Q) Where are We?
A) We are in the seventh year of the Wojo regime and the eighth year of a program rebuild, dating back to the last year of the Buzz Williams era. While we have had some high points, this is the second year in the last seven where we have had a losing record. As anyone following Marquette basketball knows, we have not won an NCAA tournament game in eight years. Our program is clean and our coach is well-respected. He just doesn't win at a level expected by much of our fan base.
Q) So what is the prognosis?
A) Apathy.
Q) Why?
A) See the first question, silly!
Q) What are our options?
A) Stay the course or make a change in our head basketball coach.
Q) But if I change, it will cost us well over $2.0 million in a period of financial stress. Do I really want to do this?
A) Did you or did you not sign the damn contract?
Q) So...
A) Here's the choice. You can take the heat now and pay out the severance agreement. The faculty and staff will be angry and there will be a lot of wailing and gnashing of teeth among those who have been fired or let go in recent months. Be prepared for that.
But here's the alternative. You can keep our current coach another year. The risk you run is that revenue falls by more than $2.1 million during the next year. And once that revenue is gone, it's hard to get it back. Already, we're seeing considerable fan apathy. It's hard to notice because we don't have fans in our stands. I promise that if we did, that DePaul loss alone would have been demoralizing once we saw our fans react to the poor play. The high-school style mistakes are just more than our fan base, can tolerate.
Also, the most loyal fans, the ones that remember the glory years of the 1960s and 1970s, are in their 60s and 70s. They're dying off or their enthusiasm is waning as they move to Arizona, Florida and elsewhere. We have to replace them with new, energized fans and we're simply not doing it.
Keep in mind that Milwaukee and SE Wisconsin is really a multi-faceted sports market. We compete with the Milwaukee Bucks, Milwaukee Brewers and Green Bay Packers for attention. And, 70 miles to our west is another university and their football and basketball programs are very competitive. Right now, that program's basketball team is far outshining us, even though we beat them this year.
Q) Why should I care about basketball. We're an educational institution! Basketball is ancillary to our mission.
A) This argument has been around since at least the McGuire era. And before you ask, yes, I know that our basketball coach is the highest paid employee in our university. But keep in mind that basketball is our front porch. You don't act on attending or giving to a university because of the front porch. You look inside the house and see what it has to offer. The problem is that if the front porch is falling apart, ragged or ill-maintained, people won't even look. They'll go to a home where the front porch is well-maintained, even if the house isn't of a particularly high quality.
Q) It's a Covid year. Lots of traditional powers, like Duke, Kentucky, North Carolina and Michigan State are having off-years. Maybe we should be patient.
A) If we had a record like Duke, Kentucky or North Carolina, I'd agree. But we don't and we haven't been an elite basketball team in many, many years. We know the team had a shutdown early due to Covid and we didn't have the chance to become cohesive the way we would if we had a summer conditioning program and a chance to keep the team together. But we played our best basketball very early in the season and have become progressively worse as time moved on. As many prognosticators have pointed out, our opponents have figured us out.
Q) But he runs such a clean program. And, he represents the ideals by which Marquette stands.
A) To paraphrase the late Al Davis, "just win baby." We're not and most of us believe it's an intermediate-term reconstruction to become what we were before our current coach joined us. True, we do not have the headaches and bad press we had during the previous regime, but there is little hope we will again be a "Top 20 team," at least in the next few years.
Q) Can our current coach rebuild the program?
A) Anything is possible. But track records speak for themselves.
Brother Dgies, I don't disagree with your prognosis, but you are off base on several points. The decision on whether or not to fire Wojo isn't solely because of "optics". It represents a significant financial hit to a university that is struggling financially. I read an article the other day that 1 in 8 higher education jobs have been eliminated in the past year. The industry as a whole is struggling, specifically private liberal arts schools. We are going to see the death of hundreds, possibly over a thousand colleges and universities over the next 10-20 years. The ones that survive will be the ones who can be financially savvy. There's also an opportunity for universities to thrive in this crisis but they need to be both financially savvy and creative. All that being said, depending on how this year ends, and depending on if outside parties contribute, Marquette may make the decision that it is more financially sound to fire Wojo now rather than Harbaughing his contract.
