Mark Bradley

By Brian22

January 27, 2009 11:44 AM | Link to this

How is this even a question? U[sic]GA can’t hold Tech’s jock.

By Herschel Talker

January 27, 2009 12:20 PM | Link to this

The fact that UGA serves as a basis for comparison is hysterical. Paul Hewitt must be proud.

By TommyP

January 27, 2009 12:23 PM | Link to this

Brian22: Both programs suck. “UGA can’t hold Tech’s jock?” Sure seems that Georgia has done well in recent years vs. Tech.

Tech is supposedly a BASKETBALL school. They suck at their strength.

Both teams suck….Tech’s struggles right now are akin to the struggles of Georgia football during the Goff years. Nice recruiting classes but barely even average overall production.

By HoopMan

January 27, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this

Ga and Ga Tech both suck equally—-both of these worthless coaches need to go, now! Both programs can hire coaches who can at least compete in the conference. Right now, uga and tech can’t beat anyone.

By K-dawg

January 27, 2009 12:27 PM | Link to this

Leave it to a tech guy to point out jock holding when both team are bad. Kind of a dumb article anyway, who’s worse out of two awful teams. Who cares who is worse, I care about turning it around.

By Skeezix

January 27, 2009 12:29 PM | Link to this

I only follow ACC basketball, so I can’t comment on Ga. But Tech has become one of the perennial losers in the ACC, ranked right down there with Fla.St. Doesn’t make sense with Tech being a great college located in Atlanta and in the ACC—-it should be able to recruit great players every year. Under Cremins you waited in anticipation for a Tech/UNC or Tech/Duke game…..but now it is painful to even watch Tech try and play B-ball. One game I watched was unreal- I don’t ever recall an entire team that was so bad at the foul line. Sometimes they didn’t even hit the basket—from the foul line!! I saw where they recruited a great player, but he has already said that he is only going to play one year. I mean why recruit someone like that? This player isn’t going to move the program forward for the long term. It is a waste of time, effort, and taxpayers money (for a college scholarship for someone who has no interest in college). Need a shake up at Tech.

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 12:30 PM | Link to this

As the author of said dumb article, I can only say thanks for the feedback, K-dawg.

By PTC DAWG

January 27, 2009 12:31 PM | Link to this

Both are HORRIBLE….

No excuse for it on either side.

By Whopper Dawg

January 27, 2009 12:37 PM | Link to this

Unfortunately, it is Georgia hands down. If I were to try to sum up that program it would be “in tatters”. Worst program in the SEC and getting worse. Can’t recruit Georgia much less anywhere else. In fact, I don’t see how it can get much worse unless we can’t field a team. Every year seems like the first year under a rebuildling coach. I think Felton is a good man and maybe a good coach in the right circumstance, but I am afraid that major conference D1 basketball isn’t it. So, let’s do the right thing and give us and him a new lease on life with a new start - just make sure his new start is somewhere else.

The Whopper

By Larry M

January 27, 2009 12:42 PM | Link to this

Even as a Dawg fan I can admit that this one is a no-brainer. UGA sucks worse in basketball and, unlike Tech, has very little hope for the future. Hewitt has kept Tech in the hunt most years, so I don’t know how Tech fans could be dissatisfied.

I like Felton’s attitude, I like that he has tried to run a clean program. He is what we needed after Harrick nearly put the program in jeopardy of the death penalty.

But Felton’s continued failure to win and his continued failure to retain players is troubling. I know these kids need discipline, but jesus christ - Mercer, Brown, Toney, Humpreys, etc. How many more guys is he going to kick off the team for missing class? I don’t see this kind of turnover at other schools.

I don’t see any way that Felton saves his job this year, even if they go on another miracle SEC tournament/NCAA run.

By Mac

January 27, 2009 12:43 PM | Link to this

It’s sad that both programs have been allowed to get to this point. Hewitt needs an ultimatum season in 09-10 or he’s done. Felton needed to be done two years ago.

By Dan B

January 27, 2009 12:45 PM | Link to this

Which is worse? Georgia, because it lost to Tech 67-62 on Jan. 6.

By jas

January 27, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

College basketball in the state of Georgia is horrible. It is tough to watch both of these teams play against anyone. UGA is just a bad team and hard to watch because they can not match up with anyone with that roster. But in my opinion it is even harder to watch Tech because with their recruits they should be able to at least give an effort.

By GRDawg

January 27, 2009 12:59 PM | Link to this

Georgia should offer Tubby Smith the largest contract in SEC and allow him to make G.G. the coach in waiting.

Don’t you think he would love to come back to the SEC and show Kentucky something.

By 3 Rivers jacket

January 27, 2009 1:03 PM | Link to this

I think sometimes that Georgia fans who are not sophisticated fans especially in basketball like having a bad bb team as they think somehow that it makes the football team look better. there is no reason that they should not be good every year and with the right attitude should be great in some years. Maybe they should hire Yoculan after she retires. i thought she was out already. If Leeburn wants her to have the job his lackey AD would probably give it to her. Just kidding. Tech is hanging on with the promise of the “great recruiting class” I would say that in my mind this team has to go at least to the sweet 16 next year or the coach will have a real problem. if that is done then the class even minus Favors will have Tech BB back and should be on a roll again. GT should never be this bad.

By StockDog

January 27, 2009 1:07 PM | Link to this

Mark, I appreciate the article because it gives dawg fans a chance to vent. Tech sucks the tail pipe thru a garden hose and Georgia has wrapped its lips around the hot tail pipe. Felton needs to go back to small time basketball and Georgia needs to try and get the St.Mary’s coach.

As for Hewitt, he needs to be given a short chain. His problem is that he treats the one and done players as freshmen and try not to overwhelm them with basketball teaching and trys to bring them along slowly and let them learn at their on pace. Calipari’s approach is to throw everything at them and make them become better players now and contribute or sit the bench. Hewitt can recruit but he doesn’t seem to develop his players quickly.

By Mike

January 27, 2009 1:10 PM | Link to this

As a dawg it hurts to admit it, but we are by far worse. Tech’s talent leaves for the NBA, our “talent” leaves for community college or S. Florida at best.

Bring back Tubby. The man can recruit Georgia. Look at Sam Mitchell, if nothing else he can recruit player to come in and use their one year to better prepare themselves for the NBA.

Frankly, I would rather be a one year farm system to the NBA than to be the Washington Generals of the SEC.

By bobbylee

January 27, 2009 1:13 PM | Link to this

In Tech’s case it is the coach. Tech will be drilling a team… and … time out — Hewitt changes the whole flow and floor makeup. They catch up then… he changes back. Just play the best players and you will win. Need to work on FREE throws. Let the horses run to the line.

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 1:14 PM | Link to this

I like Felton’s attitude, too. But after 5 1/2 seasons, a coach has to show progress. Doesn’t he?

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 1:22 PM | Link to this

Sam Mitchell. Good name, Mr. Mike.

Tubby’s not coming back, for what it’s worth. But Sam Mitchell … intriguing.

By Stinger

January 27, 2009 1:27 PM | Link to this

That is a no brainer. UGA sucks ten times more. Who won the game? Who has the great recruiting class coming in? You tell me who is the best !

By Gordon

January 27, 2009 1:37 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Do you remember a few years back saying “I think Hewitt is a good coach, but Felton might be even better” in one of your general observation columns? Well, I don’t think you were wrong (although I know we all thought both were better than this).

Felton has had some bad luck, started at less than zero, and UGA has always had trouble attracting a lot of talent (I don’t know why). So even though he is not a great coach, there are some reasons why I think he is a better coach than his record indicates. Having said that I think he should be replaced.

