The unofficial online home for fans of the Old Dominion University Monarchs. Part of Collegiate Sports Nation (CSN).

(12-07-2017 11:24 AM)monarx Wrote:  This was an interesting snippet from an article about the SMU coach leaving, and how facilities and fan support matter to recruiting and coaching.

https://sportsday.dallasnews.com/college...g-arkansas

"Of course, Morris wasn't in it for the long haul on the Hilltop, but SMU should have at least made it a hard decision, if for no other reason than to keep the job attractive for all the coaches to come. Like most in today's arms race, Morris wanted an indoor practice facility. Promises reportedly were made; still, no dirt has been turned.
Worse, from a visual standpoint, was the embarrassing spectacle of all those empty seats. How can you impress recruits with that as a backdrop?
Fans simply didn't support Morris' efforts. Wouldn't even come in from the Boulevard.
Until they make that short walk, it'll be difficult to hire -- much less keep -- a good coach.
Many SMU students remember the good ol' days or consider anything less than "power five" status unworthy of their time. Students support the basketball program because it was national caliber under Larry Brown. Easier to build something big in basketball, especially when it's fronted by a legendary coach."

This is off topic, but I wonder when non P5 schools will realize this, and allocate funding accordingly. There is much more room for schools like ODU and SMU to build their brand, and bring attention to their university, via basketball than football.