Steve Alford Talks with The LoboLair.com about Missouri opening (4-3-11)

[Mark]

The LoboLair.com
April 3, 2011



"Theres no way anybody can say that ive spoken to the anybody at Missouri, that has absolutely not taken place" Steve AlfordI have to admit. Theres not many mornings I get up and the first thing I think about is Richie McKay and Rob Evans. We all know how that turned out.

This morning I got up and quickly opened up the site hoping I wasn't about to read a flashback from 9 years ago. After combing the internet turned up nothing I decided to do some research on our own. I usually stay out of this type of thing because I don't like to be looked at as someone looking to break a story. This was different, for some reason I just knew there was more (or less) to this story than being reported.
I called around this morning and to my surprise it didn't take long to get a hold of the man in charge at New Mexico, Steve Alford.


TheLoboLair: So we can clarify for everyone around the country. There has not been any contact from you or your agent with The Missouri Tigers and you do not have any interest in the job. Is that correct?

Steve Alford: Thats correct, Mark. The final 4 Mark, is always the coverup of rumors and speculation and its unfortunate. I have always been extremely committed to our program here at the University of New Mexico and thats only intensified over what we've been able to do over the last 4 years. I know things have even been reported that I talked to Missouri last time the job opened and thats false as well. Never in my career have I spoke to a Missouri official nor has my agent about interviewing about their basketball position. So that didn't happen last time and it definitely wont happen this time.

TheLoboLair: How do things like this started?

Steve Alford: Well, you've got a thousand coaches and every media outlet at the final 4 so rumors start flying. Somebody starts saying something and thats why in my text messaging with Mark, I thought I was pretty clear that the rumors were false. Then with media they continues to either not believe what you say then it starts to swell. It doesn't really matter to me what a TV station in St. Louis, Kansas City or a newspaper in Columbia says. That has no validity at all to whats really taken place. Thats whats so unfortunate. I can promise you that me nor my agent has spoken to anyone nor are we going to speak with anyone at the University of Missouri.

TheLoboLair: Coach, how harmful is this with your recruits and how much harder does it make your job when your name turns up in other open jobs around the country?

Steve Alford: Last night, thats all what I spent doing. Instead of spending time with my son I have to be on the phone texting and responding to rumors. Ive never been a big guy on responding to rumors. I think im pretty open guy to the media here in the Albuquerque New Mexico area. I always come out and told you what I think and what I believe then I guess its up to the media to believe me or not. Theres no way anybody can say that vie spoken to anybody at Missouri, that has absolutely not taken place.

TheLoboLair: I know you've said this a thousand times but I think a lot of people really underestimate the importance of having the backing of your administration.

Steve Alford: I think thats what Ive found here. I think thats one of the main reasons why im so committed to the University of New Mexico is I believe in the administration. I believe in what they stand for and how they want to run an athletic department and institution. I think when you find something like that its always a good feeling. You know that when you go to work everyday your not just representing your program the right way but your representing the university and everybodys on the same page.

TheLoboLair: Thanks coach and sorry to bug you on your Sunday.

Steve Alford: Thanks Mark, I appreciate it.

[Mark]

Sorry guys, I was planning on just putting up the audio but I used the wrong recorder on my iPad. The one I used wont let me send the file to Crowley and just have him upload the audio. So, I had to type it all out.

[Fideos]

Thank you Jesus!!!

[lobo81]

Thanks RPS for doing the dirty work. Good news!

[Roob]

Sorry guys, I was planning on just putting up the audio but I used the wrong recorder on my iPad. The one I used wont let me send the file to Crowley and just have him upload the audio. So, I had to type it all out.

Thanks for the good and timely news. A mob, led by LoboGabe, was beginning to form outside the Lair offices. Kind of scary.

[feez]

This just proves TLL is the legitimate source of information on Lobo athletics. No wonder Mark Smith is looking for stories, he is surplus to requirements in Albuquerque!

[Bloo]

Not going anywhere.
Just like he's said before.
Thanks, RPS. I hope the worry warts and sh!t stirrers can go back to finding rumors that affect something other than the Lobos and Steve Alford. It's nice to know that character and conviction go beyond money.

[loopsups3]

Boom goes the dynamite.

[pessen]

That's it? I could have told you this......ha ha, Thanks RPS!

[LoboCubs23]

Nice job Mark. Does anyone want to go over to the other website and post TLL contacts Alford- He is staying!!!!!

[Fideos]

The REDMenace or the REDMitotes???

[lobogabe]

Ok guys sorry I was very inpatient. All I have been hearing was rumors.

