you will turn in your hymnal to Page 4 of this thread, you will see I said "reportedly", not "reported".  HUGE difference in meaning. (https://www.google.com/search?q=definition+of+reportedly&ie=utf-8&oe=utf-8&aq=t&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&client=firefox-a#hl=en&safe=off&client=firefox-a&hs=0gv&rls=org.mozilla:en-US:official&q=reportedly&tbs=dfn:1&tbo=u&sa=X&ei=fSpzT9DFNcWe2wWLyon_Dg&ved=0CCoQkQ4&bav=on.2,or.r_gc.r_pw.r_qf.,cf.osb&fp=ac019615ea70a3af&biw=1255&bih=671)

Noted.  In the context in which you used it, it was quite reasonable to interpret it as "reported".  Obviously that doesn't make that interpretation correct, just reasonable.

You might want to exercise your neck muscles. It's difficult to back pedal so much if you can't turn your head very easily and look behind you. You also should get one of those devices that make the sound of a truck backing up: "beep, beep, beep...." it helps people turn their heads towards you when you are back pedaling.   ;D

You guys want to crown Powell and he has done nothing, I mean nothing to warrant being assistant head or head coach. I'd be more comfortable with Diebler or even Gore. I don't see Powell being here long either for the big boys will come calling for him.

Reality check time.

All of those that have thought Bryce would be here for 20 years probably are understanding the realities.  He will be here until the job comes along which he wants.  There is nothing which will hold him here (career).  Why should there be.  A competitive person always wants to be the best they can be.  That will not happen at VU.

Regarding the facilities....do you really think that a 10,000 seat facility is the answer?  We averaged about 3500 in attendance this year.  Ok, spruce things up a bit.  Make the locker rooms/weight rooms a bit better.   But let's face it, Valpariaso In doesnt have the base for attendance, nor does VU have the students to fill up a big house.

lowposter

Quote from: lowposter on March 29, 2012, 08:45:04 AM
Reality check time.

Regarding the facilities....do you really think that a 10,000 seat facility is the answer?  We averaged about 3500 in attendance this year.  Ok, spruce things up a bit.  Make the locker rooms/weight rooms a bit better.   But let's face it, Valpariaso In doesnt have the base for attendance, nor does VU have the students to fill up a big house.

lowposter

I've been following this thread and I don't get the sense that there is a ground-swell movement among posters to build a huge palace.  My sense is that the vast majority just want a better fan experience and maybe another 1000 additional seats for those big games that a winning program attracts -- IOW what you are stating lowposter.  Actually, my thought is that it's not what we want -- it's what will satisfy Bryce and he may have a totally different agenda facility-wise.

Quote from: valpo84 on March 28, 2012, 10:46:03 PM
To close the loop, looks like Danny Manning will go to Tulsa.

http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749070/danny-manning-agrees-coach-tulsa-sources-say (http://espn.go.com/mens-college-basketball/story/_/id/7749070/danny-manning-agrees-coach-tulsa-sources-say)

And, crusaderjoe, and I say this in a positive manner, if it was/is so easy to just wave a wand and have a corporate or other alumni sponsor donate $18 million for an athletic facility (especially during 2008-2012 Recession, I think the University would like to know to whom they should be directing that request, or maybe you should drop into Loke Hall and help the Office of Institutional Advancement as I'm guessing there will be another campaign starting soon. And quite frankly, the ARC itself with the new floor and intimate surroundings is fine. The basketball offices are nice, and they have a practice facility. Yes, a spiffy, all encompassing basketball only facility like Wake Forest has would be a nice goal for the men's and women's programs. But have you been in Cameron. It's in general, a dump. The setaing is atrocious, it's hot, it's uncomfortable, and your knees are in your ears if you try to sit in the bleachers directly behind the benches. The upper tier looks like an old Y gym. They have a very nice weight facility that all the Duke athletic programs use, and the offices are very nice but not too dissimilar to the ARC office, except they are upstairs in Cameron. You know what makes the difference at Duke -- it's not the facility -- it's WINNING, the banners in the ceiling, the pictures of championship teams lining the corridors of the too cramped hallways you have to walk down to get to the wash room, the Championship trophies in the front office, and a tremendous coach sitting in his office designing the next championship.  If you build it does not by itself build championships. There's lots of white elephant stadia and conference centers around the country. Valpo has been able to win because of coaching and players. Yes, I don't disagree that we need to enhance the "fan experience" and the practice and workout facilities. I also agree to blow out the wall and add more chairback seating and corporate boxes on the chairback side, but the University also needed to upgrade a lot of campus first. Now the next phase are these other functions. In the end, academics and students, not the 26 basketball players, needed upgrades first, and that also includes a REC facility for them that would also ease congestion in the ARC for basketball and other sports. Sometimes it's about using resources effectively and cost efficiently in smaller bites than blowing a bunch of money on an elephant.