Hewitt has had some success at Tech, including our best year ever, but it is becoming more and more obvious that former assistants Cliff Warren and Deane Keener were doing the heavy lifting while they were here. Since they have both been gone since the end of the 04-05 season, Tech has been horrible. They don’t improve during the year like they did during Hewitt’s early years, and just look confused, especially on offense. I think Hewitt is the worse coach because he doesn’t have the cover of good assistants anymore (something that Felton probably never had), and is getting the same results with better talent. I almost regret this great class coming in, because it is only delaying the inevitable.

By Red GA Dawg

January 27, 2009 1:40 PM | Link to this

Bama coach showed class by resigning, when it is not getting better, will not get better, go find another opportunity. I think both Felton and Hewiit should be gone, bite the bullet and pay them to go away. If Hewitt can accomplish no more than he does with current High School All Americans what makes one believe another group will do better? Felton can not recruit, no reason UGA can not land a top 150 player. Good campus, close to Hot ‘Lanta, SEC - what is different for basketball than recruiting for other sports, UGA does not finish each year in top 20 ususally top 10 for all sports Directors Trophy if it was a hard place to attract student athletes, other coaches at UGA recruit nationally and internationally, do not think it is Athens, just Felton. Then the question is what coach wants to come to UGA and follow a string if failure, last time UGA had winning years was Durham and Smith. They seemed to recruit top talent.

By Elvis Nixon

January 27, 2009 1:41 PM | Link to this

UGA is the richest AD in the country, just built a best in class practice facility, and is located 60 miles from one of the most fertile recruiting bases in the nation. A forward thinking coach will jump on this position, and money will be no object for UGA. Damon knows what is at stake. Persons will be shocked at the level of coach UGA will be able to consider.

By Desert Dawg

January 27, 2009 1:53 PM | Link to this

Dennis Felton is a fine coach. Unfortunately, it is time for him to move on. After 6 seasons, it is clear that he isn’t a good fit for UGA.

But, don’t be so quick to lay all the blame on his shoulders. UGA is still hampered by its Harrick history and remains a “Football School”. Time will heal one of these, money will heal the other.

UGA must make a serious commitment financially to quickly restore the baskball program to prominent stature. Coaching is a very dynamic professsion and if you want top tier talent, you will have to pay top tier $$$. Given the pay scale of the UGA football coaches, I would not get too excited about the prospects of luring a “Marque” coach with the pedigree of a Lute Olsen.

I wish Dennis Felton well and I am sure he will land on his feet. UGA will find a qualified replacement but until there is a significant change in the emphasis that Men’s basketball receives, (financially as well as support of the fans) don’t expect a coaching change to result in a “basketball epithany”.

By Brenda

January 27, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

Both teams to me SUCK!!!!!!!!! There’s nothing compared to the 76ers!!!!!!!!!

By Brenda

January 27, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

Both teams to me SUCK!!!!!!!!! There’s nothing compared to the 76ers!!!!!!!!!

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

Thanks for remembering, Gordon. And I did indeed write that back then. And I did indeed believe it back then.

By Kendawg

January 27, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

The answer to this question is not even close. UGA is by far the worse team and program. Last year after the SEC tourney I blogged and said that UGA needed a new coach. Other bloggers gave me a lot of grief and said that Felton had finally turned the program around, based on four games. What are they saying now??????

By Red GA Dawg

January 27, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

My comments may be too harsh, I believe Felton and Hewitt are high quality individuals and wish them success. Maybe we should swap. It is my belief that Tech and UGA fans should be talking about not just the winner of the game they played against each other, yet which won their conference and made it further at the Big Dance. I want both teams to be on the leader board. Only then will Techies and Dawgs would have a reason to post positive vents!

By ga_tech_92

January 27, 2009 2:04 PM | Link to this

GT is worse, because we SHOULD be good at Basketball as an ACC school. GT is worse because we get good recruits, but do nothing with them.

UGA doesn’t make bball a priority, so it’s hard to be critical of something they care very little about.

By Buzz Brockway

January 27, 2009 2:07 PM | Link to this

I love Paul Hewitt but I fear his job is in jeopardy if things don’t turn around quickly. He’s a great recruiter and shaper of men but for some reason it just hasn’t worked out on the court over the past couple of years. As Bradley points out, it’s been a struggle since Jack left.

I hope Tech get’s it together.

By t_height

January 27, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this

im a bigger georgia fan but its obvious that georgia is worse than tech. Its pretty much time for felton to go. Georgia have some of the better big men u can find but georgia don’t have a pure shooter nor do they have a pg that can take over.

By Mister T

January 27, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this

Couldn’t find an appropriate place to post this comment. I didn’t even know Tech had a hockey team. I am guessing not many of you did either, but they beat uga on the 25th 7-5. I suppose defense & goalie are not strong positions for either team.

That means that this school year Tech has beat uga in:

Football Women’s Hoops Men’s Hoops Hockey

Baseball looks pretty strong for Tech this year. Usually pretty good in Track Women’s Tennis is a lock for Tech again this year. Golf? Usually pretty good.

dawgies may have a chance in Men’s Tennis.

Sorry, Tech doesn’t do ladies gym.

Could be a sweep!

By DawgGirl32

January 27, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

Uga’s team is worse definitely, but they also have A LOT less to work with. Tech has more reason to do well because they have a better reputation in basketball, play in a much better basketball conference, and attract more top tier recruits. However, it is pretty pathetic that in a state where a lot of basketball talent is grown, the two biggest schools in the state are below par.

And as for the stands being empty: If the games were at least halfway fun to watch, as in, it looked as though the team was actually trying, more people might come. It’s not just that they lose every game. It’s that half the time they look like they don’t even want to be out there.

By Rabun Dawg

January 27, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

Mark, I have suffered with the UGA program since the mid-fifties. I ask you this question, can UGA ever have any real success in B-Ball? Yes, Durham had moderate success( most of the time we were competitive), and Tubby had some success in his short tenure, but can we really be competitive, year after year?I ask this as I truly believe the administration cares only about fielding a team, and has never made a real commitment to B-Ball. Yes, a new practice facility, but what about Stegman, and other issues that seem to hang over the program? And, what “name” coach would want to come there, given what has gone on in the past? This is one old Dawg that has been a big fan of the UK Wildcats and the Duke Blue Devils for years, as I really enjoy watching good basketball, and I always pulled for Bobby when he had Tech on the “go” in the ACC. Basketball at UGA is truly at an all time low, and it is hard to watch what is going on over there. In the past, I use to drive down and see some games, but not lately. Is there hope for this program? It is embarrassing in it’s present state!

By GARY

January 27, 2009 2:28 PM | Link to this

AD RAN GAILEY OFF AND WE GOT A WINNING COACH PAUL JOHNSON, NOW GET RID OF HEWITT AND HALL FROM THE BASEBALL

By Mister T

January 27, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

I will agree that both products stink. The question was who is worse. Since the SEC always defaults to “the conference strength” with regard to football as justification for their superiority even when they actually lose to Tech, I suppose that since Tech both beat uga in hoops and the SEC is practically non-existant in the top 25 of Men’s Basketball, then uga is obviously worse thatn Tech.

That leaves us to ask, “Who Cares?”

It sounds like Tech has more hope for the future.

It doesn’t sound like Felton has been given enough time to fix what Harrack(sp?) had done to the program at uga. Here is to hoping that he can’t!

THWG!

By Hairy Dawg

January 27, 2009 2:36 PM | Link to this

Georgia needs a coach with the coaching ability and charisma necessary to make recruits and fans take notice. Dennis Felton’s a great guy, but why would any top recruit want to come play for a coach whose methods have not produced success in Athens?

