There was some byplay Thursday regarding Illinois coach Bruce Weber and the vacant Oklahoma basketball job.
The Norman Transcript, citing a "well-placed college basketball source" reported that Weber had emerged as a candidate for the job and that there appeared to be mutual interest.
Weber told the Chicago Tribune there was "no story" and later issued a statement.
"I received a few interest calls regarding other positions, but nothing beyond that. I remain committed to the University of Illinois," Weber said in his statement.
Weber's teams have made the NCAA Tournament in six of his eight seasons and played for the national championship in 2005. The Illini lost in the second round of this season's Tournament. His poplularity, however, has waned among fans in recent seasons. Speculation is that Weber's job could be in jeopardy as the contract of AD Ron Guenther expires at the end of June. Weber lost four seniors off this season's 20-14 team that began the year highly ranked.
OU associate athletic director Kenny Mossman said AD Joe Castiglione was, "keeping all options open" and was conducting a comprehensive and wide-spread search. The Tulsa World reported that Castiglione interviewed former player and successful Central Oklahoma coach Terry Evans on Tuesday. A source said that Wichita State coach Gregg Marshall, whose team played in the NIT championship game against Alabama Thursday night, was a possible candidate of interest and likely would be contacted in the next few days.--Mike Jones.
rr..........I have been an Illini fan for over 50 years..wish OK would have hired this loser!!!!!!!1
Posted by: RDL | March 31, 2011 at 06:03 PM