You make the assumption that another year of Wojo will lead to a loss in revenue, which is possible, but also imply that a new coach would prevent that loss in revenue. I don't think that's necessarily the case. I think many thought the pandemic would make us appreciate sports since we lost them, but I think many realized that their lives are just fine without them, better for some. Unless Marquette raises Al from the dead, I don't think a new hire will impact the coming loss in revenue next year. However, if the new hire is successful, maybe it will mitigate revenue loss in future seasons.
Finally, there is a myth that the BOT doesn't care about basketball or doesn't care enough. I'd wager that most of them are more rabid mu basketball fans than most scoopers. The difference is that they are charged with the health of the overall university, and when they make decisions, it impacts thousands of students, employees, and community members.
Why do so many Scoopers assume that the BOT is satisfied with Wojo and/or are absolutely unwilling to fire him? I get the budget problems and layoff arguments. Do we really have any knowledge regarding their thoughts? I think not.
As TAMU has said, they may decide that, despite the big deficit and bad PR that would result from firing Wojo, it may be the best decision in the long run. If a donor or group of them either covers the buyout or help with a sizable portion of it, I think it would happen but that is strictly my guess.
Bottom line- we simply do not KNOW that Wojo is safe for another year. I doubt that the BOT will be giving pressers anytime soon.
The buyout seems to be Wojo's only lifejacket at this point. For those familiar with coaching contracts, do buyouts typically get paid out as a lump sum? Or are they usually paid out over time?
I would think the employer side of the contracts would always want to push for a multi-year payment scenario to lessen the pain. That could make a huge impact on the timing here for when MU finally pulls the plug on Wojo.
Quote from: skianth16 on February 11, 2021, 10:26:03 AM
The buyout seems to be Wojo's only lifejacket at this point. For those familiar with coaching contracts, do buyouts typically get paid out as a lump sum? Or are they usually paid out over time?
I would think the employer side of the contracts would always want to push for a multi-year payment scenario to lessen the pain. That could make a huge impact on the timing here for when MU finally pulls the plug on Wojo.
MU could also offer Wojo a higher buyout if he agrees to a longer length of time.
MU has da bread two get rid of Woj, if dat's der decision, hey?
Quote from: Fluffy Blue Monster on February 11, 2021, 10:27:56 AM
MU could also offer Wojo a higher buyout if he agrees to a longer length of time.
In the current situation, that might be the least bad option for all parties.
or...
Just invest the escrow funds into some crypto, and MU could walk away with minimal cash paid out!
Quote from: dgies9156 on February 11, 2021, 08:25:23 AM
Also, the most loyal fans, the ones that remember the glory years of the 1960s and 1970s, are in their 60s and 70s. They're dying off
I hate it when they start chopping down my row.
Quote from: TAMU Eagle on February 11, 2021, 09:40:21 AM
Brother Dgies, I don't disagree with your prognosis, but you are off base on several points. The decision on whether or not to fire Wojo isn't solely because of "optics". It represents a significant financial hit to a university that is struggling financially. I read an article the other day that 1 in 8 higher education jobs have been eliminated in the past year. The industry as a whole is struggling, specifically private liberal arts schools. We are going to see the death of hundreds, possibly over a thousand colleges and universities over the next 10-20 years. The ones that survive will be the ones who can be financially savvy. There's also an opportunity for universities to thrive in this crisis but they need to be both financially savvy and creative. All that being said, depending on how this year ends, and depending on if outside parties contribute, Marquette may make the decision that it is more financially sound to fire Wojo now rather than Harbaughing his contract.
You make the assumption that another year of Wojo will lead to a loss in revenue, which is possible, but also imply that a new coach would prevent that loss in revenue. I don't think that's necessarily the case. I think many thought the pandemic would make us appreciate sports since we lost them, but I think many realized that their lives are just fine without them, better for some. Unless Marquette raises Al from the dead, I don't think a new hire will impact the coming loss in revenue next year. However, if the new hire is successful, maybe it will mitigate revenue loss in future seasons.
