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Being a native of Cincinnati as well as a graduate of IU, I can't help but compare the plight of the two schools recently in regard to their basketball programs. Both lost high-profile troubled coaches that could obviously coach, but had a tough time following the rules. Both have a rich history of basketball success. Both play in tough leagues and were seriously crippled by the downfall of the former regime, and now both have young and positive coaches to replace their predecessors.
One has to feel that the Hoosiers are in a slightly better spot for a few reasons: 1) IU is the bigger program in reality - more donors, more money to throw at the problem, etc. UC is revamping their facilities and the Big East money helps, but IU has more riches from what I know. 2) The Big 10 is not as tough a league as the Big East, and IU should be able to bounce back and be more competitive more quickly. This leads to a better record, more NCAA appearances, more money, more recruiting, etc. 3) Though I love Mick Cronin, it's undeniable that he is still an unproven coach, especially when compared to someone like Crean.
In any event, this basketball fan hopes both programs can bounce back and regain their status as national contenders.
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