[GOUNMLOBOS]

Thanks for the story! I hang around all Lobo sites, and am happy to see one that isn't trying to make this something its not.

[lobolunatic]

AHHHHHHHHHH! That was me sighing relief!

[KingNoodles]

great job

[Mark]

BTW, I think Gabe needs to come clean my house.
In the time I was writing this my son has managed to dump my Pepsi all over the coffee table and smear the cinnamon roll all over the Pepsi.

Oh, and I was just told that The LoboLair.com is the only media outlet getting an interview with Alford. Pretty cool that he respects what we do. I think this is because all the fans here and in 99.9% support of the direction of this program.

[UWSLobo]

If you think about it, it's prety amazing that RPS spent time on a Sunday to do this and end the speculation, and SA was respectful enough of UNM's fans and other supporters to agree to speak with RPS on his day off. It says a lot about the quality of the Lair and the quality of SA.

[Digital Lobo]

Nice job Mark. Does anyone want to go over to the other website and post TLL contacts Alford- He is staying!!!!!

Don't worry LasCrucesLobo will post it at the other site in about three minutes and try to give the impression like the story broke over there.

[loborick]

Thanks, Mark. Now some people can get back to living their lives. Except the reason they post some of this crap is because they don't have lives.

[pessen]

Alford has been nothing but honest and forthright with us fans. I think it is past time to take him at his word and believe him when he says he wants to stay at UNM. Big time programs are places where coaches want to come and stay. If so many people here think we are on the verge of becoming a power in mens BB, then it is high time to act like a big program and stop worrying about every little rumor that comes up concerning coach Alford.

[Digital Lobo]

:arms::headbang::wiggle::banana::arms::headbang::w iggle::banana::arms::headbang::wiggle::banana::arm s::headbang::wiggle::banana::arms::headbang::wiggl e::banana::arms::headbang::wiggle::banana::arms::h eadbang::wiggle::banana:

Woo hoo! Now I can go to the grocery store.

Good news and chocolate milk go together like Lobo men's basketball and the Sweet 16.

[pjamj]

I knew it all along. :)

[SpanaBaller]

Thank you RPS for clearing this up and hearing it straight from the horses mouth instead of the village idiot Mark Smith

We should all Thank Coach Alford for his loyalty and apologize that the media took time away from his father-son time at the Final Four.

[Kenny]

Great job RPS!

[Mark]

:arms::headbang::wiggle::banana::arms::headbang::w iggle::banana::arms::headbang::wiggle::banana::arm s::headbang::wiggle::banana::arms::headbang::wiggl e::banana::arms::headbang::wiggle::banana::arms::h eadbang::wiggle::banana:

Woo hoo! Now I can go to the grocery store.

Good news and chocolate milk go together like Lobo men's basketball and the Sweet 16. Pick me up some carpet cleaner and paper towels, would you?

[mdanger007]

As much as I'd like to believe Alford doesn't like the coaching rumors, it just isn't so. It may be annoying to receive texts from Mark Smith, it may cause some questions for recruits, it may make the local fans nervous, but look how it helps: Alford gets his name in national papers, makes Krebs nervous enough to bump up his salary and is a nice ego booster and resumé builder. Plus, shooting down a big-conference school like Missou makes people feel warm and fuzzy.

I don't think Alford is leaving UNM any time soon, but you're not gonna hear Alford make a definitive statement about staying like: "I've told my agent not to talk to anyone about another head coaching job" or "I'm going to be at New Mexico for the next __ years"

[lobosrsk]

Steve Alford is a classy guy. In the Air Force, we have core values that go, "Integrity First, Service Before Self, Excellence In All We Do". Coach Alford embodies these values and I'm proud to have him as our coach. Go Lobos!

[pjamj]

Wonder what Smith will write tomorrow. I kind of feel bad for Smith. I don't think the Journal even sent him to Houston to cover the Final Four. In fact I don't think they even sent him to Tuscaloosa to cover the Lobos NIT game. Today's byline read Journal Staff Writer after his name which means he wrote it from here. The article after the Bama game was contracted out to a writer who was at the game if I remember correctly. Tough times at the journal.

[yooperlobo]

Thanks Mark. It amazes me that after 4 years of Coach Alford giving us straight talk in every interview he has ever given, some people still try to put words in his mouth and thoughts in his head. These attention seekers are hurting Lobo basketball.

[loboray]

I don't know why it is so hard for some Lobo fans to believe that coach Alford has been a straight shooter with us and deserves the benefit of the doubt.

