slyinsocal

No problem. Just stirring the conversation. Definitely not a Rodman clone. The Pistons epitomized playing with a mean streak, to which Rodman fit to a T. Another player that came to mind is Yoakim Noah. Disruptive, not much offense, but a good passer/facilitator/screener/unselfish. I've seen Rodman, Noah, and Draymond Green smile. Not because they were happy, but because they enjoyed getting under the other team's skin. Cardwell is a true freshman and will find his own style.

Dennis Rodman in terms of enthusiasm, endless motor, disruptiveness. I'd hate for Cardwell to guard me or him meeting me at the rim. But I'm 5'10"....

Saban and Kirby have staffs with several no name coaches. Yes, a few well known coaches are sprinkled in key positions. It is not blind to recognize that CBH has the track record and is essentially following the same blueprint. His coordinators are not rookies. Some of the staff are known. Some are lesser known. Same formula. Rest easy.

The naysayers won't be happy unless the staff is full of glitz, glamour, and the high cost of 247 top rated recruiters, or P5 assistants from existing, successful staffs, or the NFL. That is a very thin and superficial way to build a staff. There's no question CW is an expert at the position and can develop players. The success of his position group has been posted. Hopefully now at Auburn, good recruiting will match his results. Let's hope so. As to why he wasn't syphoned away before now? Maybe he was content working under 2 pretty decent coaches (Blakeney and Brown). Maybe the family likes the Troy area. It happens. Maybe he's the new Joe Whitt, Sr. rock solid kind of hire. Auburn was the closest big time D1 program with an opening. Maybe he went all in and blew them away during the interview. Again I say, interviews are SO important to find out who fits, who doesn't, who knows the position inside out, and who has the upside to contribute in a meaningful way beyond their position group. All these years, have DC and TM ever demonstrated, to ANY of the staffs they've worked for, the ability to offer something more than recruit? They've had plenty of time, and are still just assistants. TM was given one chance at OC at USCw and then right back to assistant. Did their position group excel? That's it.

You'd be amazed at what a real, thorough interview process can reveal. Do these candidates agree philosophically? Are they expecting higher pay based on their merit as recruiters, and/or can they demonstrate an "expert" level of knowledge and skill regarding the position? Do they have a plan and good organizational skills? Can they be relied upon to do the job without constant oversight? Can they provide examples of their position group meeting and/or exceeding expectations?

All these years, in the back of your mind, you knew this young man had a future. And you were right. We had Harper/Mitchell and Harper/McCormick in back to back years with tremendous success. But only McCormick last year, and no Cooper, and no real bonafide backup PG this year. There has to be someone reliable like a Sears, or a juco PG eager to fill that role. Going forward, I hope the coaching staff learn from these 2 years and prioritize the position. Doesn't have to be the leading scorer, but a capable floor general. There are plenty of them out there at smaller schools and jucos. So critical.