There is no doubt that all UGA alums and fans would be proud to see a team filled with hard-working, dedicated, talented student-athletes who are able to win consistently in the SEC. That is Felton’s goal, but he has not been able to realize that goal. I think it’s time to move on.

You see, there is a happy medium between guys like Jim Harrick and Dennis Felton. Damon Evans just needs to find it. UGA is no longer committing the violations that made the program a laughingstock. It is time to bring in a coach that can raise the level of the program to prominence without resorting to chicanery.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

January 27, 2009 2:40 PM | Link to this

Mark, Felton is a better coach, he hasn’t had the talent. He also had to take over Harricks and Tony Coles mess.

Hewitt is a terrible coach, probably the worst in College Athletics, any sport.

Switch coaches for both teams and GT is 5-1 in the ACC.

Felton would get the same talent as Hewitt if he coach at GT.

Tubby should be and hopefully will be GTs next coach.

By BravesFan79

January 27, 2009 2:42 PM | Link to this

The Sixers?? They havent been any good since the days of Iverson and Mutombo! (one of my favorite nba teams of all time tho with Dieke…)

And i give Dennis Felton credit for being a standup guy and kicking guys that didnt wanna listen off his team instead of being another kissazz.

Hewitt ive always been a supporter of…. but its hard to support a coach that got rid of his 2 best assistants and replaced them with assistants that should CLEARLY be perfecting their trade at a lower level than ACC play.
Hewitts bias of promoting “black coaches” has been a detriment to GT and their quality of play since around 2005.

And clearly Lawal would be best off staying at GT another year and perfecting his skills. Hes 2 raw. Hopefully he will see the promise of next year, and join with Favors to form one of the best frontcourts in the Nation!

Gt should take a football approach towards basketball….. and hire a offensive coordinator, and defensive coordinator, and specalist like sharpshooters Mark Price and John Berry to work with the players. Then Hewitt could be at the top as the “face” and recruiter of the program.

Im seriously worried about all this talent being wasted tho next year if we dont get some more experienced assistants! GO GT!

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 2:47 PM | Link to this

Rabun Dawg, I’ve begun to wonder myself about Georgia and the chance of sustained hoops success. And I’m getting more and more pessimistic. This state generates enough talent to stock a Top 25 team on an annual basis, but the absence of fan interest leads me to think it won’t happen at UGA.

By Gordon

January 27, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this

I have the same question for Tech basketball that Rabun Dawg has for UGA basketball. I think both programs can and should be consistent winners. Bobby Cremins, not the best game day coach by any stretch of the imagination, took Tech to 9 consecutive NCAA tournaments (85-93). We know it can be done, and it doesn’t take Coach K. Is it unreasonable to expect Tech could:

1) Win a national championship every 20 years 2) Go to the final four every 8 years 3) Go to the sweet 16 every 4 years 4) Go to the NCAA’s 4 of every 5 years

Is this just an unreasonable expectation? Is being in the ACC, talent-rich Georgia, and the city of Atlanta worth less than I think? And none of that has to be at the expense of representing the school well and doing right by the players. It doesn’t take Jim Harrick, either.

I don’t really care about UGA, but they should have high expectations as well. They are good at almost everything else, why not basketball?

I’m ready to watch some well-coached basketball again.

By brewdawg

January 27, 2009 2:59 PM | Link to this

I just keep wondering why UGA won’t build a new basketball gym. It’s beyond comprehension to keep such a relic around at a big-time athletics school.

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

I don’t think there’s any reason Tech shouldn’t be a Top 25 team every year — great league, great city, great history of sending players to the NBA.

By Gordon

January 27, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Here’s hoping Dan Radakovich feels the same way, Mark.

By Atlanta Native

January 27, 2009 3:10 PM | Link to this

Who’s writing is worse: Bradley or Shultz?

I know, I know. It may be too close to call.

By D.Ellis

January 27, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this

Mark B.-What about Shandon Anderson? Any one know if he coaches? If I was Damon Evans I would contact Travis Ford or Scott Skiles or WOJO from DUKE….what more could you ask for than a drone of Coach K/Petino/ or an established NBA vet/coach.

On the topic they both suck. UGA sucks more cause Tech beat us…but for Tech fans it must be painful to know your program is being compared to ours. OUCH.

However I watch every DAWG game on TV. The Ware kid will be a player in 2 years. Hopefully Thompkins sticks around long enough to become a big time draft pick.

By RAMBLE ON!!!

January 27, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

Amen Mark!!!

By Rabun Dawg

January 27, 2009 3:20 PM | Link to this

Mark, I think the fan interest would be there if the adm. would make a strong commitment and really prove to the fan base that basketball is important to the Univ. I agree, the talent level in the State, and metro Atlanta is great, and both Tech and UGA should field competitive teams year after year. I just hope that I live long enough to see it happen. And, by the way Mark, looks as though Billy G. has the players at UK “buying in”, as they are improving with each game!! What a shame to see Meeks not playing in the State of Georgia, but can’t say I blame him for making that choice. Patterson looks as though he has really stepped up his game as well! And lastly Mark, was that a surprise what happened at Alabama, and who do you think they will go after?

By bali

January 27, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this

At least Tech s team looks like a basketball team Georgia s team reminds me of the shirts and skins teams back in high school.

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 3:40 PM | Link to this

I think Alabama will go after Tubby Smith. And will be turned down.

By James

January 27, 2009 3:41 PM | Link to this

So, we’re all looking forward to baseball, right?

By RAMBLE ON!!!

January 27, 2009 3:42 PM | Link to this

Mark, I 100% agree GT should be a top 25 team every year or at least dancing since 64 teams get to.

Why then, for the sake of GT Basketball haven’t you called for Hewitt’s termination? You did for Felton?

We’re begging man, please!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By the real OLD GOLD

January 27, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

Last I checked they both do a pretty good job at defining the word “sucks.” They both suck bad, but I’d say UGA sucks worst right now because they’re 0-4 in a badly down basketball conference. Face it, the SEC is terrible this year and that’s unusual. Tech sucks pretty bad as well though. It’s pretty much a suck fest in Georgia this year.

By pat

January 27, 2009 3:46 PM | Link to this

Rather be UGA - at least we’ll be rid of Felton - Tech is stuck with CPH indefinitely - class act, good recruiter, but indisputably a horrible coach - double standard at the North Avenue Trade School - stuck it to Gailey, but settle for way less in Hewitt

By Gordon

January 27, 2009 3:49 PM | Link to this

Prediction: In as little as 2 years, the answer to Mark’s question will be Tech. The reason will be Derrick Favors. Because of him, UGA will get a 2 year head start on doing what both programs need to do, which is get a new coach. Evans will make a good hire in April 2009, and Radakovich will as well in April 2011. Tech will quickly catch back up, and in 2013 I will win the Final Four Fiasco by picking Tech to come out of the East and UGA out of the Midwest.

By the way, there is nothing wrong with Stegeman Coliseum. If you win (or are heading that way), people will show up. If you lose, they won’t. It’s that simple.

By Big BCH 99

January 27, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

Tech is better, b/c they have a real good recruiting class coming in, but both coaches should go. But as a Tech fan, I don’t think U can afford to fire Hewitt, b/c of the recruiting class. If U fire him, U probably will lose several of the recruits.

Tech does play in the better conference, & I would bet that most yrs the bottom ACC could beat the bottom SEC b/c they’re used to playing the Carolinas & Dukes that are always top 10.

Who won head to head doesn’t matter b/c the Home team always wins that game, even if the road team is the better one.

