Mark Bradley

By brewdawg

February 2, 2009 1:25 PM | Link to this

Mark

While I don’t disagree with you on the scale of Smoltzian proportions, I’d be okay with Bob Knight. Yes, it would likely be a 2-3 year stint only, but he brings instant recognition to a program that desperately needs it. At the very least, maybe after those 2-3 years UGA won’t be viewed as the mediocre job it is now. (That’s the category I’d put the UGA job in anyway). One thing I’m curious about… why are there no reports of him being interested in the Alabama job? If anything, it seems that program has a better chance of winning right away.

By Tid Bit

February 2, 2009 1:25 PM | Link to this

THe halftime interception deserves another look. There was only 18 seconds left. Of course the steelers were looking for a cardinal pass, a pass stops the clock. It was the rookie call. The smart play was up the middle. Then spike. then kick the three.

This was an egregious error that should result in the Card’s coach being fired. Were we supposed to be satisfied with the Boss’s lame act? Hey Boss, the assisted living industry called. They want their constipation-based facial contortions back. They want their E chords back too. And who was that fat blonde with the accoustic guitar next to your redheaded angel? I mean it’s Guitar Hero, not Guitar Gyro.

Gracie Slick is right! “Get off the stage and let a younger boss take over.”

Honestly.

By Rick S

February 2, 2009 1:33 PM | Link to this

Mark, I agree with you on it not being a good idea for Georgia to even pursue the hiring of Bobby Knight as UGA Basketball Head Coach for the reasons you outlined in your article. At first I was like WOW- This would be great but then reality set-in and I quickly realized short-term it would be exciting but for the long-term not the right hire to make and not in the best interest of Georgia Basketball! The University of Georgia Administration must get it right this time and Bobby Knight would not be the right hire!

By Class of '98

February 2, 2009 1:42 PM | Link to this

As a UGA alum, I want to see a press conference TODAY announcing him as new head coach.

This program is comatose and needs a spark.

I want Bob Knight, and I want him now.

By Howard

February 2, 2009 1:44 PM | Link to this

How can anyone care a twit about Geirgia basketball?? Men or women’s?? The Gym Dogs and their coach…the pristine and moral Madame Yoculun make better reading than those two sports. Besides, after football is over…who cares about any sport?

By rob

February 2, 2009 1:48 PM | Link to this

Do not hire Knight..do not hire knight

By The Great Hyphenated Compound Modifier vs. Unhyphenated Compound Noun Debate of 2009

February 2, 2009 1:50 PM | Link to this

Seriously, Mark, what does UGA hoops have going for it? How could this possibly do anything than improve the program? And why do you feel the need to mix manners with sports? Your generation of squeaky-clean, mind-numbingly boring sportsmen (Chip Caray, Joe Buck et al.) has ruined the great tradition of your fathers (Harry/Skip, Jack et al.). Put down the Bible and pick up a bottle a rye and the odd hooker or two.

By hjhj

February 2, 2009 1:51 PM | Link to this

AGREE!!

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

You know, Howard — an attitude such as the one you express might well be a reason Georgia’s basketball program isn’t any better. If you don’t care, should anybody else?

By Chris

February 2, 2009 1:52 PM | Link to this

I am in Indianapolis. I LOVE the Braves. Trust me, there isn’t a bigger fan of Bob Knight. I have grown up watching him at Assembly Hall. Having said that, DON’T HIRE HIM! His time has passed, and college basketball is a different game now. I was OK when he left in 2000 because we were on the decline anyway. His coaching style doesn’t work anymore. I love Bob Knight and will NEVER forget what he did for Indiana University. I wouldn’t hire him, unless you just want to put some butts in the seats and get on ESPN more often. You will probably have the same record if not worse with him.

By NGB

February 2, 2009 1:54 PM | Link to this

Do you actually think there is room enough in Athens for Adams & Knight ego’s?

By DawgTrappedInIndy

February 2, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

Knight would be an unmitigated disaster on par with the hiring of Harrick. I was here in Indiana for some of the Knight years and he is worse than you can image. He will polarize the university and then spend half his time trying to run off anyone who disagrees with him. Evans and Adams should be concerned because he usually trys to oust his AD and President unless they completely roll over for him. All this for a coach who hasn’t won anything in 15 years?!

I live and breath UGA, but I would actively root against the Bulldog basketball team if it were coached by that jerk.

By Chris

February 2, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

I am in Indianapolis. I LOVE the Braves. Trust me, there isn’t a bigger fan of Bob Knight. I have grown up watching him at Assembly Hall. Having said that, DON’T HIRE HIM! His time has passed, and college basketball is a different game now. I was OK when he left in 2000 because we were on the decline anyway. His coaching style doesn’t work anymore. I love Bob Knight and will NEVER forget what he did for Indiana University. I wouldn’t hire him, unless you just want to put some butts in the seats and get on ESPN more often. You will probably have the same record if not worse with him.

By Chris

February 2, 2009 1:55 PM | Link to this

I am in Indianapolis. I LOVE the Braves. Trust me, there isn’t a bigger fan of Bob Knight. I have grown up watching him at Assembly Hall. Having said that, DON’T HIRE HIM! His time has passed, and college basketball is a different game now. I was OK when he left in 2000 because we were on the decline anyway. His coaching style doesn’t work anymore. I love Bob Knight and will NEVER forget what he did for Indiana University. I wouldn’t hire him, unless you just want to put some butts in the seats and get on ESPN more often. You will probably have the same record if not worse with him.

By dap01

February 2, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

Howard: If you don’t care, why are you reading and blogging.

Mark, good article. Knight would get attention to UGA and would win a few games, but would probably not be good in the long run.

By Dawg Since Birth

February 2, 2009 1:58 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if you’re joking HOWARD, but if you are not, you’re an idiot!

By Peadawg

February 2, 2009 1:59 PM | Link to this

DawgTrappedInIndy: “I live and breath UGA, but I would actively root against the Bulldog basketball team if it were coached by that jerk.”

You obviously don’t live and breath UGA is you actively root against your own team moron. You are a disgrace to this University.

By B. Scott

February 2, 2009 1:59 PM | Link to this

I couldn’t agree more. Anyone but Bobby Knight.

By The Voice

February 2, 2009 1:59 PM | Link to this

Mark, At age 68 I’m not sure Knight is the man for UGA. If there is some plan of succession in place then maybe we should take the plunge. What is absurd is your ceaseless bashing of him. Face it he was the best there ever was. Neither Smith, Wooden nor Rupp can match his record number of victories Perhaps your dislike of him stems from the fact that he often spanked your beloved Wildcats. Let us also say this, he won the right way, graduated his players and was never on probation. Look at the fallen state of IU basketball since he left.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 2:00 PM | Link to this

No, NGB. I do not.

By Dawg Since Birth

February 2, 2009 2:02 PM | Link to this

Oh Mark…people care….HOWARD is an idiot! I have season tickets in all 3 major sports, go to ALL of the road games in football, a couple in basketball and baseballl…went to Omaj=ha, NE last summer….been to NCAA Tourney games….there are PLENTY of others like me!!! Trust me!!!!

Go Dawgs!!

We WILL hire the right guy!

By DawgTrappedInIndy

February 2, 2009 2:05 PM | Link to this

Class of ‘98, your line of reasoning is the same that Texas Tech used to hire Knight eight years ago. What did it get them? Their program is just as comatose now as it was before they hired him. In seven seasons with Knight they got a .500 conference record and eked into the tournament every other year before Knight quit on them in the middle of a horrible season. He is no solution. UGA can do WAY better.

By FLA DAWG

February 2, 2009 2:07 PM | Link to this

UGA does not hire people like Spurrier, Meyer OR Knight.

No Knight - No Way!

By Darian

February 2, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

Though Bradley brings up some relevant points, I disagree overall with his assessment of Knight. Maybe Bob Knight didn’t have an incredible record at Texas Tech, but you have to remember that the state of Texas has never been known as a hotbed for college basketball, therefore recruiting was much more difficult. I believe that UGA needs a big name coach to take over and with Knight as coach, we would get those All-American high school basketball players interested in coming to Georgia and maybe we would finally keep in-state players playing IN STATE.

By Mac

February 2, 2009 2:09 PM | Link to this

I’d die of joy if there were any way under the sun to pry Billy Donovan out of Gainesville.

By matt

February 2, 2009 2:10 PM | Link to this

Mr. Bradley, sounds like you were wronged by Bobby Knight or something. As you stated he’s never had any history of NCAA violations. He demands discipline and wins games. He didn’t have the recruiting base at TTU needed to win. There’s plenty of in state talent here to win a championship, someone just has to convince these kids to stay in state. As long as he wins games and turns the program in the right direction nobody will care if he makes SC for getting kicked out of a game!! I will bet that if UGA signs him the Steg will sell out every game he coaches.

By the way, the player he “chucked under the chin” was interviewed shortly after that incident and he admitted that it was no big deal. He wasn’t looking Coach Knight in the eye while he was talking to him and he admitted he should’ve been.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this

There isn’t, Mac. The Orlando Magic tried. So did the Kentucky Wildcats.

By DawgTrappedInIndy

February 2, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this

Peadawg, It’s because I love UGA that I would root against a Knight-led Georgia team. And I guarantee that you do not care about Georgia more than I do. If it makes you feel better to call me names, have at it.

By bali

February 2, 2009 2:14 PM | Link to this

hey mark say what you mean, just kidding. Knight is probably not the right fit for Georgia, but what is.Basketball has never taken off at UGA,and I do not think ever will.The Tubby Years were great, but tubby left for greener pastures.Who would want to be the Georgia coach and stay………… I do not know.At least the General would make things interesting for a year or two.

By GT

February 2, 2009 2:15 PM | Link to this

Mark maybe your best you have ever written. I now am worried about you. I would not be a bit surprise if he didn’t take a shot at you the next time you two are in the same room. If I am around he can take one at both of us. He is everything that is wrong with sports and the world in general today and up to now no one had the guts to tell him so. You just showed me and the rest of us what a real winner does.

By Joel In ATL

February 2, 2009 2:16 PM | Link to this

Hiring Bob Knight would be exactly what UGA basketball needs!!! A BASKETBALL COACH!! He would n’t have to sign the big name kids to compete every year, that’s the difference and big names don;t come to UGA to playbasketball and parents are scared of Knight cause he is tougher on kids than their own parents. Your throwing Calbert Chaney out there like UGA has somebody other than Dominique to throw out there. (No disrespect Willie and Shandon Anderson, Vern Fleming, Jumaine Jones [cough and a Tubby recruit that had to play for RON JIRSA, another cough] and Jarvis Hayes [Harrick product]) It would be the best thing sense Jim Harrick (The best UGA coach ever, I don’t care what you care to believe about the man) and Tubby Smith (no disrepect Hugh Durham but you knew you were always riding a wave anyway). UGA just needs to own up to the fact they are a FOOTBALL SCHOOL. I don’t care how much Adams, Evans and Johnson try to spin it they are a FOOTBALL SCHOOL. Say all you want about Bob Knight I’d play for him ANYDAY. He didn’t quit on Texas Tech, did you even know about Texas Tech before Knight, didn’t think so. Athens is a better place to recruit than Lubbock for hoops plain and simple. Kinght said he did all he could do for Texas Tech and it’s the truth, Texas Tech will never do more, just how it is, you know kinda like UGA basketball.

Hush with all thos hobnob about his behavior, at least he commands respect from his players and doesn’t care if their feelings are hurt because they sitting on the bench because they were out of postion tirp after trip, it’s basketball and he doesn’t care if your parents drove 100 miles to see you sit the bench. He holds player accountable for their actions. His actions are all about pure passion and desire to win. If there were more coaches like Bob Knight there would be fewer softer players. Plus Bob Knight knows more basketball than they entire university of UGA and that would be a problem too for Adams because Knight doesn’t listen to anyone that doesn’t KNOW basketball, hello UGA boosters are you listening, so on those accords Knight will not be the UGA coach and that’s too bad for UGA. No matter the hire (and I’ll eat my words if necessary) UGA will be looking for another coach in 5-6 years anyway so might as well let Knight at least give you hope!!

By BLUE

February 2, 2009 2:17 PM | Link to this

Anyone who thinks Bobby Knight would embarass Georgia basketball has not been watching Georgia basketball. Mark we can not win one game inthe SEC how much more embarassed can it get

By BLUE

February 2, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this

Anyone who thinks Bobby Knight would embarass Georgia basketball has not been watching Georgia basketball. Mark we can not win one game inthe SEC how much more embarassed can it get

By Carl

February 2, 2009 2:19 PM | Link to this

It’s all academic (no pun intended) anyway; Adams will never allow Knight to be hired. But if it could happen, why would anyone be against it? What does the GA basketball program have to lose?

By UGA FAN #1

February 2, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

Of course Mark Bradley says no to Georgia bringing Bobby Knight to UGA. Mark Bradley is a Kentucky fan and he doesn’t want to see the Dawgs start dominating his precious Wildcats! Bring Bobby Knight to Athens! Coach Knight is an absolute proven winner that wins championships and pushes players to graduate! Bobby Knight for UGA!!!!

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

Anyone that read this article should remember that Bradley is a sports writer. Since Bob Knight has never suffered fools in that profession, he often has pot shot articles like this one written.

UGA’s basketball team (and football for that matter) are an embarrassment in grades, conduct and attitude. They would be LUCKY to get Bob to come in and clean it up.

By Peadawg

February 2, 2009 2:22 PM | Link to this

DawgTrappedInIndy February 2, 2009 2:12 PM | Link to this Peadawg, It’s because I love UGA that I…

I stopped right there and started laughing. You don’t root against your team if you love them as much as you say you do…plain and simple.

“And I guarantee that you do not care about Georgia more than I do.” What are we in, 5th grade again?

By Fire Mike Woodson Express

February 2, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this

Mark is at again putting his two cents in something he knows nothing about.l

MARK: ANSWER MY QUESTION LIKE I ASKED YOU 10 TIMES ON THE DENNIS FELTON BLOG LAST WEEK. WHY DID YOU KISS MIKE WOODSON A* AND HIS RECORD IS WROSTER THE DENNIS FELTON?? YOU DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT BASKETBALL YOU JUST TRY AND GET THE INTERVIEWS.

PEOPLE: IF BOB KNIGHT CALLED BRADLEY AND SAID COME DO AN INTERVIEW WITH ME, DID STORY WOULD BE TAKING OFF AND A NEWS STORY KISSING KNIGHTS A* WOULD BE POSTED. HOW DO I KNOW??

HE BASHED WOODSON ALL SEASON LAST SEASON, UNTIL WOODSON GOT P** AT HIM AND CALLED HIM OVER TO THE AREA FOR A 1 ON 1. AND NOWS HE SAIDS NOTHING ABOUT THAT IDIOT.

BOTH OF THEM ARE IDIOTS LOL…….

BRADLEY GO SUCK WOODSON OUT. YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT BASKETBALL OR COACHING.

I WOULD PAY TO SEE YOU TELL KNIGHTS THIS STUFF TO HIS FACE, HE HAVE YOUR A* ON THE GROUND SO FAST LOL. YOU SUCK.

By mshoover

February 2, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this

All of you clowns downing Bob Knight don’t know jack about basketball. He is/was the best basketball coach of his time and he probably has enough in the tank to teach you knuckleheads a thing or two. Giving him the job would be the smartest thing Georgia could do. Let him run your program for a couple of years, prove that he can get you into the tournament (Lord knows, that ain’t happening any time soon) and then he’ll drift off into retirement. What could it hurt. You really don’t have any better options.

By BLUE

February 2, 2009 2:23 PM | Link to this

Joel in ATL is 100% right

By Left to Right

February 2, 2009 2:24 PM | Link to this

Everyone should keep in mind that this story has been purely created by the media. Knight hasn’t said he’s interested and Georgia hasn’t said it’s interested.

By UGAXXXIV

February 2, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

Thanks Mark!

Hopefully Mr. Knight will take his tired act elsewhere (& they will have my sympathy)

Go Dawgs!

By gt4ever

February 2, 2009 2:25 PM | Link to this

Coach Bob Knight is the best coach in college basketball. I surely hope that UGA doesn’t hire him. His hiring would only bring winning to a program that is constantly losing. As a Jacket fan I would rather see them LOSE!

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 2:26 PM | Link to this

Thanks, GT.

And UGA FAN #1: Knight’s last NCAA title was in 1987. His last Final Four appearance was in 1992. He has been to one Sweet Sixteen since 1994. He’s a proven winner, but he really hasn’t won big lately.

By BravesAreDone

February 2, 2009 2:28 PM | Link to this

No one cares at ALL about Georgia basketball right now. If Knight comes here people would care again. I rarely disagree with you Mark, but this program needs Bobby Knight.

By Tucker

February 2, 2009 2:28 PM | Link to this

It would be more fun to watch Bobby Knight at Alabama. Imagine an athletic department with both Nick Saban and Bobby Knight to keep happy.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 2:29 PM | Link to this

He didn’t quit on Texas Tech? Would you call resigning in early February and turning the team over to his son an example of staying the course?