Finally, there is a myth that the BOT doesn't care about basketball or doesn't care enough. I'd wager that most of them are more rabid mu basketball fans than most scoopers. The difference is that they are charged with the health of the overall university, and when they make decisions, it impacts thousands of students, employees, and community members.
TAMU, there were 14 firings (not resignations, not job openings created by accepting others) in college basketball last Spring during COVID. There were 25 firings the Spring before. There will be a lot this Spring as well. From last Spring, only one firing was from a Power Conference school, with perceived more resources (even though MU spends more on basketball than Wake). Many schools are facing financial challenges. Marquette remains a top-spending basketball program nationally. It will not be unable to come up with a way to fire Wojo, if deemed financially and responsibly prudent.
Marquette relies on a successful basketball program for visibility and marketing in enrollment and admissions. There were many within the community concerned BEFORE the season began for various reasons we all have listed. One needs not go further than the social media engagement, or even here on Scoop, from fans and alumni for the "pulse" of the current state of the program: it is universally frustrating and full of agitation.
Point #3 is my continued firm belief that change is coming. Both statements can be true: Wojo is a great guy, an outstanding role model and terrific ambassador for MU; Wojo is also not meeting, and has not met, the competitive results the school desires in terms of visibility for the school. The BOT are basketball fans. We were very close in getting a PR home run in Shaka. Wojo, on the surface, was a strong fallback. It has not worked out - it happens. But change, now, is clearly needed - for the program AND for the university.
These last few games will, sadly, commit to it IMO. It is unfortunate, but needed. Predict we lose each remaining game until DePaul, and, by that point, it really won't matter.
The men's basketball program is the key point of national recognition for Marquette. Many people never would have heard of Marquette save for it. That help impact academic recruiting, but also helps all of us alums. The "I've heard of it" vs "I've never heard of it" is a simple but proven heuristic that people use to judge quality.
Investing in the MBB is an investment in the MU's intangible assets. Right now, that return is poor and the value of our intangible assets are falling.
2 million in buyout is a lot of money, but the market has been good and Marquette's endowment must be over 750 million at this point. Take a chunk from that if you need to - buyout is not a recurrent expense.
He's got to go. Honestly - who is going to go to games next year if everyone knows he's on the way out? What recruits are going to come? Who is going to stay? We need to take advantage of the transfer window this year and let a coach come in come can bring a few transfers with that will be eligible immediately.
Quote from: 1SE on February 11, 2021, 12:31:34 PM
The men's basketball program is the key point of national recognition for Marquette. Many people never would have heard of Marquette save for it. That help impact academic recruiting, but also helps all of us alums. The "I've heard of it" vs "I've never heard of it" is a simple but proven heuristic that people use to judge quality.
Investing in the MBB is an investment in the MU's intangible assets. Right now, that return is poor and the value of our intangible assets are falling.
2 million in buyout is a lot of money, but the market has been good and Marquette's endowment must be over 750 million at this point. Take a chunk from that if you need to - buyout is not a recurrent expense.
Admittedly, MU's Sweet 16 run steered me to MU over a number of other schools I had been admitted to.
He's got to go. Honestly - who is going to go to games next year if everyone knows he's on the way out? What recruits are going to come? Who is going to stay? We need to take advantage of the transfer window this year and let a coach come in come can bring a few transfers with that will be eligible immediately.
Look no further than the post Final Four impact on applications and recruiting. MU had to cap the freshman class at 1800. What is it these days?
Also, look at Gonzaga. From 500 incoming students, a vote to drop to D3, closed dorms and academic buildings, and massive layoffs in 1998-99 to an enrollment of over 5000 undergrads.
The BOT meets on the 24th. Wonder if this will be on the agenda.
Ya don't hafta convince us. Itz da administration dat kant make a bizniss decision, aina?
Quote from: Billy Hoyle on February 11, 2021, 12:55:30 PM
Look no further than the post Final Four impact on applications and recruiting. MU had to cap the freshman class at 1800. What is it these days?
