interesting article on Buzz and his relationship to Marquette.
http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/news?slug=jn-king_williams_happiness_success_marquette_061211
I've heard a lot of his "you couldn't author a stranger story" regarding his years before coming to Marquette and his other folksy stories of growing up in Texas, but I've never heard him talk about a legacy or the idea of leaving one with MU.
Never underestimate the power of a woman.
The opportunity has always been at Marquette to build a legacy. Al understood that. Kevin and Tom chased a brass ring that they thought was only possible somewhere else. This article will help put those Buzz to this or that school to rest. It will help recruiting.
And in the end neither Kevin nor Tom will be remembered. Al knew the streets of New York; Buzz, the tumbleweeds of north Texas. Both found 'home' on Wisconsin Avenue.
Wouldn't it be cool if Buzz has a long, successful run building a BEast power that recruits nationally, graduates its kids, and makes noise every year in the tourney? Someday he can retire back home in Texas after the coaching days are over.
See you at the BBQ, boys.
Quote from: jsglow on June 12, 2011, 08:18:47 AM
And in the end neither Kevin nor Tom will be remembered.
I long for the day when Tom isn't remembered.
Great news. Interesting he gave this "scoop" to a Yahoo basketball reporter instead of Rosiak - perhaps with recruiting in mind - better to get the word out on a national level as opposed to local. I'm sure we'll see some type of similar story from Rosiak as we approach the season...to let the more casual/local MU basketball fan read comments that are quite favorable toward Milwaukee.
This article should go a long way to quell rumors of Buzz leaving, and the subsequent fear among those of us MU fans who want to see Buzz remain at MU a long time. Huge, that his wife seems to be happy in MKE. I really believe we are embarking on another golden era/decade in MU basketball history. Buzz is an original, and throwback, and I will forever be thankful to Tom Crean for recruiting him to MU - clearly TC can recognize talent.
Very interesting that Corey had a huge hand in him staying, when so many speculated she wanted to go back to Texas...
I'm glad they look at Milwaukee like home now. Especially with all of Buzz's travels, it has to be nice to get some roots down for their family.
So the university needs to create a 'Kiss Cam' video clip where Buzz plants a nice one on Corey and the Student Section goes nuts.
Quote from: MUfan12 on June 12, 2011, 10:42:19 AM
Very interesting that Corey had a huge hand in him staying, when so many speculated she wanted to go back to Texas...
I'm glad they look at Milwaukee like home now. Especially with all of Buzz's travels, it has to be nice to get some roots down for their family.
Was that the talk on campus? I don't remember reading that sentiment in a forum like this.
Quote from: The Golden Avalanche on June 12, 2011, 11:24:34 AM
Was that the talk on campus? I don't remember reading that sentiment in a forum like this.
It was here. People were guessing that she was ready to be closer to home after traveling around for Buzz's career moves for years. I'm glad to see that we were wrong :)
Who knows, in a couple of years when Calhoun, Boeheim, and the senior BE coaches ride off into the sunset, Marquette's Buzz Williams will be one of the first names mentioned when announcers talk about the leaders of the coaching fraternity of the BE!
Quote from: Ners on June 12, 2011, 09:52:10 AM
Great news. Interesting he gave this "scoop" to a Yahoo basketball reporter instead of Rosiak - perhaps with recruiting in mind - better to get the word out on a national level as opposed to local. I'm sure we'll see some type of similar story from Rosiak as we approach the season...to let the more casual/local MU basketball fan read comments that are quite favorable toward Milwaukee.
This article should go a long way to quell rumors of Buzz leaving, and the subsequent fear among those of us MU fans who want to see Buzz remain at MU a long time. Huge, that his wife seems to be happy in MKE. I really believe we are embarking on another golden era/decade in MU basketball history. Buzz is an original, and throwback, and I will forever be thankful to Tom Crean for recruiting him to MU - clearly TC can recognize talent.
I do not think it is a news scoop. It more likely a reporter, who wanted to write a story on Buzz and contacted Buzz to do the story. Probably wanted to know why Buzz stayed.
I would definitely say this was a "scoop"...why would Buzz wait until now to talk about this as opposed to when those positions are open a few months ago? 1. To get more money from the Jesuits 2. To keep his name in the national conversation 3. He says it now to help him nail down that last recruit.