By indydawg

February 2, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

People lets settle down a bit.

I suggest waiting a few months and making a run at Brad Stevens from Butler.

I like Knight, but we supposedly had a disciplinarian in with Felton…didn’t turn out that well overall.

Knight doesn’t need Georgia.

By BILLY JACK

February 2, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

Mark-Bobby Knight would be a huge upgrade over what we have gone thru for the last few seasons.If he can put Texas Tech on the map think what he could do at UGA.

By frank

February 2, 2009 2:30 PM | Link to this

Stick to Kentucky basketball bradley

By p dawg

February 2, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

hire bob knight. ive played ball all my life & im a lfetime dawg.coaches dont have to be nice. i won more games w/ a mean coach than i ever won w/ a coach that tried to passify his players. cant wait until football season. congrats hines ward. we love you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 2:31 PM | Link to this

“And UGA FAN #1: Knight’s last NCAA title was in 1987. His last Final Four appearance was in 1992. He has been to one Sweet Sixteen since 1994. He’s a proven winner, but he really hasn’t won big lately.”

uh, when was the last NCAA title in b-ball at UGA? The bar is set VERY low already.

What is needed is someone to bring some discipline, some student athletes instead of potential felons and finally, to instill some excitement in the program with the fans. Knight will do all three.

And you will get to write countless articles ripping him. Win Win

By Roaddawg80

February 2, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

DawgTrappedInIndy

Yea I guess you are right? I mean now they are .500 however they won 43 games under Bobby Knight.

You know who would want to win just 43 games compared before he got there in the same amount of time they one just 15. Who would want someone to come in and triple the winnings?

Bobby Knight might not be in it for the long run however couldn’t imagine a better short term fix. Bringing someone in with some discipline and a name to go with it. Yeah it might not be long term but it might just be the thing UGA needs. A quick fix to put UGA on the map in basketball again and get it going in the right direction. In my opinion there is only two options: Bobby Knight or Tubby Smith. Either one would be fine for me.

By The Great Hyphenated Compound Modifier vs. Unhyphenated Compound Noun Debate of 2009

February 2, 2009 2:32 PM | Link to this

FULL DISCLOSURE: I didn’t read the column.

By Fire Mike Woodson Express

February 2, 2009 2:33 PM | Link to this

Mark is at again putting his two cents in something he knows nothing about.l

MARK: ANSWER MY QUESTION LIKE I ASKED YOU 10 TIMES ON THE DENNIS FELTON BLOG LAST WEEK. WHY DID YOU KISS MIKE WOODSON A* AND HIS RECORD IS WROSTER THE DENNIS FELTON?? YOU DON’T KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT BASKETBALL YOU JUST TRY AND GET THE INTERVIEWS.

PEOPLE: IF BOB KNIGHT CALLED BRADLEY AND SAID COME DO AN INTERVIEW WITH ME, DID STORY WOULD BE TAKING OFF AND A NEWS STORY KISSING KNIGHTS A* WOULD BE POSTED. HOW DO I KNOW??

HE BASHED WOODSON ALL SEASON LAST SEASON, UNTIL WOODSON GOT P** AT HIM AND CALLED HIM OVER TO THE AREA FOR A 1 ON 1. AND NOWS HE SAIDS NOTHING ABOUT THAT IDIOT.

BOTH OF THEM ARE IDIOTS LOL…….

BRADLEY GO SUCK WOODSON OUT. YOU KNOW NOTHING ABOUT BASKETBALL OR COACHING.

I WOULD PAY TO SEE YOU TELL KNIGHTS THIS STUFF TO HIS FACE, HE HAVE YOUR A* ON THE GROUND SO FAST LOL. YOU SUCK.

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 2:35 PM | Link to this

HAHA!

Forgot you were a Kentucky fan.

You must be in heaven getting to pour it on Knight. Not waiting on objective reporting on THIS One.

By Bird Dog

February 2, 2009 2:36 PM | Link to this

Hiring Bobby Knight would only lengthen the embarrassment and frustration UGA basketball has endured.

Bobby is definitely over the hill now plus today’s players don’t react positively to his pedantic, petualant behavior.

Move on and hire an up and comer.

By BLUE

February 2, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

MARKs right just like in football we need to get a coach who is a good man so every saturday in the fall we can watch one of the a$$ hole coaches with no class kick our A$$.

By FIRE MIKE WOODSON EXPRESS

February 2, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

Stick to Kentucky basketball bradley

By BLUE

February 2, 2009 2:38 PM | Link to this

MARKs right just like in football we need to get a coach who is a good man so every saturday in the fall we can watch one of the a$$ hole coaches with no class kick our A$$.

By Paul

February 2, 2009 2:39 PM | Link to this

HIRE Knight. This program can’t go anywhere but UP at this point. Even if it’s not long term, it would give this program the boost it so desperately needs.

By Roaddawg80

February 2, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

Mark

You keep bringing it up that he has been to the big game in a long time or sweet 16 or final four.

When was the last time we were knocking on that door?

I would take my chances on him for a quick fix. Read earlier post

By The dark Knight

February 2, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

I don’t care much for Knight personally. That being said he is a great basketball coach that would give the UGA program instant success.

You are wrong by the way about Knight being the men’s coach with the most career wins. That title belongs to Don Meyer.

By zeke

February 2, 2009 2:41 PM | Link to this

The foolish thing here is for UGA to allow radical leftist with some utopia idea of discipline to influence the decision on a GREAT basketball coach! Bobby Knight IS A GREAT COACH WHO GRADUATES PLAYERS AND MAKES OUTSTANDING MEN OF THOSE HE COACHES! He may have some quirks in his methods of imparting a sound regimen and discipline that creates winning teams and winning student athletes! If UGA has this chance, they would be stupid not to pursue it! Look at what these ideas of dicipline have done to our middle and high schools! Destroyed them! Personnaly I hope he is not interested! I am not a UGA fan, and, it would make the SEC a much harder conference if he was UGA coach!

By griffdawg1

February 2, 2009 2:43 PM | Link to this

Tell us who you think would be better Mark! I’ll give you a name and see what you think. Leon Rice!! Could we get him? Do you even know he is? Have you really looked for a legit longterm solution to our problem or do you just see your job as antagonistic in nature?

By Marty G

February 2, 2009 2:46 PM | Link to this

UGA does not need Bobby Knight. UGA does not need another black-eye and Bobby Knight would surely give UGA one. Does UGA need “success” that desperately? There are plenty of good coaches out there. Let Bobby retire into the sunset along with Woody Hayes.

By GumbyWilliams

February 2, 2009 2:48 PM | Link to this

I think UGA would be very wise to hire Bob Knight. Its true Knight has a temper and that Knight is an extreme head case (throwing chairs and punching out players), but when he is calm his record does not lie: the winningest coach in college basketball history. That is a fact. Knight would bring instant credibility to the Georgia program and would ensure maximum effort from the players at all times. What do you have to lose? You wont find anyone better than Knight unless you attempt to reel in Tubby Smith. I would be satisfied with the Bulldogs hiring either Tubby Smith or Bob Knight but I dont think Id want anyone else coaching the Bulldogs.

By Dog in Fla

February 2, 2009 2:49 PM | Link to this

What could possibly go wrong with a 68 year old explosive temper gunny sargeant as a coach?

Hire Anthony Grant before Bama or another team does.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 2:49 PM | Link to this

Leon Rice is a Gonzaga assistant. I can’t see Georgia hiring someone who hasn’t been a Division I head coach.

I think Anthony Grant would do nicely. Or Brian Gregory. Or Brad Stevens.

By Elvis

February 2, 2009 2:52 PM | Link to this

Mark:

I am sure I just missed it…but, did Tubby say he had no interest in coming back to UGA?

This program is so far gone, it will take a coach that is almost a magician. Pearl really moved the needle at ut but they had a world class womens program so there was a precendent.

I am an interested, involved, passionate fan of UGA hoops, it just seems ALMOST impossible to imagine a steady winner.

Who does the balding guy in the red sweater that does jumping jacks during all the UGA games think we should hire? He is commited.

By Lowcountry Bulldawg

February 2, 2009 2:53 PM | Link to this

Hell no to Knight! Go get Tubby back now! Tubby will give the Dawgs 8-10 years. He has gone and found out how green that UK grass is. It is timeto bring him back and let him settle into retirement in Athens. Do you really think he likes the Minnesota winter? Common! No to Knight, Tubby is the choice!

By blue

February 2, 2009 2:53 PM | Link to this

I no lets hire the nexted BIG THING from a mid some little school who has had some success in a high school conferance and has been recruting playes who can not go UGA because of grades O IM SORRY THAT WAS DENNIS FELTON

By number15

February 2, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this

Mark,

It is easy to take shots at Coach Knight’s past behavior. I admit his past actions, at least some of them appear to be serious. However, as a former college basketball player who played for Coach John Chaney at Temple University, I believe Coach Knight should be viewed from all angles before forming an opinion. Have you ever interviewed his players? Not just the ones who complained, but survey them all. I guarantee you will be quite surprised. By the way, have you really had an opportunity to listen to Coack K at Duke. Not the cleanes mouth in game. Bottom line is this: his players love him, and appreciate his approach. Sure noone condones assault or battery, but come on! Coach Knight would be great for college basketball, not just UGA!

Did you play the game Mark, or did yu want to but could not? Be fair, it sounds personal to me!

By number15

February 2, 2009 2:55 PM | Link to this

Mark,

It is easy to take shots at Coach Knight’s past behavior. I admit his past actions, at least some of them appear to be serious. However, as a former college basketball player who played for Coach John Chaney at Temple University, I believe Coach Knight should be viewed from all angles before forming an opinion. Have you ever interviewed his players? Not just the ones who complained, but survey them all. I guarantee you will be quite surprised. By the way, have you really had an opportunity to listen to Coack K at Duke. Not the cleanest mouth in game. Bottom line is this: his players love him, and appreciate his approach. Sure noone condones assault or battery, but come on! Coach Knight would be great for college basketball, not just UGA!

Did you play the game Mark, or did yu want to but could not? Be fair, it sounds personal to me!

By Gary

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

I don’t get it. Why would anyone think that a 68-year-old has-been coach is the answer for Georgia? We need a young basketball genius who can recruit. That may have been true of Bobby Knight 30 years ago, but not now. I agree with you, MB. Evans should tell Knight, “Thanks, but no thanks.”

By PMC

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

Hmm lets see. He’s had a few temper tantrums… yes.

He’s also a phenominal basketball coach who would be easily the best ever on that campus. He graduates players, he would elevate the noteriety of an almost invisible program and would likely put them in the NCAA tournament every year he coached as well as being able to recruit the talent needed in this region to leave the first round.

That said he’s older so they would have to do this again soon. You know what you get with Bobby Knight, that’s more than you can say for virtually anyone else. Georgia DESPERATELY needs interest in thier mens basketball program and this would do it overnight.

By DukeFan

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

Re:Howard (Bubba)

Last I checked Oklahoma, Texas, Florida and Ohio State all have basketball teams in the top 25 at one time or another and all 3 have had their football teams in the BCS championship game of recent. Georgia foootball isn’t in the same league as Oklahoma, Texas, Florida or Ohio State so get off your high and mighty “football only” horse

By key

February 2, 2009 2:57 PM | Link to this

I am from GA and still a UGA fan who moved to Kentucky 20 years ago. I am close enough to IU to have witnessed part of the Bobby Knight era and dismissal at IU. If the higher ups at Georgia have any sense in their heads they should RUN from Knight. Hiring him would be THE biggest mistake the University could ever make.

By Drew

February 2, 2009 3:01 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark, The basketball program at UGA has been an embarrassment to the school for long enough. At least BK would bring some serious excitement. There is no where to go but up no matter what BK’s faults!!!!

By English Eyes

February 2, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this

If not Bobby Knight, then whom, Mr. Bradley?

Other posters have said it well. The UGA men’s basketball program is in dire need of CPR. You know it’s ‘get the crash cart and paddle that corpse ‘cause it ain’t moving’ time.

Maybe you could suggest a high quality assistant coach - someone known to you. Referrals are always a good start. Maybe someone at Duke/Kansas/Gonzaga, et.al.? Eh, what say you Mr. Bradley? Any suggestions? Or will you let your fine bit of prose lack for a credible ending?

Georgia needs to know.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 3:02 PM | Link to this

A few temper tantrums? Knight has had so many blow-ups that even the timid university he held in his thrall for nearly 20 years could stand no more and fired him.

Bradley’s rule: Don’t hire a basketball coach who has been fired elsewhere. (See Harrick, Jim.)

By hire knight

February 2, 2009 3:03 PM | Link to this

By all means, Knight is perfect for the uga basketball job; they should hire him right away. Knight is a pompous jerk, throws tantrums when things don’t go his way, and blames his players when things are going bad. I think a complete a**hole like Knight would fit in perfectly with the dogs, and their fans. What can it hurt? uga has never had a bb program and aren’t going to have one now, no matter who the coach is.

By Ryan

February 2, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

I believe you have it the other way around Mark. Why would Bob Knight (one of the best CBB Coaches of all time) want to coach a lowly doormat team that is the Georgia Bulldogs. There is zero talent to work from, and I dont see that changing anytime soon. The clowns in Athens will be lucky to win ONE SEC game this year. They’re that bad!

By Coach BK

February 2, 2009 3:04 PM | Link to this

You are SO right Bradley!!! What would UGA fans do if the basketball players actually started going to class AND passing their class AND graduating AND performing in the classroom AND performing on the court.
That program is a total embarassment and has been for some time now. IF you know anything about Coach Knight his players never miss class and rarely if ever embarass the university. Every program at UGA is run with utmost class and is respected all over the country EXCEPT MENS BASKETBALL.

By FLDAWG

February 2, 2009 3:05 PM | Link to this

Who cares!!! Hire the guy, what does UGA have to lose? He will recruit the best and pack the stands. I don’t really care about basketball, but I know Knight’s record and he has a nack for winning and turning around programs, what else do you need?

By Aubrey

February 2, 2009 3:06 PM | Link to this

You are off base. I think Knight would be an exciting edition to georgia basketball. Not only is he the best living teacher of the game he builds solid men and has a 98% graduation rate. You can also give him atleast some credit for the 2002 trip to the final four. Davis was coaching Knight’s team and it was blatantly apparent in the years that followed that Davis didn’t have what it took on his own (although he is a heck of a nice guy).

By Tony C.

February 2, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this

So, UGA shouldn’t hire a guy that brings instant credibility to an afterthought of a program? Because in 3-6 years he’ll get tired and move on?

Yeah that makes sense, let’s not improve our program at all and hope that slowly, but surely, some unknown guy will be able to recruit successfully against the “big names” in SEC basketball. That it will take a painful at first 6-10 years but by then, UGA’ll have a program run by a stand up guy.

While I’ll agree that Knight is most likely not the LONG-TERM solution needed to ressurrect UGA’s basketball program (it was alive at some point? I’ve lived here darn near my whole life and the only time I recall they did well in back-to-back seasons was when the had ‘Nique), I do not agree that hiring Knight wouldn’t be a good move for UGA.

His stay may be short-term, but he puts the program on the map, and leaves your potential recruiting base waaaay more likely to consider UGA.

He’s not a nice guy, but as well all (should) know, D-1 college athletics is not a nice business. The pros of increased presence (both media-wise and recruiting-wise), probable trip to the NCAA tournament outweigh the cons of Knight pimp-slapping a kid (bad as that may be, although some would argue it’s preferable to seeing ANOTHER UGA player arrested for a felony).

By DukeFan

February 2, 2009 3:07 PM | Link to this

Re:Howard (Bubba)

Last I checked Oklahoma, Texas, Florida and Ohio State all have basketball teams in the top 25 at one time or another and all the above have had their football teams in the BCS championship game of recent. Georgia foootball isn’t in the same league as Oklahoma, Texas, Florida or Ohio State so get off your high and mighty “football only” horse

By Jusafan

February 2, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this

MARK, I just printed,lamenated,and framed your article.I’ll bust it out when and if the good ole boys take that foolish bait and hire this fool.He is Woody Hayes ten years past his pathetic prime. I can hardly contain myself thinking about him pullin’one of his classic antics on one of these Georgia kids and gittin’ his A_s served “Crunk Style”. I can already see the articles being written about how the inmates are running the program at UGA.CANCER,CANCER,CANCER,RUN,RUN,RUN !!!

Yall all know Knight is “THE Ashole of Asholes” all time in college BB.and on top of that,his system does not bode well for those trying to make to the the next level.(NBA)In the last ten years you can’t name five players that played for Knight in the pros.

As much as I hate everything about UGA,I would never wish this cancerous HALL OF FAMER on Georgia or any other institute trying to move forward.

Maybe we are all missing the whole point of Knight being interested in the job.Maybe he has a relative,you know,another son or a nephew that he can turn the job over to in a year or so.You know,someone that couldn’t get the job on their on merit…Sneak um in the back door!!!