[bfi2]

Wonder what Smith will write tomorrow. I kind of feel bad for Smith. I don't think the Journal even sent him to Houston to cover the Final Four. In fact I don't think they even sent him to Tuscaloosa to cover the Lobos NIT game. Today's byline read Journal Staff Writer after his name which means he wrote it from here. The article after the Bama game was contracted out to a writer who was at the game if I remember correctly. Tough times at the journal.

Smith has made his own bed & his employer should realize he's a liability. If they had a real journalist covering lobo bb i might feel differently. I don't expect him to write sunshine articles all the time, but stop creating articles that expose your small-mindedness.

[jt_nm]

Thanks for the confirmation on this rumor RPS... Also thanks for taking time out of your sunday to get the facts. Good to know SA wil be keeping his word to the university and the fans.

[bfi2]

i nominate RPS for the Dairese Gary Award!!

[UWSLobo]

As much as I'd like to believe Alford doesn't like the coaching rumors, it just isn't so. It may be annoying to receive texts from Mark Smith, it may cause some questions for recruits, it may make the local fans nervous, but look how it helps: Alford gets his name in national papers, makes Krebs nervous enough to bump up his salary and is a nice ego booster and resumé builder. Plus, shooting down a big-conference school like Missou makes people feel warm and fuzzy.

I don't think Alford is leaving UNM any time soon, but you're not gonna hear Alford make a definitive statement about staying like: "I've told my agent not to talk to anyone about another head coaching job" or "I'm going to be at New Mexico for the next __ years"

The publicity SA gets may be beneficial at first, but at some point you get diminishing returns or even negative returns from stuff like this. Fans get tired of hearing the rumors every year that SA may be going to Oregon or a Missouri or Indiana. Where there is smoke, there is usually fire, and eventually the administartion, boosters, and fans may tire of the rumors and start to question SA's committment. SA understands that I'm sure does not want to create a negative image no matter how beneficial the publicity is.

The average Joe may like attention, but a guy from a small town who does not allow names on the backs of jerseys seems like a guy who is more interested in practical matters and doing a good job as opposed to gossip. SA's responses have always been of a serious nature and gives no indication he enjoys the gossip and rumors.

Just because he has never said he will be with UNM for X number of years, it does not necessarily mean he is chomping at the bit to take the first great job that comes along. Like you and me, SA does not know what the future holds. He signed the contract and that should be enough for now.

[Roob]

i nominate RPS for the Dairese Gary Award!!

The polls have closed.

[RIDIC]

Great work, RPS. And big ups to Alford for granting you the interview.

It's kinda funny how the media tries to report on things BEFORE they happen... We might as well be getting all of our news from Miss Cleo and Nostradamus.

To all those involved in the rumors:

Look in your crystal ball... Can you see my finger?:fing26:

[UWSLobo]

It's quite possible that the reason some Lobo fans get nervous whenever they hear rumors about SA leaving has more to do with the fans and media than with SA himself.

[pjamj]

The REDMenace or the REDMitotes???

Ding, ding, ding...we have a winner!

The Red Mitotes tops them all!!!

[Roob]

Great work, RPS. And big ups to Alford for granting you the interview.

It's kinda funny how the media tries to report on things BEFORE they happen... We might as well be getting all of our news from Miss Cleo and Nostradamus.

To all those involved in the rumors:

Look in your crystal ball... Can you see my finger?:fing26:

Hopefully this entry translates well on Sports Speakup.

[Digital Lobo]

Thanks, RPS. I hope the worry warts and sh!t stirrers can go back to finding rumors that affect something other than the Lobos and Steve Alford. It's nice to know that character and conviction go beyond money.

And it's nice to know that the exclamation mark is such a versatile alphanumeric character!

[wolf1960]

read my posts wolf1960 got the inside scoop from RPS... Steve Alford said 2 years ago " I am not going anywhere"... with great recruits here and coming in, with a NEW Pit, with a GREAT coaching staff, with loyal fan base, and the fantastic Lobo Lair....Do Not believe any rumors about Alford leaving, he will let RPS know 1st... Mark Smith will be last to know for sure !!

[RIDIC]

Hopefully this entry translates well on Sports Speakup.

I'm sending an email now. I don't have a "bird" smiley, so I'm just gonna attach a picture of my middle finger...:biggrin:

[Digital Lobo]

Pick me up some carpet cleaner and paper towels, would you?

You got it. I'll even come by and help your son clean it up and I'll throw in some replacement Pepsi and cinnamon rolls to boot.

[TheLoboMan]

You got it. I'll even come by and help your son clean it up and I'll throw in some replacement Pepsi and cinnamon rolls to boot.

