ESPN: Georgia Offers Anderson $2 million per year

UPDATE 4: He's staying at Missouri for $600,000 - 800,000 less per year in base pay than UGA offered. I'm not sure what Damon should've done different. He offered a quality, qualified candidate 300 percent more money than he was currently getting, 50 percent more than his current employer counter offered with, AND roughly the same amount that UK paid their coach last year. Geez. As for the leak, it wasn't our end. We had no incentive to leak. All the leaks started in Memphis.

Here's the official statement from Mizzou. here's the money line:

Financial details of Anderson's seven-year deal will be released at a later date upon complete execution of the contract.

I read that to mean, he hasn't signed anything. So, he could STILL end up at Memphis if they offer $3 million a year as rumored. He's just not coming here.

UPDATE 3: KC Star lists what Big 12 coaches make. If you're wondering, Anderson's rumored offer in SEC terms would put him third behind Calipari's offer and Donovan. Pearl would be fourth at $1.6 million.

UPDATE 2: Towers talked with Jimmy Sexton, Anderson's agent. Sexton says no offer from UGA yet. Sexton is legendary at working over all parties in situations like this. He's an artist. This is his true medium.

UPDATE: I desperately want Anderson, and I'm not sure we can get him if Memphis throws a staggering offer at him. But I'll say this. Anyone that doesn't think UGA is serious about putting a winning product on the court after we offer more than $2 million a year for a b-ball coach has their head lodged squarely in their rectum. The rumored six year $14 million offer to Anderson would be roughly the equivalent aggregate salary that we've paid all our head basketball coaches for the past 30-35 years combined.

PWD

ESPN: Georgia Offers Anderson $2 million per year

UPDATE 4: He's staying at Missouri for $600,000 - 800,000 less per year in base pay than UGA offered. I'm not sure what Damon should've done different. He offered a quality, qualified candidate 300 percent more money than he was currently getting, 50 percent more than his current employer counter offered with, AND roughly the same amount that UK paid their coach last year. Geez. As for the leak, it wasn't our end. We had no incentive to leak. All the leaks started in Memphis.

Here's the official statement from Mizzou. here's the money line:

Financial details of Anderson's seven-year deal will be released at a later date upon complete execution of the contract.

I read that to mean, he hasn't signed anything. So, he could STILL end up at Memphis if they offer $3 million a year as rumored. He's just not coming here.

UPDATE 3: KC Star lists what Big 12 coaches make. If you're wondering, Anderson's rumored offer in SEC terms would put him third behind Calipari's offer and Donovan. Pearl would be fourth at $1.6 million.

UPDATE 2: Towers talked with Jimmy Sexton, Anderson's agent. Sexton says no offer from UGA yet. Sexton is legendary at working over all parties in situations like this. He's an artist. This is his true medium.

UPDATE: I desperately want Anderson, and I'm not sure we can get him if Memphis throws a staggering offer at him. But I'll say this. Anyone that doesn't think UGA is serious about putting a winning product on the court after we offer more than $2 million a year for a b-ball coach has their head lodged squarely in their rectum. The rumored six year $14 million offer to Anderson would be roughly the equivalent aggregate salary that we've paid all our head basketball coaches for the past 30-35 years combined.

PWD

The Search Continues

The flight tracking has started. Anthony Dasher of UGASports.com tracked a plane from Missouri to Memphis to Atlanta and back last night. The plane in question wasn't on the ground at Peachtree-DeKalb airport long enough for the passengers to really do much in Athens. They had time to eat dinner and get a tour of the practice facility.

It's interesting to note that the plane in question is not "Bulldog One" or whatever UGA calls its plane. Our guys are using third party equipment and flying into not as obvious airports to move more stealthy. Comedy.

(UPDATE: I normally ignore all the plane tracking stuff...except to make fun of it....and Dasher has screwed the pooch on that topic before during this coaching search. However, I have strong reason to believe that he had it locked this time. Otherwise, I wouldn't have mentioned it.)

Chip Towers and Dean Legge both wrote articles suggesting that things aren't looking very good right now because of the Memphis job opening. I agree that things are quiet, but that doesn't mean that things are going poorly. If we end up with Frank Haith, then yes. Things are crappy. If we end up with Leonard Hamilton, then that's better than what we had...but it doesn't make me run out to purchase season tickets.

(UPDATE 2: I'm not saying those are the guys we end up with. They were just names used for the purpose of making a point. Although, there were rumblings about Hamilton as a Plan B type guy yesterday. Regardless, it's not Knight.)

Overall, I agree with David Hale. Something will break very soon one way or the other.

Around the Horn:

• ESPN reports that Calipari took last night to sleep on UK's offer. Could we ever be so lucky as to have him actually stay put? Probably not. Mr. SEC has a complete update on the situation in Memphis.
  
  
• St. Louis Post wants Missouri to keep Anderson.
  
  
• The Commercial Appeal looks at where Memphis goes if Calipari goes.

PWD

The Search Continues

The flight tracking has started. Anthony Dasher of UGASports.com tracked a plane from Missouri to Memphis to Atlanta and back last night. The plane in question wasn't on the ground at Peachtree-DeKalb airport long enough for the passengers to really do much in Athens. They had time to eat dinner and get a tour of the practice facility.

It's interesting to note that the plane in question is not "Bulldog One" or whatever UGA calls its plane. Our guys are using third party equipment and flying into not as obvious airports to move more stealthy. Comedy.

(UPDATE: I normally ignore all the plane tracking stuff...except to make fun of it....and Dasher has screwed the pooch on that topic before during this coaching search. However, I have strong reason to believe that he had it locked this time. Otherwise, I wouldn't have mentioned it.)

Chip Towers and Dean Legge both wrote articles suggesting that things aren't looking very good right now because of the Memphis job opening. I agree that things are quiet, but that doesn't mean that things are going poorly. If we end up with Frank Haith, then yes. Things are crappy. If we end up with Leonard Hamilton, then that's better than what we had...but it doesn't make me run out to purchase season tickets.

(UPDATE 2: I'm not saying those are the guys we end up with. They were just names used for the purpose of making a point. Although, there were rumblings about Hamilton as a Plan B type guy yesterday. Regardless, it's not Knight.)

Overall, I agree with David Hale. Something will break very soon one way or the other.

Around the Horn:

• ESPN reports that Calipari took last night to sleep on UK's offer. Could we ever be so lucky as to have him actually stay put? Probably not. Mr. SEC has a complete update on the situation in Memphis.
  
  
• St. Louis Post wants Missouri to keep Anderson.
  
  
• The Commercial Appeal looks at where Memphis goes if Calipari goes.

PWD

Dawgs Clean Up In Knoxville, Prepare for Big Week

 (Image: Baseball America)

In a performance worthy of  folklore, Rich Poythress led the Diamond Dawgs to a clean sweep in Knoxville this past weekend.  Poythress went 6-for-10 over the series with 4 HRs and 10 RBIs.  It was quite a hitting display.  For his efforts, Poythress was named both the SEC Player of the Week and the Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week.  The Dawgs are now 22-3 with seven straight SEC wins and are still No. 1 in most polls.

This week, however, will reveal some answers about UGA baseball.  We've been consistent winners this year, but our schedule, to this point, has been mild.  Only Mississippi State was a Top 25 team when we played them and none of our opponents are in the top 25 now.  That will change tonight when Clemson comes to town for the first game of a midweek home-and-home series.  The Tigers are hovering in the teens in most polls and have a solid team.  Then, this weekend, another set of Tigers, the Cajun variety, come to Foley Field for an absolutely huge weekend series.  LSU is in the top 5 in the national polls and have performed up to their storied history in the past couple of years.  This is prime time for the Diamond Dawgs. 