By Old Dawg

February 2, 2009 3:08 PM | Link to this

Hiring The General would be a short term solution to a long term problem. There is simply too much home-grown talent for Georgia not to have one of the premier college basketball programs in the SEC. UGA has made a major investment in the program with the new $30 million practice facility, so why not make a similar investment with the new coach?

If UGA takes the time to make the right hire, supports the move with budget etc, then the future should be good. There’s really no excuse for the sorry state of the UGA program through the years.

By crackbaby

February 2, 2009 3:09 PM | Link to this

Bobby Knight is an unmitigated a-hole. Surprising that many UGA fans think he would be good for the program.

Coach Knight is a selfish bully. When things don’t go his way, he behaves indignantly. He subjects his players to undue torment and his antics impact far more than just his team.

Many years ago, Coach Knight was incensed at the officiating in an early round game of a holiday tournament. After Indiana’s loss, he pulled his team out of the tournament and didn’t show up for the next game. It wasn’t enough that he deprived his players and fans (who traveled 3500 miles to get there) of the rest of the tournament experience, he had to disrupt the experience of the other 7 teams.

He is a disgrace to college basketball. Mastery of X’s and O’s alone is not enough. Even coach John Wooden, whose character can hardly be questioned, called out coach Knight as a bully many years ago.

By Big BCH 99

February 2, 2009 3:11 PM | Link to this

I think that Knight wants to try & get to the magical 1,000 wins that Pat Summitt is going to get w/ the Lady Vols this yr.

He would stay long enough to get to the # that he wants & then leave again, I don’t know why he would want the UGA job anyways, look at the condition of the program.

I guess it’s the thought of a challenge.

As a Tech fan, I’m biased, but UGA has trouble landing top notch B-Ball recruits in state. The last bit time commit from GA they had was the 76er’s Louis Williams who went to S. Gwinnett H.S., but as we all know he went straight to the NBA. Jodie Meeks went to KY, Gani went to Tech, Al-Faroq Aminu went to Wake (all 3 of those guys are from the B-Ball factory that is Norcross H.S.).

And UGA tried but didn’t land the nation’s top female player a couple of yrs ago, she went to UConn over Tenn, Duke, & UGA. Maya Moore, from my alma mater (Collins Hill H.S.) made the right choice though, b/c UGA has been like the Braves of NCAA Women’s B-Ball, good in the regular season & sweet 16 or so, but never is able to win it all.

By Will

February 2, 2009 3:12 PM | Link to this

You want to build a basketball program? First you have to build a building that the kids want to play and watch games in. So tear down the Steg at the end of the season and start all over. You will never compete recruiting with that old barn we play in.

By steve

February 2, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

There is no doubt that Bobby Knight is one of the greatest basketball coaches of all time in terms of IQ, ability to teach, and strategy. You do not become the NCAA all-time leader in wins without having a clue to what you are doing. However, he is also the NCAA all-time leader in making an absolute a* of himself and purposely humiliating those around him. I cannot separate the coach from the man and there is no way I would ever hire Bobby Knight. As a man, he is simply the biggest jerk I have ever witnessed in college sports. If he were an athlete, instead of a coach, we would have called him an egotistical prima donna. But since he is a coach, most seem to rationalize his childish behavior.

I don’t care much about Georgia basketball, so they can do whatever they want and I will not lose sleep over it. But, if it were up to me, there is no way I would offer a job to “The General”.

By SALTYDAWG IN N.GA

February 2, 2009 3:13 PM | Link to this

i see both sides points. with that said uga could not do any worse than what they have had. i would like to have someone that just might put adams in his place. so adams will make sure knight does not get the job(if it goes that far). if uga hires someone else and are successful or not he wont be at uga long either way. joel in atlanta was right about harrick being the best coach uga has ever had. but he was also the worst off the court.

By quint

February 2, 2009 3:14 PM | Link to this

Mark, I have to disagree. Bob Knight has no doubt had problems in his past. We all know them so there is no reason for me to elaborate. However, I find fault with at least part of your reasoning.

Yes, the problems are there, but his players typically graduate and like you said, no history of NCAA violations. He is a maker of men even if he sometimes goes too far.

And what’s your beef with hunting? It’s a legal, regulated activity. if you eat meat, your ancestors probably ate it.

By number15

February 2, 2009 3:16 PM | Link to this

Gary, are you serious? A young basketball genius? The game is simple and does not require any genius at all. Coach John Wooden had a simple approach to the game, and so was Red’s approach with the great Celtic teams. Todays hot shot, Youtube, overrated mama’s boys need discipline. The game is the same. Make the simple passes, play hard defense, make your fouls shots, and don’t turn the ball over. Believe me it works! Even with lesser talent this formula works. Just count the number of All-Americans John Chaney had at Temple University versus his wins/losses. Sure you will probably bring up the Calipari incident, or the hard foul against St. Joseph’s University. Blah, blah, blah. The fact remains the same Discipline (with genuine concern), tough defense, no turnovers, make your foul shots and you will be guaranteed success! The numbers don’t lie. Unlike some reporters!

By 'ol dawg

February 2, 2009 3:18 PM | Link to this

Mark,

What ever happened to the “objective Press”. Years ago, journalist were reporters and informers. Now you are all experts and like your news brethren, want to run things!

As for Knight, I have mixed emotions. At this point, UGA basketball doesn’t have much to lose. He has some interesting possibilities in terms of coaching, recruiting, and publicity. Anthony Grant would be a fantastic choice. If UGA gets either of these two men, I would be more than happy.

I realize Knight would probably only be around for a few years, but this program needs a CHARGE! I don’t think anyone would argue with that, as a true Dawg.

By sammy c

February 2, 2009 3:18 PM | Link to this

Many worthy comments have been made regarding this situation, but I must maintain the position that Bobby Knight at UGA would be a huge mistake. He is not a good role model, he is too volatile, he is scary, he is unpredictable, he is not a man to build a program on, he carries too much baggage, he cannot control his mouth, and he is just plain weird. Damon Evans and crew, please do not give Knight any of your time—it would be a waste.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 3:19 PM | Link to this

I’ve never understood why a big school — even a big-time SEC school — can’t be really good at several sports. Florida is. LSU has been. Tennessee cares about basketball and football, and Alabama does, too. Why shouldn’t Georgia?

By H.I. McDunnough

February 2, 2009 3:19 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Do you think it possible to write a column about UGA basketball and not reference Jim Harrick? When you are Furman’s age, are you still going to be laying blame at the foot of Jim Harrick?

By Chris

February 2, 2009 3:21 PM | Link to this

Some of you guys on here are just childish. This is a discussion, and we aren’t in 3rd grade. Lets all be grown up adults. You realize that Mark gets paid to give his opinions, and if it weren’t for him you would have nothing to read in the bathroom! Bob Knight IS the 2nd greatest coach ever, next to John Wooden (also from Indiana) but that doesn’t change the fact that he is past his time. College basketball is a young man’s game now. You need young coaches that are amazing recruiters as well. Coaches have to identify with their players now and have to be able to recruit well when they leave for the NBA after one or two years. I don’t want to too our own horn, but someone like Tom Crean is perfect. Brad Stevens, Gillespe, Mark Few, Bruce Pearl, Matt Painter, and Bruce Weber; all these guys are GREAT coaches and UGA could spend some money. Look to the future. UGA should follow the trend and hire a young coach and hold on to him for a while…build a program. Bob Knight or anyone one else would just provide a small 3-4 year “relief” period. Then you will be back to where you started. May I suggest someoneone that people in Indiana will be familiar with; Dane Fife. Do your research, everyone is saying that he is the next great coach. Granted, he is only at IPFW (Indiana, Purdue, Ft. Wayne) but they play the hardest non-conference schedule you could think of. He is defensive minded as the former Big Ten defensive player of the year, and you know he isn’t afraid of the big name schools. He would be a GREAT hire for a program with “low expectations.” A nice investment in the future, I think, Mark back me up.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 3:22 PM | Link to this

Knight would provide a charge, sure. And if you ask, he might even toss you a chair. (Sorry. Couldn’t resist.)

By Skeezix

February 2, 2009 3:23 PM | Link to this

Mark: The two best reasons why Ga. should hire coach Knight—-he can flat out coach (a hall of famer-one of the best to ever coach the game) and you have never, ever, heard of even a hint about any NCAA violations at a Knight program. Also, you are living in the past as far as his temper tantrums go, he has mellowed a lot over the past few years. I’d love to see Knight at Ga. It would immediately improve the SEC’s profile and create competition for Fla. and Ky.

By Hire Bobby Now

February 2, 2009 3:24 PM | Link to this

What else can I say that Joel from Atlanta hasn’t already said!

I think Coach Knight would be great for Georgia. He has at least 6 more good years left and that is more than we have got out of most of our coaches anyway. If Coach Knight comes I will stop giving away my basketball tickets and actually start going to the games and I am sure a lot of other season ticket holders will as well.

By steve

February 2, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Hey ol’dawg, Mark Bradley is a columnist not a reporter - he gets paid to write his opinions.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 3:25 PM | Link to this

Dane Fife. Good name. I’ll file that one away.

By Mark

February 2, 2009 3:26 PM | Link to this

To compare Knight with Herrick only shows your bias not any facts in evidence. Knight is a lot of things but cheater is NOT one of them! As a Hoosier transplant, allow me to inform you of the things Bob Knight does without fanfare…look at the Indiana University Library and who by far has generated and donated the most money and efforts to make it world class. Look at his graduation rate, the success of his players not only on the basketball floor but, in life! Interview a few before you claim such ridiculous things. What a foolish statement to make! Who knew Texas Tech even played basketball before the Coach arrived…without looking it up tell me who coached TTU before him? Look at the way his teams competed against Oklahoma, Kansas and Oklahoma State. Without the number of blue chip recruits, stuck in Lubbock, Texas in a football school without a major metropolitan area within a few hours drive. This is a man of integrity who is a teacher of successful people, he will not cheat, he will not fail and UGA should jump at the chance to have a man like the General as coach!

By PMC

February 2, 2009 3:27 PM | Link to this

Nice stuff above Chris.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 3:28 PM | Link to this

You know another guy who could flat-out coach (offense, anyway)? Jim Harrick. But is Georgia better or worse for having hired him?

By guy

February 2, 2009 3:30 PM | Link to this

No one will ever be able to get Bobby Knight to start acting like an adult.If those that he’s grabbed while he lost his temper could have knocked him on his _ _ _,he might have learned a lesson.Angry and sarcastic people are better left alone so their ignorance won’t come out. It is what it is!

By Phil

February 2, 2009 3:32 PM | Link to this

UGA hiring Bobby Knight would be about as foolish as the Braves keeping that Moron Bobby Cox around year after year. Let’s hope Damon Evans isn’t as stupid as that bafoon Frank Wren.

By Phil

February 2, 2009 3:33 PM | Link to this

UGA hiring Bobby Knight would be about as foolish as the Braves keeping that Moron Bobby Cox around year after year. Let’s hope Damon Evans isn’t as stupid as that bafoon Frank Wren.

By Robert

February 2, 2009 3:35 PM | Link to this

what a huge mistake to bring that lunatic to Athens….please say it ‘aint so. Take the necessary time to bring the right coach to the BullDog nation. Knight just aint right.

By sandra

February 2, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

I seem to remember Mark Bradley previously saying UGA should go after Mark Gottfried and Quin Snyder.

By AfroDawg

February 2, 2009 3:36 PM | Link to this

Bobby Knight is exactly what the Dawgs need. The man’s 68, let’s say he stays for 4 yrs., the program would be in fine shape when he stepped away. I’ve followed UGA basketball for 30 yrs., and I’ve noticed that the players reflect the coach, this team lacks tenacity, Knight has tons of it.

By RoundDawg

February 2, 2009 3:37 PM | Link to this

Mark, What do you think about UGA going after Few from Gonzaga?

By Chris

February 2, 2009 3:39 PM | Link to this

Thanks Mark, PMC. I would say to do your homework on a coach before you hire him. Find out what kind of a person he is, where he comes from, and who his coaches and influences are/were. A persons environment will shape who they become. If you play or work under a legendary head coach that plays the right way, then thats the kind of coach you will be. (i.e. Tom Crean, Dane Fife, Tom Izzo, Coach K, Bruce Weber, Bill Self, Matt Painter) I apoligize for all the Big Ten references on here, its all I really know. If you were brought up in a cheating environment then that’s how you will turn out. Take it from someone who knows from experience. We had THE DUMBEST athletic director in the history of sports, and he hired the WORST guy possible in sports; Kelvin Sampson. Just go ahead and acknowledge that I know what I’m talking about up here in the crappy weather. All we have when the Colts are one and done is basketball.

By Skeezix

February 2, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

Mark: If you think Harrick is comparable to Knight, in terms of coaching ability, then I have to wonder about your depth of understanding of basketball. Also, Harrick is a walking NCAA violation; so no comparison there either.

By Dr. R

February 2, 2009 3:44 PM | Link to this

Seems to be Knight is used to being BMOC because basketball is king at Indiana. In Athens, he would constantly play second fiddle to football and Mark Richt, and I doubt his ego is up to that. Basketball just doesn’t matter as much down here and I can’t seem how he could ever get used to that. Georgia should pass and find the next rising young star in the coaching ranks, someone who will be around for awhile.

By Chris

February 2, 2009 3:48 PM | Link to this

And by the way, Tubby Smith is NEVER leaving Minnesota. Yeah the weather sucks, but he is treated like a god up there. They had really low expectations for that program, and ZERO pressure there; not like at Kentucky. He will never want to go to another place that has ANY kind of high expectations. Plus he is a recruiting monster up here, and in his second year they are in 3rd or 4th place in the much-improved Big Ten. I will be an IU fan until the day I die, and the worst day in my life was when he signed at Minnesota. He will win Big Ten championships, and that sucks for me to admit it. And leave Bobby Cox out of this discussion, he has earned the right to stay until they have to bury him. And who on Earth could ever replace John Schuerholz; talk about impossible shoes to fill. I wish they WOULD go after Willie Randolph, for after the Bobby Cox era.

By Jason

February 2, 2009 3:50 PM | Link to this

Good news or Bad news At least the program would be talked about!!!!!!!!!!

By Elvis

February 2, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

On second thought, if Tubby is NOT interested, hir Knight Tuesday 2/3/2009!!!

What are the risks???

Mark:

This is the team that had “Cement Head” Jirsa at the helm…

It CANT get worse!

BTW: Have you ever recounted the story of how UGA ALMOST got Wooden as their coach?

By Indianapolis

February 2, 2009 3:51 PM | Link to this

Georgia could really benefit from Bob Knight. You guys are idiots if you don’t at least consider him. What better coach to bring dicipline to a program. If anybody that has whinned about anything its that dang football coach at UGA. Man you Georgia folks alway(s) so opinionated about others. Maybe look at the record and history of coach(s) and stop judging them, on what usually is defending his team…………. Bob, go somewhere else, Georgia loves idiots like Mark (UGA) coach and stupid people like bobby cox……….It’s never about winning here………………. Go Tech! Go Colts, in everything ……………….. How about you guys hire a georgia peach, you guys don’t like folks from other parts of the country !

By wxwax

February 2, 2009 3:54 PM | Link to this

Excellent story, Bradley. I agree with every point you make. UGA basketball fans have a cowtown complex and are smitten because a fading star, a latter-day Norma Desmond, deigns to favor them with a smile.

BTW, I respect the way you read and respond to your readers’ comments. Good stuff. Thank you.

By Mark Bradley

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

About Mark Few: A slew of schools have tried to pry him from Gonzaga, but he’s still there. I don’t think he’d leave for UGA.

By shankit

February 2, 2009 3:58 PM | Link to this

I think Georgia should hire Knight. Not as a basketball coach, but as a defensive coordinator.
I guarantee you he would inject some enthusiasm and get the adrenalin flowing.

By steve

February 2, 2009 4:03 PM | Link to this

It is hard to believe the same person wrote the following sentences -

“Man you Georgia folks alway(s) so opinionated about others”

“You guys are idiots if you don’t at least consider him”

“Georgia loves idiots like Mark (UGA) coach and stupid people like bobby cox”

Just curious, what counts as being opinionated in Indianapolis?

By Jim

February 2, 2009 4:05 PM | Link to this

Bobby Knight is not what UGA needs. Had a friend in Indiana years ago. He told me that he used to take his kids to the Coach’s Lunch when Knight was there. He had to quit taking his kids to the lunch because Knight’s language was totally gross and offensive. He decided that his 11 yr. old daughter really didn’t need to hear F bombs dropped routinely by the coach. Please people, Knight is a bully and a lout - his time and his style of coaching has long passed.