I bet RPS and his family would like Cinnabons!

[LoboCubs23]

so here is my Sports Speak up post.

Dear Sports Editor:

How does it feel to pay Mark Smith all the money to dig around and muck up garbage only to get scooped by a local internet operator who runs his website for free. I dont think you're getting good value out of old Murky.

[ThreePointShot]

Thanks, RPS. I got quite a jolt this morning when I picked up the newspaper off the driveway and saw that on the front page. It wasn't exactly the way I envisioned starting my Sunday. Glad to hear further confirmation from Alford himself that he's not a candidate for Missouri.

[LoboDogg]

Thank you RPS for clearing this up and hearing it straight from the horses mouth instead of the village idiot Mark Smith

We should all Thank Coach Alford for his loyalty and apologize that the media took time away from his father-son time at the Final Four.

Spanna, Is your mouth tired yet? Talking out of both sides of it takes a lot of work

http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=203&f=2467&t=7389921

[RIDIC]

so here is my Sports Speak up post.

Dear Sports Editor:

How does it feel to pay Mark Smith all the money to dig around and muck up garbage only to get scooped by a local internet operator who runs his website for free. I dont think you're getting good value out of old Murky.

I dig it. Let's hope they not only print it, but print it in it's entirety and without substituting "old Murky" for "(Mark Smith)."

[LoboCubs23]

Thank you RPS for clearing this up and hearing it straight from the horses mouth instead of the village idiot Mark Smith

We should all Thank Coach Alford for his loyalty and apologize that the media took time away from his father-son time at the Final Four.


Spanna nice recovery, and Im glad you have no idea what you are talking about. From yesterdays posts you sounded like you either knew or were completely convinced he was leaving.

[loboray]

Why would anyone equate Lon Kruger with Steve Alford???

[SpanaBaller]

Spanna, Is your mouth tired yet? Talking out of both sides of it takes a lot of work

http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=203&f=2467&t=7389921

Ok Rob Montoya or whoever you are. They don't teach scepticism in Vegas NM do they. My post at the time was a fair post as it was following the Kruger/Oklahoma twist and turns and it had followed last yr's Oregon gesture. Last evening...... Missouri TVs were confirming an alleged interview and then there was that Journal report saying Mark Smith has 3 sources who were also coaches confirming something.

Not my fault Missouri TV lied and not my fault Mark Smith had shady sources who lied to him. Maybe Mark Smith can reveal those coaches who were talking smack.

[Ltlf]

Ok Rob Montoya or whoever you are. They don't teach scepticism in Vegas NM do they. My post at the time was a fair post as it was following the Kruger/Oklahoma twist and turns and it had followed last yr's Oregon gesture. Last evening...... Missouri TVs were confirming an alleged interview and then there was that Journal report saying Mark Smith has 3 sources who were also coaches confirming something.

Not my fault Missouri TV lied and not my fault Mark Smith had shady sources who lied to him. Maybe Mark Smith can reveal those coaches who were talking smack.

Like maybe you didn't have to put so much faith in those sources. One which you don't even know and the other one of which you know too much.

My skepticism was for those sources over the word of SA who has said over and over and over that he is happy here. I'll start believing that he may be considering another job when I start hearing negatives coming from his mouth about the job as the coach of the Lobos.

[LoboCubs23]

Ok Rob Montoya or whoever you are. They don't teach scepticism in Vegas NM do they. My post at the time was a fair post as it was following the Kruger/Oklahoma twist and turns and it had followed last yr's Oregon gesture. Last evening...... Missouri TVs were confirming an alleged interview and then there was that Journal report saying Mark Smith has 3 sources who were also coaches confirming something.

Not my fault Missouri TV lied and not my fault Mark Smith had shady sources who lied to him. Maybe Mark Smith can reveal those coaches who were talking smack.


Sorry Spana but you should have realize you were dealing with Mark Smith... not a real Journalist, so that is kind of on you.

[LoboDogg]

Ok Rob Montoya or whoever you are. They don't teach scepticism in Vegas NM do they. My post at the time was a fair post as it was following the Kruger/Oklahoma twist and turns and it had followed last yr's Oregon gesture. Last evening...... Missouri TVs were confirming an alleged interview and then there was that Journal report saying Mark Smith has 3 sources who were also coaches confirming something.

Not my fault Missouri TV lied and not my fault Mark Smith had shady sources who lied to him. Maybe Mark Smith can reveal those coaches who were talking smack.

What does who I am or where I am from have to do with it? Why are you so obsessed with me?

