Will Indiana Go After Alford?

[OutbackBowl2017]

Stevey always has a way of coming out smelling like a rose. He will probably get UCLA to a Final Four with a championship game vs Arizona then take advantage by going home to Indiana where they will treat him like the God he always expected while at Iowa.

 

[fivecardstud14]

If I recall correctly, and I could be remembering wrong, didn't Alford suggest that PP move along after the first incident and offer to help find him a place to transfer to? The U of I stepped in and said to give him a second chance after a red shirt year.

I'm sure your recollection will be spot since you seem to have the inside scoop here. But let me correct you on one thing, it was Pat Harty's niece, not his daughter.

Alford was squeaking clean before PP and has been since. I can't remember any recruiting violations or other criminal incidents involving Alford. I'm not trying to down play what PP did in the least, they are very serious charges. But to act like Alford aided and abetted PP is just as serious. I don't know the whole story and I'm fairly certain you (or anyone) don't either.

I've never met Alford, but his family went out of their way to make my family's day a little better many years ago, on a game day too. I was told Steve was nice and Tanya was exceptional during their interaction. I've also heard that players really liked playing for Alford.

You can't say things like that. Don't you get it, that 2006 guy knows anything & everything about Alford. That guy probably hates UCLA now only because of Alford, and never watches them play, despite the fact they're one of the most fun college bball teams to watch.

 

[Titanhawk2]

I think you are wrong about Alford asking PP to move on. Just the opposite.

I wouldn't assume Alford has been clean as a recruiter. The whole Tyler Smith deal always smelled rank to me. Smith left Iowa when Alford left with Neal.

Smith was Neal's recruit, not commenting on the smell but I don't believe Alford had much to do with that recruitment

 

[wawasee]

I doubt if Alford gets a job offer. Glass is looking for a higher level coach. Crean was fired for a couple of reasons. Number one not recruiting Indiana. The state of Indiana has the fourth most NBA players in it. Indy is a recruiting hotbed. Crean pissed off the high school coaches there. The next coach has to be able to lock down Indy. Dakich was right when he said the IU coach only needs a couple of tanks of gas to get his recruits.

 

[Douglas C. Neidermeyer]

Some food for thought:

Alford would owe UCLA $7.8 million if he “initiated his departure” before April 30, 2017.

Indiana will pay Crean $4 million not to coach. His critics set up a “buyout clock” on the Internet, in fact.

So that’s $11.8 million before we even get to Alford’s projected salary.

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/alford-746793-indiana-coach.html

 

[Mohawkeye]

Smith was Neal's recruit, not commenting on the smell but I don't believe Alford had much to do with that recruitment

Who did Neal work for? I don't think you can call Alford clean if he hired Neal to do his dirty work.

 

[hexumhawk]

Indiana Basketball = Modern day Nebraska football.

Both fanbases think they are better than they actually are.

 

[iahawks10]

Help me out here. What were the recruiting violations involving Tyler Smith? What were Tyler Smith's character issues while at Iowa and before?

Smith turned out to be a POS, but that was after he left Iowa and away from Alford and Neal.

 

[HawkLogic]

Smith was Neal's recruit, not commenting on the smell but I don't believe Alford had much to do with that recruitment

They were conjoined twins. Alford was face of program, Neal was educating him. Before Neal, Alford was floundering after his initial success from his name.

 

[DodgerHawki]

Help me out here. What were the recruiting violations involving Tyler Smith? What were Tyler Smith's character issues while at Iowa and before?

Smith turned out to be a POS, but that was after he left Iowa and away from Alford and Neal.

There were no recruiting violations with Smith. He had committed to Tennessee, then went to prep school his first year before going to Iowa. I don't know that Smith had any character issues while at Iowa.

My opinion only, but I would like to see Iowa push the edges more in terms of getting talent on campus. Iowa can stand on its "win, graduate, do the right way mantra" all it wants but it's been 37 years since Iowa won a Big Ten regular season title.

 

[iahawks10]

They were conjoined twins. Alford was face of program, Neal was educating him. Before Neal, Alford was floundering after his initial success from his name.

How has Neal done since the surgery or separation?

 

[Hawkeyegrad2006]

Splitting hairs

Alford's timeout was defensible. This is Coming from the guy who just slammed him, for whatever that's worth. Miler clearly has deeper disdain for Narcisistic Stevo

 

[Hawkeyegrad2006]

If I recall correctly, and I could be remembering wrong, didn't Alford suggest that PP move along after the first incident and offer to help find him a place to transfer to? The U of I stepped in and said to give him a second chance after a red shirt year.

I'm sure your recollection will be spot since you seem to have the inside scoop here. But let me correct you on one thing, it was Pat Harty's niece, not his daughter.