By Chris

February 2, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this

Please ignore “Indianapolis“‘s comments. Everyone up here isn’t as hick and backwards and thinks everything is about race or region. This guy probably has Colts season tickets rather than health insurance for his family. There are LITERALLY thousands of head coaches that can bring discipline to a program, if that’s what you guys need. That’s why I said earlier to look seriously into a coaches background before hiring him. And I agree with wxwax, it is awesome that Mark gets on here and talks with his readers. I would NEVER get that with Bob Kravitz and the Indianapolis Star, really respect it Mark. It shows your respect and appreciation for your readers. Thank you, even though I’m in Indy. But yeah, there are TONS of coaches at programs that have discipline, and their coaches aren’t 68 years old. Bob Knight is not the only person that can teach discipline, he just does/did it differently. Just let him retire and hunt and be on ESPN occasionally if that’s what he wants. Without knowing anything about UGA basketball, my guess is that you can attract a good coach on your own, without help from The General. You ARE at least a big name, noticeable school, even if it is because of football. And yes, big schools CAN have both sports. Who ever would have thought people would care about Tennessee men’s basketball again, honestly? All you need is the right coach, with the right approach.

By Jeff

February 2, 2009 4:06 PM | Link to this

JUST SAY NO! HELL NO! ! !

By Chris

February 2, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

Please ignore “Indianapolis“‘s comments. Everyone up here isn’t as hick and backwards and thinks everything is about race or region. This guy probably has Colts season tickets rather than health insurance for his family. There are LITERALLY thousands of head coaches that can bring discipline to a program, if that’s what you guys need. That’s why I said earlier to look seriously into a coaches background before hiring him. And I agree with wxwax, it is awesome that Mark gets on here and talks with his readers. I would NEVER get that with Bob Kravitz and the Indianapolis Star, really respect it Mark. It shows your respect and appreciation for your readers. Thank you, even though I’m in Indy. But yeah, there are TONS of coaches at programs that have discipline, and their coaches aren’t 68 years old. Bob Knight is not the only person that can teach discipline, he just does/did it differently. Just let him retire and hunt and be on ESPN occasionally if that’s what he wants. Without knowing anything about UGA basketball, my guess is that you can attract a good coach on your own, without help from The General. You ARE at least a big name, noticeable school, even if it is because of football. And yes, big schools CAN have both sports. Who ever would have thought people would care about Tennessee men’s basketball again, honestly? All you need is the right coach, with the right approach.

By THWG

February 2, 2009 4:07 PM | Link to this

Someone should probably tell ol’ Bobby that nobody really even cares about basketball in Athens. Unless your name is Richt, or you can throw a football 50+ yards, then you’re just a nobody in a red jersey to the student population. Now, as a Tech fan, I’d love to see UGA hire Knight. This would do absolutely nothing for the program, seeing as they’ve garnered about as much media attention as they will ever get, simply because Bobby spoke up about how he wants the job. They’ve already cashed in on the media attention, but any further attention would be a result of another one of his angry (yet funny) rampages. Please, Mr. Evans, hire Bobby Knight, to ensure that UGA basketball spends another 5 years in a comatose.

Sincerely, A Tech fan

By Bo

February 2, 2009 4:08 PM | Link to this

Mark:

I agree that Bob Knight would not be good for UGA. In fact, I don’t think he’s good for any university.

I’ve tried my best to accept Bobby Knight over the years. There is much about his programs to like. However, his incessant vulgarity and arrogance towards everyone with whom he disagrees is fundamentally wrong.

UGA’s basketball program needs help. But not the kind Bobby Knight would bring. No amount of desperation could justify his hiring.

Nice article and blog. Great feedback.

By GT15

February 2, 2009 4:08 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark:

I would love to have a new t shirt to go with my old “Dumb Dogs” one, the one with the questions from the exam that Jim Harrick Jr. gave to his students. What do you think the new one will look like if UGAG hires Bobby? Will it have a picture on the back of Bobby throwing a chair at Adams? What do you think?

By quaildawg

February 2, 2009 4:12 PM | Link to this

I wouldn’t expect any scribe to have a glowing report of Bobby Knight because he doesn’t tolerate the insolence of a certain sect of reporters who want to make a name for themselves and see him as an opportunity to do so. ( See Jeremy, Nepotism, Schapp) I never have been a great Knight fan but he would immediately make UGA relevant within the national media and I would bet that were he hired and tickets went on sale that within one week all season tickets would be gone. In defense of Knight at TX Tech he would have a much better recruiting base to work from here in GA.

By Chris

February 2, 2009 4:17 PM | Link to this

And there are only two kinds of people on here that know what they are talking about with Bob Knight: Sports writers that do their research on him, and people from Indiana. Everyone else on here has no idea what they are talking about, because the ONLY time you see Bob Knight is when he’s blowing up on the media. You haven’t read his books, and you didn’t listen to his radio/tv shows locally, and you weren’t there at all of his charity events in and around Indianapolis/Indiana. Read “A Season On the Brink” and tell me you still have the same opinion of him. I would just caution believing everything you see on tv. You can’t comment on someone’s character unless you have facts to back them up or unless you know the man. You can’t judge him based on the soundbytes you get from ESPN.

By dawgsrule

February 2, 2009 4:18 PM | Link to this

Georgia needs any big name it can get, even for 2-3 years, until a good coach can be found. Felton’s brought the program down so far, no good young coach will take the job. Get Knight in here, pay him $1.5 mil for a couple of years, and get the program at least stabilized with a little national pub.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 4:19 PM | Link to this

Thanks, Chris. Thanks, Bo.

And Wxwax: I’m not ready for my close-up. I probably won’t ever be.

By StockDog

February 2, 2009 4:26 PM | Link to this

Mark, when I heard that Bobby Knight was interested in the program at UGA, everything that you wrote in your article went through my mind. However, I thought that he could be a short term fix.

The more I think about it, the more I don’t like the idea of a short term fix. We need something long term. Besides, Adams is a friend of Myles Brand the President at Indiana when Knight was removed or resigned from the Hoosiers. I don’t think Adams would betray his friend Brand.

VCU coach Grant would be a good fit. Somebody totally out of the box would be Bennett from St. Marys College in California. He took over a 2 win team in 2002-3 and now has back to back 20 win seasons. He is a California guy having graduated from UC-San Diego but the guy can flat coach and keeps beating Gonzaga on a regular basis. Would he come east? Not sure but Tenn hired Kiffin.

By STUCK IN SC

February 2, 2009 4:27 PM | Link to this

BUZZ KILLER!

By Dawg Fud

February 2, 2009 4:30 PM | Link to this

Mark - totally agree with your post at 3:19 pm re: being good in several sports

By Curious Observer

February 2, 2009 4:38 PM | Link to this

Does UGA have enough folding chairs to satisfy Bobby Knight’s little eccentricity?

By Chris

February 2, 2009 4:38 PM | Link to this

I went to Ball State University, and I graduated with a Sports Administration degree. Here is how you build a program at a place that “doesn’t care about basketball.” You get a coach that REALLY believes in UGA and has as much passion as all the fans on here. You have to change the attitude and mindset of the whole staff, students, and fans. Don’t let him party in Atlanta, or spend all his time in Augusta, make it clear what his job is. He needs to be practicing, coaching, and recruiting the fans as well as players. It doesn’t matter if you get the best players in the nation, just get kids that have passion and care about your program. And you will never get fans, coaches, players in Athens with the attitude I see on here, why would anyone want to come coach for a bunch of ungrateful people? Seriously, tell your marketing department to get creative, get students in there, make it free for them. It all starts with the students, if they don’t care, no one will. Sell tickets for $5 if you have to, just get people in there, and get kids that will hustle and work hard. Get a good young coach and everything will take care of itself. Not to sound harsh, but you aren’t Kentucky, Indiana, Duke, or UNC; you shouldn’t expect to contend for championships each year. It WILL take time, all you can do is surround your program with the “right” people and the “right” attitude. I know what I am talking about; we had to do this at Ball State with crappy teams and crappy coaches. Also just look at what Terry Hoeppner did for Indiana football, he changed the whole mind-set of the state of Indiana. It is still about basketball, but we care more about football now, and look forward to the season.

By TPR

February 2, 2009 4:39 PM | Link to this

Well, as a UGA graduate and a financial contributor to the University, I e-mailed Damon Evans and suggested that Knight be considered. He might not emerge as the leading candidate because of his age and his “issues”, but I believe he would restore integrity to a basketball program that lacks it at the moment. The Harrick scandal was followed by players having to be run off by Felton because of their problems (Billy Humphrey carrying a knife, Mike Mercer also run off, etc.). Then the team starts losing because it is missing these kids who were quality pIayers but not quality human beings. I don’t think we would see any of that with Knight. Sure, his “bedside manner” may leave something to be desired, but UGA isn’t likely to have a long list of strong candidates. A little known fact about Knight is that at Indiana he prohibited the students seated behind the goal where an opposing player was shooting free throws from waving their arms (or anything else), claiming that was poor sportsmanship. I concur.

The basketball program needs to be restored to strength, honor, and respectability. Then 3-4 years down the road the school might be able to attract a good group of candidates when Knight retires.

By quaildawg

February 2, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this

What UGA definitely doesn’t need is the “Flavor Dejure” of guys who had a Felton run (see last March SEC Tourney) early in their career with someone else recruits. Only interview guys who have been on the job for terms that have required them to recruit and groom their own players and see how those teams have produced. There are far too many Hewiits out there that can’t back up a brief run of success. Anthony Grant, I’m afraid is that type. I might be wrong but UGA can’t afford to roll the dice this time.

By Ross

February 2, 2009 4:40 PM | Link to this

Mark…you are 100 % correct…this overgrown brat has no place in college BB and has not for years.

For those who think he is such a great coach I have one question…”would you want your son to play for this man”? Ross

By Lost Dawg

February 2, 2009 4:47 PM | Link to this

Mark, What is wrong with “killing a few animals” Are you a tofu ugh, ah, person? How do you think that chicken or steak got to your plate? It did not grow in a garden.

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 4:48 PM | Link to this

Ross, I sent both my kids to his camp at Indiana.

I would have him coach my son in a heartbeat.

But in my family, we don’t coddle our kids.

We also don’t believe the media bias…

I am still laughing that a Kentucky fan actually thinks he can write an objective article on Knight.

By Camden Mark

February 2, 2009 4:52 PM | Link to this

Who needs the winningest coach in NCAA history? Who needs a coach that could attracted top flight talent? Who needs a coach that could “shock” a program awake and win B-ball games? Georgia have a basketball team already for him to coach? Only a moron wouldn’t hire Bob Knight if he wanted the job,u morons

By Dog Fan in DC

February 2, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Do you think that 16-17 year old African-American recruits in the Atlanta area will be swayed by Bob Knight. Do you think anyone born after 1990 even remembers what he did. His hire would be an unmitigated disaster. Is the Smith family in charge of this hire?

By Chris

February 2, 2009 4:55 PM | Link to this

I would let my son play for him everyday of the week! I know that he would learn how to play the game the right way, and he would learn that you can’t play basketball forever and he would be prepared for life. He would know how to respect people and he would learn what is important in life, and everyone that has been coached by him graduated and is a productive member of society. I’m 24 years old and I can even acknowledge that kids today have no respect, and don’t know what it means to work hard toward something. With a lot of inner city kids growing up without fathers, I thank god for coaches and people like Bob Knight for being the “father” that these kids never had. Who hasn’t gotten mad enough to “throw a chair”, I mean how mad do you guys get when a ref blows calls repeatedly…we have all been to games like that. And so he put his hands on one or two players, big deal, he was in the army. At least he never punched anyone like that coach from Ohio State. And so what if he is an a**hole to the media. I would get annoyed to if someone painted this picture of me and never showed the good things I did. I agree that he should not be hired by UGA, but not because of who he is or who the media portrays him to be, but because he is too old and his coaching style doesn’t fit in today’s college basketball…

By Sautee Dawg

February 2, 2009 4:56 PM | Link to this

Mark

Say what you want or think whatever, Bob Knight like him or dislike him, he gets respect from his players and they always seem to love playing for him. My opinion he is one of the greatest teachers of the game! I like him as a coach b/cause he voices his opinion and, i also think with the attendance he would bring to the games at UGA the crowd support would have to be benificial to our team.

By John Freemon

February 2, 2009 4:57 PM | Link to this

Bobby knight is an idiot and a jerk and UGA should steer clear and go for a younger coach for the future not an idiot.

By Ross

February 2, 2009 4:58 PM | Link to this

So Hooser Daddy thinks that that anyone who would not want their kids to play for that madman coddles their children…sir my oldest son works out of the country in the international security (and played 1-A college football) and the other is a building contractor…not exactly “wussie professions” wouldn’t you agree ( and I am sure your son is not either) I’m sure you will have the last word on this…have at it. Ross

By big fan

February 2, 2009 5:02 PM | Link to this

Mark,

You’re telling me that Georgia has a chance to hire the winningest basketball coach of all time and that we shouldnt hire him because he is mean? Georgia needs a reality check and a coach as tough as nails to turn this program around. Hiring the guy from dayton? butler? Georgia is a Football school and will always be a football school, we just want a shot to be in the big dance every year. I am telling you right now that I will buy season tickets and a hell of a lot of other people will buy them too if this is a done deal. Now, Tubby is my first choice and Knight is 2nd. This is a no-brainer, forget about all of the shananigans, you hire the best person available at the time. What has anthony grant done? Do you think he will go to florida if they offer down the road? I dont know? What about sean miller, do you think that he is waiting for his alma mater to open up( pitt). What about anybody else? When Tubby came to athens, he was known as a giant killer. There is not a giant killer out there, so you have to go with the best person available at that time.

im out.

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 5:05 PM | Link to this

Ross, yes. I think you probably coddled your kids and they managed to grow into men in spite of it.

I don’t believe the crap the media puts out. I believe what the majority of his former players say about him.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 5:06 PM | Link to this

I appreciate the input, Sautee Dawg. But I’ve talked to several of Knight’s players over the years, and their views of Knight differ wildly. Mike Woodson, to name one, loves him. Others do not.

By Rodney King

February 2, 2009 5:07 PM | Link to this

Why can’t we all just get along?

By Camden Mark

February 2, 2009 5:08 PM | Link to this

Dear Doug,

Yes,yes and No I don’t think so. All UGA would get is a great coach,instant national recognition,a good fisherman and a great man. Not to mention winning basketball games,lets not forget that.

By AfroDawg

February 2, 2009 5:08 PM | Link to this

If Knight took over today’s Dawgs team that’s 9-11, they’d break .500 this season. 6’11 centers that don’t get three rebounds in 25 minutes would crap or get off the pot, point guards that shoot 39% at the charity stripe would have some explaining to do,and forwards that lack guts would be scrambling to find some. Next year he’d bring in some recruits that could contribute, instead of the projects we get now. Georgia has one, count em, one quality player (Trey Thompkins), I hope he doesn’t transfer out of the program. Hiring Knight is a no brainer, that man would tighten up a very loose club immediately.

By Bernie

February 2, 2009 5:09 PM | Link to this

The short list: 1. Capel 2. Miller 3. Grant

The bottom three: Harrick Jr., Jirsa, Knight

By bakerman

February 2, 2009 5:13 PM | Link to this

What? Knight embarrass UGA? How, by winning games and eliminating the thug element that exists now? That’s an embarrassment that would better the school in the long run, and he would even win a few games.

By Dorsey Hill

February 2, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this

Mark,

You know, every once and while you’re right about something. I guess this is it for a while.

Seriously though, I do wonder what some of these so-called Georgia fans who want Knight really value. Is it only winning? Aren’t there more important things than winning? That is even if you assume that hiring the screaming, 68-year old sweater, swearing and using the Lord’s name in vain while representing the University would result in winning?

Personally I’d rather lose than see my school represented by that guy. The bottom line is that you don’t sell your soul or change who you are for anybody or anything.

I hope the immoral idiots out there don’t get their way.

By Chris

February 2, 2009 5:17 PM | Link to this

Bob Knight not recruiting in Texas doesn’t have anything to do with the talent, or lack thereof in that state. There are good basketball players in almost every state in the country. He can’t recruit anymore because these kids were born after he won his last national championship in 1987. Other than the media, he just isn’t relevant anymore, and he has nothing to offer recruits anymore. He, just like Indiana University, can’t rely simply on their names anymore. Kids don’t know about him or who he used to be or what he did at Indiana, because it happened before they were born. That’s why he can’t recruit anymore, not because there isn’t any talent in Texas. This is the attitude I’m talking about, big fan, you’re only gonna buy season tickets if they get a big name coach like Tubby Smith or Bob Knight? Stand behind your coach, whoever he is! If no one is supporting the coach why would he want to bust his butt coaching for you and recruiting for you. And why would players want to play for a bunch of front runners that will only support them when they are winning?

By Camden Mark

February 2, 2009 5:22 PM | Link to this

Right on AfroDawg.It would be nice to have two sports to watch at UGA.Coach Knight would make round ball worth watching again. On a side note,I really hate for coach Felton.Despite everything he himself is a really good man.

By Camden Mark

February 2, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

Right on AfroDawg.It would be nice to have two sports to watch at UGA.Coach Knight would make round ball worth watching again. On a side note,I really hate it for coach Felton.Despite everything he himself is a really good man.