I didn’t know about Tech loosing Assistant coaches, but that makes sense.

By StockDog

January 27, 2009 3:54 PM | Link to this

I know that UGA fans constantly call for Stegman coliseum to be imploded. People counter that there isn’t a need for a new arena until the fans show more support. My reason for blowing up Stegman is that this antequated arena is a symbol of the administrations lack of commitment to the basketball program. Destroying the monstrosity will show the alumni such as myself and fans that we are committed to winning and a new arena is a new start. A new arena will not guaranty victories but it will be a step in the right direction.

By Gordon

January 27, 2009 3:59 PM | Link to this

StockDog,

Being a Tech fan I don’t really have a dog in this fight (no pun intended), but didn’t the $30M practice facility show commitment to the basketball program?

By 2 old 2

January 27, 2009 4:10 PM | Link to this

I’m sorry but this reminds me of two little boys comparing the fragrance of their flatulence. It is pointless and disgusting. And, as has been pointed out, it all stinks.

By Brian

January 27, 2009 4:16 PM | Link to this

Can’t blame everything on the coaches. Can’t really say a whole lot about UGA, but tech players seem like they have just given up and it’s dissapointing to see that….especially after what the football team did this year after what was predicted of them (the bowl game could have gone A WHOLE lot better). Maybe new recruiters?

By E

January 27, 2009 4:19 PM | Link to this

Both coaches have had bad luck keeping kids on campus/healthy. I think UGA would be a different team if it had a Senior leader in Mike Mercer ( only if he had stayed out of trouble and gone to class) or Tech would be better with a healthy DeAndre Bell and a Senior bigman in R. Dickey (had he stayed) Felton is the better game day coach, he gets the most out of players. Hewitt is a great recruiter and good at “individual instruction” and player development, but seems to lack something on gamedays. Both deserve a chance to turn things around, I would keep both for at least another year or two.

By Meanwhile...Mark you must raise the bar!

January 27, 2009 4:21 PM | Link to this

Mark, far be it for me to involve myself in the internecine turf wars of the AJC columnists, but please be aware that Jeff Shultz has called your Junior Samples and raised you with a Rene Descartes reference leading off his column today.

I’d say that’s the blogsphere equivalent of Mr. Shultz firing a warning shot across the bow of the USS Bradley.

Still, I must admit Samples would have been useful today, if for no other reason than to ignore the conventions of the English language and call them both the worst.

I’m siding with you on the choice of Tech, if for no other reason that they still seem to have a sort of cachet that Georgia lacks, and that bears out in the recruiting. If Hewitt can’t utilize this advantage, eventually Tech will get a coach who can.

By firefelton

January 27, 2009 4:24 PM | Link to this

Felton started with ZERO? He had Damien Wilkins, Rashad Wright, Chris Daniels, Jonas Hayes, and Steve Thomas in his first season. He kicked off Thomas (and Wayne Arnold) and the team couldn’t get to the NCAA tourney. THAT’S when everything started going downhill. Let’s not pretend that Harrick left the cupboard dry. Felton could have used that first year as a springboard like Bruce Pearl did with Peterson’s players at UT. But he didn’t. He decided to kick off player after player year after year. The lineup this season COULD have been Mercer, Humphrey, TWood, Brown and Thompkins. WOW. that would be #1 in the SEC. But alas….

By Kevin

January 27, 2009 4:28 PM | Link to this

As a student at UGA, I can say that the entire student body is tired of Dennis Felton and the production from the basketball team overall. He can not get the team to play for a full 40 minutes. Don’t forget that Georgia was beating Tennessee, Georgia Tech, Mississippi State, and a good Mizzou team, they just cant finish a game.

He also cannot get the team up for a weaker oppnent (Texas A&M Corpus Christie and Loyola Chicago???)

Felton sucks and needs to be fired. The players have given up on him.

Dominique Wilkins IS THE ANSWER!!!

By ozzfest

January 27, 2009 4:31 PM | Link to this

NONE IF THIS WOULD HAVE HAPPENED IF DENNIS HAD STAYED CLEAN-SHAVEN.

By Dave

January 27, 2009 4:45 PM | Link to this

I AGREE, BRING BACK TUBBY AND G.G.

By Gary

January 27, 2009 4:49 PM | Link to this

Mark, Why “no way” on Tubby coming back? I read he still has good memories of his Georgia days and we all would love to see him come back. Does he really want to stay up North?

By Jawgadawgs

January 27, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

Brian22 nobody wants to hold that jock. It stinks.

By Montrell

January 27, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

Both coaches at UGA and Tech are being targeted just because they are black! There are a lot of white coaches are not being pressured to win or they’ll get fired. The white racist power establishment in Georgia is always trying to keep the black man down, and here’s another example! Hopefully, now that Obama’s in charge, things start changing fast! There are just too many racists in Georgia.

By Rob

January 27, 2009 5:06 PM | Link to this

Georgia may be slightly worse in terms of performance but Tech deserves more criticism because of the magnitude of underachievement. Paul Hewitt is one of the worst coaches in the country. Tech would be better off with no coach…just practice and coach themselves like a church league team. Hewitt is an impediment.

By DawgGirl32

January 27, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this

Wow Montrell. I am far from a racist but that was one of the most ignorant statements I’ve heard in a while. I really hope you were kidding.

By RJS

January 27, 2009 5:30 PM | Link to this

Seth Davis of Sports Illustrated mentions UGA once a year when he makes his annual “Dennis Felton will get it turned around” pronouncement. This is the year that he finally gives up that charade and simply ignore UGA completely.

By what have dogs done lately

January 27, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this

not much.

Tech superior in football and basketball.

Stings…don’t it dogs!?

By Allen

January 27, 2009 5:34 PM | Link to this

UGA basketball has reached the lowest depths of despair … Felton is a nice man and probably a decent basketball coach … but the proof is in the pudding … and the pudding tastes like sauerkraut. The ball is now in the AD’s court. Damon Evans comes face to face with his first big challenge as AD … to replace Felton with someone who will bring this program back to life by WINNING. It is not THAT difficult (see Hugh Durham &/or Tubby Smith). It is disgraceful that the flagship university of the state of Georgia, with all the basketball talent within its borders, is unable to field a winning basketball team.

By gary

January 27, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this

Basketball Sucks. Drop the sport and stop wasting our time.

By Fire Felton

January 27, 2009 5:39 PM | Link to this

Please fire Felton now. It is worth the additional financial hit the university will take - no television station wants to air our sorry coach frowning on the sideline while our guys get pounded on the court. Please Mr. Evans, act now. This is ridiculous.

By Gordon

January 27, 2009 5:43 PM | Link to this

firefelton,

Felton started with the 4 seniors (Wright, Wilkens, Hayes, and Daniels) plus Levi Stukes and NOTHING else. You can’t win with 5 guys, but they did get to the NIT that first year. Arnold and Thomas had to go because his mandate was to clean up the program. All the recruits for the next year had bolted, so he actually did a good job to win 8 games the second year. He has had more than his share of injuries (Mercer, for example). He has not proven to be a great coach, but I think he is better than Hewitt. Hewitt could turn things around if he would hire an assistant who can teach offense, but I don’t think he will do it. Felton will be gone at the end of this season, and Hewitt has bought another year (maybe 2) with this incoming class. I hope he can turn things around, but I just don’t see it. Both are good men, but this is a results oriented business and you don’t get that kind of money for these results indefinitely.

By Zach

January 27, 2009 5:44 PM | Link to this

Continuity has killed GT in recent years. Shumpert should be a fine PG someday, but he turns the ball over WAAYYYYYY too much.