Despite the sweep in Knoxville, normally a place where UGA baseball teams go to fail, there is some significant room for improvement.  Lefties Matt Cerione, Lyle Allen and Chase Davidson struggled against UT pitching.  Those guys must be locked in this weekend since LSU has a complete staff of excellent right handed starters in Anthony Ranaudo, Louis Coleman, and Austin Ross.  All of those guys have ERAs under 3.10.  We'll need some production out of those big lefty bats.

Alex McRee has had two mediocre starts since returning from mono.  In Saturday's game, he gave up only a single hit, but walked six over four and a third innings.  He also had 5 Ks, but you can't keep pitching out of jams against good teams.  Eventually a clutch hitter is going to burn you.  McRee has to tighten up his control because his stuff is still there. 

Three of five this week would be great, especially if two are against LSU.  Get out to Foley Field tonight and this weekend. 

Quinton

Dawgs Clean Up In Knoxville, Prepare for Big Week

 (Image: Baseball America)

In a performance worthy of  folklore, Rich Poythress led the Diamond Dawgs to a clean sweep in Knoxville this past weekend.  Poythress went 6-for-10 over the series with 4 HRs and 10 RBIs.  It was quite a hitting display.  For his efforts, Poythress was named both the SEC Player of the Week and the Louisville Slugger National Player of the Week.  The Dawgs are now 22-3 with seven straight SEC wins and are still No. 1 in most polls.

This week, however, will reveal some answers about UGA baseball.  We've been consistent winners this year, but our schedule, to this point, has been mild.  Only Mississippi State was a Top 25 team when we played them and none of our opponents are in the top 25 now.  That will change tonight when Clemson comes to town for the first game of a midweek home-and-home series.  The Tigers are hovering in the teens in most polls and have a solid team.  Then, this weekend, another set of Tigers, the Cajun variety, come to Foley Field for an absolutely huge weekend series.  LSU is in the top 5 in the national polls and have performed up to their storied history in the past couple of years.  This is prime time for the Diamond Dawgs. 

Despite the sweep in Knoxville, normally a place where UGA baseball teams go to fail, there is some significant room for improvement.  Lefties Matt Cerione, Lyle Allen and Chase Davidson struggled against UT pitching.  Those guys must be locked in this weekend since LSU has a complete staff of excellent right handed starters in Anthony Ranaudo, Louis Coleman, and Austin Ross.  All of those guys have ERAs under 3.10.  We'll need some production out of those big lefty bats.

Alex McRee has had two mediocre starts since returning from mono.  In Saturday's game, he gave up only a single hit, but walked six over four and a third innings.  He also had 5 Ks, but you can't keep pitching out of jams against good teams.  Eventually a clutch hitter is going to burn you.  McRee has to tighten up his control because his stuff is still there. 

Three of five this week would be great, especially if two are against LSU.  Get out to Foley Field tonight and this weekend. 

Quinton

The Search Just Went Nuclear

Memphis Fox Affiliate (Fox13) is reporting that Damon Evans and Jimmy Sexton met in Atlanta today. Sexton's only published basketball coaching clients are Mike Anderson of Missouri and Rick Stansbury of Mississippi State. It seems much more likely that Sexton is talking about Anderson.

The search has gone nuclear because most media outlets are reporting that Kentucky has just given the deed to the City of Lexington and 14 coal mines to Memphis Coach John Calipari. Reports place the value of the deal at $5-6.5 million per year. I think the technical term for a deal that large is "a shit load of money."

Various reports have Memphis asking for permission to speak with Mike Anderson while other reports say that they haven't asked yet. TigerSportsReport is the Rivals.com Memphis affiliate. They paint a pretty bleak picture for Memphis fans regarding both the incoming recruiting class and existing players as it relates to retention.

Per TigerSportsReport.com the Tigers would almost definitely lose unsigned commit Demario Cousins, a top 2 player in the country, and others. The site's editor feels that Memphis would be unable to lure Mike Anderson back to Conference USA from the Big 12 due to the lack of prestige and anticipated player departures. Per their site:

"If Calipari goes to Kentucky, who are on the short list to coach Memphis?

Memphis fans on the Commercial Appeal message board are clamoring already for Mike Anderson, the former UAB head coach who took Missouri to the Elite Eight this season.

That is highly unlikely, however. With seven scholarship players and a sour taste after Calipari leaving, the situation at Memphis would be a lateral move, at best, for Anderson. As he would be leaving the Big 12 for C-USA, it is realistically a step backwards for the highly regarded Anderson."

The Memphis Commerical Appeal adds that Tiger recruit Nolan Dennis has an addendum to his letter of intent that releases him from his scholarship and allows him to sign with Calipari at another school.

In barely news, FoxSports.com is reporting that UVA is set to hire Washington State's Phil Tony Bennett as their coach. ESPN now has the same story. The UVA search is interesting because I'm pretty sure that Parker Executive Search ran it for the Hoos, and they kept their process just as quiet as Damon has kept ours. Could a similarly out of left field, but absolutely qualified candidate emerge if the Mike Anderson talks collapse?

You think things are nuts now? Wait til tomorrow.

UPDATE: Yes. I've heard the rumor that there's a press conference on Wednesday. I do not believe that such an event is currently scheduled because my sources tell me we do NOT have a done deal. If we have a press conference on Wednesday, it's just coincidence. I also know about the rumored note to the UGA pep band asking them to be ready for a press conference, but I understand that there was no actual date on the note.

UPDATE 2: Dean Legge of DawgPost.com expects a hire this week. I do, too.


PWD

The Search Just Went Nuclear

Memphis Fox Affiliate (Fox13) is reporting that Damon Evans and Jimmy Sexton met in Atlanta today. Sexton's only published basketball coaching clients are Mike Anderson of Missouri and Rick Stansbury of Mississippi State. It seems much more likely that Sexton is talking about Anderson.

The search has gone nuclear because most media outlets are reporting that Kentucky has just given the deed to the City of Lexington and 14 coal mines to Memphis Coach John Calipari. Reports place the value of the deal at $5-6.5 million per year. I think the technical term for a deal that large is "a shit load of money."

Various reports have Memphis asking for permission to speak with Mike Anderson while other reports say that they haven't asked yet. TigerSportsReport is the Rivals.com Memphis affiliate. They paint a pretty bleak picture for Memphis fans regarding both the incoming recruiting class and existing players as it relates to retention.

Per TigerSportsReport.com the Tigers would almost definitely lose unsigned commit Demario Cousins, a top 2 player in the country, and others. The site's editor feels that Memphis would be unable to lure Mike Anderson back to Conference USA from the Big 12 due to the lack of prestige and anticipated player departures. Per their site:

"If Calipari goes to Kentucky, who are on the short list to coach Memphis?

Memphis fans on the Commercial Appeal message board are clamoring already for Mike Anderson, the former UAB head coach who took Missouri to the Elite Eight this season.

That is highly unlikely, however. With seven scholarship players and a sour taste after Calipari leaving, the situation at Memphis would be a lateral move, at best, for Anderson. As he would be leaving the Big 12 for C-USA, it is realistically a step backwards for the highly regarded Anderson."

