Humphrey Bogart could have narrated this story.
Three weeks ago, Bill Lynch and Oklahoma State coach Mike Gundy formally met in New York City. Making the trip on behalf of the Insight Bowl, the two coaches, along with Insight executives, rang the NASDAQ bell to open the stock market on Dec. 13.
Since then a press conference hasn't gone by without one of the coaches praising the other one admirably.
Sunday was my first chance to see the two coaches together in person. On the surface, Gundy and Lynch's personalities couldn't be farther apart in the public spectrum - Gundy is known for his infamous press conference tirade and Lynch always appear calm, collected and reserved when the red light is on.
The coaches are the anti-Belichick/Mangini. Following OSU's press conference, Gundy and Lynch gathered in front of the Insight Bowl trophy for a presentation from Tempe mayor Hugh Hallman.
As Gundy stepped down his podium, Lynch, in a black blazer and crimson tie, approached the table from the back of the room before being greeted by Gundy.
"I wouldn't have said all of those nice things about you if I knew you were back there the whole time," Gundy joked.
The two coaches shook hands and chitchatted while dozens of cameras snapped pictures of the two leaders interacting. It was as clear as the Arizona sky that the two had significant mutual respect for one another.
Gundy repeatedly referred to Lynch as "Coach" - a respectful title that Bob Knight would have appreciated.
Lynch returned the kindness, treating Gundy like an old college buddy. After Hallman presented the two with gift baskets (jams and candy?) the two eventually parted ways, but not before wishing each other luck for Monday's game.
After seeing the coaches together, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Photo by IDS photographer Jay Seawell.