I think Shumpert is a microcosm of GT’s entire team: show’s flashes of talent and ability, but can’t sustain it. Turns the ball over too much.

Unfortunately, it takes more than one good player to win in the ACC, and I do think, given GT has lost some close games, would have several conference wins in the SEC.

If people would stop watching GT games with an agenda (Fire Hewitt), they should see that this is just not that talented of a team. Paul Hewitt hasn’t done the greatest job in the world, and he acknowledges that, but he isn’t the worst coach in any sport in the NCAA. Geez, hyperbole much? He’s actually above average, but people see what they want to see. D-Rad trusts him, and we know he knows a good coach from a bad one.

And Montrell is an idiot.

By Allen

January 27, 2009 5:45 PM | Link to this

About Stegeman Coliseum … let women’s basketball and women’s gymnastics have it all to themselves and build a new Taj Majal basketball arena in Athens to help lure the big time coach AND players. But, do not, under any circumstances think of tearing down Stegeman Coliseum … it is an architectural wonder from its day that should be preserved. I think it is a cool building, especially considering it is 47 years old.

By G Roberts

January 27, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this

UGA is worse because they don’t have a coach. On second thought UGA really would be better if they didn’t have a coach.

By neik marlowe

January 27, 2009 5:48 PM | Link to this

Is “suck” the only word that young people know to describe ineptitude? Whether Tech or UGA fans, today’s youth are a bunch of illiterates.

By diamond dave

January 27, 2009 5:52 PM | Link to this

Who gives a crap? Aren’t we just killing time here until next football season.

By Fire Felton

January 27, 2009 5:53 PM | Link to this

Gordon,

I absolutely agree with what you are saying, but the fact of the matter is that Felton is draining the life out of UGA players and fans (see how long you can sit in front of the TV tomorrow night at 8 before you need to run to the can to upchuck). Other than a miraculous hiccup last year that had nothing to do with Felton and everything to do with our gutsy round-ballers, basketball under coach Felton has been unwatchable, and getting worse by the game! Watch - the players don’t even respond to the guy. Its time for a change now.

By Ted Striker

January 27, 2009 6:08 PM | Link to this

I’ve had doubts about Coach Felton since the early days, since the initial months after his hire in April 2003. That was when I first heard stories from his coworkers within the AD who perceived him as arrogant.

Very few people enjoy universal admiration and such a thing is neither to be required or expected. However, Coach Felton evidently made working conditions so difficult for some long-term employees of the AD that they quit their jobs rather than work with him. Some long term UGA employees were frequently demeaned, habitually cursed at and told by Coach F. that he’d ‘outlast them’ because of his status and importance. Those weren’t pretty stories, but because of who the people were, I believed them. They are reliable folk, with abiding love for UGA even today. By accounts of them all, working in the AD for UGA was what they loved, their dream jobs, and leaving was a tough decision.

Still, there are at least two sides to every story and I took these reports from folks I know with a grain of salt and an pound of caution. I felt it unfair to judge Dennis Felton’s heart and I still couldn’t do that. Today, I know plenty of folks who say they respect the man. They’d be hard pressed to explain why other fine folks were evidently treated as callously as they were.

I will point out this. Damon Evans took over as AD on July 1, 2004. Damon is a good guy, a fair guy, and someone who has non tolerance for an employee’s inappropriate behavior. It’s not in his nature. It’s just a theory, but I believe Coach Felton is far less abrasive in the AD than he was when first hired. But on to the crux.

A coaches’ worth shouldn’t always be the sum total of the wins/losses. Give UGA credit for patience in that regard. Regardless of the record, where Coach Felton seems to have fallen short is in too frequently losing touch with the players he’s recruited. Their performance as a whole has been spotty. They’ve washed out in too large a number — different from leaving early for a bigger stage. And just as bad, coach Felton’s public appeals and rationale for keeping his job last year prior to the SEC tourney were unsavory.

I couldn’t judge in clear conscience whether Dennis Felton is a nice guy or not. But I’ve become convinced just this season he’s the wrong fit for UGA.

For those who disagree, I respect your right to disagree.

By inandoutnogood

January 27, 2009 6:56 PM | Link to this

I noticed a week or so back, on a high 50’s degree day in lovely Athens, it was 35 below zero in Minnesota. Why wouldn’t Tubby come back? Why wouldn’t Damon at least ask?
Finally, in homage to Mr. Bisher and his ‘whatever happened to’ lines: whatever happened to Buzz Peterson (sp?)

By Allen

January 27, 2009 7:00 PM | Link to this

UGA winners & still counting:

I think it’s time for Andy Landers to think about stepping down, too.

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 7:02 PM | Link to this

Buzz Peterson is director of player personnel for the Charlotte Bobcats, who are partly owned by his former college roommate — Michael Jordan.

If you’ll recall, Peterson was the hot candidate for Georgia in 1999 (post-Jirsa) and Tech in 2000 (post-Cremins) and got neither job.

By jw

January 27, 2009 7:10 PM | Link to this

Tech has the best talent but the worst coach. If Felton could recruit like Tech he would win.

By Gordon

January 27, 2009 7:12 PM | Link to this

FireFelton,

I don’t disagree with you. If I were Evans, I would let him go at the end of the year. I hope you get a good coach, and please leave one out there for us. Both schools deserve better.

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this

But recruiting is, as you know, a fairly major part of college coaching.

By gtjohn

January 27, 2009 7:33 PM | Link to this

I think all the coaches in the ACC and SEC should be fired for not taking the feelings of Tech and UGA players into account. It’s as bad as being beat 100 - 0 and it just hurts everyone’s feelings. I am sure the other league teams feel bad to having beaten these team - even if in overtime. It these other teams are not careful, basketball will be banned from college because it is not FAIR.

By Kevin

January 27, 2009 7:55 PM | Link to this

I have always pondered why both teams can not excel not only at football but basketball too. There is not an excuse considering the talent influx but also the overall support of both colleges for their basketball teams.

I think the lack of continued success and the lack of consistent recruiting classes hurt both teams but more so UGA. I am not sure of an answer other than a miracle on the scale of a “Matt Ryan-Falcon’s like” miracle season followed with excellent recruiting classes.

By Tj

January 27, 2009 8:06 PM | Link to this

Isn’t this like guessing who is the taller midget?

By chuck e

January 27, 2009 8:30 PM | Link to this

Bottom line with both these guys, they both need to go. Both have been given sufficient time and resources to get the job done. Hewitt came into Tech with all the promise in the world and quite frankly has fallen way short, decent recruiter most seasons, average at best as a gameday coach, lack of leadership providing no consistency in the program, and when he came in the cupboard wasn’t exactly bare. Looking back at their comparative results, Bobby Cremins did a much better job. As far as Dennis Felton, well he did come in with a bare cupboard and a huge mess to deal with after the Harrick’s mess. Again, no consistency in the program and lots of support and resources at UGA. Sad but both these guys need to go, not bad guys, just not very good coaches and both schools deserve better. Oh, and a pet peeve of mine…what the heck good is it to recruit a player or players that you know will only stay one year? It provides NO consistency in your team, team play or program.

By Dawg Rick

January 27, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this

Both programs are a travesty. With all the good BBall talent in the Atlanta area and state there’s no excuse for Tech and UGA not being in the top 15 every year. I say bring back the Harricks, at least they can coach and recruit.

By Al

January 27, 2009 9:29 PM | Link to this

brads: GT only list 1 McD All American not 2. Lawal is one. You must have Lewis Clinch confused with Brian Domalik. Silly you.

By Ted Striker

January 27, 2009 9:32 PM | Link to this

I’m laughing, laughing, laughing at the “who’s the taller midget” comment from 8:06

Jesus, that’s funny.

