[quote="MJDinkins" post=341327][quote="Chicago Days" post=341313][quote="MJDinkins" post=341307][quote="OLV72" post=341303]Old School will be the first to admit when Cluess proves him wrong. I don't get it. I don't see any Norm in this hire. The pipe dream that a Hurley was coming here probably plays into the negativity. I expect that this hire will be well received by the press that covers us. Count me in as appreciating that we are finally bringing in a local guy that has a winning pedigree as a coach.
Who was the last local guy that earned his way by winning everywhere on the way up? No one earned this more than this guy. Fran was the last comparable that comes to mind, but Cluess has more history on his resume coming into the job.[/quote]
I thought it was about getting the best option, and less about where the coach hails. Some of y'all seem stuck on centricities.
If he's the best option, so be it. But I don't think he is the best option nor do I care about a coach's locale. Let's see where those local HS coaches are when it's time for their highly-rated 4 and 5-star players to decide on their college destination.[/quote]
Who is our best option in your view, Dink?
Keeping in mind, feasibility, cost, tenure time, and time line needs.[/quote]
I already said Pitino about a week ago. I'd also take my chances on Odom (UMBC) and Rhoades (VCU). I might even be a tad interested in Becker (Vermont). I'm sure there are a few other coaches out there that I'd consider as well.
But I know enough about Iona and have seen my share of Iona games during the past several seasons. There's just something telling me this will only lead to more mediocrity. It's not that I think Cluess is a poor coach (I think he could hold his own in the Big East), but his teams defense or lack of doesn't resonate well with me. He's not gonna be able to overwhelm the opposition in the Big East, as he does in the MAAC.
Is he gonna be able to recruit at a fairly, high-level at St. John's? Is he suddenly gonna respect the defensive side of the ball? Is he gonna demand his team become a solid rebounding team? I'm wondering at his age, if he's too set in his ways of doing things, and having some form of success at it, to change how he goes about his business. I'll support Cluess (until he gives me reason to no longer support him), as I've done any coach since I've been a fan of the program.
I've rambled long enough, as you only asked about who I considered as "best options."[/quote]
Thanks Dink. NP as you are a very 'sound' rambler. Lol.
You make thoughtful points.
I agree that the risks with Cluess begin with concerns over his ability to recruit BEC-level players and his 'no-defense' run 'n gun playing preferences.
I just think Cluess's work ethic combined with a solid staff will prove the difference, if he indeed becomes the next HC.
We shall see.