Here is something to take into consideration... Dont believe everything that people throw out there... Dont post on the internet every time that you feel that you have something to say without thinking about it. Dont go on two sites and say two things and not expect someone you call your ugly ass out on it. Daniel Martinez. Go back to Spana and smear that turquoise cupcake icing on your face and hide out until next Fall when you get drunk in the South Lot and bum tickets from students.

[LoboMike]

It's hilarious because Smith thought he actually had a scoop with his "anonymous" sources. To be in the room the next time him and Alford are face to face would be priceless.

[Gonzlobo]

Wonder what Smith will write tomorrow. I kind of feel bad for Smith. I don't think the Journal even sent him to Houston to cover the Final Four. In fact I don't think they even sent him to Tuscaloosa to cover the Lobos NIT game. Today's byline read Journal Staff Writer after his name which means he wrote it from here. The article after the Bama game was contracted out to a writer who was at the game if I remember correctly. Tough times at the journal.

I'll tell you precisely what Murk - and the rest of the media - will write: "in an interview with an internet fansite, Steve Alford said 'Never in my career have I spoke to a Missouri official nor has my agent about interviewing about their basketball position.'".

I guarantee you Murk Smith and ESPN won't give thelobolair.com proper credit for kwelling (sic) the rumors. Heh, I used Murk and kwell (http://children.webmd.com/lindane-for-lice#hw50912)in the same sentence.

(yes, I know rumors are quelled)

[datildame]

I believe Mr Staley was pushing the "yes, but what if" button pretty hard in the previous thread. Kept trying to keep that doubt out there dangling........ Thanks, RPS. Do you think Steve Alford ever reads TLL?

[Burro lobo]

The first thing that comes to mind when that guy, (dumb ass), writes anything is that it's never right and that should end it right there!

[Garishwolf]

OK,,,,,,,,,,,,,,Now if anybody has any doubt in our leader RPS's knowledge and connections(movidas), they ALL now have an idea.

THANK YOU RPS, for reaching out and getting THEE truth,,,the TLL rules.

ABQ media/s suck.

i hope PRS set SA up with an account on the board......lol

LONG LIVE THE ALFORD ERA,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,and the guud TLL.

[Mark]

I believe Mr Staley was pushing the "yes, but what if" button pretty hard in the previous thread. Kept trying to keep that doubt out there dangling........ Thanks, RPS. Do you think Steve Alford ever reads TLL?

To be 100% honest with you? No, he doesnt. I do think that people around him let him know that we run a pretty good ship here and talking to us is a good thing. Were not your normal "media" type here. Obviously were fans first.
The reason I know he doesnt read the site is because his first year here I had to run down to the Davalos for something. We talked for a min and then he asked me if I could help him with something on his computer. In his words he said "im computer illiterate" with a chuckle. I dont think he doesnt know how to use a computer but I dont think he cares much about message boards. I think he has a lot more to do than worry about what Spanna or I are saying.

[Roob]

If he took the time to read what you and Spanna have to say, I think that translates into another 1.5 wins per season.

[loboray]

For the life of me, I don't understand Smith's strategy to stay on the bad side of Alford. I don't know how this helps him professionally. I'm kind of slow. Anyone want to attempt to explain it to me?

[UNM Class of 1972]

Ok Rob Montoya or whoever you are. They don't teach scepticism in Vegas NM do they. My post at the time was a fair post as it was following the Kruger/Oklahoma twist and turns and it had followed last yr's Oregon gesture. Last evening...... Missouri TVs were confirming an alleged interview and then there was that Journal report saying Mark Smith has 3 sources who were also coaches confirming something.

Not my fault Missouri TV lied and not my fault Mark Smith had shady sources who lied to him. Maybe Mark Smith can reveal those coaches who were talking smack.
You are a very strange person. Has anyone else ever told you that?

[Lobonick]

I wish there was a way that Coach could use this board in a more direct way to get information out to the fans. Today was a perfect example of why TTL has become "The only Legit source for Lobo MBB". He obviously knows where we hang out on the net and he let RPS get the word out because he knew it was the best way to directly speak with the fans and bypass the BS media that would still find a way to keep the rumor burning.

I really like that Coach uses tweets to make a comment or two. I wonder if there would be a way to set up a comment thread for Coach in the board? I think that would be really cool for the fans. I understand that this probably wouldn't work on most sports boards, but the Lair is not most other boards. RPS and his team do a dilligent and outstanding job of keeping this board clean so I really think it might work.

[Lobonick]

I should clarify that I do not mean a thread where we can comment, just one that he can comment in.

[loboray]

RPS get his tweets and informs of anything he thinks we should know. That's good enough for me.