In no stretch of the imagination does Buzz simply say this to a national reporter "just because the reporter wanted to do a story."
Buzz is much smarter than that and he knows how to play the game. This was a very strategic interview done to accomplish a specific purpose.
Quote from: JoBo2756 on June 12, 2011, 01:25:30 PM
I would definitely say this was a "scoop"...why would Buzz wait until now to talk about this as opposed to when those positions are open a few months ago? 1. To get more money from the Jesuits 2. To keep his name in the national conversation 3. He says it now to help him nail down that last recruit.
In no stretch of the imagination does Buzz simply say this to a national reporter "just because the reporter wanted to do a story."
Buzz is much smarter than that and he knows how to play the game. This was a very strategic interview done to accomplish a specific purpose.
Think you offer up some very good analysis here. Not sure this will close the deal on a recruit he's trying to land...but definitely think Buzz chose to make his most pointed comments about why he stayed at MU to a national reporter versus a local for a reason..some of which you mention.
I get a sense of a man who has been very driven and very much a vagabond for a long time. A guy who is grateful for this job and happy here but, since he has never stayed long in one place, isn't sure that the next place won't be better. But Corey found the right words to get him to accept the happiness and contentment that he has found and recognize it for the grace that it is. After reading this, I am very comfortable with "I will be at Marquette as long as they will have me."
Quote from: JoBo2756 on June 12, 2011, 01:25:30 PM
Buzz is much smarter than that and he knows how to play the game. This was a very strategic interview done to accomplish a specific purpose.
and for precisely that reason, one should take all the comments in the article with a grain of salt.
I like the part where Buzz says God ordained it.
I am sincerely hoping Buzz's legacy is a banner next to the 1977 banner.
Before I pass to the Al McGuire room or the Maurice Lucas room in heaven, I want another national championship. God willing, that's years away, but this older Warrior remembers 1977 like it was yesterday and is hoping Buzz gets us there.
It would be wonderful.
Quote from: mviale on June 12, 2011, 10:05:28 PM
I like the part where Buzz says God ordained it.
I still say that this is an underrated reason as to why Buzz won't leave.
Quote from: Henry Sugar on June 12, 2011, 09:25:32 PM
and for precisely that reason, one should take all the comments in the article with a grain of salt.
Wow - Pretty cynical take Sugar. Though I can understand given the nature of the coaching profession and job jumping, etc. However, in my view Buzz is cut from a different cloth than most. Considering he just passed on 3 jobs that HAD to be in his Top 5-6 List - A&M, OU, Arkansas - all in the same season....tells me he and wife are pretty darn happy at MU. Not sure what else the guy could say AND DO (declining those jobs), to pacify cynicism. But to each their own.
Quote from: Ners on June 13, 2011, 07:34:16 AM
Wow - Pretty cynical take Sugar. Though I can understand given the nature of the coaching profession and job jumping, etc. However, in my view Buzz is cut from a different cloth than most. Considering he just passed on 3 jobs that HAD to be in his Top 5-6 List - A&M, OU, Arkansas - all in the same season....tells me he and wife are pretty darn happy at MU. Not sure what else the guy could say AND DO (declining those jobs), to pacify cynicism. But to each their own.
Someday a pretty girl is really going to break your heart, bud.
First of all Ners, we are not sure what jobs he was actually approached about - I don't think Arkansas ever talked to him and wanted Anderson from the beginning.
Second, we have no idea what HAS to be in his top 5-6 list - we only assumed so for geography.
And finally, since he makes more money at MU than he would have at A&M or OU, that could very well be the reason he stayed here.
Quote from: The Sultan of South Wayne on June 13, 2011, 07:48:18 AM
First of all Ners, we are not sure what jobs he was actually approached about - I don't think Arkansas ever talked to him and wanted Anderson from the beginning.
Second, we have no idea what HAS to be in his top 5-6 list - we only assumed so for geography.
And finally, since he makes more money at MU than he would have at A&M or OU, that could very well be the reason he stayed here.
Money does not buy happiness. either job would pay him more than enough to live on.
The main reason Buzz stayed is that MU took a huge chance with him, he has had success, MU rewarded him
which in turn Buzz is staying put. Loyalty might be the word. I have stated before, the success of Buzz will
be the next 2 recruits he gets.
