Providence is knocking

After weeks of speculation on Coach Larranaga and the recent head coaching job opening at his alma mater Providence I think it's time to share some perspective on the subject. After the Final Four run of 2006 many schools were pursuing the old ball coach, even NC State. I wasn't worried then about Coach L leaving and not really that worried now either. Today in Andy Katz blog he confirms that Providence has indeed been in contact with Mason:

"Providence athletic director Bob Driscoll asked for permission to talk to George Mason coach Jim Larranaga, GMU athletic director Tom O'Connor confirmed to ESPN.com. Larranaga is a Providence College graduate. It's unclear whether or not Larranaga will meet with Driscoll."

O'Connor seems confident that Larranaga will stay in Fairfax considering his investment in the community with organizations such as the Washington Speakers Bureau. I agree but I think he will stay for other reasons, such as potential job security. Definitely not as much pressure in the CAA as there would be in the Big East. The top half of the Big East is stacked with talented teams and I don't think Coach L cares about a pay increase that much to have the face those kind of teams on a weekly basis. He would have his work cut out for him at Providence just trying to stay in the middle of the pack in the standings. Larranaga is starting to get more respect in the DC Metro area and has even started to pull recruits away from local powers Georgetown and Maryland. Larranaga might have pulled in his most highly rated prospect ever to come to Mason when point guard Andre Cornelius verballed back in September. Cornelius is also the highest rated player coming into the CAA next season, why leave with that on your plate?

Mason has been in contention for the CAA title on a regular basis lately and frankly Larranaga is a Godsend to fans compared to some of past coaches here in Fairfax. Speaking of past Mason head coaches, did you know Roy Williams almost wore green and gold? If Coach L was younger I would be worried about him bolting for a chance like this at bigger conference but for now I think we are safe.