The Memphis Commerical Appeal adds that Tiger recruit Nolan Dennis has an addendum to his letter of intent that releases him from his scholarship and allows him to sign with Calipari at another school.

In barely news, FoxSports.com is reporting that UVA is set to hire Washington State's Phil Tony Bennett as their coach. ESPN now has the same story. The UVA search is interesting because I'm pretty sure that Parker Executive Search ran it for the Hoos, and they kept their process just as quiet as Damon has kept ours. Could a similarly out of left field, but absolutely qualified candidate emerge if the Mike Anderson talks collapse?

You think things are nuts now? Wait til tomorrow.

UPDATE: Yes. I've heard the rumor that there's a press conference on Wednesday. I do not believe that such an event is currently scheduled because my sources tell me we do NOT have a done deal. If we have a press conference on Wednesday, it's just coincidence. I also know about the rumored note to the UGA pep band asking them to be ready for a press conference, but I understand that there was no actual date on the note.

UPDATE 2: Dean Legge of DawgPost.com expects a hire this week. I do, too.


PWD

Mid-Day Rumor Update

Kentucky is reportedly going after Calipari with both guns blazing.  Several reports state that the Memphis coach met with his players today and sounded like a coach with a foot or more out the door. 

SI.com reports that UK has not asked for permission to speak with Calipari as of 1:00 pm.  Sportsline suggests that's because Calipari's people are dealing with a third-party representative of UK. 

Again, this is only relevant to UGA in so much as Memphis might be a better fit for Anderson geographically, and Memphis might be more desperate to hire him.  UGA does play in a better conference, but Memphis may be inclinded to spend like a drunken sailor to land Anderson given that the basketball coach is THE financial engine of the entire Tiger athletic department.  Calipari's total salary plus annuity at Memphis is in the $2.8-3.0 million per year range.  It's extraordinarily unlikely that UGA will pay more than $2.8 million per year for anyone.

Speaking of Anderson, Jason Whitlock of the KC Star today writes that Missouri should pay Anderson an elite level salary.  Here's hoping they don't.

PWD

Mid-Day Rumor Update

Kentucky is reportedly going after Calipari with both guns blazing.  Several reports state that the Memphis coach met with his players today and sounded like a coach with a foot or more out the door. 

SI.com reports that UK has not asked for permission to speak with Calipari as of 1:00 pm.  Sportsline suggests that's because Calipari's people are dealing with a third-party representative of UK. 

Again, this is only relevant to UGA in so much as Memphis might be a better fit for Anderson geographically, and Memphis might be more desperate to hire him.  UGA does play in a better conference, but Memphis may be inclinded to spend like a drunken sailor to land Anderson given that the basketball coach is THE financial engine of the entire Tiger athletic department.  Calipari's total salary plus annuity at Memphis is in the $2.8-3.0 million per year range.  It's extraordinarily unlikely that UGA will pay more than $2.8 million per year for anyone.

Speaking of Anderson, Jason Whitlock of the KC Star today writes that Missouri should pay Anderson an elite level salary.  Here's hoping they don't.

PWD

Basketball Coaching Search Rumors

As the coaching world turns:

• Mike Anderson - The St. Louis Post-Dispatch says that Missouri has a big job to keep its coach. The two most interesting tidbits from this article include MU stating that they have no idea where the rumor of a $1.3 million/year offer from MU got started, and the rumblings from inside the MU athletic department that they can't match a $2 million offer. The NY Times also discusses the in demand status of Anderson.
  
  Chip Towers says that UGA hasn't contacted Missouri for permission to speak with Anderson, yet. It can't be long now.
  
  
• John Calipari - The Memphis coach is not a candidate in Athens; however, he is a candidate in Lexington. Calipari currently makes around $2.8 million a year in total compensation when you factor in annuity payments. I doubt he goes to Kentucky. However, if the Memphis job opens, they could go after Anderson. The former CUSA Coach / Tiger Slayer would be the ultimate hire for Memphis. USA Today offers a look at their suggested Top 5 candidates for the UK job.

Also, if you have a Scout.com subscription, check out Josh Kendall's piece on the potential recruiting advantages at UGA. The comments from Dave Telep, Scout.com's hoops recruiting guru, are very encouraging.

PWD

Basketball Coaching Search Rumors

As the coaching world turns:

• Mike Anderson - The St. Louis Post-Dispatch says that Missouri has a big job to keep its coach. The two most interesting tidbits from this article include MU stating that they have no idea where the rumor of a $1.3 million/year offer from MU got started, and the rumblings from inside the MU athletic department that they can't match a $2 million offer. The NY Times also discusses the in demand status of Anderson.
  
  Chip Towers says that UGA hasn't contacted Missouri for permission to speak with Anderson, yet. It can't be long now.
  
  
• John Calipari - The Memphis coach is not a candidate in Athens; however, he is a candidate in Lexington. Calipari currently makes around $2.8 million a year in total compensation when you factor in annuity payments. I doubt he goes to Kentucky. However, if the Memphis job opens, they could go after Anderson. The former CUSA Coach / Tiger Slayer would be the ultimate hire for Memphis. USA Today offers a look at their suggested Top 5 candidates for the UK job.

Also, if you have a Scout.com subscription, check out Josh Kendall's piece on the potential recruiting advantages at UGA. The comments from Dave Telep, Scout.com's hoops recruiting guru, are very encouraging.

PWD

Hugh Durham on the UGA Opening

UGA's 1983 Final Four Team

Jeff Schultz goes one on one with Hugh Durham about the opportunity in Athens, his trip to the 1983 Final Four, and the upgraded facilities in Athens. It's always encouraging to read other folks talk about the opportunity in Athens.

See Also:
-- Hugh Durham Fan Club - Facebook

PWD

Hugh Durham on the UGA Opening

UGA's 1983 Final Four Team

Jeff Schultz goes one on one with Hugh Durham about the opportunity in Athens, his trip to the 1983 Final Four, and the upgraded facilities in Athens. It's always encouraging to read other folks talk about the opportunity in Athens.

See Also:
-- Hugh Durham Fan Club - Facebook

PWD

Grant to Alabama. Donovan to Stay at UF

The Birmingham News has confirmed directly with Anthony Grant that he has accepted the head coaching job in Tuscaloosa. The Associated Press agrees. It appears that Grant was waiting to find out if Billy Donovan would jump to Lexington and open up the job in Gainesville.

Donovan and the Gators had issued a statement that he would be staying at Florida before Gillispie's termination press conference was over.

"In response to the rumors circulating about my interest in other jobs, I wanted to address this as quickly as possible," Donovan said in a statement e-mailed by the school he works for in Gainesville. "I am committed to the University of Florida and look forward to continuing to build our program here."

The impact for UGA? I got the sense that Grant was viewed as a solid Plan B in Athens if a home run hire wasn't available. Now, Damon will swing for the fences without a safety net. Let's hope for the best.

PWD

Grant to Alabama. Donovan to Stay at UF

The Birmingham News has confirmed directly with Anthony Grant that he has accepted the head coaching job in Tuscaloosa. The Associated Press agrees. It appears that Grant was waiting to find out if Billy Donovan would jump to Lexington and open up the job in Gainesville.

Donovan and the Gators had issued a statement that he would be staying at Florida before Gillispie's termination press conference was over.