By Mark Bradley

January 27, 2009 9:54 PM | Link to this

Iman Shumpert was also a McDonald’s All-American. The list of all-time McDonald’s honorees can be found here. Click on the “Alumni” tab and download the PDF if you care to check.

By ugaheros

January 27, 2009 9:55 PM | Link to this

If you have a basketball team, and it’s not on probation you are doing a good job. Keep’em both. No sport is more under handed than aau, and hs basketball. Would rather lose than have to cheat to win like uk, ncs, and on, and on. The sport is rotten to the core.

By eddie dawg

January 27, 2009 10:19 PM | Link to this

Mark- I disagree with your statement above. UGA can have fan interest if they WIN. That’s all it will take-there are many b-ball fans out here just dying for a winner. And don’t dismiss the notion of Tubby coming back so easily. Is he really happy in Minnesota? And wouldn’t he love to get back at Kentucky?? I think he regrets leaving us every day of his life………

By StockDog

January 27, 2009 10:33 PM | Link to this

To Gordon: Yes we built a 30 million dollar practice facility. However, let me quote the philosopher Allen Iverson, “…pracktice, PRACKtice, PRACKTICE, we talkin’ bout pracktice.”

Yes practice not the game. Calipari at Memphis played at the Pyramid when he first arrived but, when the Grizzlies arrived and the FedEx Forum was built he was adamant about the Tigers getting out of its 10 year deal with the Pyramid and play at the FedEx forum. Why? Because he only wanted to play games at the best facility in the city. He refuses to settle for anything less than the best. We at UGA should settle for nothing but the best. That is a commitment to baasketball, not practice.

By The Rim Greaper

January 27, 2009 10:57 PM | Link to this

Sadly, I believe Dennis Felton was a good coach and is a first class person. But he inherited a MESS and was unable to overcome it. For his and the school’s sake, he needs to go. Get on with it, Damon.

By Alum and Contributor

January 27, 2009 11:05 PM | Link to this

UGA has excellent athletic programs in multiple areas…football, baseball, men’s tennis, women’s tennis, men’s swimming and diving, women’s swimming and diving, men’s golf, women’s golf, gymnastics, women’s basketball (except this year) and equestrian. What’s missing? Soccer, softball, track and MEN’s BASKETBALL. What is typically the second most visible program at most schools? Men’s basketball. ‘nuff said.

By BravesFan79

January 27, 2009 11:14 PM | Link to this

By Montrell Both coaches at UGA and Tech are being targeted just because they are black! There are a lot of white coaches are not being pressured to win or they’ll get fired. The white racist power establishment in Georgia is always trying to keep the black man down, and here’s another example! Hopefully, now that Obama’s in charge, things start changing fast! There are just too many racists in Georgia

No Montrell, if anything there are 2 many dumb liberals in the US period that keep hiding all the things that blacks do ….like omitting the race `of the perps in the newspaper…….. perfect example: when the bartender in East Atlanta was murdered (by 4 blacks). And THEN the media goes off and says “it wasnt a shot to the head, it was a accident” as if the liberal (anti white) media was saying “these thugs arent really that bad, im sure there nice guys”
GET REAL!!
in fact over 80% of the interracial crime is black on white, especially interracial rape. And thats NOT just a stat in the US, but in England, Sweden, Canada…and prettymuch everywhere else blacks have migrated 2. Now you’d NEVER see the NAACP admit that, because they like to label anyone thats honest about the black race as wearing a white robe and burning crosses, or a uncle tom azz kisser trying to suck up to whites.

Obama isnt going to change anything for yall because black males will still make dumb choices for the most part. You’ll still order all the cable tv movie channels and pay per view, and have $4000 financed rims on your $500 car….all while buying groceries with foodstamps and forcing your family to live in the projects!

Its not the white man holding u down! its because of your stupidity (choosing not to get a education, getting multiple women pregnant with no intent to care for the kids) that your down!

Funny….. Indians and Africans with good work ethic and brains come to this country and within 2 generations there in middle class status….. how come the white man “didnt hold them down”?

If anyone is biased in this its coach Hewitt. Who is more interested in promoting young black coaches than having good qualified assistant coaches.

By turkey

January 27, 2009 11:54 PM | Link to this

Georgia is a joke. Time for Felton to go. Just another big difference in the athletic programs at Georgia and Florida. Who would you rather have Dennis Felton or Billy Donovan?

By JP

January 28, 2009 12:40 AM | Link to this

Tech is worse. Reason, they got the talent but not the guts and desire to win. I’ve been a Tech fan for over fifty years now, and this is the worse,

By Vernon

January 28, 2009 5:42 AM | Link to this

Can we get a bus and ship all 3 basketball coaches out? Hewett, Felton and Woodson. The state of basketball in Georgia is depressing. I also feel that Andy Landers underachieves with the talent that he has each year at Georgia. If you look at the WNBA (I know most don’t, but I have a daughter who plays AAU) you will see it littered with Georgia players.

By Tucker

January 28, 2009 6:02 AM | Link to this

In Kentucky, this kind of comparison would be of vital interest, Mark. In Georgia, who cares? This is a football state. What any of the college or pro basketball teams do is strictly “back burner”. Most people in the basketball stands are there to see if any of the football celebs are in the crowd.

By MARK

January 28, 2009 6:38 AM | Link to this

I have said for so long tech with all the talent thats come through the program they are poorly coached its a real mess now back to the 70s mess

By One Man's View

January 28, 2009 6:46 AM | Link to this

I haven’t watched GA much, but if a team suffers from worse coaching than GA Tech, they should just quit. The Tech team makes stupid mistake after stupid mistake every minute they play. They are incapable of making a sensible passing or shooting decision. They absoulutely have not a clue about guarding anyone. They are actually too embarassing to watch. Where’s Bobby Knight when you need him.

By MARK

January 28, 2009 7:09 AM | Link to this

why would tubby want to come to tech or uga…..i looked at his record seems to me if Tech had a chance at hiring him they would…

By MARK

January 28, 2009 7:20 AM | Link to this

one last comment (i like college basketball alot not too much right now) look at all the money these 2 coaches are paid and have had plenty of time to get it right..and either have a conference win this season…they should be ashamed..I just want to enjoy watching college basketball again and at least a few conference wins I mean really man…I mean simple things like make most of your free throws…its a mess who s out there that help…

By MARK

January 28, 2009 7:24 AM | Link to this

oh im sorry one last comment…Montell Man get real dude whats the promblem here????Go to anger management classes Maybe Church on Sundays…come on man..we all here just want the teams to be better because we are fans..okay thats it im sorry i took 3 places..

By BB's

January 28, 2009 8:05 AM | Link to this

Mark, Do you think Tubby Smith would be interested in the Tech job? ACC? What do you think?

By StockDog

January 28, 2009 8:14 AM | Link to this

Montrell, get real. I am an African-American and an alumni of UGA. This has nothing to do with racism. They are both losers. Black or White, it shouldn’t be tolerated.

Bravesfan79, what is your problem, did a black man smack your momma. We are talking about basketball, not the socio-economic and racial situation of the United States. Calm down, its only basketball.

By SAVtechie

January 28, 2009 8:26 AM | Link to this

Comments even more senseless than the article.

By reebok

January 28, 2009 8:28 AM | Link to this

Both programs are appalling. Georgia is a little worse, but Tech still stinks.

By Too Easy

January 28, 2009 8:33 AM | Link to this

Montell: Ask Mark Gottfried if the white man ever feels the heat.