Quote from: bilsu on June 13, 2011, 08:16:34 AM
Money does not buy happiness. either job would pay him more than enough to live on.
I said "that very well could be the reason." I have no idea. I am not projecting my values or reasons onto Buzz.
Quote from: Ners on June 13, 2011, 07:34:16 AM
Wow - Pretty cynical take Sugar.
I'm happy Buzz said what he said. I just take very little of what Buzz says at face value.
I hope one day to see a game on Buzz Williams Court at the BC
Quote from: BRMU23 on June 13, 2011, 08:40:52 AM
I hope one day to see a game on Buzz Williams Court at the BC
I'm sorry, Buzz will never ever be Al.
Oh, I understand that completely. What I'm saying is that to get an honor such as that, Buzz would need to have an incredible career at MU. That is what I'm hoping for. There was no disrespect meant for Al. Al's story, however, has already been written. I feel that Buzz's is just the begining
Quote from: BRMU23 on June 13, 2011, 08:47:50 AM
Oh, I understand that completely. What I'm saying is that to get an honor such as that, Buzz would need to have an incredible career at MU. That is what I'm hoping for. There was no disrespect meant for Al. Al's story, however, has already been written. I feel that Buzz's is just the begining
I'd be okay with a Buzz Williams field house having an Al McGuire Court.
:)
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 13, 2011, 08:44:52 AM
I'm sorry, Buzz will never ever be Al.
And if Buzz wins us 2 National Championships?
Al was great, but someone will surpass him eventually... hopefully :)
Quote from: bilsu on June 13, 2011, 08:16:34 AM
Money does not buy happiness. either job would pay him more than enough to live on.
That's fair. And, sure, it'd be enough money to live on.
But these guys aren't in the business of getting "enough" to live on. They're in the business of maximizing their returns. Thus, take the money whether it means staying or going.
Quote from: Henry Sugar on June 13, 2011, 08:37:19 AM
I'm happy Buzz said what he said. I just take very little of what Buzz says at face value.
Bingo.
He's detailed oriented enough (obsessive) to create an image that will help his career. I think he is wise to do so as it helps him and MU.
The guy has every minute of his day planned out. I'm sure he knows what to say and when to say it.
Nice article. Good for Buzz, good for MU.
Quote from: The Golden Avalanche on June 13, 2011, 09:37:28 AM
That's fair. And, sure, it'd be enough money to live on.
But these guys aren't in the business of getting "enough" to live on. They're in the business of maximizing their returns. Thus, take the money whether it means staying or going.
Basketball coaches are just like people in other professions. Some are in it only for the money and always have the "for sale" sign out. But not all. Suggesting otherwise is beyond cynicism.
Quote from: Hards_Alumni on June 13, 2011, 07:47:55 AM
Someday a pretty girl is really going to break your heart, bud.
Already been done a couple of times, but still didn't result in me becoming cynical, skeptical or bitter. Win some you lose some, right/
Quote from: Henry Sugar on June 13, 2011, 08:37:19 AM
I'm happy Buzz said what he said. I just take very little of what Buzz says at face value.
Quote from: 2002MUalum on June 13, 2011, 10:26:50 AM
Bingo.
He's detailed oriented enough (obsessive) to create an image that will help his career. I think he is wise to do so as it helps him and MU.
The guy has every minute of his day planned out. I'm sure he knows what to say and when to say it.
Nice article. Good for Buzz, good for MU.
There is always going to be some politicking going on in a profession such as head coach at a high profile basketball school, and there is always going to be coach speak. Buzz engages in both for sure, and he is quite intelligent, sharp and knows how to play his cards. All of that said, by no means does that mean how he and his wife feel about MKE and Marquette are false.
He just turned down two BCS jobs in his backyard/roots/with football teams/better recruiting grounds, warmer weather, etc., to stay at Marquette. What more do some need? This board should be estatic over his staements, and actions this off-season...yet there is all of this cynicism/negative nancy grabage....he only stayed cause he's getting paid more money than other schools were willing (speculation), I take what Buzz says with a grain of salt, etc...good Lord. Ever take time to celebrate and be happy in life??!!
Quote from: The Golden Avalanche on June 13, 2011, 09:37:28 AM
That's fair. And, sure, it'd be enough money to live on.
