Atlanta — When it comes to tempers, Temple coach John Chaney considers himself right up there with Bob Knight. That's why Chaney is glad to see Knight will get a second chance at Texas Tech.
Chaney, Michigan State coach Tom Izzo and Roy Williams of Kansas were among the coaches still alive in the NCAA Tournament who were more than happy to see Knight re-entering their exclusive club.
The former Indiana coach, who was ousted for a "pattern of unacceptable behavior," is expected to be introduced as Texas Tech's coach today.
"I think Bobby Knight needs to be involved in coaching," Chaney said. "A guy's involved with sports for 35 years, and someone takes a snapshot at one part of that body of work, and starts flashing it over and over, I do feel that's unfair."
Izzo has been at Michigan State since 1995, and watched the end of Knight's era at Indiana unfold.
Even though Knight was a Big Ten rival, Izzo said it was uncomfortable to witness his demise.
"I'm sure he made some mistakes at times," Izzo said. "But I'm sure some things were blown out of proportion. He's a great coach. He knows how to motivate kids and he runs a clean program."
Of course, Izzo no longer has to worry about recruiting against Knight, or playing him twice a year. Now, that's a concern of Williams, who could soon have a new Big 12 power to worry about.
Even before officially getting the job, Knight was reportedly already checking out talent this week, looking at junior college players who might make next season's team better.
"Coach Knight is a real good friend," Williams said.
"We have beaten them five of the six times we've played and he has still been tremendously nice to me. He's been a great coach and a great teacher of coaches. He will be nothing but great for our conference."
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