SoMnFan
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Your boy made the list of embattled coaches on the hot seat ... on ESPN .... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Richard Pitino, Minnesota Golden Gophers (106-86 in sixth season) What his detractors would say: He has made one trip to the NCAA tournament since he was hired in 2014. That he has even failed to duplicate former coach Tubby Smith's modest success in Minneapolis is a problem for a guy who has had better resources, including an elite practice facility, but no home run recruits. Multiple assistants have left the program. And the stain of Reggie Lynch, who was dismissed last year after facing multiple sexual assault allegations, remains. Why his firing would be unjust: This isn't Kentucky or Duke in terms of on-court expectations -- Pitino's team might reach the NCAA tournament if it can finish strong. And if that happens, it will be difficult for athletic director Mark Coyle to justify firing Pitino, who has actually become a more likable and approachable figure in the Twin Cities this season. His handling of the recent death of guard Dupree McBrayer's mother gave him an opportunity to display his softer side. -- Myron Medcalf
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