I can't believe I beat everyone else to this...

http://www.kstatesports.com/ViewArticle....LID=560226

http://www.kansascity.com/mld/kansascity...326388.htm

So, what should we know about Erik Martin? I see he played with Nick Van Exel - if I had had to bet which of the two was going to be hired I probably wouldn't have picked Martin.

Yes, Erik Martin is one of those type of players that pretty much made use of every single cell in his body for basketball. He always came back during the summer and helped UC players and is a very qualiy person. I know KSU fans wouldnt be familiar with him, but UC fans are, and I like this hire alot. Hggs is very loyal and is helping out one of his former players.

That would be why we need new members posting this stuff. The more eyes the better. I was at work all day and did not hear about it till I looked on here.

He gives Huggs a tie to the west coast and a tie to the final 4 team.

"Hi I'm coach Martin, I played With Huggs in the final 4! Want to do it again?"

I would have prefered Nick V. but the timing is not right.

Quote:I would have prefered Nick V. but the timing is not right.

Van Exel does not have his degree, so he was never in contention for the position...

So, what should we know about Erik Martin? I see he played with Nick Van Exel - if I had had to bet which of the two was going to be hired I probably wouldn't have picked Martin.[/quote]

Eric Martin was the prototype of a Bob Huggins athlete. He made use of everything he had as a 6'6 PF. I remember the time he got in a shouting match with Huggs and walked back to the locker room ripping his shirt off during the game. Obviously they made up which is a tribute to the coaching talents of Huggins. He never had a problem with a player who shouted back at him. 'They just need to know who ultimately is the boss.'

Erik Martin was one of the toughest forwards that Huggins had play for him. He finished. Nobody ever blocked a dunk of his. He didn't play finesse when he rebounded the ball and went back up to score. He didnt do the head fakes.....the Man had a great quick leap and he stuffed the ball in their faces. He hated to lose.
The only concern I would have about Erik as an assistant coach is how will he be with recruiting. He is very soft spoken and sort of seems shy. I have no idea how he interacts with parents and players. I am so glad for Erik that he is given the chance to be a coach in division I and if he accepts that challenge as he did as a player, he'll find ways to make his team better too.