Coach-turned-broadcaster talks hoops with Hoosiers

Former UCLA coach and current ESPN/ABC broadcaster Steve Lavin spoke about coaching, college athletics and sports media Monday night in front of a packed house at the Ernie Pyle Auditorium. \nLavin, in a blue blazer and with his trademark slicked-back hair, said he has made numerous visits to Bloomington; the first followed his graduation from Chapman University. Lavin wrote letters to then-IU coach Bob Knight, among other high-profile coaches, with a request to observe and learn from his program. To his surprise, Knight granted Lavin’s request, and for three weeks allowed him to attend practices, game film discussions and team huddles during games.\n“It was a crash course,” Lavin said. “I learned as much in those three weeks than any other point.”\nHe made his second trip to IU as an assistant coach with Purdue. Lavin returned to Bloomington this time as an accomplished broadcaster, speaking to a large group of students in an event co-sponsored by the School of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation and the School of Journalism. Alongside Brent Musberger and sideline reporter Erin Andrews, Lavin will broadcast today’s IU-Ohio State game. \n“What I miss most about the college setting is the atmosphere, energy and the interaction with the students,” Lavin said.\nLavin went over what he called his “Five Fundamentals of Achievement,” which are listening, passion or enthusiasm, work ethic, gratitude and, what Lavin called the most important, “bounce back.” Many of the life lessons Lavin shared originated from his mentor, legendary UCLA coach John Wooden. In his final season at UCLA in 2003, Lavin endured his first losing season, and the University fired him.\n“That year was most valuable to me,” Lavin said. “Going 10-19 in my final season and losing nine straight was a difficult time.”\nDespite being fired from UCLA, Lavin said he has no hard feelings for the school that gave him his first head coaching gig.\n“I was there for 12 years; they gave me my start,” Lavin said. “I was at peace with the decision and eager for the next stage of my career.”\nLavin ended his speech with a question and answer segments. He took questions on everything from his coaching career at UCLA to the current state of Hoosier basketball, his future as an NCAA coach and even how much hair gel he uses. Lavin admitted he was surprised about the quickness of the Kelvin Sampson dismissal, but said Sampson deserves another chance at coaching.\nAlthough Lavin recently signed a new six-year deal with ESPN/ABC, he has not ruled out a return to coaching. When asked if he would consider throwing his name into the pool of potential IU coaching candidates, the crowd and Lavin both erupted with laughter.\n“IU is not a fit for me,” Lavin said. “Here would not the place for me to achieve my balance, and that more than anything, having balance if I coach again, will be most important.”