"In response to the rumors circulating about my interest in other jobs, I wanted to address this as quickly as possible," Donovan said in a statement e-mailed by the school he works for in Gainesville. "I am committed to the University of Florida and look forward to continuing to build our program here."

The impact for UGA? I got the sense that Grant was viewed as a solid Plan B in Athens if a home run hire wasn't available. Now, Damon will swing for the fences without a safety net. Let's hope for the best.

PWD

The latest coaching rumor mill

Gillispie will likely be fired at any moment. After UK administration issued a denial earlier today that any decision had already been made, several Lexington TV stations have come back within the past hour and said a meeting will take place today that may seal Billy Clyde's fate.

Pat Forde, who lives in Louisville and understands the Big Blue landscape better than any other national writer, wrote an excellent piece for ESPN.com explaining how this messy marriage and soon to be divorce happened.

So?
A couple of hours ago, Ian Rapoport put together a good link aggregation discussing the dominoes that may fall after UK makes their decision. The next move is on Billy Donovan. Will he go to Lexington? I think he won't, and he'll probably announce one way or the other pretty quickly. The Richmond Times thinks it's a possibility, and that interests Grant greatly. The Tuscaloosa News latest article talks about the lack of movement from Grant.

And Mike Anderson?
Before last night's game the St. Louis Post-Dispatch suggested that Missouri could offer Anderson around $6 million for five years. Surely, they'll offer more after last night's win, but they may not even been in the right ball park if Bama and/or UGA are willing to offer $12 million for six years.

See Also:
-- Kentucky's great expectations trickle down to Bama - AL.com

PWD

The latest coaching rumor mill

Gillispie will likely be fired at any moment. After UK administration issued a denial earlier today that any decision had already been made, several Lexington TV stations have come back within the past hour and said a meeting will take place today that may seal Billy Clyde's fate.

Pat Forde, who lives in Louisville and understands the Big Blue landscape better than any other national writer, wrote an excellent piece for ESPN.com explaining how this messy marriage and soon to be divorce happened.

So?
A couple of hours ago, Ian Rapoport put together a good link aggregation discussing the dominoes that may fall after UK makes their decision. The next move is on Billy Donovan. Will he go to Lexington? I think he won't, and he'll probably announce one way or the other pretty quickly. The Richmond Times thinks it's a possibility, and that interests Grant greatly. The Tuscaloosa News latest article talks about the lack of movement from Grant.

And Mike Anderson?
Before last night's game the St. Louis Post-Dispatch suggested that Missouri could offer Anderson around $6 million for five years. Surely, they'll offer more after last night's win, but they may not even been in the right ball park if Bama and/or UGA are willing to offer $12 million for six years.

See Also:
-- Kentucky's great expectations trickle down to Bama - AL.com

PWD

Is Mike Anderson obtainable. Apparently, so....

This article in the Columbia (Missouri) Daily-Tribune says:

A source said MU wants to extend Anderson's deal to five years and increase his guaranteed money from $850,000 to at least $1 million.

Six years ago, Missouri was willing to spend like college basketball royalty. Mizzou Arena was under construction, and Quin Snyder was the fourth-highest-paid coach in the nation. Snyder earned $1.2 million annually in guaranteed money in his last contract. Times have changed, thanks to the tanking economy. Pinkel, with his new $2.3 million deal in November, got paid before the bottom dropped out.

The athletic budgets at Georgia and Alabama are in the $70 million range, while Missouri's is about $44 million. MU can't afford to get into a bidding war with those schools.

If they are talking about pay raises in that general ballpark, they aren't remotely close to what UGA and Bama are rumored to be willing to spend on a coach with Anderson's resume. If you're wondering why we would have a shot at Anderson, that's it.

See Also:
-- End of the Line for Missouri and Anderson? - Kansas City Star
-- Love letter to the 2009 Missouri Hoops Season - Rock M Nation

Unrelated: Andy Katz talks about the UK / Gillispie situation.

PWD

Is Mike Anderson obtainable. Apparently, so....

This article in the Columbia (Missouri) Daily-Tribune says:

A source said MU wants to extend Anderson's deal to five years and increase his guaranteed money from $850,000 to at least $1 million.

Six years ago, Missouri was willing to spend like college basketball royalty. Mizzou Arena was under construction, and Quin Snyder was the fourth-highest-paid coach in the nation. Snyder earned $1.2 million annually in guaranteed money in his last contract. Times have changed, thanks to the tanking economy. Pinkel, with his new $2.3 million deal in November, got paid before the bottom dropped out.

The athletic budgets at Georgia and Alabama are in the $70 million range, while Missouri's is about $44 million. MU can't afford to get into a bidding war with those schools.

If they are talking about pay raises in that general ballpark, they aren't remotely close to what UGA and Bama are rumored to be willing to spend on a coach with Anderson's resume. If you're wondering why we would have a shot at Anderson, that's it.

See Also:
-- End of the Line for Missouri and Anderson? - Kansas City Star
-- Love letter to the 2009 Missouri Hoops Season - Rock M Nation

Unrelated: Andy Katz talks about the UK / Gillispie situation.

PWD

It's Mike Anderson's World. We Just Live in It

Mike Anderson: Image STLToday.com

Today, we profile Coach Mike Anderson of the Missouri Tigers. In an attempt to give you an idea for why he's such an appealing commodity, let's look at the profile pieces on his coaching styles around the country.

• The Fastest 40 Minutes in Basketball - NY Times
  
• The New 40 Minutes of Hell - Memphis Commercial Appeal
  
• Run, Tigers, Run - Detroit Free Press
  
• 20-20 Visionary - St. Louis Post-Dispatch
  
• Creating his own legacy - Tulsa World

He runs a style of ball that recruits and fans love, and he's an accomplished recruiter at a school that doesn't have the financial strength of Georgia.

Anderson currently makes $850,000 plus incentives. After the best record in Missouri history, that's certainly going to change. It'll either change because they take care of him or we do. BTW -- If you're researching Anderson's tenure at UAB, remember that Marquette, Louisville and Cincy all played in Conference USA for the bulk of his years there.

The tricky part with Anderson will be navigating his agent. Anderson is represented by Super Agent Jimmy Sexton, and this is Sexton's first marquee college basketball coach relationship. Will he try to leverage Anderson's next contract into a defining moment for both of them?

Elsewhere:
On the Anthony Grant front, Bama is in the wait and see mode. Grant has 3-4 days to make up his mind on their enormous offer, or they'll move on to the next guy. With a few breaks, UGA could be deep into contract negotiations with their finalist.

Speaking of coaching searches, UK may terminate Billy Gillispie within the next 48 hours. After which their rumored list of candidates are (1) Donovan (2) Calipari and (3) Travis Ford. The more time they spend screwing around with Donovan the better.

The next 48 hours are everything in Georgia's search.

PWD

It's Mike Anderson's World. We Just Live in It

Mike Anderson: Image STLToday.com

Today, we profile Coach Mike Anderson of the Missouri Tigers. In an attempt to give you an idea for why he's such an appealing commodity, let's look at the profile pieces on his coaching styles around the country.

• The Fastest 40 Minutes in Basketball - NY Times
  
• The New 40 Minutes of Hell - Memphis Commercial Appeal
  
• Run, Tigers, Run - Detroit Free Press
  
• 20-20 Visionary - St. Louis Post-Dispatch
  
• Creating his own legacy - Tulsa World

He runs a style of ball that recruits and fans love, and he's an accomplished recruiter at a school that doesn't have the financial strength of Georgia.