By GameTime

February 2, 2009 5:23 PM | Link to this

We’ll never get Knight but he’d be good for us. We’d have a lot fewer discipline issues and we’d have guys who would play for the team. And believe me, Knight would get the players needed to win in the SEC. Criticizing his lack of success at Texas Tech, Mr. Bradley, is ludicrous.John Wooden couldn’t build a program at that school.

By rebound pass defend

February 2, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this

T U B B Y If he says no, the VCU coach, former assistant to the second most hated gator, would be my choice.

By shane#1

February 2, 2009 5:27 PM | Link to this

You would think that nothing a fan could say could shock me after being on these blogs for a few years, but TidBit has floored me. Did he say the Cards should fire their coach? Man! Take a team that has done nothing since the days of Charlie {by God} Trippi to the Super Bowl and come with in a last second Hail Mary fade route of winning and this cat wants him fired? Give it up pal, you know less about football than music. Oh. Bobby Knight. I had mixed feelings about this yesterday, but what the hell, if he blows the program up you can always fire him. Anyway, it won’t be like he blew up Kansas or Duke, there isn’t that much to lose. It will get people talking about UGA football, put butts in seats, and bring UGA bball much needed press. In short, I don’t see how he can make the program much worse and he WILL bring in some recruits. Also, his kids go to class and he doesn’t cheat. The last thing UGA needs is more NCAA sanctions, that would really kill the program. If he wants the job give him a five year contract with the understanding that there is no buyout if he screws up. Let him know that UGA will be commited to building a winning basketball program and he is the designer. He can bring in the assistants he wants, and these coaches will be well paid, but no relatives. When a man reaches Knight’s age he wants to build something that will be there after he is gone, so UGA might be just the ticket.

By Indianabasketballfan

February 2, 2009 5:29 PM | Link to this

Mark Bradley,

I’m not sure where you think this up and coming coach would be. I don’t think Mr Dane Fife would leave IPFW to come coach at Georgia. I don’t think that people are beating down the door to get that team. As your article states, Bob Knight hasn’t changed in his career. My problem with you argument is this. Bob Knight attracted talent at every school he’s coached. He didn’t pay these kids to come play for him. They chose to join the program. No one that has chosen to play for Coach Knight thinks he’s an altar boy. So why does everyone act surprised when they learn Bob Knight cusses and yells and gets angry. My six year old knows that. I think that Georgia should be grateful that Coach Knight would even consider putting his coaching legacy on the line to coach that team. I for one would be first in line to have my kid play for Coach, if they chose to do so. They would definately exit that program as a better individual than when they entered. Coach Knight has done great things for every university that he has coached at. You don’t write about all the good things, because you probably aren’t aware of them all. That reason is because Coach Knight doesn’t want you to know. He isn’t a boastful, arrogant person that you portray him to be. Do your research before you splatter filth on the internet and in the newspaper about something that you obviously don’t know much about.

By Georgia Gal

February 2, 2009 5:33 PM | Link to this

Oh yes … I absolutely agree. UGA would be extremely foolish to hire that man given his reputation as someone who can just a little too easily blow their lid. He’s a great basketball coach - I don’t deny that. As a matter of fact he’s probably one of the greatest of all time, but unfortunately hiring him comes with a huge price and that is his hot-headedness and I just don’t think it’s a price UGA should be willing to pay.

By Red Raider

February 2, 2009 5:35 PM | Link to this

Do not hire Knight. He will embarrass your university. He can’t help it. And the TTU chancellor he upbraided (nearly attacked) was Dr. David Smith, a decent guy who walked up to Knight and actually paid him a compliment which Knight took the wrong way. The man is crazy as hell.

By Big Bass

February 2, 2009 5:37 PM | Link to this

Hiring Coach Knight would be the best thing that UGA could do to resurrect this terrible program. Does he come with baggage and a bad reputation for being a hot-head? You bet. But, look at what Coach Knight produces; winners on court and in the classroom, young men who are ready for the “real” world, and a media that cowers in his presence. Just go ask his former players if they have a problem with him, and you will find the vast majority state he is one of if not the single greatest influence on their lives. I sincerely implore Dr. Adams and Damon Evans to quit sipping their tea, swallow their pride, check their ego at the door, listen to the players and alumni FOR ONCE, and bring some instant credibility to the UGA basketball and academic/athletics program. HIRE COACH KNIGHT NOW!!!

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 5:41 PM | Link to this

AMEN Indianabasketballfan

Bradley and other sports writers do not write about the good things Knight has done because what makes a bigger splash- raising 7 million dollars for the IU library or tossing a chair? Donating tens of thousands of dollars a year to the TT library or leaving mid season?

Ask Landon Turner what he thinks of Coach Knight. Ask MOST of his players what they think of Knight.

That is who you should believe.

By Brn W.

February 2, 2009 5:43 PM | Link to this

Even Bobby Knight, displaying good behavior, can not turn this team around! The team consists of “no talent” players. There are no shooters on this team. I saw them miss 9 straight “easy” shots in a row. No wonder this team cannot win or even come close to winning!

By Vance Leavy

February 2, 2009 5:47 PM | Link to this

Very solid points, but personally I would love for Bob Knight to coach at Georgia. At the very least, it would make the topic of Georgia basketball relevant. Want proof? Just look at the response to this blog. The Bulldog Nation would follow a winner in basketball and Bobby Knight has won a slew of games. Although you’re right that none of his teams of late have done anything in the tournament. Would love your thoughts on what makes the Georgia job appealing to an up and coming coach when things didn’t work out for Coach Felton who once held that distinction?

By Arkie Fan

February 2, 2009 5:49 PM | Link to this

Say what you want to about Bobby Knight, but remember that he runs a totally clean program and most of his players will graduate. I rank him in the top three of all time colliage coaches. He no doubt has a short fuse - but will fill the stands and will win games. If your looking for a perfect individual, he is not it, but his positive attributes will far out weigh the negatives. You get a hell of a Coach.

By Ed

February 2, 2009 5:51 PM | Link to this

Big Bass - the term “hot head” would probably apply to most college coaches. Knight’s way beyond a hothead. It’s amazing how people still make excuses for him. Half the media and half the basketball fans in the nation act like abused, enabling wives when it comes to Knight - there’s no bizarre incident that can’t be excused, denied, or explained away. Fact is, the guy is nuttier than a fruitcake. He had another hunting incident in Texas and besides the incident with a TTU official, he had a run-in with the guy who runs the arena where the Houston Rockets play. He may still be a wanted man in Puerto Rico after assaulting a security guard there. He demands certain standards of behavior out of his players that he doesn’t demand of himself. He acts like a petulant third-world dictator.

I’d rather see Georgia pull the name of a good high school coach out of a hat and offer him the job before tapping a washed-up 68-yr. old lunatic as head coach. It wouldn’t take 6 months before he’d do something stupid.

By Archie

February 2, 2009 5:54 PM | Link to this

Mark, as a Texas Tech grad, I can honestly say that you summed up my thoughts on Bobby Knight perfectly. Texas Tech was the ONLY school that came to his defense and offered him a chance, and he rewards us with part time effort by putting his son in charge of everything while he plays golf and goes bird hunting (no wonder he gave back his salary one year, he knew he wasn’t doing anything worthy of a paycheck). Pat Knight has been the de facto coach since about 2003, he’s been the recruiter and the game planner. I watched as my team would get blown off the court on trips to Kansas and Texas, some of our worst losses in school history were teams that he coached. Sure, there were some exciting home games where we’d knock off a highly ranked team, but I look back and say it was hardly worth it. We could’ve gotten the same results by plucking a coach out of the Missouri Valley Conference and paying him twice the salary that a MVC school can pay.

I know people around here don’t pay attention to Texas Tech, but would any outside observer honestly look at Tech’s team and say they’re better off now than they were the year before he got there? Out of the 6.5 years he was there, he gave us four good ones. That’s what Georgia would get from him, 2 or 3 good seasons, 2 or 3 more stinker seasons, and he’ll walk out when he gets bored.

By Camden Mark

February 2, 2009 6:00 PM | Link to this

That old washed up 68 year old lunatic probably kick your butt if he heard you call him that. Be nice to have a coach like that wouldn’t it?

By Courtney

February 2, 2009 6:01 PM | Link to this

I saw we hire Coach Knight. We would be luck y to have him!

By MJ

February 2, 2009 6:05 PM | Link to this

UGA basketball would be lucky to have a coach the calibur as Coach Knight. And Mark its Coach Knight to you, show some respect! The guy can teach and is a winner. He took Texas Tech to the Sweet 16 3 years ago! Texas Tech!! There is a reason he has won 902 games and won 3 national titles. Mark, I for one am sure glad you are not running the GA athletic program.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 6:20 PM | Link to this

Let’s name all the players Knight has dispatched to the NBA over the past 15 years. I’ll give you one to start — Alan Henderson. Now try naming five more.

By gadawgs1980

February 2, 2009 6:31 PM | Link to this

If Damon Evans does not hire Bob Knight (if it is true that he would take it if offered) he should lose his job. It’s a no brainer. I don’t care if he only stayed a few years. Within those few years we would get back to respectability and might actually win more conference games than we lose. What a freakin’ concept. What other proven coach with a resume’ even in the same stratoshere as Bob Knight would come to Athens right now. We do not need another up and comer. We need someone who has done it and can do it again (not to mention the right way). Damon, please hire this man right now.

By Steve

February 2, 2009 6:43 PM | Link to this

Come on Mark, while the article and reasoning is fairly sound, everyone knows you to be a fan of a Georgia rival, so how can w trust your motives in this.

Knight has as good a chance as any of the ‘craptastic’ list of coaching candidates to excel with the talent in Georgia. Just because a softy like Jason Collier (who never lived up to his potential under ANY coach) could not get along with Knight is not reason enough to state that ” no latter-day big-timer will put up with the abuse Knight puts out”. That is just a shot at a guy you already admitted you don’t like. Hate talking down about Jason Collier, but I am trying to keep it in perspective.

Maybe it’s because you know that there are only a few coaches out there looking for work that have any shot of helping UGA to compete with the likes of oh … say Kentucky … and you don’t want that to happen since you are in love with the ‘Kittens’. Just admit it.

By bogiebusta

February 2, 2009 6:44 PM | Link to this

Hire Brad Brownell from Wright State…..been to the dance with two different teams..He’s young, energetic and a proven winner at mid-major level.

By Brian in athens

February 2, 2009 6:47 PM | Link to this

I think UGA can use this to their advantage. How would you like to be the coach that was picked OVER Bobby Knight? Now maybe some coaches that weren’t necessarily interested have to think “If Bob Knight thinks he can win in Athens then maybe I should take a look at it.” So, use the press, then hire someone else.

By UGA mom

February 2, 2009 6:53 PM | Link to this

Let’s name all the players Knight has dispatched to the NBA over the past 15 years. I’ll give you one to start — Alan Henderson. Now try naming five more.

Hey Mark, I have a BETTER question. Let’s name all the Indiana players that DID NOT GRADUATE! Try naming FIVE!

I have a son that plays a college sport. I would LOVE for his coach to be as concerned about my son graduating as he is winning.

If it took a few F-bombs to do that, more power to him.

By Algonquin J. Calhoun

February 2, 2009 6:54 PM | Link to this

Mark, I agree with everything you’ve said about Knight. He’s a low human being. I remember seeing him in an interview, with a female personality, in which he said, and I paraphrase, that getting clobbered in a game is like when a woman is about to get raped. He said that at some point you just relax and enjoy it. He’s a disgusting neanderthal and hiring him would be a tremendously stupid thing for Georgia to do. So, we’ll see him in Athens pretty soon.

By tony

February 2, 2009 6:57 PM | Link to this

mark bradley, go jump in a lake! we want coach knight hired immediately. you’re not a bulldog fan any way so mind your own business. its time to turn this program around and keep our talent in state.

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 6:58 PM | Link to this

The idea that college basketball is merely a stepping stone to the NBA and not first and foremost about education is part of the problem to begin with and Bradley using that as an argument against Knight proves what he holds valuable in a college coach.

By tulsadog

February 2, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

UGA, Do Not hire Bobby Knight! He’s a bum and a thug, and I would lose all respect for the institution if he is the next basketball coach at Georgia. I couldn’t agree with you more Mark Bradley. I can’t even watch any game that Bobby Knight is a commentator on. Or any studio show. Or anything associated with college basketball if Knight is involved. I pray that Georgia doesn’t even consider this idiotic idea. Game over.

By PapaSid

February 2, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

Yes, the UGA basketball program is in horrible shape. NO! They should not hire Bobby Knight. Over and above the question of whether he still knows how to win, there is the issue of character. I’m not a big UGA fan, but I have too much respect for Georgia to want to see them tarnished by an association with this sort of contemptible crybaby.

By big jake

February 2, 2009 6:59 PM | Link to this

Hey Mark, did you by chance read in your paper where all the georgia players said they would love to play for knight. Bring on Bob knight and he’ll weed out all the P’s like you and michael adams

By Chaz

February 2, 2009 7:06 PM | Link to this

I don’t understand how anybody could logically believe hiring Bob Knight would be a bad move for the program. He brings instant recognition, which will bring more prospects. Who wouldn’t want to play for a 900+ game winner? Once we get some of the state’s finest, we start to win. Once we start to win, Bob Knight will retire and the job will attract the upper coaching talent.

Winning brings in recruits. Bob Knight wins.

By Katie

February 2, 2009 7:07 PM | Link to this

Being a current UGA student and devoted basketball fan, I have to say that hiring Bobby Knight would be a great decision! Knight is a legend and although some may not be a fan of his, he is one of the greatest coaches out there without a question. Numbers don’t lie about that. He would not only help the program, but bring the experience and leadership to a school that would love to be on the map for not only football, baseball, gymnastics, etc., but for basketball as well. Coach Knight would be welcomed into Athens by screaming fans in red and black with open arms and smiling faces. Knight is exactly what we need and I am praying it’s what we get. GO DAWGS!! Bradley- what the hell are you thinking? Some may question Knight’s coaching methods, but everyone makes “mistakes” at some point…your article is proof of that.

By Florida Dawg

February 2, 2009 7:13 PM | Link to this

I understand the problems associated with hiring Bobby Knight but all that can be worked out in his contract. For example: A) Base pay would be 1.5 Mil. B) Make the NCAA tourn $50,000 C) Make the Sweet 16 $100,000 D) Make the 8 $ 150,000 E) Final Four another $200,000 F) Win National Championship another $250 thou. BONUS MONEY: throw chair at Billy Donovan in Athens $50,000, in Gainesville $100,000. For every 5 games he wins…one outburst is OK. Anything more than that, deduct $50,000 for each outburst unless it’s in Gainesville, Fl. Throwing chair in Gainesville is pre-approved. Anyway, we need someone like Bobby Knight in Athens…we would be on TV every single week. Remember what they say in Hollywood…bad publicity is better than NO publicity. Very little downside hiring Bob Knight.

By Hummon

February 2, 2009 7:20 PM | Link to this

Right on, Mark.

It was astonishing to listen to the talk about Knight on the radio this afternoon. Normally level-headed thinkers start using words like “buzz” and “instant credibility,” ignoring the plain evidence that - chair throwing and player choking incidents aside - 2009 Bobby Knight is a far cry from 1983 Bobby Knight. He no longer wins like he used to and hasn’t for a long time.

Please, Damon Evans, don’t let yourself get railroaded by a mob hallucinating from nostalgia. Find the next Hugh Durham, the next Tubby Smith.

By Truth or Consequences

February 2, 2009 7:25 PM | Link to this

Mark You have been right, at times, and wrong at others. In this case you are wrong. It’s not like UGA is some Sistine Chapel of BB. Nor, was Texas Tech. Knight gave TT relevancy as he would give GA relevancy. The only relevancy UGA has had since Tubby is to be a punch-line for Leno, et al. When you hire a 68 years old you don’t expect to get longevity. But, in 3-5 years Knight can make UGA the type of job ANYONE would want to comptete for.

By Dennis

February 2, 2009 7:27 PM | Link to this

Hire Knight and I will buy 2 season tickets immediately. There is great basketball talent in Georgia and Coach Knight would take them to the top.

By GeorgiaBoy

February 2, 2009 7:28 PM | Link to this

What about Nolan Richardson? Lol, just a thought………

By Katie

February 2, 2009 7:31 PM | Link to this

“When my time on earth is gone, and my activities here are passed, I want them to bury me upside down, and my critics can kiss my a*!”-Bobby Knight

Get over the chair throwing and choking incidents…the Georgia players want him! Be a true dawg fan and support what the team wants and get off the “abusive coach” bandwagon.

By Rumple Forskin

February 2, 2009 7:33 PM | Link to this

MARK, I’VE NEVER AGREED WITH YOU MORE. FLORIDA DAWG (7:13), THAT’S PRETTY GD FUNNY EVEN THOUGH YOU ARE WRONG.

By IUGrad

February 2, 2009 7:34 PM | Link to this

Mr Bradley,

In fairness, don’t you think you should ask at least one former Knight player who played for four years about the coach instead of asking a 7-footer who transferred since he didn’t agree with the coach’s notion that he should be playing close to the basket and not playing point guard and hoisting up threes? Nice bit of journalism there.

