Top 144 Countdown

[Wizard of Westroads]

A Creighton fan's perspective: Watched the BE casually in the past and usually didn't see Nova that much except the tournament. I always thought Jay Wright was kind of a slickster, a Pitino wannabe. But after listening to several recent interviews, including one by our Bluejay Banter guys, I WAS WRONG. (how many times to you see that on a message board?) Very knowledgeable, very personable, one of those guys you just listen to and know that that guy can coach. So I now understand why some Nova fans feel overlooked in this league. Probably as irritating as it is for Creighton fans to hear about the cornfields next to campus.

[Bill Marsh]

A Creighton fan's perspective: Watched the BE casually in the past and usually didn't see Nova that much except the tournament. I always thought Jay Wright was kind of a slickster, a Pitino wannabe. But after listening to several recent interviews, including one by our Bluejay Banter guys, I WAS WRONG. (how many times to you see that on a message board?) Very knowledgeable, very personable, one of those guys you just listen to and know that that guy can coach. So I now understand why some Nova fans feel overlooked in this league. Probably as irritating as it is for Creighton fans to hear about the cornfields next to campus.

Nice observation. I agree.

Jay likes to dress well, but my impression from extended interviews is that he's a down to earth guy and a very good coach.

[walijones]

Appreciate the change of heart by the Wizard from Creighton regarding Jay Wright and also the kind words by Bill Marsh. If I were not a Villanova fan, I most likely would also have some misconceptions about Jay. However, his personality is diametrically opposed to the common perception. Ask anyone that follows the program and, although some might question why he doesn't play more zone, why he doesn't recruit more big men, etc., etc.,...... 100% of Villanovans recognize Jay as a straight shooter and a world class good guy. And I'd bet that 95% of us would not want any other coach in the country to represent Nova.

One example: After Nova was eliminated by Carolina in the tournament last year, Jay was a guest commentator on CBS and Seth Davis asked him point blank if he was interested in the coaching job opening at UCLA (which had been speculated by many). Jay's answer was brilliant: "UCLA is the most prestigious coaching job in the country and I would be flattered to be considered for that position.......if I were not already the coach at Villanova". Never heard anyone answer that question in that way, but that's Jay. We are lucky to have him.