I couldn't have said it better and I won't try.  We all think the facilities could be better and President heckler has said in this announcement that the University is committed to having a first class program, something I don't remember Alan Harre saying. We all seem to forget the efforts and improvements that HAVE happened to take pressure off of the ARC and/or improve the varsity athlete experience.  Remember, since the ARC was built women's athletic programs have been added. We can't just say, under Title 9, that we are going full bore to add whatever to MEN"S basketball.

We have added the Mosak Performance Center, a very nice basketball practice facility (for both men and women--see Title 9 comment), a terrific basketball wing for both men and women--see Title 9 comment and most recently a new floor and new scoreboard.  These things hardly say "we don't care" or we aren't doing anything for our premere sport. As '84 said, we have gone through a very difficult period economically and are still in it, yet we have, as a University, dedicated to ALL students, moved forward with some thing we really need like a new library (really--did anybody see the old one before demolition???) or a new union (really--did anybody hang around the old old prior to demolition???) , both of which were built a LONG time befor the ARC.

People, these are complex issues.  The Adminstration has now purchase a bunch of land from the hospital and Mr. LaBarbera has said openly that a new fieldhouse is high on the list of necessities.  This will take ENORMOUS pressure off the ARC and make room for the additions/renovations all of us would like. 

I really think these things are coming, maybe not at the speed many would like, but they are coming.  I'm now finished with my construction comments and want only the best for Valpo as we all do.  Peace and best wishes to anybody like crusaderjoe who is probably pissed off at me--sorry!!   :(

Like VULB#62 and vu72, the need for a new "larger" arena is not necessary. An upgrade of the facilities would be the logical way to go. As a VU grad who has been going to games since the late 60's the ARC was a big improvement over Hilltop. If I remember right the ARC was built with the ability to move out walls and increase the seating size. What would be nice would to have chairback seats all around the court and with perhaps a maximum seating capacity of 6500 or so. (roughly about 1000 more than now). We do need more restroom facilities as they become quite crowded where the attendance runs more than 4500 or so. Another refreshment area would be nice and opening up the northwest corner ticket window and entrance again as in previous years. We are not Indy - Detroit - Chicago - Milwaukee - Dayton or Cleveland - a 8000 plus arena is not needed. Lets work with what we have. As for building a better arena to keep Bryce or any other coach from leaving and going to a more prestigious conference - well that will not work. Homer was an exception with his 20+ years here.

Quote from: vu72 on March 28, 2012, 04:21:15 PMThe bucks seem to be all that matters.  Sad, but true...

I'm behind on this thread, so sorry if this has been covered.

But, I'm getting a lot of this "show me the money" feeling on this thread.

When has a VU coach ever demonstrated this attitude?  Is this in the Drew DNA?  Homer must have passed up lucrative offers in the late 90's.  Bryce may now have, or might soon enough.

I didn't get the feeling that Scott's departure was primarily motivated by the $$.  I thought of it more as wanting an opportunity to build a nationally competitive program.  Homer might have said that he wanted Valpo to be nationally competitive (I don't recall), but obviously there's a difference between BCS-ball (even if Baylor started from the low end of the BCS!) and mid-major ball, and it's not quite so simple as "mid-major + $5M/year".  I respect Whelliston's financial arguments, but it's not _just_ $$, or, at least, $$ aren't going to allow you to turn on a dime. 

Quote from: valpogal on March 28, 2012, 08:31:22 PM
Well that was a few day ego fest for Bryce.

That seems unkind.  Maybe Bryce enjoyed the few day "trip", maybe not.  But, it seems like a pretty minor blip.  Small in significance for Valpo, likely, even compared to the Butler team: a strong team in the conference heading for greener pastures.

Quote from: vu72 on March 29, 2012, 09:30:56 AMWe all think the facilities could be better

I'm not sure I'm sold on this.  I'd like to see the argument clearly articulated, one of these days.  Maybe that's happening now, over in the "facilities" thread.

Others, too, have articulated the series of improvements, and positives of what we have now.