By Too Easy

January 28, 2009 8:34 AM | Link to this

Montell: Ask Mark Gottfried if the white man ever feels the heat.

By Too Easy

January 28, 2009 8:36 AM | Link to this

Montell: Ask Mark Gottfried if the white man ever feels the heat. And isn’t Obama kind of a white man?

By Too Easy

January 28, 2009 8:39 AM | Link to this

Damn internet.

By texaswreck

January 28, 2009 8:39 AM | Link to this

Tech’s team does not even look like they are running any type of offense- no plays, just random dribbling and shooting. The are not good free throw shooters so taking it inside to take advantage of their height does not work. I am amazed how many 2 foot shots they miss every game. Talent? Effort? Coaching? Shooting?Bad Luck? Answer: all of the above.

By Too Easy

January 28, 2009 8:43 AM | Link to this

%#&*@ Al Gore.

By Jim n Buckhead

January 28, 2009 8:52 AM | Link to this

Both teams are awful…Mark did say UGA hasnt gotten anything from the SEC tourney win but that had more to do with two SR’s not wanting to lose and a tornado helped as well……but GT not only went to the final four but to the champ game and has a roster with two McD’s all americans but they still suck……..PH is too inconsistent with playing time and substitutions…….DF has no clue and the team shows no consistent O or O plan….

By Hoop Master

January 28, 2009 9:00 AM | Link to this

Hey BravesFan79, you really prove that racism is alive and well. You sound as dumb as the other guy that made the comment that p** you off! Get a life buddy!

By Mark Bradley

January 28, 2009 9:32 AM | Link to this

Personal message to Meanwhile … : If you value airy philosophy over rustic humor, then I’m afraid you’re guilty of putting Descartes before the horselaugh.

By E

January 28, 2009 9:42 AM | Link to this

I’m sure whoever posted as “Montrell” was joking and baiting for a repsonse.I’m surprised people even responded….BravesFan79, guess you had to let out your fustration somewhere……

By Jared

January 28, 2009 9:51 AM | Link to this

I think we’d all be surprised what GT could be doing right now with a good PG. Crit leaving early on short notice really hamstrung us. If we’d known we could’ve recruited another top line PG. Instead we lost a year. We have a very good class coming in next year, though, with a couple of very good guards. We have the scorers right now in Lawal and Peacock, we just don’t have a qb, somebody to run the game, somebody to handle the ball, somebody to shoot outside when we need it, and somebody for the other team to foul at the end of the games. A good PG does all of that. Here’s to hoping it gets better next year or Hewitt will be done.

By raxistan

January 28, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

Paul Hewitt is a lousy coach because:

1- GT players can’t hit a free throw if their lives depended on it.

2- Players do not improve while they are at Tech.

3- The offence has no continunity. They play street ball.

In fairness to PH the Tech defence usually puts forth a good effort.

By dt4c

January 28, 2009 11:15 AM | Link to this

The difference is that UGA will have a good coach on the court next year. Tek will still be stuck with Hewitt. Favors should have taken that into consideration for his one year stint.

By tech dude

January 28, 2009 11:44 AM | Link to this

As long as tech beats uga who cares what else they do?

This season is already a success for tech.

67-62

67-62

67-62

BEATDOWN

By Meanwhile...what about a limited coup?

January 28, 2009 12:11 PM | Link to this

Re: “Descartes before the horse”. Touche` Mark.

Here’s a possibility I haven’t seen discussed. Since Hewitt seems to be labeled as a great recruiter, but poor floor coach, is there a chance the Tech AD is going to step in and say to Hewitt if he wants to stay, he has to get new assistants?

Seems to be a common move in football to try to force a coach’s hand this way. Is it common in basketball as well?

Has there been any buzz, really bad pun intended, coming from North Ave. on this?

By Skeezix

January 28, 2009 12:54 PM | Link to this

Hum, Tubby Smith to Tech? I like that idea. That would be fantastic for A-Town, Tech and the ACC. He would be a nice contribution to what already is a bunch of top quality coaches in the ACC.

By Iceman

January 28, 2009 1:28 PM | Link to this

They’re both pretty pathetic.

Felton has had more than enough time to get the Dawgs to a respectable status, but hasn’t come within a thousand miles of doing so. Yeah, we won the SEC championship last season and that was really awesome…but apparently the team has forgotten that. I had hoped we had would continue to go up and up after last season, but it’s all been down, down and downer.

While the football team had a boatload of injuries to most of the returning team from ‘07, the state of the Hoop Dawgs is a bizzare mystery.

By hatfieldgeoff

January 28, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

Mark, You are the best sports columnist in this town but the premise for this column was transparent from the get-go. Yes, UGA’s basketball program is terrible and really could not get much worse. Felton I feel certain will be fired at the end of the season (why fire him in mid-season). I hope Damon Evans is looking for a good young coach at a small school who will see this as a step up. I really don’t know why a coach from a major conference would come here. Felton has had plenty of time and it appears he has run a clean program but he just can’t get enough talent together to compete. UGA is going to have to build a new basketball arena if they want to compete for the top talent. As for Tech, Hewitt can’t seem to win even with high school All Americans. They have not been the same since going to championship game. I think tech should bring in a new coach while they can I believe it would still be considered a good coaching job. Hewitt seems like a good coach but the product on the court says no.

By David

January 28, 2009 1:40 PM | Link to this

They both are VERY bad.

They both need to hire an aggressive younger coach, that knows kids, hoops backwards and forwards and can sell enthusiasm because it takes all 3!

If you can sell the program like Tubby did with the 3 above, Georgia has the instate players and can sell the place out which in turn attracts the instate talent.

The problem is, if you geta good coach like that and he IS successful, if they don’t support him in EVERYTHING, he’ll leave. That is why it would make sense to bring Tubby back because he would be here for the duration.

By jpe887

January 28, 2009 2:17 PM | Link to this

Mark, if you are reading this: I see no publications discussing Paul Hewitt’s abysmal performance. What is your take on this? Is Hewitt done, on the hot-seat, or untouchable because of recruiting class next year.

In last game, with Tech down 20, announcers said Hewitt has procalimed that the only thing keeping Sheehan from being a great big man was his confidence. Immediately after, Sheehan was back on the bench. Down 20, if thats the case, let the kid play. How can anyone have confidence playing for this guy?

By Mark Bradley

January 28, 2009 2:47 PM | Link to this

I will address Paul Hewitt’s status at length, and very soon.

And to answer Meanwhile’s question: Yes, that has been — and will, I presume, continue to be — a topic of some conversation.

By bank walker

January 28, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

I say they would both loose out of the Georgia high school tournament, first round!

By Mark Bradley

January 28, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

And thanks, HatfieldGeoff, for the kind words. And I like to think of myself as the prince of transparency.

By Dawg Tired

January 28, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

Mark - Seems fairly clear that the current state of UGA basketball is absolutely horrendous. Tech? Very bad. Absolutely horrendous is worse than very bad.

Now, based upon this fairly obvious conclusion, I find it amazing that anyone could use the word “best” when referring to either program, but I did read somewhere above just such a description of Tech. Talk about no expectations!

Finally, just how does one explain Denis Felton’s success at Western Kentucky? Obviously he could coach at one time. As I watch the Dawgs try to play basketball, it is just so bad in every way - no players, no coaching, no spirit, etc. Felton seems like a nice, as well as, bright guy. I don’t understand what the problem is.

By Mark Bradley

January 28, 2009 3:53 PM | Link to this

I like Dennis Felton and have always considered him an outstanding coach. I don’t know why it hasn’t happened for him at Georgia. I really don’t.