Also, look at Gonzaga. From 500 incoming students, a vote to drop to D3, closed dorms and academic buildings, and massive layoffs in 1998-99 to an enrollment of over 5000 undergrads.
It's down to around 1,650 or so. But they had classes above 2,000 just a few years ago.
Quote from: MUfan12 on February 11, 2021, 12:58:42 PM
The BOT meets on the 24th. Wonder if this will be on the agenda.
need to review the Powerpoint, hey?
Quote from: skianth16 on February 11, 2021, 10:31:17 AM
Just invest the escrow funds into some crypto, and MU could walk away with minimal cash paid out!
Ahhhh, the Milwaukee solution...
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/1993_Milwaukee_Cryptosporidiosis_outbreak
Quote from: GooooMarquette on February 11, 2021, 02:13:02 PM
Ahhhh, the Milwaukee solution...
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/1993_Milwaukee_Cryptosporidiosis_outbreak
I remember some serious water boiling in those days. And, back then, buying bottled water which was more rare.
Quote from: TAMU Eagle on February 11, 2021, 09:40:21 AM
Brother Dgies, I don't disagree with your prognosis, but you are off base on several points. The decision on whether or not to fire Wojo isn't solely because of "optics". It represents a significant financial hit to a university that is struggling financially. I read an article the other day that 1 in 8 higher education jobs have been eliminated in the past year. The industry as a whole is struggling, specifically private liberal arts schools. We are going to see the death of hundreds, possibly over a thousand colleges and universities over the next 10-20 years. The ones that survive will be the ones who can be financially savvy. There's also an opportunity for universities to thrive in this crisis but they need to be both financially savvy and creative. All that being said, depending on how this year ends, and depending on if outside parties contribute, Marquette may make the decision that it is more financially sound to fire Wojo now rather than Harbaughing his contract.
You make the assumption that another year of Wojo will lead to a loss in revenue, which is possible, but also imply that a new coach would prevent that loss in revenue. I don't think that's necessarily the case. I think many thought the pandemic would make us appreciate sports since we lost them, but I think many realized that their lives are just fine without them, better for some. Unless Marquette raises Al from the dead, I don't think a new hire will impact the coming loss in revenue next year. However, if the new hire is successful, maybe it will mitigate revenue loss in future seasons.
Finally, there is a myth that the BOT doesn't care about basketball or doesn't care enough. I'd wager that most of them are more rabid mu basketball fans than most scoopers. The difference is that they are charged with the health of the overall university, and when they make decisions, it impacts thousands of students, employees, and community members.
Brother Tamu:
When you speak, I listen. Really, I do! Where I respectfully and honorably disagree with you is that a new coach can generate enthusiasm. It cuts through the fog of apathy and creates the mantra of being on the "ground floor" of something special. I remember Coach Wojo's first year, after we landed Henry, going to the DePaul game. I wanted to be there a last time to say I was part of the beginning.....
We have to be realistic in expectations. The new coach, if that's the direction the university chooses to go, has both a coaching and a PR job ahead of him (or, maybe, her). The Coach must convince at least the Big 3 to stay and sell recruits on the changing vision. Then, he or she has to reach out to us, the rabid fans who buy the tickets and pack the Computing Castle, and convince us to buy in. We have to believe, to quote a long worn slogan from the 1969 New York Mets.
No, it won't be easy and it won't be immediate, which is what we all want. But for the right person, it's a start.
As to the optics issue, I get what you're saying. But for a Roman Catholic institution dedicated to the dignity of all work and all human beings, values matter. The question that has to be asked is, "what am I saying about myself" if I lay off hundreds to save money but end up paying out a multi-million settlement to one employee. Those optics become real when the laid-off administrators and professors begin picketing the administration building.
Finally, I would argue that if nothing is done, the severance cost of Wojo will pale in comparison to the lost opportunity. Oh yes, they'll lose more than $2.1 million next year alone in ticket sales and memorabilia sales. Oh, and I agree wholeheartedly that the members of the BOT are probably bigger Warrior fans than just about any of us! Well, except for me! 8-)