Anderson currently makes $850,000 plus incentives. After the best record in Missouri history, that's certainly going to change. It'll either change because they take care of him or we do. BTW -- If you're researching Anderson's tenure at UAB, remember that Marquette, Louisville and Cincy all played in Conference USA for the bulk of his years there.

The tricky part with Anderson will be navigating his agent. Anderson is represented by Super Agent Jimmy Sexton, and this is Sexton's first marquee college basketball coach relationship. Will he try to leverage Anderson's next contract into a defining moment for both of them?

Elsewhere:
On the Anthony Grant front, Bama is in the wait and see mode. Grant has 3-4 days to make up his mind on their enormous offer, or they'll move on to the next guy. With a few breaks, UGA could be deep into contract negotiations with their finalist.

Speaking of coaching searches, UK may terminate Billy Gillispie within the next 48 hours. After which their rumored list of candidates are (1) Donovan (2) Calipari and (3) Travis Ford. The more time they spend screwing around with Donovan the better.

The next 48 hours are everything in Georgia's search.

PWD

Good Vibrations From Spring Football

Mostly positive headlines from yesterday's practices:

• ESPN says Richt is going old school. The first step in getting better is admitting you have a problem. They are focused on fixing something they acknowledge was broken last year. It took a little long for my tastes to admit there was a problem, but it's being fixed now. The Banner Herald also discusses the renewed emphasis on defensive toughness.
  
  
• Jeff Owens is thrilled to be back. If his blog post on his first practice doesn't fire you up, nothing will. He's not the only DT in the news. The ABH profiles DeAngelo Tyson's development.
  
  
• Dave Hale profiles AJ Green. It's scary to think what this kid will do when he's fully healthy and recovered from the nagging groin injury.
  
  
• Lastly, the AJC looks at our tailback situation. I've got to tell you that I'm not at all excited about the situation back there right now. Maybe I'll feel better after G-Day, but I think this is something we'll be nervous about until Sept. 5th.

PWD

Good Vibrations From Spring Football

Mostly positive headlines from yesterday's practices:

• ESPN says Richt is going old school. The first step in getting better is admitting you have a problem. They are focused on fixing something they acknowledge was broken last year. It took a little long for my tastes to admit there was a problem, but it's being fixed now. The Banner Herald also discusses the renewed emphasis on defensive toughness.
  
  
• Jeff Owens is thrilled to be back. If his blog post on his first practice doesn't fire you up, nothing will. He's not the only DT in the news. The ABH profiles DeAngelo Tyson's development.
  
  
• Dave Hale profiles AJ Green. It's scary to think what this kid will do when he's fully healthy and recovered from the nagging groin injury.
  
  
• Lastly, the AJC looks at our tailback situation. I've got to tell you that I'm not at all excited about the situation back there right now. Maybe I'll feel better after G-Day, but I think this is something we'll be nervous about until Sept. 5th.

PWD

Is that Score Wright? Dawgs Lose.

Yes, it's true. Wright State 8, #1 Georgia 5. In college baseball, it's not uncommon for a substantially less talented team to bite a big boy with just a couple of breaks. Wright State got boatloads of breaks in the 4th inning last night: an error, a balk, walks, three straight bunts, and some seeing eye singles.

Heading into the bottom of the 4th, it was Wright State 7, Georgia 2. Despite Perno's power outfield of Cerione, Allen and Davidson, the bats just couldn't get enough pop to get back in the game after that disasterous 4th inning. It happens. It's baseball.

Here are some other results from last night from the out-of-town scoreboard: Ohio State 7, #2 Miami 1 and Georgia State 10, #3 Georgia Tech 1.Frankly, if I had to select a mid-week game to lose, it would have been easy to pick the Wright State game.

The Diamond Dawgs travel to Tech tonight where lefty Jason Leaver will get the start. Leaver can strike batters out (15 Ks in 13 2/3 innings), but he's had control problems. The game is on CSS at 7:00 EST.

See Also:
-- No extra motivation needed for UGA vs. GT - AJC

UPDATE: It's an official rainout.  No makeup date yet.

Quinton

Is that Score Wright? Dawgs Lose.

Yes, it's true. Wright State 8, #1 Georgia 5. In college baseball, it's not uncommon for a substantially less talented team to bite a big boy with just a couple of breaks. Wright State got boatloads of breaks in the 4th inning last night: an error, a balk, walks, three straight bunts, and some seeing eye singles.

Heading into the bottom of the 4th, it was Wright State 7, Georgia 2. Despite Perno's power outfield of Cerione, Allen and Davidson, the bats just couldn't get enough pop to get back in the game after that disasterous 4th inning. It happens. It's baseball.

Here are some other results from last night from the out-of-town scoreboard: Ohio State 7, #2 Miami 1 and Georgia State 10, #3 Georgia Tech 1.Frankly, if I had to select a mid-week game to lose, it would have been easy to pick the Wright State game.

The Diamond Dawgs travel to Tech tonight where lefty Jason Leaver will get the start. Leaver can strike batters out (15 Ks in 13 2/3 innings), but he's had control problems. The game is on CSS at 7:00 EST.

See Also:
-- No extra motivation needed for UGA vs. GT - AJC

UPDATE: It's an official rainout.  No makeup date yet.

Quinton

AP: Georgia May be Targeting Sweet 16 Coaches

If we haven't formally asked for permission to speak with Anthony Grant, Lon Kruger, Brad Stevens or Brian Gregory, then the only logical conclusion one can draw is that our candidates are all still playing ball. (Or we're just sneaky bastards who aren't going to ask for permission until the deal is done....which seems unlikely given what I understand of the situation)

Meanwhile at Alabama, Anthony Grant will be in Tuscaloosa on Wednesday to visit with Tide officials. He's expected to get an offer while he's there according to the Tuscaloosa News, Birmingham News and Mobile Press-Register.

PWD

AP: Georgia May be Targeting Sweet 16 Coaches

If we haven't formally asked for permission to speak with Anthony Grant, Lon Kruger, Brad Stevens or Brian Gregory, then the only logical conclusion one can draw is that our candidates are all still playing ball. (Or we're just sneaky bastards who aren't going to ask for permission until the deal is done....which seems unlikely given what I understand of the situation)

Meanwhile at Alabama, Anthony Grant will be in Tuscaloosa on Wednesday to visit with Tide officials. He's expected to get an offer while he's there according to the Tuscaloosa News, Birmingham News and Mobile Press-Register.

PWD

Even Broadway Joe didn't promise a refund

When Joe Namath made the most famous guarantee in sports history, he didn't offer to give Jets fans or owners their money back if he didn't deliver a Super Bowl victory.  All he was risking was public ridicule.

Oklahoma women's basketball super star Courtney Paris took sports guarantees to a whole new level earlier this month when she promised to repay her scholarship if the Sooners didn't win the NCAA Tourney.

While Paris has completed her course work toward a degree in journalism and entered the N.C.A.A. tournament attempting to become the first player, male or female, to collect 2,500 career points and 2,000 rebounds, she said her ambitions would be fulfilled only by winning a championship.

David L. Boren, the president of Oklahoma, said Paris was apparently so serious about her vow that she checked beforehand with university officials to make sure that repaying her scholarship would not be a violation of N.C.A.A. rules. Since then, Paris has repeated her promise to follow through, presumably using money she will make playing professionally in the United States and perhaps overseas, and from endorsements.