Alford was squeaking clean before PP and has been since. I can't remember any recruiting violations or other criminal incidents involving Alford. I'm not trying to down play what PP did in the least, they are very serious charges. But to act like Alford aided and abetted PP is just as serious. I don't know the whole story and I'm fairly certain you (or anyone) don't either.

I've never met Alford, but his family went out of their way to make my family's day a little better many years ago, on a game day too. I was told Steve was nice and Tanya was exceptional during their interaction. I've also heard that players really liked playing for Alford.

I'm glad to hear that story about your family. People are complicated. All of us. I meant Harty's niece and wrote niece the first time. I mistakenly wrote daughter the 2nd time.

I've never heard that he tried to help PP transfer. All I know is he said he thought he was innocent---AFTER PP admitted guilt in a plea bargain, said the victim needed to "move on," and the DA of Johnson County said Alford's interference made his case more difficult to prosecute.

http://m.ocregister.com/articles/alford-502628-pierce-iowa.html

"
University and faculty also charged that another factor in the victim's decision not to push for a felony case against Pierce was the influence of by two representatives of Athletes In Action, a religious group, who were friends of Alford and who traveled with the Hawkeye basketball team and were regularly present at other team functions. At one point, the victim was invited to a prayer meeting where the case was discussed.

"The involvement of the persons affiliated with Athletes in Action in attempting to resolve this matter, while perhaps well-meaning, had unintended consequences for the University community. The desire to facilitate an informal resolution of the matter may have had the opposite result. The Committee recommends that the Athletic Department take steps to limit the involvement of outside advisers, religious or otherwise, in University matters and to maintain the confidentiality of departmental information," the university report charged."

 

[Hawkeyegrad2006]

You can't say things like that. Don't you get it, that 2006 guy knows anything & everything about Alford. That guy probably hates UCLA now only because of Alford, and never watches them play, despite the fact they're one of the most fun college bball teams to watch.

How can I NOT watch Lonzo?!!! I almost find myself rooting for the team they're so fun to watch. They just don't play enough defense and I don't think he coaches em up very hard---probably what he agreed to with LaVar Ball in exchange for his sons going to UCLA

 

[Hawkeyegrad2006]

They were conjoined twins. Alford was face of program, Neal was educating him. Before Neal, Alford was floundering after his initial success from his name.

He could use Neal now

 

[ichawk24]

They were conjoined twins. Alford was face of program, Neal was educating him. Before Neal, Alford was floundering after his initial success from his name.

Yet, somehow, Neal has struggled without Steve, and Alford has been more or less a success at UCLA.

 

[HawkAttackDial911]

Yet, somehow, Neal has struggled without Steve, and Alford has been more or less a success at UCLA.

UCLA recruits itself. Case and point, Lonzo Ball.

 

[anon_bb9wlf9kj42py]

If the PP thing went down now with all of the awareness about enabling rape culture, and Alford's encounters with the victim, he would likely be fired at any school.

 

[HawkRugged17]

If the PP thing went down now with all of the awareness about enabling rape culture, and Alford's encounters with the victim, he would likely be fired at any school.

 

[nck24]

I think it's a valid question.

I always thought that he would be a good coach. He would have benefitted greatly by being an assistant coach at a high level program like Kansas, Kentucky, UNC etc before taking on a gig as big as Iowa. You dont learn how to manage the highest level of athlete at SW Missouri. You also don't learn how to deal with the pressure of high expectations from big dollar donors , how to work the alumni and general fanbase, and deal with the PR issues associated with suddenly being the big fish in a small fishbowl.

That said..he created the image of being super arrogant and a giant self serving douche. He's not our problem now and can pound sand, wherever he coaches.

 

[HawkLogic]

How has Neal done since the surgery or separation?

Alford still has the name and the better hair, so he is better face plate for program. Look at the guys Iowa was recruiting before Neal arrived...Seth Gorney, Carlton Reed...after Neal arrived--Tyler Smith. Alford thought he could win with just his name and Neal showed him you need athletes.

Sounds like Indiana is interested in Alford and he has to get out of own before Ball and his other freshman phenom declare. I look forward to Alford at Indiana and Fran making him his beech.

 

[hawk-i bob]

just back from my golf trip in kansas...the talk on radio in KC is Alford to Indiana is a done deal...as I predicted before I went on my trip.

 

[myteamcanbeatupyourteam]

Lets see if he can avoid being the victim of the 14 3 upset in the Tourney for a third time.

 

[Hawkeyegrad2006]

This weasel is going to snake out again after a 2nd round or sweet 16 exit again....jerk has impeccable timing.

 

[iahawks10]

Alford still has the name and the better hair, so he is better face plate for program. Look at the guys Iowa was recruiting before Neal arrived...Seth Gorney, Carlton Reed...after Neal arrived--Tyler Smith. Alford thought he could win with just his name and Neal showed him you need athletes.