[datildame]

I think that you all are being a little too rough on Spannaballer. So he screwed up some. He seems to be a loyal Lobo fan and TLL member. I don't comment a lot here because I am afraid I will say something "not correct" and show off that I do not know everything about basketball even though I really love it. Give him a break

[Digital Lobo]

I think that you all are being a little too rough on Spannaballer. So he screwed up some. He seems to be a loyal Lobo fan and TLL member. I don't comment a lot here because I am afraid I will say something "not correct" and show off that I do not know everything about basketball even though I really love it. Give him a break

Spana is definitely opinionated, but I don't think that is a necessarily a bad thing. He obviously brings some provocative stuff to the table. However, I don't think that anyone should doubt for one moment that he bleeds cherry and silver. Therefore, if certain of us on the Lobo discussion forums agree to disagree on certain points as long as we are the same side -- i.e. the Lobo side -- that is good enough for me at the end of the day.

[Wolfen1]

For the life of me, I don't understand Smith's strategy to stay on the bad side of Alford. I don't know how this helps him professionally. I'm kind of slow. Anyone want to attempt to explain it to me?

I'm sure you already know this loboray, but it's not you that's "slow", it's the rags approach, personnel and strategy.

Locks has closed practices to the media and Alford should do the same. The "local media" can rely on UNM's sports information releases. If they insist on taking the confrontational role, they should be limited in their access.

[Mark]

I'm sure you already know this loboray, but it's not you that's "slow", it's the rags approach, personnel and strategy.

Locks has closed practices to the media and Alford should do the same. The "local media" can rely on UNM's sports information releases. If they insist on taking the confrontational role, they should be limited in their access.

Hey! Don't get gong crazy now!! I love practice.

[Digital Lobo]

Hey! Don't get gong crazy now!! I love practice.


And we love the practice reports!

[Wolfen1]

Hey! Don't get gong crazy now!! I love practice.

Good point. I also love the practice reports you give, but according to Wright at the rag, the athletic department is becoming "selective" on who they let remain at the practices after the Q&A. I wouldnt want to throw the baby out with the bath water.

I think they should give TLL "exclusive" access.:smile:

[Jim Chitwood]

For the life of me, I don't understand Smith's strategy to stay on the bad side of Alford. I don't know how this helps him professionally. I'm kind of slow. Anyone want to attempt to explain it to me?

OK, this is my first post here. I followed Alford to NM from Iowa when I became completely fed up with Iowa's lethargy toward the men's basketball program. As a lifelong Iowan, it killed me at first to admit that Alford left Iowa for a BETTER job with NM.

Now to my question which is basically the same question loboray asks. When did Mark Smith get on Steve's bad side, and as The Journal's Lobos BB beat writer, how does he see this as being beneficial to him professionally?

[Lobonick]

Welcome to TLL Jim!

[Mark]

OK, this is my first post here. I followed Alford to NM from Iowa when I became completely fed up with Iowa's lethargy toward the men's basketball program. As a lifelong Iowan, it killed me at first to admit that Alford left Iowa for a BETTER job with NM.

Now to my question which is basically the same question loboray asks. When did Mark Smith get on Steve's bad side, and as The Journal's Lobos BB beat writer, how does he see this as being beneficial to him professionally?


Welcome to the site, Jim Chitwood!

[TheLoboMan]

For the life of me, I don't understand Smith's strategy to stay on the bad side of Alford. I don't know how this helps him professionally. I'm kind of slow. Anyone want to attempt to explain it to me?

This is simple to answer. Smith does this to sell papers and also job security. No other reason. I don't support the Journal, haven't bought or even read one in years. No reason to.

[Wolfen1]

OK, this is my first post here. I followed Alford to NM from Iowa when I became completely fed up with Iowa's lethargy toward the men's basketball program. As a lifelong Iowan, it killed me at first to admit that Alford left Iowa for a BETTER job with NM.

Now to my question which is basically the same question loboray asks. When did Mark Smith get on Steve's bad side, and as The Journal's Lobos BB beat writer, how does he see this as being beneficial to him professionally?

I believe when Alford first arrived in Albuquerque, Smith introduced himself as "the enemy". Smith has taken an adversarial role to every Lobo coach in Alb. Smith is one of those that thinks creating controversy is his role. It doesn't take long for Smith dis-endear himself to anybody. If you peruse Lobo fan sites, you will find it few and far between those who support or agree with Smith.