The NY Times provides a look at her $64,000 guarantee and the implications of it to women's sports.

I rarely cover our own women's hoops program, but this story was an intriguing lunch read to me.  It's really about the definition of success.  Or you could just skip my Title IX coverage, and read The Onion's "Famous Sports Guarantees" list.

PWD

Even Broadway Joe didn't promise a refund

When Joe Namath made the most famous guarantee in sports history, he didn't offer to give Jets fans or owners their money back if he didn't deliver a Super Bowl victory.  All he was risking was public ridicule.

Oklahoma women's basketball super star Courtney Paris took sports guarantees to a whole new level earlier this month when she promised to repay her scholarship if the Sooners didn't win the NCAA Tourney.

While Paris has completed her course work toward a degree in journalism and entered the N.C.A.A. tournament attempting to become the first player, male or female, to collect 2,500 career points and 2,000 rebounds, she said her ambitions would be fulfilled only by winning a championship.

David L. Boren, the president of Oklahoma, said Paris was apparently so serious about her vow that she checked beforehand with university officials to make sure that repaying her scholarship would not be a violation of N.C.A.A. rules. Since then, Paris has repeated her promise to follow through, presumably using money she will make playing professionally in the United States and perhaps overseas, and from endorsements.

The NY Times provides a look at her $64,000 guarantee and the implications of it to women's sports.

I rarely cover our own women's hoops program, but this story was an intriguing lunch read to me.  It's really about the definition of success.  Or you could just skip my Title IX coverage, and read The Onion's "Famous Sports Guarantees" list.

PWD

Quick Basketball Coach Rumor Update

From here and there:

• Tubby Smith is going out of his way to let Minnesota fans know that he's staying. It's not exactly the sort of vague denials when promoted that you get before a coach leaves. These denials actually sound like a guy staying put.
  
  
• Alabama asked for and received permission to speak with Anthony Grant about their opening.
  
  
• Mike Anderson sidestepped questions regarding his future at Missouri. It was the sort of comments that fuel speculation that he'll listen to offers after the season. Interestingly, Mike Anderson, Jr. is a senior on this year's Tiger team.

There is a sense growing around Grant that schools need to move extremely quickly to lock him up; however, there's no logical reason for Grant to move quickly from his end. If he's smart, he'll wait and see what UK does with Gillespie. If UK opens up, they could move towards Donovan which would create an even bigger opportunity for him in Gainesville. Besides, he's one of the prettiest girls in town right now. Why rush into anything?

Speaking of Kentucky, the Wildcats beat Creighton by two points last night in the NIT. They will play Mike Brey's Notre Dame squad in South Bend on Wednesday at 7:00 pm. The longer UK's season lasts the harder it is for them to fire Billy G.

PWD

Quick Basketball Coach Rumor Update

From here and there:

• Tubby Smith is going out of his way to let Minnesota fans know that he's staying. It's not exactly the sort of vague denials when promoted that you get before a coach leaves. These denials actually sound like a guy staying put.
  
  
• Alabama asked for and received permission to speak with Anthony Grant about their opening.
  
  
• Mike Anderson sidestepped questions regarding his future at Missouri. It was the sort of comments that fuel speculation that he'll listen to offers after the season. Interestingly, Mike Anderson, Jr. is a senior on this year's Tiger team.

There is a sense growing around Grant that schools need to move extremely quickly to lock him up; however, there's no logical reason for Grant to move quickly from his end. If he's smart, he'll wait and see what UK does with Gillespie. If UK opens up, they could move towards Donovan which would create an even bigger opportunity for him in Gainesville. Besides, he's one of the prettiest girls in town right now. Why rush into anything?

Speaking of Kentucky, the Wildcats beat Creighton by two points last night in the NIT. They will play Mike Brey's Notre Dame squad in South Bend on Wednesday at 7:00 pm. The longer UK's season lasts the harder it is for them to fire Billy G.

PWD

UGA Ranked #1 in three Baseball Polls

UGA vs. Nerds on Wednesday! (Image: DawgsOnline.com)

OnlineAthens.com gave us the heads up that the Georgia Bulldogs are ranked #1 again. Since their story ran a third baseball poll has put UGA at #1.*

USAToday/ ESPN	College Baseball Newspapers	NCBWA Poll
1. Georgia	1. Georgia	1. Georgia
2. Arizona State	2. Cal St. - Fullerton	2. Miami (Fla.)
3. Cal St. - Fullerton	3. Georgia Tech	3. Georgia Tech
4. Miami (Fla.)	4. LSU	4. Cal St. Fullerton
5. LSU	5. UNC	5. UNC
Others of Note
7. Georgia Tech	9. Arkansas	7. LSU
10. Arkansas	14. Ole Miss	14. Ole Miss
16. Mississippi	22. Clemson	16. Arkansas
20. Clemson	23. Florida	20. Clemson
26. Florida	26. Alabama	23. Florida
28. Alabama	28. S. Carolina	27. Alabama

Jim Harrick once said (paraphrase) that college basketball polls only have value in so much as they determine which teams have their highlights featured on ESPN SportsCenter and their recaps in every national paper.

College baseball polls mean even less because the World Wide Leader doesn't cover the sport until the post-season.

Various RPI-style ratings determine the NCAA Post-Season. With that in mind, Warren Nolan says the Dawgs currently have the #24 RPI. That rating could skyrocket after games with Tech, Tennessee (3), Clemson (2), and LSU (3) over the next two weeks.

On Wednesday, UGA plays at Tech (7:00 pm). I think the game will be carried by CSS in Atlanta.

This team is extremely fun to watch. They play 3-5 freshman per game so their bound to have some stumbles along the way, but the is a team worth watching. We'll know what type of team we have very soon.

See Also:
-- Georgia's Baseball Schedule - Georgiadogs.com

PWD


*Baseball America has the Dawgs at #6. But three out of four is good enough.

UGA Ranked #1 in three Baseball Polls

UGA vs. Nerds on Wednesday! (Image: DawgsOnline.com)

OnlineAthens.com gave us the heads up that the Georgia Bulldogs are ranked #1 again. Since their story ran a third baseball poll has put UGA at #1.*

USAToday/ ESPN	College Baseball Newspapers	NCBWA Poll
1. Georgia	1. Georgia	1. Georgia
2. Arizona State	2. Cal St. - Fullerton	2. Miami (Fla.)
3. Cal St. - Fullerton	3. Georgia Tech	3. Georgia Tech
4. Miami (Fla.)	4. LSU	4. Cal St. Fullerton
5. LSU	5. UNC	5. UNC
Others of Note
7. Georgia Tech	9. Arkansas	7. LSU
10. Arkansas	14. Ole Miss	14. Ole Miss
16. Mississippi	22. Clemson	16. Arkansas
20. Clemson	23. Florida	20. Clemson
26. Florida	26. Alabama	23. Florida
28. Alabama	28. S. Carolina	27. Alabama

Jim Harrick once said (paraphrase) that college basketball polls only have value in so much as they determine which teams have their highlights featured on ESPN SportsCenter and their recaps in every national paper.

College baseball polls mean even less because the World Wide Leader doesn't cover the sport until the post-season.

Various RPI-style ratings determine the NCAA Post-Season. With that in mind, Warren Nolan says the Dawgs currently have the #24 RPI. That rating could skyrocket after games with Tech, Tennessee (3), Clemson (2), and LSU (3) over the next two weeks.