But these guys aren't in the business of getting "enough" to live on. They're in the business of maximizing their returns. Thus, take the money whether it means staying or going.
That is not entirely true. Coach K and Izzo could of made a lot more money moving on to pros.
It's fair to say that the college coaching fraternity has earned every bit of skepticism/cynicism that follows declarations that they're happy where they're at, have no interest in leaving, etc. (see: Anderson, Mike).
Still - other than a well-deserved general skepticism toward the profession - there's not really any reason to believe Buzz doesn't mean what he says. That doesn't mean he's a lifer at Marquette or won't ever leave for what he sees as greener pastures (or that the MU faithful won't someday eagerly show him the way out of town).
But for now, I'll take the man at his word. Guess I'm just not cynical enough to believe this is all part of an elaborate ruse to land a recruit.
I'm with you, Ners. Maybe because the pretty girl didn't break my heart (she married me 37+ years ago and gave me 4 wonderful kids) or because I've been blessed with kind and loyal friends, I'm not interested in being as cynical as some here. That doesn't mean I'm gullible or can't spot an obvious phony. I just don't think it's healthy to live your life thinking EVERYBODY is one. If Buzz (or anyone else) disappoints it's on him, not me, and I'll get over it. But waiting and hoping for a chance to say "I told you so" seems an empty and venal road to travel.
Buzz is happy here and says he plans on staying. That does not mean he will be happy here five, ten, fifteen years form now. That would also not make him a liar, if he became unhappy here 8 years from now and left. Things change and as long as he is being truthful with where he is at today that is all I want out of him.
Just to clarify my previous post, I'm not unhappy with Buzz, nor do I think he's some kind of BS artist.
There is probably a fine line between being optimistic and being naive.
We all pick our spots.
Quote from: Lennys Tap on June 13, 2011, 12:23:26 PM
I'm with you, Ners. Maybe because the pretty girl didn't break my heart (she married me 37+ years ago and gave me 4 wonderful kids) or because I've been blessed with kind and loyal friends, I'm not interested in being as cynical as some here. That doesn't mean I'm gullible or can't spot an obvious phony. I just don't think it's healthy to live your life thinking EVERYBODY is one. If Buzz (or anyone else) disappoints it's on him, not me, and I'll get over it. But waiting and hoping for a chance to say "I told you so" seems an empty and venal road to travel.
Well said Lenny, some times people like to come on anonymous message boards and act like they know everything by dropping names, hyperboly, negativity, and generalities. I have had the pleasure of knowing many good people in the business. Seems to me the people that like to pretend they know it all, but dont, paint with a broad brush, tainting all good and bad in the business. A good friend of mine in the business, wrote a book called, "Lead...for God's sake!", a wonderful book and a look at the heart and drive of many coaches and what their true goals are. It aint money and fame that drives all.
Quote from: Lennys Tap on June 13, 2011, 12:23:26 PM
I'm with you, Ners. Maybe because the pretty girl didn't break my heart (she married me 37+ years ago and gave me 4 wonderful kids) or because I've been blessed with kind and loyal friends, I'm not interested in being as cynical as some here. That doesn't mean I'm gullible or can't spot an obvious phony. I just don't think it's healthy to live your life thinking EVERYBODY is one. If Buzz (or anyone else) disappoints it's on him, not me, and I'll get over it. But waiting and hoping for a chance to say "I told you so" seems an empty and venal road to travel.
Agree 100% and congrats on picking the right gal - I haven't been the best talent scout in that department. Seems I do better recognizing coaches with high upside potential like Buzz. :)
Quote from: bilsu on June 13, 2011, 12:45:27 PM
Buzz is happy here and says he plans on staying. That does not mean he will be happy here five, ten, fifteen years form now. That would also not make him a liar, if he became unhappy here 8 years from now and left. Things change and as long as he is being truthful with where he is at today that is all I want out of him.
Agree
Quote from: 2002MUalum on June 13, 2011, 12:49:59 PM
Just to clarify my previous post, I'm not unhappy with Buzz, nor do I think he's some kind of BS artist.
There is probably a fine line between being optimistic and being naive.
We all pick our spots.
And agree..just as there is a fine line between being cynical and a pessimist. Guss that's why Aristotle had his Golden Mean philosophy..wow..I actually did learn something in Phil 050 at MU.