By mikey

January 28, 2009 4:02 PM | Link to this

Mark, you mentioned some of the starters that Felton has run off. Add players Steve Thomas (starting center Felton’s first year), Younes Idrissi, Kendrick Johnson, Rashaad Singleton and Jeremy Jacob. When it’s ‘my way or the highway’ the highway often wins. Why would a recruit give up college life for Felton’s boot camp? Seems simple to me.

By Gordon

January 28, 2009 4:04 PM | Link to this

I think it is a mistake for an AD in any sport to force a coach to make changes to his staff. That’s part of the coach’s job. Hewitt gets the corner office and the big paycheck so it is up to him to make the decision. The final result, as measured in wins and losses, graduation rates, respresentation of the school, etc. are what he is judged on.

Nobody liked it when Michael Adams micromanaged Vince Dooley, and that applies at every level.

By coondawg69

January 28, 2009 4:19 PM | Link to this

To quote Dennis Felton, “so, well, um, ah, er, you know?”

What program is worse??? Georgia. Flat out. What program is more sad?? Given the total apathy in Athens about the state of affairs concerning that of the men’s basketball program, I would say Ga. Tech. Why? because they sell a heck of a lot of seats for such a poor product. Folks in Athens just don’t seem to care any more.
After all, Georgia is not basketball school… heck, it’s not a football school. Since Georgia’s last national championship in football you have LSU w/ 2, Florida w/ 3, Miami w/ 5, FSU w/ 2, Ga. Tech w/ 1, Tenn w/ 1, and Bama w/ 1.
Obviously, Georgia is a Gymnastics school, and that’s the truth…. and that’s just sad.

By Peter Abbey

January 28, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

As a former college basketball player, the only thng that “stinks” is Mark Bradley’s headline. No matter what their records, the kids from both these teams are giving it their all. Nothing is accomplished by telling these players or coaches that their team stinks. If you feel their is a lack of effort, fine, then criticize all you want. Just stop trying to embarrass people with your rude headlines.

By Zager & Evans

January 28, 2009 5:03 PM | Link to this

This question was correctly answered by Mr. Bradley.

Georgia’s hoops program is most definitely worse than Tech’s, hands down.

However, the comparison does get closer when one remembers that Georgia is lousy with mediocre to poor players, while Tech is only a little less lousy with really good players.

Think of it this way, Georgia is 218th with perhaps the 175th best players in the NCAA; Tech is 172d with perhaps the 40th best group of players in the country. At that, I am downgrading the assessment of their talent made bu the recruitiung services. s

By Mark Bradley

January 28, 2009 5:19 PM | Link to this

I don’t believe anyone will force Hewitt to make staff changes. But the question was whether anyone at Tech has considered that his staff could stand an upgrade, and the answer is yes.

By Jacketman

January 28, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this

Hewitt’s weaknesses are glaring. The athletes need coaching and leadership. Hewitt’s “individual instruction” has not helped especially in the teamwork area. Bringing in new athletes will not fix the problem. If a contract problem is the issue, keep the head man but make changes in the supporting staff FOR HIM. If he doesn’t like it he may resign.

By THWT

January 28, 2009 7:08 PM | Link to this

Tech is worse. Are you kidding? They are worse at everything…they’re Tech!!!

By Chuck Uga

January 28, 2009 7:17 PM | Link to this

Is this a joke? The UGA program is at rock bottom as far as coaching competency. It could be a perennial Top 20 program with the right investment. But it won’t because no one associated gives a damn. It’s all about football…and always will be.

By James

January 28, 2009 7:39 PM | Link to this

They both are bad. Go Jags, Augusta State University best basketball in the state. Runner-up last year and ranked all year in the top 10.

By chuck allison

January 28, 2009 8:59 PM | Link to this

There is absolutely no room for pride in either program. Both coaches should resign in shame and leave the state on the same bus. The competition for worst team is a dead heat. Tech beat UGA but only because the game was in our gym. Neither program should claim any amount of pride or value. Attendance is plummeting at Tech and would go down at UGA if the gym wasn’t already empty from past seasons.

By StingerSplash

January 28, 2009 10:05 PM | Link to this

Paul Hewitt is … 58-76 in ACC regular-season games. He has had three losing seasons….

Top recruiting class or not, Hewitt needs to go. How are those numbers even acceptable? And ninth in the ACC in attendance with one of, if not the, smallest arenas to play in? Granted, the last couple of years under Cremins were tough to watch too but after Starbury’s brief Tech career, he was never really able to assemble a good group. And look at the number of losing seasons he had in his long stay at The Flats. Hewitt’s matching that in half the time. Again, how is this acceptable? Even Gailey got canned after never having a losing season.

By Michael

January 29, 2009 12:32 AM | Link to this

“By texaswreck

January 28, 2009 8:39 AM | Link to this

Tech’s team does not even look like they are running any type of offense- no plays, just random dribbling and shooting. “

AMEN!

Montrell, I will say this as best I can, when you recruit well every year, like Paul Hewitt, but your team annually fails to meet mediocre expectations (record wise) and can’t seem to beat an above-average team, you deserve to be shown the door, black, white, green, peppermint striped, it DOESN’T MATTER.

Remember “Stand and Deliver”? There is a famous quote:

“There are two kinds of discrimination Mr. Escalante. Singling out a group because they are members of a minority and NOT singling out a group because they are members of a minority”

I submit Montrell you are guilty of the latter type of discrimination. This is a chance for you to take a look in the mirror and correct this character flaw. Sometimes blacks and other races will have failures and you should not defend the failure because they are minority.

Watch a Tech game. Watch the offense (there isn’t any) and watch the defense (there isn’t much) and tell me if some of those talented kids look like they need some coaching? They all play like they were thrown together, perfect strangers, just minutes before tip off. It’s very obvious either Hewitt doesn’t spend enough time coaching as a team and his assistants don’t spend enough time individually, OR they are less than capable coaches who are doing everything they can, but simply lack the skill to improve the kids or the team. This is quite common in coaching you know, Hewitt wouldn’t be the first. The weird part is Hewitt had success at previous schools. I think at past schools he had such great talent that his mediocre coaching wasn’t bad enough to get in the way. Now even with good recruiting, the other vastly superior ACC coaches are schooling coach Hewitt and his staff.

He needs to go, if you think otherwise, you are discriminatory in a reverse kind of way. CPH has been paid very well and has not performed. Georgia Tech doesn’t owe him any more chances.

By bank walker

January 29, 2009 8:11 AM | Link to this

Georgia’s

By not a dog

January 29, 2009 11:43 AM | Link to this

looks like uga just got better

By Mr. Basketball

January 29, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

Hewitt is like Richt is some respects. they both have decent talent to work with, but neither have anything to show for it.

By Advisor

January 29, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

Paul Johnson should coach the basketball team as well. At the very lest he’d make them physically and mentally tougher, which is what they need.

By Booster Talk

January 30, 2009 11:08 AM | Link to this

Word around the campfire says Hewitt wont allow help from or even talk about Mark Price assisting the team! Hes gotta go!

By ClayCo

February 3, 2009 2:56 PM | Link to this

Hire Knight the national coverage will follow. You will not have any worries about cheating and fans will come calling fast, plus all the haters (there are millions) will be around like Republicans at a Michael Moore Film. Come on guys…..make UGA basketball season mean something other than a time for the red necks to hunt and discuss what offensive lineman Coach Richt is recruiting….Go Dawgs … yes on the basketball court! Until then GT will always be better in hoops even on their worst season, because it is a for real hoops program. 2 final fours, 1 with the current coach and so many pros compared to uga it is not even funny. If you do not hire Knight hire Bobby Cremins….you would get all the GA recruits!!!!