By LifelongDawg

February 2, 2009 7:40 PM | Link to this

I didn’t read the article because I knew the comments would be better (and I’ve vowed never to read another piece by MB). I can get the gist of it from you guys, anyway, so thanks.

I’m torn on the Bob(by) Knight thing. The guy isn’t a cheater, and he demands some sort of academic integrity from his kids. On the other hand, he is a petty mini-tyrant who bullies others and fails to live up to the standards he holds everyone else to. What to do? Well, you let the guy’s hat stay in the ring while you boost the profile of the coaching vacancy with his market value. Then you hire another, better, high-profile coach to come and build (or re-build, whatever) this program on a foundation that can withstand the departure of its coach.

By kendallmeeks

February 2, 2009 7:42 PM | Link to this

you such a BUTTHEAD anyway mark bradley hell georgia needs something to bring them out of the hole that their in. COACH BOBBY KNIGHT is just what we need at Georgia not mark bradley . you just a writer not a coach

By Rod

February 2, 2009 7:49 PM | Link to this

STFU Mark. We either hire Tubby Smith or Bobby Knight. End of story and your stupid opinion, Mark.

By quaildawg

February 2, 2009 7:50 PM | Link to this

Mark, OK so there seems to be a great divide over Coach Knight. Then UGA should do the next biggest thing……….. Hire PAT SUMMITT!!! UGA does that and all bets are off. It would blow the lid off NCAA Basketball, would satisfy Adams penchant for wanting to put a stamp on his legacy and put UGA at the forefront of every conversation regarding Mens Basketball. This is not a joke and I would dare Evans to find a better candidate.

By Knight Knobhead

February 2, 2009 7:54 PM | Link to this

The poll you ran where majority of morons voted for the lunatic Knight just shows what type of low classed jerks are bulldog supporters. I have seen many of these drunk, slobbering, rumheads at Ga games, but never believed they were the majority. Now I believe it!!!!

By wxwax

February 2, 2009 8:07 PM | Link to this

Some of the posters here seem to think that Knight would bring talent and success to UGA basketball. I think they should examine his record more carefully. After a smashing run at success at Indiana, which included three National Championships, two Final Fours, three Elite Eights and six Sweet Sixteens… Bobby Knight lost whatever intangible made him such a winner.

In his last six seasons at Indiana, six full years, his teams never advanced beyond the second round of the NCAA tournament. Bear in mind that if he’s hired at UGA, in six full seasons he’d be 75 years old. And either dead or retired.

Not his last six years at Indiana, not his record at Texas Tech, not his recruiting during those years, give any support to the notion that Bobby Knight would turn around a moribund UGA program. At best he’d have modest success, and it would come poisoned by a hefty dose of contempt and conflict He’s a tired man hoping for one last chance to polish his legacy. UGA deserves better than him.

By Indianapolis

February 2, 2009 8:08 PM | Link to this

Steve what counts as being opinionated is that Bob Knight is good coach……You idiot…. Go Figure, I knew you guys wouldn’t recognize a good coach when you see one! Bobby, don’t subject yourself to he dog nation, they sure ain’t no I.U. :)

By Sope Creek

February 2, 2009 8:14 PM | Link to this

UGA should consider Bob Knight (and no, he’s not generally known as “Bobby” any more) because when the guy’s focused on what he’s doing he’s as good as there is and perhaps as good as there ever has been or will be. I closely followed RMK’s career prior to and while attending IU back in the 70s, and frankly I learned as much or more about how to be successful from listening to him talk (in post-game interviews, TV programs, radio talks, etc.) about things like preparation and commitment than I learned about how to be successful from any of my professors.

That said, in the consideration of RMK’s candidacy there are two questions that should be asked. One is whether RMK has learned that discipline is only effective if the discipline itself is disciplined. (BTW, RMK’s definition of discipline isn’t what most think it is. To RMK discipline is [a] knowing what the right thing to do is, [b] knowing how to do the right thing the right way, [c] doing the right thing the right way, and [d] doing the right thing the right way every time. That’s not a bad set of stuff to learn, whether you’re a basketball player or not … so long as the teaching is disciplined enough so as to not interrupt the learning.)

The second question is regarding basketball strategy/coaching. RMK’s teams played very effectively when there was no shot clock - 2 championship banners hang in IU’s Assembly Hall because the players learned RMK’s offensive and defensive systems to near perfection for as much as 2 and 3 minutes at a time. (We’d cheer their patience and discipline like some fans cheer for slam dunks.) And the third championship - won in 1987 - was when the NCAA used a 45 second shot clock. So the question is whether RMK’s systems for offense and defense fit the game being played with a 35 second shot clock. RMK would point you to his teams in 1992/93 and his prospective team on 2001/02 as indications that with the right talent he can still win it all, 35 second clock or otherwise.

If RMK can establish satisfactorily the answers to these two questions, then by all means I could see him being a good fit for UGA - so long as everybody knows that once he’s in place they need to let him do what he does.

Finally, I still think Bradley’s letting his UK heart write his columns … but then that’s what being a UK guy is all about anyway, isn’t it? GRIN

By TJ

February 2, 2009 8:17 PM | Link to this

Bradley get your facts straight. Bobby Knight has never been accused of cheating. He runs a good clean program and his players graduate.

By UGAMBA77

February 2, 2009 8:18 PM | Link to this

Mark,

Whether Georgia hires Knight, Grant, Gregory, Stevens of whoever, what do you see as the things that coach should do initially and over the long-run to develop a solid program. Based on what I’ve read in some of the blogs (if they can be trusted), apparently Felton created some behind-the-scenes ill will from almost the beginning.

By Truth or Consequences

February 2, 2009 8:28 PM | Link to this

KnightNobhead Speaking of morons and lunatics, you are the type of man who would make a good blueprint to build an idiot.

By ButlerDawg

February 2, 2009 8:31 PM | Link to this

There is no way Georgia will pursue BK!

But what do you care anyway, Bradley? You are a Kentucky guy and have no problem seeing UGA struggle as the East cellar dweller.

By bank walker

February 2, 2009 8:32 PM | Link to this

We sure aren’t iu, we’re UGA, a leaps and bounds better university! I think Bobby Knight is just what we need to set a fire in our basketball program. We have the best in state recruiting in the country. If Bob could dress a squad of blue chippers, there’s no telling what he could do!! GO DAWGS!!

By shawn

February 2, 2009 8:40 PM | Link to this

BTW coaching college basketball is not about turning out pro players. You are completely ignorant to compare Coach Knight with Jim Harrick. One is a liar, fraud, thief and repeated violator of NCAA rules. He arranges for his players not to learn a thing in school. Coach Knight is like my father tough, demands respect, expects your best efforts and takes no excuses for failure. He demands his players graduate and do things the right way. He doesn’t cheat and won’t allow his players to. What’s the matter Mark is that the kind of coach that scares you? UGA do not f-ing blow this one. Ten years of Knight puts this team on the right path. If you knew Richt would leave after 10 years bet you still would have hired him.

By Coyote

February 2, 2009 8:42 PM | Link to this

First, people are talking as if UGA is actively considering Bobby Knight and we have no indication whatsoever of that. We’ve heard through anonymous third parties that Knight might be interested in UGA. That hardly means he’ll be announced at a press conference tomorrow. Given UGA’s history with Harrick and the lousy history in basketball in general, I’m sure they will take great care in making this next hiring decision. Since we’re still in mid-season, there may be great candidates out there we don’t even know about yet.

But if the decision does turn to Knight, I don’t think it’s the disaster some make it out to be. He took a 9-19 Texas Tech squad and won 23 games with them the following year so his impact was immediate. He led them to the tourney 4 times and had 5 seasons of 20 or more wins. Plus, he’d certainly bring more attention and interest to UGA basketball.

No one assumes he’d be a long-term solution but 5 years of Bobby Knight would help put UGA on the map and give the next coach something to build upon. Plus, although people have legitimate fears about his demeanor, he could at least be trusted to play by NCAA rules and graduate his players. Don’t underestimate the value of that in the post-Harrick era.

Ultimately, I look at it this way. There may be better candidates for the long-term than Bobby Knight, but he’d still be a significant upgrade from what UGA fans have endured since Tubby Smith left. So, I don’t envy Damon Evans. It will be tough to dismiss this guy as a candidate, especially if the alternative is an unproven mid-major coach.

By shawn

February 2, 2009 8:44 PM | Link to this

And if one more of you idiots say he hasn’t won a championship in blah, blah, blah….he won 20 games at Texas f-ing Tech for 5 of 6 seasons. When is the last time UGA did that- oh sorry never.

By BobDawg

February 2, 2009 8:46 PM | Link to this

Mark, Good Article….Looks like the Blogs are polarizing on the issue already! Maybe The General has given us what we needed all along. Buy-in with our Program and His Attention… Maybe we do unto him how he has done unto others and “use” him to get the coach we really need in the future…I wonder if Tubby Smith knew what he knew now if he ever would have left Athens and The Tub?!

By shawn

February 2, 2009 8:48 PM | Link to this

Bradley is just afraid he will ask a dumb question and Coach Knight will tell him to shut up…lol

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 9:23 PM | Link to this

“Bradley is just afraid he will ask a dumb question and Coach Knight will tell him to shut up…lol” Shawn

I would have to start getting the paper delivered again, just to see that. lol

Anyone doubting the impact Knight would have on the visibility of the program needs to check out the length of the blogs just discussing a RUMOR.

By Halsey

February 2, 2009 9:38 PM | Link to this

I don’t know if hiring Knight is the ‘right’ thing for UGA, but it sure would make the basketball program interesting again. Right now they are boring and bad!

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 9:41 PM | Link to this

To all those who say Knight is the greatest coach ever, here’s a little quiz: Which coach took his team to more Final Fours — Bobby Knight or Denny Crum?

Same question — Bobby Knight or Roy Williams?

By MIKE

February 2, 2009 9:42 PM | Link to this

AT GEORGIA NO ONE IS LOOKING FOR MORE THAN TWO YEARS HE IS A NAME AND RIGHT NOW GEORGIA BASKETBALL WHICH AT UGA IS PROBABLY FORTH WE NEED HIM PLEASE ASK HIM TO COME HERE WE DONT HAVE TO PAY HIM ALOT AND WE GET ON SPORTS CENTER EVERYNIGHT MAYBE HE WILL THROUGH A CHAIR OR FREAK OUT BUT WHO IS REALLY SCARED OF A 68 YR OLD COME WHAT COULD HAPPEN

By Island Dog

February 2, 2009 9:45 PM | Link to this

Mark, you are lost in space. Georgia, my Georgia, has no — I repeat no — basketball tradition. Bob Knight could, and would, bring an instant baseline of credibility to UGA in a sport we have no excuse for not excelling in: top talent state (our school a joke to kids who could make an instant difference), a potential fan base to fill up our rodeo arena, and perhaps the finest coaching mind outside of California and North Carolina. Do you not recognize that 4 or 5 or 6 years under Bob could put us on the map with a “tradition” to build beyond? Bring on Bob or Bobby. I want him wearing a Bulldog sweater and speaking to our Bulldog Club down here in the Golden Isles.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 10:02 PM | Link to this

That’s the point, Island Dog. The top talent in Georgia wouldn’t want to play for Knight. The 1980s were over … well, about 19 years ago.

By pj

February 2, 2009 10:04 PM | Link to this

MARK!!

I drank the kool aid as soon as I read Furman’s story. I know we would get national attention and sell out Stegman for North Carolina A&T…. but then I remembered….

Trey Thompkins said it would be “great”… I wonder how he would feel if he was treated like this:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yw7KijRfU-c

This is Bob Knight. He’s talking to his IU team at the half. This is heinous.

By Halsey

February 2, 2009 10:07 PM | Link to this

I just don’t feel there’s any reason for a UGA student like me to not like Bobby Knight. Ok, so he’s done some mean and dumb things in his past. So have I. He’s still smart, interesting, entertaining and a proven winner. I also happen to think he has a good heart.

By MarseillesMutt

February 2, 2009 10:10 PM | Link to this

“Fine mess you’ve gotten yourself into now Ollie”..er..Markie!

I wasn’t going to ‘weigh’ in on this question Mark, but now you’ve just made me! Got to disagree with you, and it is you who have swung me away from your point of view.

Your points are all well made and undoubtedly sincere and everyone is well aware of the ‘baggage’Coach Knight brings to the table.

And I also agree with you that I cannot think of any of CBK’s players- other than Alan Henderson- who have gone on to the NBA :and THAT is exactly why I would love to have him. He can take average player and WIN with them, and wouldn’t ‘average’ players- according to what I read- be an improvement? Oh, and his program is clean and the players graduate! The downside?

As for ‘the long term’, I have watched UGA basketball off and on since they had to ‘adjust for windage’ in old Woodruff Hall and call time outs during rainstorms at Stegman, nothing seems to change. Nobody’s excited. However, I have read more re Georgia basketball -and interest in same- in the last two days than I have in the last twenty years!That’s not all bad, is it?

Thanks Mark, Furman, and last, but in no way least, Coach Knight. Good outweighs bad, so I’d love to have him.

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 10:13 PM | Link to this

Everyone that keeps saying its been a long time since Knight won anything needs to ask:

WHEN was the last time UGA won ANYTHING. At All.

By MarseillesMutt

February 2, 2009 10:28 PM | Link to this

Hoosier Daddy;

The answer is last year’s SEC Tournament, unfortunately.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 10:30 PM | Link to this

PJ, you’ve nailed it. Why would anyone agree to play for such a martinet?

By A.J.

February 2, 2009 10:30 PM | Link to this

Mark, you don’t get it man. Bobby Knight is the best basketball coach ever. Bobby Knight never had the best talent, but he coached them up to be men, scholars, and athletes. We haven’t done that at UGA since Tubby Smith was there, who I also think we should look at, but he’s left us once which means he’d do it again. I don’t want to get an up and comer, wasn’t Felton one? I want a proven entity. You make the argument he hasn’t been to the final four in X number of years. If UGA made the tournament every year he was here I’d call that success for a program that for too long has been trampled upon. Mark if this man is hired UGA will sell out every seat for every home game he is there. He will elevate this program to a high level just like he did at Texas Tech. You made the statement he doesn’t produce NBA talent, and challenged us to name five Bobby Knight NBA players. I can’t do that but I do know people like Coach K and Steve Alford played for him. I don’t care about him recruiting guys who will only be here a year, I want him to establish UGA basketball and create good players who are great students and great athletes which Bobby Knight does very well.

By youbunchofmorons

February 2, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

Just what we need, a washed up coach rolling into town to use us as his paycheck for a few years while he gets our program on espn for all of the wrong reasons. Idiots Knight? Why don’t you genius shelfheads aim higher, Maybe Roy Williams, or Coach K? Maybe Phil Jackson is tired of Los Angeles and would rather live on the Oconee River than the Pacific coast for awhile. Perhaps Doc Rivers is tiring of the Bostonian winters, or Bill Self is sick of tumbleweeds. T-U-B-B-Y

By HoosierDaddy

February 2, 2009 10:41 PM | Link to this

Oh, Bradley gets it. Deep down he knows all the good things Knight has done on and off the court.

But that doesn’t light up his blog.

Do no expect Mark Bradley or any Kentucky fan to every have a decent thing to say about Knight.

By Mark Bradley

February 2, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

Bobby Knight is not the best basketball coach ever. He’s not even in the top three. (1. Wooden 2. Krzyzewski 3. Deano) And to what high level did Knight elevate the Red Raiders? To the Final Four? (Nope.) To a Big 12 championship? (Nope.) To a Big 12 tournament championship? (Nope.) To a series of Sweet Sixteen appearances. (Nope. They got there once — and lost to West Virginia, which lost to Louisville, which lost to Illinois, which lost to North Carolina.)

By JD

February 2, 2009 10:53 PM | Link to this

Jason Collier was a loser who wanted to play the game his way. He was never about team, but he was about Jason Collier.

Knight didn’t let him have his way so he and his daddy took Jason’s ball and left.

Bob Knight to UGA would send shudders through the SEC, and put everyone who coaches in the “Somewhere Everyone Cheats” conference on notice that a new way of doing business etically was rolling in.

By Halsey

February 2, 2009 11:09 PM | Link to this

Wow, I’ve never heard that speech before. Pretty out of control. I really can’t decide about Knight. Total fence riding.

By pj

February 2, 2009 11:11 PM | Link to this

Seriously guys - I really want you to listen to the link I posted just a bit above this.

I TOTALLY bought this when Furman’s article came out. I went around to my friends and practically boasted that the legendary Bob Knight had interest in our program. Winningest coach off all time - I think in some ways it would be the BEST option for us… but its incredibly short sighted… sort of like T.O. with the Cowboys, Favre with the Jets or Derrick Favors for GT. It’s a nice little quick fix and we would all enjoy it for a year - perhaps two…

But Georgia’s Basketball program’s problem is basic infrastructure. We don’t have one… which is why Bob Knight would be an extremely nice looking band-aid to a much deeper problem. I’ll be honest… if Damon and Adams hire the guy I’ll go to games… kind of like I slow down to see a car wreck… I understand why all of you want him - it’s a very defesible position.

