My wife- the Grammar Hammer- has discovered The Cheap Seats. She has pointed out that my writing skills leave me a few fries short of a happy meal. I believe that a happy life is a happy wife so after 21 easy payments of $14.95, Hooked on Phonics better work for me.
JW and I made it back from the Big 12's in one piece. (same can't be said for the Muskrat JW failed to see while eating a burger and using his knees to steer) A quick story about the state of ISU men's basketball. I was in the hotel elevator with a nice older couple dolled up in KU Jayhawk gear.
Me, " Congrats on winning the Big 12 tournament.... again"
Old guy, "Dagnabbit that team better learn to play ball real quick or I'm going to hit Phog Allen's gravestone with my pitchfork!"
Me, "ISU's starting five next season will be Diante Garrett, three walk-ons and a cardboard cutout of Marcus Fizer" Spoiled much?
After unpacking I was immediately dispatched to Iowa City to hear Gary Barta officially fire Todd Lickliter. My feeling is that the loss of season ticket holders had a lot more to do with the ousting than the loss of 22 games this season. I posed that question to a sportswriter (usually very smart people) but his response confused me. His theory is that if they went 22-10 and still couldn't draw flies, Lick would still have his job. True, but if they were winning 22 games a year, and couldn't draw flies, I think the marketing director would be the first to go. They kind of go hand in hand, no? Maybe that was his original point. Now I'm confused again. Let's move on.
My wish list for Iowa's new coach:
Keno Davis- Tom's kid and one of the best coaches I've dealt with in my long illustrious career
Phil Jackson- I would love to see if he could win without great players (low blow, but Cully Payne! for reals!)
John Wooden- He's got one season left in him
Bruce Pearl- Shirts optional would be a big change from the button up days of Big Lick
As you can tell I have inside knowledge of the situation. I'll let you know when I hear something.