Maybe better chairbacks are possible.  I wouldn't mind having something to lean back against, sure.  But, having tried our chairbacks once, I actually preferred the sight-lines from the bleachers (either upper or lower).  So, for me personally, chairbacks (or luxury boxes, etc, etc.) are no kind of priority.  But, maybe they would attract a certain clientelle.  Maybe enough to make them financially viable - but I'd be curious to see the numerical analysis.

Quote from: lowposter on March 29, 2012, 08:45:04 AM
Reality check time.

All of those that have thought Bryce would be here for 20 years probably are understanding the realities.  He will be here until the job comes along which he wants.  There is nothing which will hold him here (career).  Why should there be.  A competitive person always wants to be the best they can be.  That will not happen at VU.

Lowposter's not the only one speaking in this vein, nor probably the most extreme.

But, what's the phrase?  Step back from the windows?  I don't think having conversations with a couple of other universities changes my feelings about Bryce one lick.  Nor my thoughts as to his likely future.

He has definite attachments to this university, and this community.  He could, quite possibly, have a very successful career here.  He could, very plausibly (if with nothing approaching certainty), help take VU basketball to "another level".

If he continues to win lots of games, he'll have lots of other options, too.

Will he and his family be satisfied at Valpo, for the long haul?  Maybe, maybe not.  Having some thoughts and plans as to succession (as with Homer-Scott, Homer-Bryce) is entirely prudent and reasonable.

But, I'm _far_ from ready to give up on Bryce, to somehow wish he'd have left this year!  To be convinced he's leaving soon.

Let's enjoy his tenure while he's here.  Let's wish him a long and successful coaching career - hopefully with a good chunk of it, and great success, at Valpo.

Sorry for four (five?) posts in a row!  Catching up on a busy thread.

Quote from: hoopfan22 on March 29, 2012, 07:59:22 AM
You guys want to crown Powell Andes  he has done nothing, I mean nothing to warrant being assistant head or head coach. I'd be more comfortable with Diebler or even Gore. I don't see Powell being here long either for the big boys will come calling for him.

What do you mean he's done "nothing, I mean nothing" to be asst or head coach?  Not head coaching material?  Less seniority?  What?  Please explain.  Then explain how that fits with your second comment that bigger programs will be after him, whereas I'm pretty sure no larger programs will be after any of our other assts.

When I win the mega millions Friday night we'll get that new athletic facility moving.  8)  :thumbsup:

Quote from: agibson on March 29, 2012, 11:44:43 AM

Quote from: vu72 on March 29, 2012, 09:30:56 AMWe all think the facilities could be better

I'm not sure I'm sold on this.  I'd like to see the argument clearly articulated, one of these days.  Maybe that's happening now, over in the "facilities" thread.

Others, too, have articulated the series of improvements, and positives of what we have now.

Maybe better chairbacks are possible.  I wouldn't mind having something to lean back against, sure.  But, having tried our chairbacks once, I actually preferred the sight-lines from the bleachers (either upper or lower).  So, for me personally, chairbacks (or luxury boxes, etc, etc.) are no kind of priority.  But, maybe they would attract a certain clientelle.  Maybe enough to make them financially viable - but I'd be curious to see the numerical analysis.

Shouldn't you recuse yourself from this discussion, professor agibson?   ;)

Quote from: wh on March 29, 2012, 12:12:18 PM
Shouldn't you recuse yourself from this discussion, professor agibson?   ;)

Heh - I am sensitive to this, on multiple levels.  But, we all wear at least a couple of hats.

I can totally see someone a bit older than me preferring to pay more for chairbacks, more comfort, even at the expense of degraded sight lines.

I'm a little skeptical about having corporate-entertainment type facilities, sky boxes or the like.  Or, in general, to a more "luxurious" fan experience.   It's far from obvious to me that this would entice more people in, or at a higher price point.  Far from obvious that there's an under-served need for Valpo-area corporate entertainment.  But, indeed, I'm not a business person.  All of this may, admittedly, be a knee-jerk reaction to the era of community-financed stadiums and the like.  I suppose that there's a reason sky boxes are a big thing for professional stadiums - they may well pay the bills in the right market.  (I don't mean to deliberately move the goalposts here - I realize that noone's arguing too loudly for skyboxes at VU.)

Another men's room.... maybe I could get behind you there.  Those lines were long at the Butler games!  I wouldn't have minded Wrigley-style troughs.