On Wednesday, UGA plays at Tech (7:00 pm). I think the game will be carried by CSS in Atlanta.

This team is extremely fun to watch. They play 3-5 freshman per game so their bound to have some stumbles along the way, but the is a team worth watching. We'll know what type of team we have very soon.

See Also:
-- Georgia's Baseball Schedule - Georgiadogs.com

PWD


*Baseball America has the Dawgs at #6. But three out of four is good enough.

Your Moment of Zen

Today's Photoshop gem comes from Spencer Hall (aka Orson Swindle).  It compares the differences in Matthew Stafford's Wonderlic score and Percy Harvin's score. Good times.

PWD

Your Moment of Zen

Today's Photoshop gem comes from Spencer Hall (aka Orson Swindle).  It compares the differences in Matthew Stafford's Wonderlic score and Percy Harvin's score. Good times.

PWD

Is Foley Field Worthy of the Dawgs?

The Diamond Dawgs swept last weekend's baseball series with Mississippi State in front of record crowds at Foley Field.   Originally constructed in 1966 and refurbished in 1990, Foley Field currently seats an official capacity of 3,291, the second smallest in the SEC.  Only UK is smaller.  Despite it's small size, the facility held crowds of 3,876 Friday night, 4,461 Saturday (the largest crowd in Foley Field history), and 3,689 Sunday.  Those crowds broke the all-time attendance record for a weekend series.  Clearly, demand for UGA baseball is at an all-time high.  And it should be.  Very few programs have performed like UGA in the last ten years.  So, isn't it time to expand Foley Field?

We've mentioned, albeit briefly, that a new Foley Field is included in the athletic facility master plan. The master plan, though, is a long range wish list.  It's projects are aspirational over the next ten to fifteen years.  The plan advances two alternative designs for a new Foley Field.  The first would involve a completely new structure, rotating the field so that home plate would be moved to the present right field.  This plan would present two significant changes: 1) present a more aesthetic view beyond the outfield wall, with the Rankin Smith Center and Stegeman as the view beyond the batter's eye, and 2) eliminate the view from Kudzu Hill, the most unique aspect of Foley Field.  I'd rather keep the kudzu.  

A second alternative is presented in the master plan that maintains the existing structure and simply adds seating all the way down the outfield lines.   This alternative was presented without comment, so I'm at a loss on details, but it has to be less expensive.  Because it's less expensive and would preserve the charm and beauty of the existing setting, I like the second alternative.  Depending on how the additional seating is planned, we could also add additional baseball specific facilities under the new stands, like offices, weights, or batting cages.

This season, three SEC teams have new or refurbished baseball facilities. Six other schools have new digs, too.  (Baseball America put together this slick review of all the new stadiums.)  

• Ole Miss refurbished Oxford-University Stadium for an estimated $18 million.  Their expansion looks a lot like what the second alternative of the master plan would look like.  The Rebs added a bunch of seats down the lines and redid their entire stadium facade.  
• LSU built a new Alex Box Stadium, expanding from 7,760 seats to 9,200.  The Tigers have led the nation in attendance for several years now, so an expanded stadium makes perfect sense for them.  They added 288 luxury boxes, too. 
• And, South Carolina built an absolute palace for an estimated $38 million.  It is a seemingly self-contained baseball shrine, with built-in batting tunnels, weight room, media rooms, and athletic training facilities.  It also has luxury boxes.  LSU and Carolina's new digs make Foley Field look even more like a little league park when compared with the rest of the conference.

Look, I'm not demanding that Damon unveil the best facility in the country, although that would be great.  What we need is increased capacity so we don't leave ticket revenue on the table.  UGA already has a renovation plan that preserves Kudzu Hill and shouldn't cost as much as building a plush, new AAA-equivalent ballpark like LSU and Carolina.  Let's advance the plan.  

Coach Perno continues to coach and recruit at a high level.  The program looks like its on a solid foundation for years to come.  Let's build a facility worthy of such a program.

Quinton

Is Foley Field Worthy of the Dawgs?

The Diamond Dawgs swept last weekend's baseball series with Mississippi State in front of record crowds at Foley Field.   Originally constructed in 1966 and refurbished in 1990, Foley Field currently seats an official capacity of 3,291, the second smallest in the SEC.  Only UK is smaller.  Despite it's small size, the facility held crowds of 3,876 Friday night, 4,461 Saturday (the largest crowd in Foley Field history), and 3,689 Sunday.  Those crowds broke the all-time attendance record for a weekend series.  Clearly, demand for UGA baseball is at an all-time high.  And it should be.  Very few programs have performed like UGA in the last ten years.  So, isn't it time to expand Foley Field?

We've mentioned, albeit briefly, that a new Foley Field is included in the athletic facility master plan. The master plan, though, is a long range wish list.  It's projects are aspirational over the next ten to fifteen years.  The plan advances two alternative designs for a new Foley Field.  The first would involve a completely new structure, rotating the field so that home plate would be moved to the present right field.  This plan would present two significant changes: 1) present a more aesthetic view beyond the outfield wall, with the Rankin Smith Center and Stegeman as the view beyond the batter's eye, and 2) eliminate the view from Kudzu Hill, the most unique aspect of Foley Field.  I'd rather keep the kudzu.  

A second alternative is presented in the master plan that maintains the existing structure and simply adds seating all the way down the outfield lines.   This alternative was presented without comment, so I'm at a loss on details, but it has to be less expensive.  Because it's less expensive and would preserve the charm and beauty of the existing setting, I like the second alternative.  Depending on how the additional seating is planned, we could also add additional baseball specific facilities under the new stands, like offices, weights, or batting cages.

This season, three SEC teams have new or refurbished baseball facilities. Six other schools have new digs, too.  (Baseball America put together this slick review of all the new stadiums.)  

• Ole Miss refurbished Oxford-University Stadium for an estimated $18 million.  Their expansion looks a lot like what the second alternative of the master plan would look like.  The Rebs added a bunch of seats down the lines and redid their entire stadium facade.  
• LSU built a new Alex Box Stadium, expanding from 7,760 seats to 9,200.  The Tigers have led the nation in attendance for several years now, so an expanded stadium makes perfect sense for them.  They added 288 luxury boxes, too. 
• And, South Carolina built an absolute palace for an estimated $38 million.  It is a seemingly self-contained baseball shrine, with built-in batting tunnels, weight room, media rooms, and athletic training facilities.  It also has luxury boxes.  LSU and Carolina's new digs make Foley Field look even more like a little league park when compared with the rest of the conference.

Look, I'm not demanding that Damon unveil the best facility in the country, although that would be great.  What we need is increased capacity so we don't leave ticket revenue on the table.  UGA already has a renovation plan that preserves Kudzu Hill and shouldn't cost as much as building a plush, new AAA-equivalent ballpark like LSU and Carolina.  Let's advance the plan.  

Coach Perno continues to coach and recruit at a high level.  The program looks like its on a solid foundation for years to come.  Let's build a facility worthy of such a program.

Quinton

UGA and Anthony Grant getting closer?

Virginia Commonwealth's Anthony Grant
David Hale of the Macon Telegraph says that Anthony Grant was in Atlanta after his team was eliminated from the NCAA Tourney for "recruiting" purposes. TotalUGA.com's Brett Jensen takes it a step further saying that UGA has offered the job to Grant (subscription required).

