Jerry Tarkanian...

[billyjack]

Seems recently that half my posts are obituaries, but Jerry Tarkanian passed away today...

Fantastic coach with renegade players and entertaining exciting Runnin Rebel teams, against the backdrop of playing in Las Vegas.
His teams' games became must-see events in the late 80's and early 90's.
Humiliated Duke in the 1990 Finals by 30 points.
Known for biting down on a towel during games (something like it activated his salivary glands).

Constantly hounded by the NCAA for recruiting issues, Vegas connections, etc, he was an outspoken critic of the NCAA's hypocrisy, with his famous quote being "the NCAA is so mad at Kentucky, they just gave Cleveland State two more years probation..."

Built Long Beach State into a powerhouse in the early 70's, before my time.
Took over at UNLV, and made the Final Four in '77, losing by a point to Dean Smith.
Had perennial 20-win seasons for decades, and Final Fours also in '87, '90 and '91.
Finished with some great years at Fresno State (his alma mater).

In addition to rooting for Big East teams in the NCAA's, I'd also pull for UNLV as the outsider team to beat the blueblood conferences.
Anyway, he definitely made college hoops entertaining.

[NJRedman]

First Greg Anthony now this. It's a tough time to be a Running Rebel.

[HoosierPal]

Coach Smith and Coach Tark. Two legends gone in one week.