Mark Richt has been a long term solution to the football program… top 10 every year, competing for the SEC title and actually winning it a few times… he’s young, dependable and is staying for awhile. Infrastructure is there. With Bobby - it won’t.

I equate this to turning down a stripper for a date. She’s fun to look at, and many people covet her - but you would never truly want to invite her into your family circle. (disclaimer - I, by no means consider Bob Knight to be attractive)

The flirtation alone is great in that Dick Vitale is mentioning Georgia Basketball. Perhaps that will provide leverage enough to draw in a young, long term solution to the tragedy that is and has been UGA basketball.

By Obeone

February 2, 2009 11:15 PM | Link to this

Ga. basketball program is a joke. Knight would be the perfect hire to keep the joke going.

By A.J.

February 2, 2009 11:22 PM | Link to this

Seriously Mark, not even in the top 3. By the way its real easy to be a great coach when you have the best players. Deano was great because of MJ and throwing the ball around the court in the Four Corners offense which caused the shot clock to be implemented. Texas Tech was a doormat in the big 12 and routinely beat top ranked teams and brought winning basketball to a place where no wanted to coach and no player wanted to play. Yet, he got players to come and play at a high level.

By TPR

February 3, 2009 12:09 AM | Link to this

Since Chuck Dowdle announced on the Channel 2 sports that his sources say that Knight is not on UGA’s “A list”, the points made by those of us who favor Knight (current 64% in the AJC poll) are obviously not in line with the opinions of the UGA decision makers.

I think they are making a mistake by not considering him. He might not emerge as the leading candidate, but if he is in good health, he should be one of the leading candidates.

By SQUAWKER

February 3, 2009 1:45 AM | Link to this

You know another guy who could flat-out coach (offense, anyway)? Not MIKE WOODSON; that is for sure.

If Woody wants him, then there is no way I have any faith in the hire WHATSOEVER. And Bradley, you make some good points this time. I forgot how much I dislike Bobby Knight - your points about him being stubborn and tyrannical are dead on. There was a great piece on him on ESPN a while back (I think with Jeremy Schaap, whom I dont particularly are for either but thats neither here nor there) that really highlighted what a real pr*ck he is. I got a little caught up in the attention it would bring (and yes, the ESPN coverage) and just the overall “sexiness” of the idea.

Let’s move on. I also like the guy from VCU, Anthony Grant. We should give Few a call and then, barring a miracle, put the full court press on Grant. But would he want to coach in the same division with his mentor Billy Donovan? Who knows.

Also, ASG, please FIRE WOODSON asap.

By mdawg

February 3, 2009 2:55 AM | Link to this

Mark. who are you to criticize Bob Knight.

who are you to make up lies about him by you saying that he abuses animals?

lets get things str8. he runs a clean program and his teams have the highest graduation rate. he does have over 900 wins. not many can say that.

you can sit here and belittle him all you want but lets not forget something. he does NOT owe anyone an apology.

you’re the one who owes him an oplogy

By JIM PITTMAN

February 3, 2009 6:41 AM | Link to this

MARK , YOU COULD NOT HAVE SAID THIS ANY BETTER , WHAT IS SO TRUE, THERE IS NOBODY THAT LOVES UGA BETTER THAN I DO. DAMON EVANS NEEDS TO GO GET A PROVEN COACH THAT IS A WINNER , BUT NOT THIS ONE!

By Camden Mark

February 3, 2009 6:42 AM | Link to this

Wait awhile and in a few months it’ll be football and “animal killing” season again and nobody around here will care about this mess.Hardly wait,mm mm gooooood deer sausage.

By Tom, Resident Georgia Fan

February 3, 2009 7:29 AM | Link to this

Basketball is not a sport. Disband the team and reallocate that money to the football team. Then start a movement to rid the country of this overblown boring nothing of a sport.

By Florida Dawg

February 3, 2009 7:38 AM | Link to this

Say what you want, but Bob Knight has “already” generated more interest and publicity in Georgia Basketball that has been generated in the last 30 years. I believe the last time was when Dominique Wilkins signed in 1979 as a freshman…that was 30 years ago. Every coach, sports writer, college AD and Pres and even non-basketball fan is watching this unfold. Hasn’t been interviewed yet…you think he can fill the seats and have the team exposed on TV, with a few YouTubes clips as well? Maybe the team will graduate some kids too. That would be above average.

By Greg

February 3, 2009 8:16 AM | Link to this

All this is really funny. All you people chiming in about something that ain’t going to happen and about a basketball program that means nothing…Everyone needs to get a life.

By David

February 3, 2009 8:34 AM | Link to this

TUBBY

By cjones

February 3, 2009 8:35 AM | Link to this

Well said. Knight would be a disaster at every turn.

Lose that thread, Damon, and move on.

By RealityYech

February 3, 2009 8:41 AM | Link to this

As usual Mark I’m forced to wonder which realitve of yours is a higher up at the AJC. For anyone to say that Knight would be bad for UGA clearly only wants the worst for UGA, case and point Yech fans, or writers for the Yech Buzz (aka The AJC).

UGA has exactly what to lose with Knight? Being the basement team/program in the SEC? We’re already there. Worst recruits in the SEC? Already there. Poor attendence? Already there. So please Mark, tell us what UGA stands to lose?

Knigh would give the program instant life, instant notoriety, the list goes on and on. It’ll make thousands of UGA fans that normally care nothing about basketball to all at once take notice, maybe even attend some games. And recruits will surely respond to his presence. It’s a win/win.

By Chris

February 3, 2009 8:45 AM | Link to this

Best article you’ve ever written by far, Mark, mostly because I agree with you 100%. Bobby Knight is a classless jerk. Who wants that associated with UGA?

By CHRISTOPHORM

February 3, 2009 8:51 AM | Link to this

After the last ten years of watching a “terrible” program…How could you not hire a hall of fame coach ? In the words of charles barkley…that would be turrrible!

By Mark Bradley

February 3, 2009 8:55 AM | Link to this

Thanks, Chris. Thanks, cjones.

And Dean Smith was good because of Michael Jordan? Ever heard of Larry Miller? Charlie Scott? Rusty Clark?

By Mark Bradley

February 3, 2009 9:01 AM | Link to this

Charles Barkley would say that, would he?

The same Charles Barkley who was cut from the 1984 Olympic team coached by Knight?

By JAYBO

February 3, 2009 9:29 AM | Link to this

Georgia hire Bobby Knight….plueeze!!!! Knight is a overrated, hothead, above the law, washed up has been, who hasn’t won consistently in years. He cannot relate to today’s players…who will stand for him grabbing them in the collar in 2009…no one!!! If a black coach would have acted like Knight through the years…throwing chairs on the floor during games, cursing like a sailor at press confrences, putting his hands on players…he would have been fired and never given another chance to coach. UGA, please do yourself a favor, hire a young coach who can build the program, and leave this fool, Bob Knight where he is!!!!!

By Dixie Dog

February 3, 2009 9:35 AM | Link to this

Mark - you are right on target with this one. UGA can and should have a successful BB program but BK isn’t the answer. Yes, he’d bring a lot of attention to UGA, but probably for most of the wrong reasons. Most of the people that support a BK hiring are the same folks that would be ok with an NCAA suspension in exchange for a National title. And, contrary to some of the “we ain’t got nothin” so called fans, UGA has a lot to offer. For the right coach we’ve got all the building blocks for a person to build their own legacy. We need a Tubby without the short sightedness. We found a person like that for football and while we don’t have the same history we can find someone like that for basketball.

By VICTOR.JONES

February 3, 2009 9:45 AM | Link to this

TO HOWARD THE COWARD GROW UP PUNK

By Andy in Blairsville

February 3, 2009 9:50 AM | Link to this

We should listen to Mark Bradley because he really knows UGA sports!

I mean after all how many times during the pre-season has he predicted the Richt era Bulldogs were going to be National Champions?

This column is yet another waste of bandwidth.

By Jason

February 3, 2009 9:57 AM | Link to this

Why hire him? When is the last time on a random Monday in February has anyone outside of the Atlanta area talked about Georgia men’s basketball? Answer - Never.

Hire him!

By Jason

February 3, 2009 10:00 AM | Link to this

Why hire him? When is the last time on a random Monday in February has anyone outside of the Atlanta area talked about Georgia men’s basketball? Answer - Never.

Hire him!

By Bill

February 3, 2009 10:04 AM | Link to this

Good call Mark, just say no to Bobby. Also agree that Brad Stevens or Antony Grant would be great pick. Keep up the good work.

By Steven

February 3, 2009 10:08 AM | Link to this

Mark - While I agree with you on the type of personality and style Coach Knight would be bringing to GA I think it would be stupid to not at least consider him for the job. You can talk about national championships and final fours all you want but how about we start with an SEC win and getting some fans back in the seats. I’ve only made it to one game this year and that was against KY. It’s pretty sad that fans from a school 7 hours away can drown out the home crowd with ease. Coach Knight may think that he’s above the politics of college basketball but that ego is what has made him such a successful coach. He may only put in 2-3 years but his reputation alone will fill the seats and probably pick up some top notch in state recruits that, until the last few years, wouldn’t dream of passing up on the opportunity to play basketball for an SEC school that’s right in their backyard.

By Kendawg

February 3, 2009 10:24 AM | Link to this

It would seem that the best indicator of whether UGA should pursue Bob Knight would be his record at Texas Tech. He improved the program but they still only managed to make it to the middle of the pack in the Big 12. He is an embarrassment to any program with which he is associated. We can do better, even though, let’s face it, the SEC is a football conference. I’m more excited about signing day than I am about hiring a new BB coach. I’ll travel to Athens to see the spring game, which is not a real game but more like an intramural scrimmage. I doubt that I would travel to Athens to see UGA play Kentucky or Tennessee in a real BB game.

By gt4ever

February 3, 2009 10:28 AM | Link to this

Wow, another journalist who has NO CLUE! Bobby Knight is one of the BEST coaches in college basketball! Please Mr. Bradley just think before you press enter! You and the rest of your jock snifffing media buddies are complete “MORONS” about Bobby Knight!

By Herb

February 3, 2009 10:41 AM | Link to this

YOU big dummy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1 UGA getting BK (If we can) is a no-brainer!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

By john doe

February 3, 2009 10:47 AM | Link to this

ACTING LIKE A LITTLE BOY HUMMMMMMMMMM SOUNDS LIKE REPORTERS

By C tha 1

February 3, 2009 11:01 AM | Link to this

Listen B. Knight is a polarizing figure. In many ways he is like my dad…the man just don’t play that s&t*. Bottom line his players play hard and they GRADUATE! I don’t like everything he does, but I respect him.

By shawn

February 3, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

By Mark Bradley February 2, 2009 9:41 PM | Link to this To all those who say Knight is the greatest coach ever, here’s a little quiz: Which coach took his team to more Final Fours — Bobby Knight or Denny Crum?

Same question — Bobby Knight or Roy Williams?

OK Mark we can play that- which one has more national titles?

By Bob Knight

February 3, 2009 11:07 AM | Link to this

Why hasn’t that sunnofabetch Damon Evans called me Gammit!?! Jesus H. Christ on f&kin popsickle stick. What the fks a guy gotta to do to get some Go$$*ammed respect around this mutha-f#&king place. Huh? What do they think I’ll embarass their ignorant hillbilly azzes on National TV? Well F- them and their whole G@@7ammed f&%kin’ school!

I’m sure someone will appreciate my motivational skills:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yw7KijRfU-c

Aw, the hell with it I’ll just go golfin’:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPE_FUZFeLM

By C tha 1

February 3, 2009 11:11 AM | Link to this

I’m 32 years old. If I was a blue chip recruit that B. Knight was interested in when I was 18 I would have said hell no! But I was young and dumb then. Life is full of hard knocks, and guess what….the knocks don’t stop knocking once you leave college. It’s better to learn how to take one on the chin and roll with a punch early on as opposed to later in life. Simply put, nothing and I do mean NOTHING replaces toughness and disipline!! This is exactly what the Men’s UGA Basketball team needs.

By T

February 3, 2009 11:14 AM | Link to this

I think that hiring Bob Knight would be great entertainment for all of us! Not to mention all of the stories that would be written about him in the press.

What could be better than kick boxing at Stegman on a Saturday afternoon, or on a Sunday with a national audience! Or a front page picture of him with Adams and Evans in a choke hold!

Bobby past his prime? No way, he can throw a left hook with the best of them. Bring him on board!!

By murfdawg

February 3, 2009 11:25 AM | Link to this

Mark, Congratulations! You have now become a Dunwoody Soccer Mom. Let’s have a kindler and gentler coach for any sport and give everyone a box drink after the game. There are 18-19 year old kids getting shot in Iraq and you are over here coddling a bunch of pampered athletes because some “old school coach” said cocky-doo to them. Grow up and let the kids grow up.I would say Knight has turned out more good men from his program than you have turned out good columns. What has UGA got to lose by hiring Knight for a couple of years? Bring him in, get the program some good publicity, groom a new coach, beat Kentucky a couple of times and start a new era of Georgia basketball.

I always thought you were a good basketball man. But I guess you are just a good KENTUCKY basketball man. I am a little disappointed in you today.

By Shane

February 3, 2009 11:27 AM | Link to this

He Graduates all his players. He doesnt break any NCAA rules and he wins.

Yeah thats the last thing Georgia needs. Gimme a break.

This is the reason UGA basketball will always be mediocre. They arent commited to winning. Now instead of hiring a legend they will hire another Felton who had success at Soda Pop U and call it a day

By retnav

February 3, 2009 11:29 AM | Link to this

Mark you and your sports reporter buddies are the ones who “Demonized” Bobby Knight. When I played football back in the day it was nothing to have a coach through a clipboard at you, kick you in the behind, and grab your facemask then throw you on the ground. We lived and became better persons because of it. Political Correctness has ruined just about everything. And sports journalism had climbed on the PC train, and Bobby Knight was one of the first to be attacked by them. So he throws fits, pushes players around, stays on thier butts, and why because he cares. Not just about the wins, but about teaching these kids about personal responsibility. Now I know that personal responsibility is not high on the list of the PC crowd, but maybe if we had more coaches like Knight we would have less headlines on players getting in trouble with the law. I think Coach Knight would be a good fit here at Georgia. Yea it may be a short stay due to his age, but he can get the recruiting back. He also can mentor the next coach.

By AP - October 10, 2009

February 3, 2009 11:37 AM | Link to this

Athens, GA - New Georgia basketball coach Bob Knight reportedly got into an altercation with the university’s head football coach Mark Richt over an offensive comment Knight claims Richt directed to him. Said one observer: “It was bizarre. Richt just shook Knight’s hand, wished him luck on the upcoming season, and gave him a ‘God bless you.’ Coach Knight went ballistic and had to be restrained by Damon Evans and a bystander. Knight unleashed a stream of profanity that made Richt’s face turn beet red.” However, when asked about the incident, Knight downplayed it, suggesting that there was a simple misunderstanding. When asked to comment, Georgia AD Damon Evans declined to discuss the incident, but mentioned that Knight recently made a generous donation to the university library.

By Dorsey Hill

February 3, 2009 11:45 AM | Link to this

retnav,

Adults treating children badly is not a good thing ever. Especially other people’s kids. John Wooden didn’t have to be a tyrant to win. Neither did Dean Smith. Almost all winners aren’t like Knight at all. There are plenty of losers though that are exacty like him.

The “political correctness” movement as ou put it started when Woody Hayes, Knight’s mentor, punched an opposing player in the mouth. That was the culmination of years and years of ridiculous behavior by Hayes and it’s continual forgiveness by people like you led to that.

If you want to live in a world where the authority figure beat the hell out of you, I’m sure there are plenty of places that would make you happy. I’m sure someone could refer you to a good S/M madam who will make sure you know what a bad boy you’ve been. In the meantime leave the rest of us out of your stupidity and your perversions.

By John

February 3, 2009 11:49 AM | Link to this

Mark, you are just afraid you’ll have to interview Coach Knight and he’ll blast your @$$ like he did Jeremy Shaap a few years ago. You’re just a crybaby yourself! Get over it!!!

By Keeping It Real

February 3, 2009 12:28 PM | Link to this

I think Jawja should go after Andy Kennedy at Ole Miss. He would fit right in the program.

By chazz

February 3, 2009 12:51 PM | Link to this

UGA basketball. Not exactly an icon. Knight, over the hill? I don’t care. Any press is good press. He will shake things up, bring recruits, excite and/or insite fans, and bring the program some respect.