Sounds like Indiana is interested in Alford and he has to get out of own before Ball and his other freshman phenom declare. I look forward to Alford at Indiana and Fran making him his beech.

I see you avoided my question. Figures.

I'll ask again, how has Neal done since they separated coaching staffs?

I have no doubt Neal helped SA learn, grow, and become a better coach. But to act like SA hasn't been successful only because of Neal is laughable too. So far all I read are excuses: SA gets by on good looks, SA's name is why he wins, UCLA recruits itself, SA is getting out before Ball leaves. This shit's comical. There's a million excuses, but what it boils down to is that Alford has been pretty successful since he left Iowa. At Iowa not so much. I want nothing to do with SA coming back to the B1G and UCLA is about as far away as he can get.

Before Neal arrived I see you cherry picked some recruits. Gorney BTW was considered a pretty good recruit which Iowa beat out OSU (home state) for. Reed was considered the best player on his team and a better recruit than Mikey Henderson.
Worley, Reiner, Horner, Brunner. Brought in guys like: Haluska, Recker, Reggie Evans

 

[hawkeyeguy69]

Son just graduated and IU would be dream job. Both are hot recruting areas and elite jobs but only one is the true dream job.

UCLA is far easier to recruit to than IU. Not even close. That said, there are some players in Indiana. Although you have to share with Purdue, Butler & Notre Lame....
He would be a fool to leave that job. Plus Bloomington is a fishbowl, and he is anonymous in LA.

 

[LuteHawk]

The word on the street in L.A. is that Alford is going
to Indiana. He has worn out his welcome at UCLA
and admitted as much when he returned a year of his
salary. Alford will go to Indiana and retire there.

 

[cidhawkeye]

Two questions, when did Tanya or Sam join the board? What other major program did Steve win at in a big way? Or are we talking about a season or two?

 

[iahawks10]

Two questions, when did Tanya or Sam join the board? What other major program did Steve win at in a big way? Or are we talking about a season or two?

Not sure if Sam or Tanya post here. It's kind of an anonymous thing which is why I'm sure you're acting like such a funny guy.
Well let's see if you're really that dense. SA has coached two major programs Iowa and UCLA.
Did he win at Iowa "in a big way"? No, but tell me who has. Lute, over 30 years ago.

Let me ask you a question now. Alford has coached five college programs in his coaching career. Which one of those programs weren't overly successful under Alford?

 

[mtown66]

They were conjoined twins. Alford was face of program, Neal was educating him. Before Neal, Alford was floundering after his initial success from his name.

So, explain why Neal has failed at New Mexico where Alford was immensely successful and why Alford has succeeded at UCLA without Neal.

 

[cidhawkeye]

Not sure if Sam or Tanya post here. It's kind of an anonymous thing which is why I'm sure you're acting like such a funny guy.
Well let's see if you're really that dense. SA has coached two major programs Iowa and UCLA.
Did he win at Iowa "in a big way"? No, but tell me who has. Lute, over 30 years ago.

Let me ask you a question now. Alford has coached five college programs in his coaching career. Which one of those programs weren't overly successful under Alford?

The representation was that he coached multiple power programs and was very successful. The fact that no one else has is immaterial. He wasn't a huge success at Iowa and some may say he was a reason why the program struggled after his departure. Your non questioning admiration of Alford is admirable. He has done well at each of the 5 programs he has ran. If he goes to Indiana I am sure he will do well. The prodigal son type of reception for him.

 

[hawk-i bob]

The only record I care about is the one at Iowa...
* overall below average Big Ten regular season.
* 3 great runs in the BTT..2001 & 2006 Champions..runnerup 2002
* 3 NCAA bids in 8 years.
* post season 6 out of 8 years.

in general other than the BTT his results were below average.

recruiting...he was a young coach with a name & resume when he first game to Iowa...but cooled to the point where he started trying to bring in a few guys that couldn't pass admissions.

after 8 years of Alford I dont think the Iowa program was in better shape that Fran's after 7 years.

 

[Fan In Black]

I don't see why Alford would stay at UCLA really. Rightfully or not, the UCLA fanbase expects championships. Howland went from three straight final fours to on the hot seat in three years. Alford's job was on shaky ground prior to this year and their drastic offensive improvement is due to having a once in a generation point guard this year. They lose a ton off of their team this year, his son, Ball, Leaf, Hamilton all will be moving on. Plus he has the headache of Lavar Ball to deal with for the next few years, a guy who makes it clear he recruited UCLA, not the other way around. Lonzo was worth the headache, but I think the younger two brothers are overrated and won't be nearly the impact type player. Seems like a great time to come home for Alford.

