Izzo cited Heath's recruiting successes and late-season surges the last two seasons as indicators of an improving future at Arkansas. Heath finished with an 82-71 record in five seasons and took Arkansas to two NCAA Tournaments (2006 and 2007).
"Losing three 1,000-point scorers from the year before is tough," Izzo said. "And then, to have a player like (Ronnie) Brewer leave early. I mean, I've had five guys go early in the last six years, and it's hurt us every time. He brought in (Patrick) Beverley, the Freshman of the Year in the SEC. He brought in (Sonny) Weems, one of the best junior college guys last year.
"It's just hard to see this happening. I'm in shock about it. I'm almost vindictive."
Though upset, Izzo said he realized that he wasn't in Arkansas, that he didn't know the particular circumstances surrounding Heath's situation.
"I'm not there, so it's kind of unfair of me to make comments," Izzo said. "They pay us the money, they have the right to do what they want. But I'd understand this more if there was some kind of cheating or bad things going on in that program. There weren't, as far as I know.
"It shouldn't surprise me. If Nolan (Richardson), one of the great guys in our profession, could get let go. If that can happen, anything can happen."
Ahhhh...then it's announced 3 players got suspended ...2 for testing positive in drug tests. Doh!!!
Harrison, they tested positive on March 27th. Heath was already gone by then. Could they have smoked up when Heath was there sure but there is certainly no guarantee of that.
Heath, I think, could be behind the bench at MSU as an assistant if he can't find a new gig. Something tells me he'll get something done.
Perhaps Heath to Marquette as an assistant. Izzo stays another couple years at MSU. Back door handshake agreement between three friends....Izzo to Pistons, Crean to MSU, Heath to MU?
Sincerely,
Andy Katz
Check me if I'm wrong Sandy, but Heath is already at South Florida.
Indeed...your new South Florida Bulls Head Coach, Stan Heath.
Yes he did. For all your coaching change info you can go to
http://www.muscoop.com/index.php?topic=2855.0
or
http://wiki.muscoop.com/doku.php/men_s_basketball/2007_coaching_carousel