By BLUE

February 3, 2009 1:15 PM | Link to this

DIXIE DAWG wake up from your comma UGA basketball has nothing to offer a coach. Evertime we start looking for a coach we get to the 5th or 6th person on the list. When are UGA fans going to quit been happy having a good man or person for a coach and get a coach that wins. Look at football CMR is a great person NOW lets look at the coaches that are not good enough for UGA, saban,spurrer, meyer miles are all to big of a***** to be at UGA BUT THEY ARE ALL CHAMPIONS

By gt4ever

February 3, 2009 1:23 PM | Link to this

Dorsey Hill. Please,” Adults treating children badly”. This is precisely the idiotic response that has molded our youth of today. He coaches young adult MEN! Most of these young men have come to love and respect him for what he has taught. Sure, you can find a few that would say other wise, but for the most part, this man has a SOLID background of success! Dorsey please don’t refer to Knight’s life teachings as perverted or stupid. You have NO idea what your talking about… Your obviously OK with today’s athlete, the ones that are so full of themselves, the ones that frequent the jailhouse on occasion. The ones that have NO accountability, and are allowed to do and say what they please. Good Grief, I hope UGA doesn’t hire Bobby Knight, my Jackets may never beat the bulldawgs in basketball again!

By Dorsey Hill

February 3, 2009 1:32 PM | Link to this

gt4ever,

The response I was referring to was a comment about his football playing days when he got the crap kicked out of him and he liked it. I assumed he meant high school or younger. Yes, those are children. Legally and biologically.

Here is your Knight test: Have someone you know go use the bathroom. Then have that person wipe his butt. Then have that person put the soiled paper in your face and scream: THIS IS YOU!!! If you find that a positive experience that you can grow from the you are both a fan of Knight and a sick individual. You may like other people’s feces in your face but don’t subject others to your fecalphilia.

By gt4ever

February 3, 2009 1:49 PM | Link to this

That’s good Dorsey! Typical response from someone who agrees with the general atmosphere of athletes today! Yeah, I’m a sick individual that hates what this nation has become, a nation of whiners! A nation of kids who can’t read or write, but they can play football or basketball and that is a good enough reason to push them through the system. Who cares how they act or what they do or say. The coach that you and a lot of the media have demonized cares, but because he demands certain things, and because he is not politically correct, and doesn’t buy into this liberal attitude this country has adopted, he is sick and perverted. Yeah Dorsey, I am that sick individual, and I am PROUD of it!

By Johnny DangerDawg

February 3, 2009 2:08 PM | Link to this

brewdawg, What will get UGA some “recognition” is winning, regardless of who’s the coach.

By mdawg

February 3, 2009 2:18 PM | Link to this

we need Bob Knight.

you ask us when the last superstar he coached was? well then when was the last superstar to come out of georgia? WE NEED BOB KNIGHT.

mark, why dont you read Bob Knights autobiography. you criticize him for the wrong reasons and so does the other press.

i have seen games he has coached and he gets the T when the other teams coach acts even worse.

as far as charles barkley goes with the 1984 team. at the time barkley was not as good as he once was. i agree with Bob Knight kicking him off the team.

Bob Knight believes in team first. his teams do not have names on the back of their uniforms. that is the way it should be. play as a tea, win as a team and lose as a team. that also goes for taking punishment as a team and running sprints as a team.

that is the way it should be.

HIRE BOB KNIGHT

and Fire mark bradley

By blaum8

February 3, 2009 2:27 PM | Link to this

Mark has always been a Bob Knight hater, and clearly still is.

Bob Knight would be a vast upgrade over the string of loser basketball coaches Georgia has hired over the past decades. If basketball matters at all to UGA, then hire a real basketball coach like Bob Knight. At this point, UGA basketball is an abysmal disgrace.

By dganov

February 3, 2009 2:37 PM | Link to this

Markie Bradley has alwasy hated on Bob Knight. Anyone know why? Maybe because little Markie knows he simply doesn’t measure up to the greatness of Bob Knight. I find it one of life’s constants that if you see Bob Knight mentioned in anything written by little Markie, it is always unfavorable. Instead of being a comment on Bob Knight, each word written by little Markie about Mr. Knight is just another example of what a pathetic little man Markie is.

Truth be told, UGA basketball is an absolute embarrasment to the state of Georgia and to the university. Hiring Bob Knight would be a step in the right direction of fixing the farce that is UGA basketball.

By Hoops

February 3, 2009 3:03 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 four trips, 1 with the current coach - Paul Hewitt (who will be in the good graces again next year)and so many pros compared to UGA it is not even funny. I know UGA had ‘Nique and the final four the year after he left, but that was so long ago the final four was not even in a dome. If you do not hire Knight hire, then please hire Bobby Cremins….you would get all the GA recruits!!!! And make the UGA/GT rival mean something in hoops again, like Paul Johnson did in football again with the win and the rings this year. Please do not hire another young could be bigtime…isn’t that what you just did?

By george

February 3, 2009 3:10 PM | Link to this

who cares! uga basketball is a joke!!!! 1 tournament game win in 12 years and they had to forfit that game in typical UGA fashion bc of NCAA violations. get over it folks

By Dog in Fla

February 3, 2009 3:17 PM | Link to this

Bobby supporters may benefit by listening to Coach Knight(“The General” but really more like the “The Gunny”) giving his players a little guidance on the You Tubes in the posts of “Bob Knight” @ 1107 am 2/3 and “pj” @ 10:04 p.m., 2/2, above.

Suggest that Coach Knight go to the NBA and try his style on some of pro players. Knight’s college players had to put up with it or leave.

By Oil of Olive

February 3, 2009 3:34 PM | Link to this

Bobby Knight lost me when he tackled that opposing player running down the sidelines near his bench. I mean, I cant believe they wasted a whole tub of gatorade on him later, you know?

ban bob

By Mark Bradley

February 3, 2009 3:45 PM | Link to this

FYI, Charles Barkley was the star of the Olympic trials in Bloomington in 1984. I covered them. And I interviewed Charles in the Indianapolis airport as he walked to his gate with Chuck Person.

By BILLY JACK

February 3, 2009 3:48 PM | Link to this

MARK- I BET YOU WOULD NEVER SAY THOSE THINGS TO HIS FACE-IT IS EASY TO HIDE BEHIND A TYPEWRITER-COWARD PLEASE UGA HIRE BOBBY KNIGHT-HE WILL GIVE THE BASKETBALL PROGRAM A MUCH NEEDED SHOT IN THE ARM.

By shawn

February 3, 2009 4:03 PM | Link to this

He won the f-ing gold Bradley so he must have taken the right players or does it not count if Barkley wasn’t on the team. This is where all the p*** kids who get their feelings hurt when a coach yells at them go- behind a typewriter. Grow a pair.

By Otto

February 3, 2009 4:13 PM | Link to this

Mark you have been full of crap on your football blogs but dead on with Knight. He is a has been and one that will bully players and the program.

I want Tubby back. He can build the program and since his dream job did not work will most likely stay if he has the salary and facilities. If he does not come to Athens get the next up and coming coach wanting step up in a major conf. Do not go for a coach that will give the program a black eye bullying players or getting the school on probation, what we had last season was better than that.

By Skeezix

February 3, 2009 5:21 PM | Link to this

The measure of a college coach should never be how many of his players made it to the NBA. Also, today’s pampered kids need a good dose of discipline so they don’t grow up to be spoiled adult brats. The best coaches develop the character of these student athletes so they become solid citizens who contribute in a positive way to society in the future.

By spotts

February 3, 2009 6:15 PM | Link to this

Mark, don’t know if you saw, but they mentioned your article on PTI today (and mostly agreed).

That being said, I’d love to have Knight at UGA. I started going to UGA in ‘02, graduated in ‘06, and my college basketball experience consisted of our upset of Florida in the 02-03 season (which was quickly flushed after the whole Harrick thing).

After that, we were filled with a bunch of mediocre to awful teams. Let me tell you….we would’ve KILLED for the 3 NCAA victories that Knight had at TT.

By Dorsey Hill

February 3, 2009 7:02 PM | Link to this

gt4ever,

Not surprising to me at all that a Tech fan hates America and enjoys being called excrement. After all you are a self-loathing bunch. And who can blame you really? We all pretty much agree that you are worthy of hatred and spite. This is especially true when you consider your lack of patriotism.

By Tommy B.

February 3, 2009 9:11 PM | Link to this

What an unmitigated disaster it would be to hire Knight. Granted, he’s a pretty good cpach, but he comes with so much baggage, it’s pitifiul. What would UGA do the first time he abused a player, or threw a chair, or cursed at a press conference? We don’t need the notoriety, especially after the Harrick debacle. We can do better!!!

By Victorious Secret

February 3, 2009 10:39 PM | Link to this

Hoosier Daddy is 100% correct. And Birddog: Dennis Felton was an up-and-comer. How’d that work out for you?

By Chuck Uga

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

FINALLY, A VOICE OF REASON! THANK YOU MARK BRADLEY!!

By Chuck Uga

February 3, 2009 11:37 PM | Link to this

OH YEAH, ANYONE WHO THINKS KNIGHT SHOULD BE HIRED IS PRETTY MUCH AN IDIOT. YOU ARE PART OF THE REASON UGA BASKETBALL IS AN ALL-TIME JOKE. IT IS TIME FOR YOU TO SHUT THE HELL UP AND LET A RATIONAL PERSON MAKE A DECISION (LIKE DAMON EVANS AND UNLIKE MICHAEL ADAMS…WHO HAS NO BUSINESS BEING INVOLVED WITH HIS TRACK RECORD).

By MARK

February 3, 2009 11:48 PM | Link to this

Knight wouldnt come to UGA he just want something for yall to talk about..haha he laughing at the idea..UGA Basketball Coach maybe President Obama can be the UGA coach part time..haha

By mdawg

February 4, 2009 12:34 AM | Link to this

fire mark bradley

HIRE BOB KNIGHT

uga chuck, you dont know anything about coach knight to make your comments.

there is no one better qualified. give the guy credit. he has more wins himself than georgia does in its lifetime

By Bud Wiser

February 4, 2009 6:37 AM | Link to this

Damon Evans is looking for another black coach. Michael Adams is looking to match his socks when he gets dressed. Neither of them will find a winner, because they are both losers.

As long as UGA will consider black coaches solely for this job, they will never hit the big time. A motivator like Knight could do the job much better than enablers like Felton and Smith were. They play and they play hard for Knight, or they ride the bench, or quit and go home crying, telling the press how ‘mean’ BK was.

The winningest coach in NCAA history did not get there by enabling his kids to be failures, by lack of hard work, by wanting to hang with his bro’s.

By gt4ever

February 4, 2009 7:53 AM | Link to this

Dorsey, Just get some HELP!

By jo jo

February 4, 2009 8:20 AM | Link to this

ithink coach night might help get better recruits anybody would do beeter than the team the dawgs have now he might even steal a few from tech

By Rex Chapman Solves All Problems

February 4, 2009 8:50 AM | Link to this

HIRING KNIGHT WOULD DEMONSTRATE THAT UGA IS NOT SERIOUS ABOUT ITS PROGRAM. HIRING SOMEONE KNOWING THAT YOU’D BE GETTING NOTORIOUS THEATER FOR A COUPLE OF YEARS AND NOTHING MORE WOULD BE RIDICULOUS. GEORGIA CAN DO BETTER. IT SHOULD DO WHAT EVERYONE ELSE DOES—HIRE A HOTSHOT ASSISTANT OR SUCCESSFUL SMALLER COLLEGE COACH AND HOPE IT WORKS OUT.

By Shane

February 4, 2009 9:01 AM | Link to this

Instead of getting a proven winner we will get someone who had success at Soda Pop U. YAWN

By Mark Bradley

February 4, 2009 9:46 AM | Link to this

Any press is good press? Was the fallout over Tony Cole good press?

By DirtyDawg

February 4, 2009 10:58 AM | Link to this

From reviewing the comments of those that are in favor of UGA hiring Knight, it would appear that you’re, in essence, saying that ‘as you go through life you’re gonna run into arrogant, bullying, know-it-alls that very well may be your boss, so you might as well get used to dealing with them sooner rather than later’.

As has been said, it’s always been ‘all about Bobby’, and at 68 - and after watching him on ESPN these past months - it’s even worse. He’ll suck the air out of everything and everybody around him. Yeah, he’ll get some recruits and he may even make them competitive, but in the end he’ll leave town with a ‘I just can’t deal with these kids today’, and go back to bullying Digger Philps and the rest of the folks they put him on the dais with.

By NoWay

February 4, 2009 11:27 AM | Link to this

DirtyDawg

I would appear that you have been spoon fed your information from the media. I would submit that you take a look at BK’s work as a whole, and not take the word of the pop media, who for the most part, will side with any disgruntled athlete that says anything derogatory towards BK. It’s like anything, you have to see through all the BS the national media paints, and of course Bradley’s rantings. Peel the onion back and see that, what you call arrogant, and bullying is not what BK is about. He is about shaping young adults into men. The only true absolute here are his many past players, who for the most part respect this man a great deal! Yeah, Bradley will rant on about some one who doesn’t like him, but in viewing the whole body of work, there are not that many basketball coaches on his level. PERIOD! UGA would be lucky to get BK as a coach….

By Bob "The General" Knight

February 4, 2009 11:40 AM | Link to this

UP YOURS, BRADLEY!!! I’M THE GREATEST FREAKIN’ COACH THE GAME HAS EVER SEEN!!! I CAN’T HELP IT THAT I ALWAYS SEEM TO RUN INTO IDIOTS WHO PROVOKE ME!!! I DO NOT HAVE ANGER ISSUES!!! BY THE WAY, IF OUR PATHS EVER CROSS, I’M GOING TO KICK YOUR REAR FROM HERE TO VALDOSTA!!! ARRGGHHHHHH!!!!!!!

By Bob "The General" Knight

February 4, 2009 12:03 PM | Link to this

MDawg, No Way, Billy Jack, spotts, and others who have commented in support of my hiring, thanks, but STFU!

DO I LOOK LIKE I NEED YOUR HELP OR SUPPORT!? SINCE WHEN DOES A GOD NEED THE SUPPORT OF MERE MORTALS? AGAINST MARK-FREAKIN’-BRADLEY OF ALL PEOPLE!! IF I WANT YOUR SUPPORT OR OPINIONS, I’LL BEAT THEM OUT OF YOU, YOU WORTHLESS PEONS!!! NOW GO BACK TO YOUR FILTHY DORMROOMS AND HIT THE BOOKS BEFORE I PUT A SIZE-14 UP YOUR REAR ENDS, YOU PATHETIC LITTLE TWERPS!!!

By DirtyDawg

February 4, 2009 12:08 PM | Link to this

Look, I don’t need Mark Bradley’s comments to confirm what I’ve known for years - Bobby Knight is a bullying, arrogant, know-it-all, and, I might add, tyrant. Hell man, this is who he is and is proud of it. The Woody Hayes of college basketball. Why do you think Indiana, the place where his legend was born, finally got rid of him? Not because they were ‘spoon fed’ by the media, but because they had finally had enough.

As for his former players, including those that have gone onto coach, some were better than others. For every Coach K, there’s an Isiah Thomas (fine fellow he turned out to be).

Having said all this, if I thought that for one minute Knight’s going to Georgia could end in his ‘throttling’ Michael Adams over something or other, I might just change my tune.

By Mark P.

February 4, 2009 12:18 PM | Link to this

I would like to throw another hat into the ring of possible replacements as UGA coach. How about Ricardo Patton? He ahs coached successfully at a major college (Colorado), and the Buffalos job is actually a much worse job than the Bulldogs. He is a good recruiter, and he grew up in Nashville, so he knows something about Southern basketball. At 50 years old, he isn’t quite as young as Damon Evans might be looking for, and he isn’t a “hot” name from a mid-major. But his buy-out from N. Illinois would probably not be high, and he is respected in the college b-ball community (even Bob Knight speaks highly of him). I am not a friend of Furman B., so I have no insight into whether UGA even knows who he is, but they could do much worse than Ricardo Patton.

By Mark P.

February 4, 2009 12:21 PM | Link to this

I would like to throw another hat into the ring of possible replacements as UGA coach. How about Ricardo Patton? He ahs coached successfully at a major college (Colorado), and the Buffalos job is actually a much worse job than the Bulldogs. He is a good recruiter, and he grew up in Nashville, so he knows something about Southern basketball. At 50 years old, he isn’t quite as young as Damon Evans might be looking for, and he isn’t a “hot” name from a mid-major. But his buy-out from N. Illinois would probably not be high, and he is respected in the college b-ball community (even Bob Knight speaks highly of him). I am not a friend of Furman B., so I have no insight into whether UGA even knows who he is, but they could do much worse than Ricardo Patton.

By MountainDawg

February 4, 2009 2:21 PM | Link to this

Coach Knight is a brilliant motivator & a master of the game. His no-nonsense approach to discipline & execution are unparalleled. Yes, he has some arrogant leanings, but no top D1 coach is without some degree of ego. That being said, I’m not sure how good of a “fit” he’d be at UGA. Irregardless, I can’t see Adams/Evans making the offer…but I could be wrong.

By Meanwhile...lack of candidates

February 4, 2009 4:34 PM | Link to this

Bobby Knight? What, Coach Woodcock wasn’t available?

By Equality for All

February 4, 2009 5:59 PM | Link to this

Here’s a name that hasn’t been mentioned, but perhaps should: Andy Landers.