(UPDATE: David Hale has confirmed directly from UGA that no such offer has been extended. More on that shortly)

I'm expecting multiple false starts -- both real and rumored -- during this search. I think the administration is expecting that as well. So this could all be nothing. Or it could be the start of an announcement process next week. Georgia can do much worse than Grant (age 42).

His accomplishments at Florida (12 years):

1 National Title
2 Final Fours
2 SEC Tourney Titles
2 SEC Regular Season Titles
3 SEC East Titles
Dozens of obscenely talented players

As a head coach at VCU (3 years):

3 CAA Regular Season Titles
2 CAA Tourney Titles
2 High Major Wins (Duke & Maryland)

Pearl and Donovan were both mid-major coaches before landing in the SEC so hiring a mid-major doesn't scare me. And it doesn't mean "Felton II." More than anyone else we could possibly interview, Grant knows what type of athlete, effort and system required to win in today's SEC.

The downside with the guy I've mentioned numerous times. He's in a mediocre at best league where one transformational player completely shifts the power structure of the league. His transformational player was recruited by his predecessor, and I think his offense needs a lot of work.

Bottom line -- he could be Mark Richt, or he could be Brad Scott. We won't know until he gets here. If he's coming here.

I was hoping and continue to hope that we'd shoot a bit higher and use Grant as a strong Plan B candidate. I continue to hope that is the case. My own sources haven't said word one about these rumors, but they usually don't chime in over the weekend. My sources are all union labor, and don't work weekends. (kidding)

Let's see where we are on Tuesday.

PWD


Note 1: I heart Mike Anderson and Sean Miller
Note 2: Grant's agent is a UGA grad.

UGA and Anthony Grant getting closer?

Virginia Commonwealth's Anthony Grant
David Hale of the Macon Telegraph says that Anthony Grant was in Atlanta after his team was eliminated from the NCAA Tourney for "recruiting" purposes. TotalUGA.com's Brett Jensen takes it a step further saying that UGA has offered the job to Grant (subscription required).

(UPDATE: David Hale has confirmed directly from UGA that no such offer has been extended. More on that shortly)

I'm expecting multiple false starts -- both real and rumored -- during this search. I think the administration is expecting that as well. So this could all be nothing. Or it could be the start of an announcement process next week. Georgia can do much worse than Grant (age 42).

His accomplishments at Florida (12 years):

1 National Title
2 Final Fours
2 SEC Tourney Titles
2 SEC Regular Season Titles
3 SEC East Titles
Dozens of obscenely talented players

As a head coach at VCU (3 years):

3 CAA Regular Season Titles
2 CAA Tourney Titles
2 High Major Wins (Duke & Maryland)

Pearl and Donovan were both mid-major coaches before landing in the SEC so hiring a mid-major doesn't scare me. And it doesn't mean "Felton II." More than anyone else we could possibly interview, Grant knows what type of athlete, effort and system required to win in today's SEC.

The downside with the guy I've mentioned numerous times. He's in a mediocre at best league where one transformational player completely shifts the power structure of the league. His transformational player was recruited by his predecessor, and I think his offense needs a lot of work.

Bottom line -- he could be Mark Richt, or he could be Brad Scott. We won't know until he gets here. If he's coming here.

I was hoping and continue to hope that we'd shoot a bit higher and use Grant as a strong Plan B candidate. I continue to hope that is the case. My own sources haven't said word one about these rumors, but they usually don't chime in over the weekend. My sources are all union labor, and don't work weekends. (kidding)

Let's see where we are on Tuesday.

PWD


Note 1: I heart Mike Anderson and Sean Miller
Note 2: Grant's agent is a UGA grad.

Basketball Coaching Rumors

Tubby wants to come back to UGA "this much." (Image: Star-Tribune)*

The basketball coaching search rumor mill has really started to heat up. Here are some highlights:

• Michael Wilbon has high praise for Anthony Grant of VCU. He's hoping he lands at UVA if they can't get Tubby. Like I said yesterday, he's not my favorite candidate. But we could do a heap worse.
  
  
• The Tuscaloosa News reports that Bama is set to call Anthony Grant. Although, the Mobile Press-Register doesn't expect any real sense of urgency from Bama until Mike Anderson of Missouri exits the Tournament.
  
  
• Tubby, Tubby, Tubby. Everyone is talking about what Tubby will do next. Some at the Minneapolis Star-Tribune think Tubby may be drawn to warmer weather while others at the paper think he'll stay. The Charlottesville paper absolutely hearts him.

I had an interesting discussion with someone the other day about Tubby's "inability to recruit." Tubby averaged 26 overall wins and 12 conference wins a year at UK, won the SEC Tourney or Regular Season title 7 times in 10 years, won a national title and had four Elite 8 finishes. He recruited T. Prince, R. Rondo, J. Meeks and others at UK. From the results, it looks like he recruited pretty well to me.

The comment originated from "he didn't recruit anyone in Athens." It's true that his first team that went to the Sweet 16 was made up almost entirely of an exceptional Hugh Durham recruiting class. But his second team earned a #3 seed in the tourney with mostly his own players making key contributions. When he left UGA on May 12, it was well after the Spring Signing period, when he landed Jumaine Jones as his first signature rock star recruit. Although some how Ron Jirsa (who couldn't draw flies as a head coach) managed to get credit for signing Jumaine in the eyes of some Dawg fans.

Said differently....Tubby recruits good enough to win a pile of games. I don't think we'll get him because of the difficulty of going back to where you've been before. It's like getting back together with your ex-wife. But I sure would be giddy to have him.

PWD


*I wish that were the caption.

Basketball Coaching Rumors

Tubby wants to come back to UGA "this much." (Image: Star-Tribune)*

The basketball coaching search rumor mill has really started to heat up. Here are some highlights:

• Michael Wilbon has high praise for Anthony Grant of VCU. He's hoping he lands at UVA if they can't get Tubby. Like I said yesterday, he's not my favorite candidate. But we could do a heap worse.
  
  
• The Tuscaloosa News reports that Bama is set to call Anthony Grant. Although, the Mobile Press-Register doesn't expect any real sense of urgency from Bama until Mike Anderson of Missouri exits the Tournament.
  
  
• Tubby, Tubby, Tubby. Everyone is talking about what Tubby will do next. Some at the Minneapolis Star-Tribune think Tubby may be drawn to warmer weather while others at the paper think he'll stay. The Charlottesville paper absolutely hearts him.

I had an interesting discussion with someone the other day about Tubby's "inability to recruit." Tubby averaged 26 overall wins and 12 conference wins a year at UK, won the SEC Tourney or Regular Season title 7 times in 10 years, won a national title and had four Elite 8 finishes. He recruited T. Prince, R. Rondo, J. Meeks and others at UK. From the results, it looks like he recruited pretty well to me.

The comment originated from "he didn't recruit anyone in Athens." It's true that his first team that went to the Sweet 16 was made up almost entirely of an exceptional Hugh Durham recruiting class. But his second team earned a #3 seed in the tourney with mostly his own players making key contributions. When he left UGA on May 12, it was well after the Spring Signing period, when he landed Jumaine Jones as his first signature rock star recruit. Although some how Ron Jirsa (who couldn't draw flies as a head coach) managed to get credit for signing Jumaine in the eyes of some Dawg fans.

Said differently....Tubby recruits good enough to win a pile of games. I don't think we'll get him because of the difficulty of going back to where you've been before. It's like getting back together with your ex-wife. But I sure would be giddy to have him.

PWD


*I wish that were the caption.