Quote from: agibson on March 29, 2012, 12:20:12 PM

Quote from: wh on March 29, 2012, 12:12:18 PMShouldn't you recuse yourself from this discussion, professor agibson?   ;)

Heh - I am sensitive to this, on multiple levels.  But, we all wear at least a couple of hats. I can totally see someone a bit older than me preferring to pay more for chairbacks, more comfort, even at the expense of degraded sight lines. I'm a little skeptical about having corporate-entertainment type facilities, sky boxes or the like.  Or, in general, to a more "luxurious" fan experience.   It's far from obvious to me that this would entice more people in, or at a higher price point.  Far from obvious that there's an under-served need for Valpo-area corporate entertainment.  But, indeed, I'm not a business person.  All of this may, admittedly, be a knee-jerk reaction to the era of community-financed stadiums and the like.  I suppose that there's a reason sky boxes are a big thing for professional stadiums - they may well pay the bills in the right market.  (I don't mean to deliberately move the goalposts here - I realize that noone's arguing too loudly for skyboxes at VU.) Another men's room.... maybe I could get behind you there.  Those lines were long at the Butler games!  I wouldn't have minded Wrigley-style troughs.

I agree agibson on this one.  If anything, we should add more CHEAP bleacher seats.  The way to get the region behind the team is to offer a family friendly affordable D1 basketball experience.  Personally, that is why I get season tickets (in the bleachers)...they are very affordable.  I can watch all the games at home for free.

Quote from: lowposter on March 29, 2012, 08:45:04 AM
Regarding the facilities....do you really think that a 10,000 seat facility is the answer?  We averaged about 3500 in attendance this year.  Ok, spruce things up a bit.  Make the locker rooms/weight rooms a bit better.   But let's face it, Valpariaso In doesnt have the base for attendance, nor does VU have the students to fill up a big house.

lowposter

Ok, I'm still not seeing a single person calling for a 10,000 seat facility, so I'm not sure why this keeps coming up as an argument. 99% of people on this board are just looking for a better fan experience and a few more seats to complete a more "bowl-like" shape. We just want an intimate playing atmosphere with better restrooms, locker rooms, etc. 

Quote from: agibson on March 29, 2012, 12:20:12 PMAnother men's room.... maybe I could get behind you there. 

I'm just in that kind of mood.....if we get more mens' rooms you won't have to get behind him....you'd have your own stall or urinal.  :o 

I think Bryce used the leverage available at the time to secure a better contract (by interviewing at other schools).  Homer did the same after the run in 1998 (wasnt it St. Louis University he was rumored to be considering?).  I have no idea of the contract Bryce has (or had), but the USA Today (today) listed coaches salaries for participating tournament teams and McCollum of Detroit was around $350k.   Cannot image Bryce was at that level before this week....maybe not now, but probably more respectable.

I do not know Bryce on a close level and do not have a CLUE what his motivations are, but I can speculate.  On one hand he has a father that was quite content to be an "old school" coach which lived in one community and coached until it was time to retire....twice.  Similar to a number of very good accomplished NAIA type coaches in the state of Indiana that stayed at one school for 20-30 years.  Remember where Homer came from (Bethel).  Scott, on the other hand, seems more in the mold of the new breed of coaches.  I would expect Scott to move on from Baylor at some point for a greener pasture.  Perhaps not, maybe there is enough of his father's influences for him to stay at Baylor.

So, Bryce has seen father and brother become very successful, each with their own style.  Do not expect him to be his father...nor his brother. 

Facilities....I would agree with knocking out the north wall.  Makes sense to me.  Corporate boxes?  I do not see the need in Valpo...not the base of business here.  No publically traded companies, nor huge VU booster privately held companies. 

Butler is in a great situation with a shrine to basketball and a program to match that shrine.  If they scoot to the A10, that will be one less sell out yearly for the ARC.  The entire league will suffer if Butler leaves.  Dont think so?  Check out the attendance figures.  Butler draws on the road.  Let's hope the Bulldog stays, but my guess is they will move on.