I am record stating he would be dumb to leave UCLA, but the more I think about it the more I think it would be dumb not to. This post says it all.

 

[mazda1]

Steve may try to use Indiana as a reason for a pay hike at UCLA. I would guess Indiana may offer if and when Stevens and Donavan turn them down.

His ego may drive him back to Indiana and his name would probably lock down in state recruiting. Steve has the love of his state, but he'd have to win soon and there wouldn't be much of a honeymoon for him. I wouldn't be surprised to see it happen, but imo it's not a good fit for either.

 

[iahawks10]

The representation was that he coached multiple power programs and was very successful. The fact that no one else has is immaterial. He wasn't a huge success at Iowa and some may say he was a reason why the program struggled after his departure. Your non questioning admiration of Alford is admirable. He has done well at each of the 5 programs he has ran. If he goes to Indiana I am sure he will do well. The prodigal son type of reception for him.

No you're trying to be a jokester with your 15 year old quip "is that Sam or Tanya?". At least come up with something new.

Iowa did struggle after SA left, but look no further than Todd Lickliter and Gary Barta for blame with that. Three seasons after SA left, Iowa went (10-22 & 4-14) under TL. You're blaming SA for that? Meanwhile, SA took a .500 program in NM to a (30-5 & 14-2) record that same year. But some people will say.... some people have also said that he demanded free riding lawn mowers, had an affair with his secretary, and berated a girl at Subway because she didn't give him a free foot long. Just because I don't buy into all of the 3rd party hearsay doesn't mean I have non questioning admiration for the guy.

What I do know is that Alford can coach and him going to Indiana would not be a good thing for Iowa. Alford has been gone for 10 years now and put Iowa well behind him. He's been pretty successful since then. We sit here and bring him up every chance we get and then talk crap about him like a spurned ex lover.

 

[SoMplsHawkI]

It's been reported by CBSSports that Alford's UCLA buyout is $10.4 million. Add to that Crean is still owed $4 million. So unless there is a really deep pocketed alum with money to burn I'm gonna say no.

 

[hawkjt]

View embedded media

This is ridiculous....Briles tried to cover up dozens of assaults....SA never tried to cover up anything...PP's case became public with his arrest almost immediately after the crime. SA did insist that PP was innocent before the settlement was reached...which is the American justice system's '' innocent til proven guilty'' deal.

I am betting SA is hired by IU. If he can lock down Indiana preps...they will be back quickly. Indiana has 5 top 50 recruits this year and none even visited IU.. if that changes under SA ,IU will be very tough again.

 

[Chewback]

Chances are he has had some professional maturity like anybody in any profession. The Steve Alford today is probably a much different Steve Alford than the one who coached at Iowa.

He got a lot better at Iowa after he brought Craig Neal in.

 

[Chewback]

Yet, somehow, Neal has struggled without Steve, and Alford has been more or less a success at UCLA.

Several have mentioned Neal's struggles at NM so I went looking and found this very interesting article, kind of a history of Craig Neal. It covers his time with the Raptors, time with Iowa through to current date. It's long so get a beer and a snack before you start.

https://nmfishbowl.com/2016/12/28/the-comeuppance-of-craig-neal/

 

[cidhawkeye]

No you're trying to be a jokester with your 15 year old quip "is that Sam or Tanya?". At least come up with something new.

Iowa did struggle after SA left, but look no further than Todd Lickliter and Gary Barta for blame with that. Three seasons after SA left, Iowa went (10-22 & 4-14) under TL. You're blaming SA for that? Meanwhile, SA took a .500 program in NM to a (30-5 & 14-2) record that same year. But some people will say.... some people have also said that he demanded free riding lawn mowers, had an affair with his secretary, and berated a girl at Subway because she didn't give him a free foot long. Just because I don't buy into all of the 3rd party hearsay doesn't mean I have non questioning admiration for the guy.

What I do know is that Alford can coach and him going to Indiana would not be a good thing for Iowa. Alford has been gone for 10 years now and put Iowa well behind him. He's been pretty successful since then. We sit here and bring him up every chance we get and then talk crap about him like a spurned ex lover.

You quoted me incorrectly but that's okay, you have your angle to work. He had far less success at Iowa then his predecessor did. Iowa took a risk on a name and it didn't work as well as they had hoped. His reputation at Iowa had a great deal of who he was as a person, some of the stories are exaggerated or just made up. Others are spot on and true. He got out at a good time and moving to a mid major was a good career move and he nailed it. Lickliter took what was a listing ship and sunk it. Alford did contribute to that but TL deserves the majority of the blame. It would be interesting to see which support staff people have followed him on his various spots, do you know? Care to share if you do? Continue on with your support of Steve, your loyalty while it has reduced your objectivity is admirable.