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12/06-06/07
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So Long Coach Knight
It was certainly a surprise for him to retire midseason but to quote Coach Knight, "There’s a transition that’s going to take place here from me to Pat and I’ve dwelt on this all year long ... how it would be best for him and for the team and for what we can do in the long run to make this the best thing for Texas Tech,"
"He's tired." Pat Knight said of his father. After coaching his teams to 902 wins in 42 years I would be too. His accomplishments include three National Championships, a perfect season in 1976 and an Olympic gold medal.
I recently sang his praises after his 900th victory (click here) so I will not put myself out there once again. Many will say that since I grew up as a Hoosier I may be a little biased. After all in my formative years you worshipped either Bob Knight or Gene Keady. Worshipped might be a strong word but not by much in basketball crazy Indiana.
With his retirement I think we will find that there will be something missing. A character that is bigger than life on the floor and on the college basketball stage is retiring. Despite the efforts of Knight-haters he will continue to be thought of fondly. Just try maligning Woody Hayes in Columbus, Ohio and let me know if you escape without a bloody lip.
Many are critical of his methods but on certain very important issues his integrity is without question. His commitment to education has never and should never be called into question. He has also never been penalized by the NCAA for breaking any rules concerning recruiting or otherwise.
One other item of note concerning Bobby Knight, after the 2002-2003 season at Texas Tech Coach Knight refused his salary for the simple reason that he felt he did not earn it. You might argue that he did not need the money so it was not that big of a deal. Irregardless of that fact it was a move that further illustrated that not only did he expect excellence from his players but also of himself.
Does he deserve the ire of many a fan? Yes certainly so. He did act crazy at times. I just wonder of all the Knight-haters out there what percentage of them feel the way they do because his student-athletes beat their team repeatedly over the years.
Everyone is in fact entitled to their own opinion. As for me I am sorry to see him go. College basketball has lost a legend whether you like it or not.
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