Walking Boot of Doom

This. I don't think people realize that one of the main reasons our defense was so bad was because of the gap at the 5. We went from the 47th best defense to the 219th with pretty much the same team minus Vonleh. You put a competent and skilled big man, Bryant, in the lineup, and you should see us with a defense much closer to that 50th range. Combine that with our potent offense, and you're looking at a pretty dangerous team. Hopefully this team really works on their defense as well, and we see overall improvement regardless of Bryant.

He did help change our history for the better. Unfortunately, we could not sustain that positive change. We need a coach who can create a consistent culture and program so when we sign players like Zeller, we're already poised to capitalize on their talent.

Per KenPom's defensive rating for 2014, we were 47th. We returned that same group, with the same coach, and same system, and ended up ranked 218th.    What changed? That's all I'm asking. As pointed out by JS earlier, Crean has never had a good defensive rating, but this is his absolute worst and a major outlier.   I really think the missing big man had the largest impact. That's why I believe Thomas Bryant will make a significant difference. 

Yes, but what changed between this year and last? The only change I saw was JBJ not playing defense and a missing big man. We weren't a good defense last year, but we certainly weren't as bad as we were this year. I think Bryant could have a bigger impact than you're expecting. Also, I expect the team to take more pride in building their defensive ability and focus during the offseason after getting embarrassed all season.

@ebosshoops: On the bright side, continue to hear things are looking pretty positive for Indiana and elite center prospect Thomas Bryant.

I never understood Crean's buyout. I feel like Indiana held all of the power in those negotiations. You'd think there would have been better contingency clauses for us to get out of the contract with.

*George Washington prediction courtesy of hoosierpap

Regarding Thomas Bryant: Jerry Meyer ‏@jerrymeyer247 13m13 minutes ago @sparksjay personally just hearing Indiana strong. More @sparksjay personally just hearing Indiana strong. Says Mizzou has faded out. Doesn't seem to be giving Syracuse a chance either.

If recruiting just the state was a reliable recruiting strategy, no one in Indiana would be spending money to recruit elsewhere. This state is poached left and right by outsiders, and does not produce enough players to continually fill all recruiting needs. Crean has done a pretty good job of landing quality in state players. He's also missed on a handful of great players as well. If we want to be competitive, we need to recruit the best talent out there, and explore all recruiting options. Plus, if our program generates $25+ million in profit a year, $800k to obtain the players that drive the profit is an excellent investment.

No. It's a 3-4 year investment. What was spent this year was used to recruit kids for 2015, 2016, 2017, and 2018.

@GaryParrishCBS: I’m told money is no object at Alabama. Will start above $3 million. Would go as high as they need to go. Gonna make Gregg Marshall say no.

It is odd that there hasn't been a statement by Crean or Glass confirming that he'll be back. Even just saying that he's excited to coach at IU next year.

I was there as well and can vouch that the crowd was pumped. The balcony was a little under staffed, but AH was loud and electric.

Looks like Crean is once again a backup option

@GaryParrishCBS: Alabama planning to make big run at Gregg Marshall when Wichita State’s season ends, sources told @CBSSports. Story: http://t.co/IU5xaHUXBC

Hate when people act like they're taking some noble stance and having a positive impact in the long run by not going to games. "I support the program, not just one team." Just go watch the boys play, and cheer on the Cream and Crimson. They worked hard to get there, and the program needs its fans. If you stop going because of Crean, you're part of the contingent ruining the fact that we're an intimidating place to play.

You also like to read into things this way. Also, I'm not sure what wound he left by transferring that he could be rubbing salt into. I say he's just happy to be playing for Butler, and glad that his team had a solid season. Nothing more.

You are assuming context. It is not an assumption you can make.

Nothing there isn't classy. This is not at all a shot towards IU. He plays for Butler now, no other team should matter to him.

@SethDavisHoops: I'd be very surprised if he didn't @MrChris_22: Does Crean stay at IU?

@SethDavisHoops: sounds like it's Prohm's if he wants it RT @KyleSKardashian: Who will be the next coach at Alabama?

This is just the civil suit. It's good for her. She gets a pay day, and the means to get to her next job.   The NCAA is still investigating.

This would be an excellent situation for everyone. Crean deserves a fresh start somewhere and IU deserves a better coach. If this rumor is true, then great for CTC! And let's hope we can actually hire the right coach this time... 4th time's the charm! 

Yup. But just one Final Four in 13 years at Wisconsin.

Great coach who can't win when it counts.