Enough ramblings, time for another cold one and a view of the beach.
lowposter

Quote from: lowposter on March 29, 2012, 06:13:19 PMI think Bryce used the leverage available at the time to secure a better contract (by interviewing at other schools).  Homer did the same after the run in 1998 (wasnt it St. Louis University he was rumored to be considering?).  I have no idea of the contract Bryce has (or had), but the USA Today (today) listed coaches salaries for participating tournament teams and McCollum of Detroit was around $350k.   Cannot image Bryce was at that level before this week....maybe not now, but probably more respectable. I do not know Bryce on a close level and do not have a CLUE what his motivations are, but I can speculate.  On one hand he has a father that was quite content to be an "old school" coach which lived in one community and coached until it was time to retire....twice.  Similar to a number of very good accomplished NAIA type coaches in the state of Indiana that stayed at one school for 20-30 years.  Remember where Homer came from (Bethel).  Scott, on the other hand, seems more in the mold of the new breed of coaches.  I would expect Scott to move on from Baylor at some point for a greener pasture.  Perhaps not, maybe there is enough of his father's influences for him to stay at Baylor. So, Bryce has seen father and brother become very successful, each with their own style.  Do not expect him to be his father...nor his brother. Facilities....I would agree with knocking out the north wall.  Makes sense to me.  Corporate boxes?  I do not see the need in Valpo...not the base of business here.  No publically traded companies, nor huge VU booster privately held companies. Butler is in a great situation with a shrine to basketball and a program to match that shrine.  If they scoot to the A10, that will be one less sell out yearly for the ARC.  The entire league will suffer if Butler leaves.  Dont think so?  Check out the attendance figures.  Butler draws on the road.  Let's hope the Bulldog stays, but my guess is they will move on. Enough ramblings, time for another cold one and a view of the beach. lowposter

real good stuff said in here brother!

Quote from: sectionee on March 29, 2012, 12:02:20 PM
When I win the mega millions Friday night we'll get that new athletic facility moving.  8)  :thumbsup:

I'm not sure which is more likely. That you or another poster here will win the $540,000,000 lottery jackpot or whatever it is now or that Valpo donors will give the money needed for athletic facilities upgrades.

A very good and in-depth article by Mark Lazerus.  It covers many of the issues discussed at length here recently:

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html)

Quote from: vu72 on March 30, 2012, 09:06:06 AM
A very good and in-depth article by Mark Lazerus.  It covers many of the issues discussed at length here recently:

http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html)

FYI, it was already posted here:

http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10)

Crap, if I win the $540+ million, I would easily donate enough money to make something happen lol.  How much money does someone need?

Quote from: historyman on March 30, 2012, 09:35:49 AM

Quote from: vu72 on March 30, 2012, 09:06:06 AM
A very good and in-depth article by Mark Lazerus.  It covers many of the issues discussed at length here recently:
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html)

FYI, it was already posted here:

http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10)

Here's a link you apparently missed, historyman:

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/_/dict.aspx?word=nitpicker (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/_/dict.aspx?word=nitpicker)

Quote from: wh on March 30, 2012, 10:23:30 AM

Quote from: historyman on March 30, 2012, 09:35:49 AM

Quote from: vu72 on March 30, 2012, 09:06:06 AM
A very good and in-depth article by Mark Lazerus.  It covers many of the issues discussed at length here recently:
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html)

FYI, it was already posted here:

http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10)

Here's a link you apparently missed, historyman:

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/_/dict.aspx?word=nitpicker (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/_/dict.aspx?word=nitpicker)

One could call me a nitpicker but who is the bigger picker of nits?  A picker of nits will the intention of causing fits or a picker of nits with some wits?   (Help! I can't quits!) ::)

Valpo 04 or ValpoHoops, I assumed, would have eventually said something. I figure the quicker you point it out the sooner someone can delete or modify their post before everyone else sees it.

Quote from: historyman on March 30, 2012, 12:51:48 PM

Quote from: wh on March 30, 2012, 10:23:30 AM

Quote from: historyman on March 30, 2012, 09:35:49 AM

Quote from: vu72 on March 30, 2012, 09:06:06 AM
A very good and in-depth article by Mark Lazerus.  It covers many of the issues discussed at length here recently:
http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html (http://posttrib.suntimes.com/sports/colleges/11605557-419/drew-is-staying-but-crusaders-already-getting-long-term-plans-in-order.html)

FYI, it was already posted here:

http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10 (http://www.valpofanzone.com/forum/index.php?topic=768.10)

Here's a link you apparently missed, historyman:

http://www.thefreedictionary.com/_/dict.aspx?word=nitpicker (http://www.thefreedictionary.com/_/dict.aspx?word=nitpicker)

One could call me a nitpicker but who is the bigger picker of nits?  A picker of nits will the intention of causing fits or a picker of nits with some wits?   (Help! I can't quits!) ::)

Valpo 04 or ValpoHoops, I assumed, would have eventually said something. I figure the quicker you point it out the sooner someone can delete or modify their post before everyone else sees it.

I see your point.  Nitpicking a nitpicker's nitpick IS kind of nitpicky!  ;)

Quote from: wh on March 30, 2012, 02:35:10 PMI see your point.  Nitpicking a nitpicker's nitpick IS kind of nitpicky!  ;)

:thumbsup: