To the editor:

First, I have to express an appreciation for our Jayhawk team, from Coach Roy Williams right down to the end of the bench. One could say great things about everyone on the team. You just have to love each one of them. But I have to single out Jeff Carey. This fifth-year senior and nearly straight “A” student could be a starter on almost any team. He has taken a back seat to newcomers throughout his career but continually maintained a positive attitude. He always keeps his head in the game while waiting patiently on the bench. At any given notice, he readily gives 110 percent.

Secondly, I think we have one of the best announcers in the Big 12. Many in that position, at away games, sound almost barbaric like they are having an appendix attack every time their team makes a 3-point shot: “Thaaa-Reeeeeeeee!!” I am just glad our barker maintains class.

Now on to a more serious note. A new scoreboard and sound system for Allen Fieldhouse would be nice, but when improvements are made, they should be done right and complete. It is time to consider a TOTAL renovation.

Since the fieldhouse holds its own mystique, and is almost sacred, consideration should be given to expanding it in place. Any buildings that have been allowed to enter the halo zone around the old barn should be removed. A large construction shell could be built on all sides to increase immediate seating capacity to 25,000, with an ability for further expansion to 35,000. A new name: “the “Allen-Williams Sports Center” has a nice ring to it.

Such an enlarged version would be an excellent venue for much needed additional revenue. Then with a new ladies head coach (perhaps one of the UConn assistants), the women’s program could begin carrying its own weight. And once the team is able to become revenue-producing, instead of an annual financial drain, it can begin doing its own part to help pay for the new facility.

Richard Smith,

Lawrence