[Jim Chitwood]

I believe when Alford first arrived in Albuquerque, Smith introduced himself as "the enemy". Smith has taken an adversarial role to every Lobo coach in Alb. Smith is one of those that thinks creating controversy is his role. It doesn't take long for Smith dis-endear himself to anybody. If you peruse Lobo fan sites, you will find it few and far between those who support or agree with Smith.

That's too bad because you guys have a pretty special thing going with your basketball program out there. I was an Alford fan when he was a player, so I started following his coaching career. As a Hawkeye fan, I was so pumped when he was named the coach up there, and all things considered, he did a heck of a job up here. Dr. Tom Davis left the cupboard beyond bare when he departed. In 2006, Alford took a team with 4 starters from Iowa High Schools to 25 wins (2nd best total in school history) and won the Big 10 Tourney after finishing 2nd in the regular season. It didn't matter. Iowans have something of an inferiority complex, and instead of being elated that they had hired a coach with the basketball pedigree of Steve Alford, they collectively immediately started worrying about when Alford was going to take the Indiana job. He never had a chance in Iowa, which is funny because he has accomplished more in the game of basketball himself than the University of Iowa has in their entire existence. He had no practice facility at Iowa, and when he complained about it publicly, the end was in sight. When he left Iowa, I left Iowa as a fan. If they couldn't drum up the administrative support to keep a guy like Steve Alford at Iowa, why should I keep wasting my time and money supporting the program? What Iowa has accomplished since Steve's departure tells you all you need to know. Rock bottom!

I absolutely love watching New Mexico games on The Mountain (DirecTV). There are very few games I don't have the opportunity to watch, and it is amazing to me the support the UNM fan base exhibits.

Lets be honest. If any one of us was approached by another employer with the chance to double our incomes, we're going to listen, but I've got to believe in the end, Steve realizes how lucky he is. Missouri is just another BCS conference program with so-so support both fan-wise and via the school's administration. If Alford ever leaves NM, it will be because he was absolutely blown away by an offer.

[Louiefan]

Ok Rob Montoya or whoever you are. They don't teach scepticism in Vegas NM do they. My post at the time was a fair post as it was following the Kruger/Oklahoma twist and turns and it had followed last yr's Oregon gesture. Last evening...... Missouri TVs were confirming an alleged interview and then there was that Journal report saying Mark Smith has 3 sources who were also coaches confirming something.

Not my fault Missouri TV lied and not my fault Mark Smith had shady sources who lied to him. Maybe Mark Smith can reveal those coaches who were talking smack.

While you're at it Spanna, perhaps you should try to backpedal what you were trying to sell at the Aggie board...

http://mbd.scout.com/mb.aspx?s=242&f=2377&t=7389724

[ThreePointShot]

OK, this is my first post here. I followed Alford to NM from Iowa when I became completely fed up with Iowa's lethargy toward the men's basketball program. As a lifelong Iowan, it killed me at first to admit that Alford left Iowa for a BETTER job with NM.

Now to my question which is basically the same question loboray asks. When did Mark Smith get on Steve's bad side, and as The Journal's Lobos BB beat writer, how does he see this as being beneficial to him professionally?
Who knows what goes on in his brain, but Smith periodically looks to stir things up rather than simply report what's going on. An example is early in this past season when he completely concocted a story about injured starter Phillip McDonald being forced out of the program by Alford because he hadn't lived up to expectations.

There was no basis to the story at all. It was pure speculation and a lot of imagining going on in Smith's head. When Smith finally did go to Alford to confirm or deny his already printed and false story, Alford said something to the effect that "as long as I'm the Lobo coach, Phil is going to be here playing for me." You could sense him seething beneath the professional restraint. And that's just one example. This kind of thing surfaces regularly.

Smith is much more an op-ed columnist than a beat reporter, though his job is actually beat reporter. When Alford correctly stated throughout the year that the Lobos had a very young team (1 senior, 3 juniors--one of whom was really a 2nd semester sophomore, 4 freshman and a few sophomores), Smith was campaigning throughout the year to tear down the "spin job" by Alford and insist that they were really a team filled with veterans. Smith, of course, was doing a spin job of his own--not just once or twice but a number of times throughout the year. That's not the way to a coach's heart, to say the least.

So Mark Smith doesn't just report. He writes with an agenda, and it's often not a good one. He appears to take issues in his personal life and exorcise them in print now and then by taking things out on the Lobos. Even his own colleagues (in print right in the Journal) have referred to him as cranky and grumpy.

[loboray]

That's too bad because you guys have a pretty special thing going with your basketball program out there. I was an Alford fan when he was a player, so I started following his coaching career. As a Hawkeye fan, I was so pumped when he was named the coach up there, and all things considered, he did a heck of a job up here. Dr. Tom Davis left the cupboard beyond bare when he departed. In 2006, Alford took a team with 4 starters from Iowa High Schools to 25 wins (2nd best total in school history) and won the Big 10 Tourney after finishing 2nd in the regular season. It didn't matter. Iowans have something of an inferiority complex, and instead of being elated that they had hired a coach with the basketball pedigree of Steve Alford, they collectively immediately started worrying about when Alford was going to take the Indiana job. He never had a chance in Iowa, which is funny because he has accomplished more in the game of basketball himself than the University of Iowa has in their entire existence. He had no practice facility at Iowa, and when he complained about it publicly, the end was in sight. When he left Iowa, I left Iowa as a fan. If they couldn't drum up the administrative support to keep a guy like Steve Alford at Iowa, why should I keep wasting my time and money supporting the program? What Iowa has accomplished since Steve's departure tells you all you need to know. Rock bottom!

I absolutely love watching New Mexico games on The Mountain (DirecTV). There are very few games I don't have the opportunity to watch, and it is amazing to me the support the UNM fan base exhibits.

Lets be honest. If any one of us was approached by another employer with the chance to double our incomes, we're going to listen, but I've got to believe in the end, Steve realizes how lucky he is. Missouri is just another BCS conference program with so-so support both fan-wise and via the school's administration. If Alford ever leaves NM, it will be because he was absolutely blown away by an offer.

Couldn't have said it any better myself, Jim Chitwood. Iowa lost a great fan when you chose to no longer support their program.
As to closing practice: I would not be in favor of that. If coach wanted to pull privileges for certain members of the media, that would be O.K. with me. BTW, I have known Van Tate for a long time and there is no member of the media more straight arrow or deserving of my trust than Van. I am saying this about Van cause we are often accused of ripping on the media. Never felt the need to question Van's motives about Lobo sports, ever. Just sayin.

[bfi2]

Welcome, former Hawkeye fan! You will quickly find this site is much more professional & supportive than almost all other fan forums. Hence, Alford's candid discussion with RPS today!

One of my favorite moves by Smith was about mid-season, when the Mtn channel asked him partake in the weekly discussion show "Around the Mountain". I believe that's when Smith started his rant that "the freshman aren't freshman anymore", because they'd already played half of this season. He was arrogant & acted as if he knew everything. When asked by the broadcasters about the highly-touted, $60M renovation of the Pit all he could do was complain about everything. And even more disturbing was that he acted as if he was portraying the opinion of lobo fans. The parking is inconvenient, the media seats are too far away & the fans get in his way, etc. It was embarassing for ALL of us. It was the perfect opportunity to pump up the Pit & Lobos across the league, but no.....he had to bash it all. I think that was the beginning of the end for Alford tolerating his crap. Alford came out right after that on various radio shows blasting Smith & hasn't looked back. That's when i was convinced that Smith really IS that stupid.

[mikexom]

Hmmm not a peep out of the establishment media types on this one (Staley or Jimmer Fluffer).... does the defense rest without comment?

[ThickLobo]

SA is not the type of man to plot a course for his supporters and his family and abandon ship for the first pig with lipstick. He has his son coming to UNM next year. Good dads don't treat their kids like ping pong balls. If you know anything about his family background and the way the General views loyalty and integrity, then you might be inclined to worry about every little rumor about SA jumping ship. Not me. I know what I need to know to believe he is here for a long run. Support him and the Lobos and they will reciprocate to New Mexico fans by doing their best in all regards.

[Jim Chitwood]

Welcome, former Hawkeye fan! You will quickly find this site is much more professional & supportive than almost all other fan forums. Hence, Alford's candid discussion with RPS today!

One of my favorite moves by Smith was about mid-season, when the Mtn channel asked him partake in the weekly discussion show "Around the Mountain". I believe that's when Smith started his rant that "the freshman aren't freshman anymore", because they'd already played half of this season. He was arrogant & acted as if he knew everything. When asked by the broadcasters about the highly-touted, $60M renovation of the Pit all he could do was complain about everything. And even more disturbing was that he acted as if he was portraying the opinion of lobo fans. The parking is inconvenient, the media seats are too far away & the fans get in his way, etc. It was embarassing for ALL of us. It was the perfect opportunity to pump up the Pit & Lobos across the league, but no.....he had to bash it all. I think that was the beginning of the end for Alford tolerating his crap. Alford came out right after that on various radio shows blasting Smith & hasn't looked back. That's when i was convinced that Smith really IS that stupid.

OK, see until I somewhat accidentally stumbled onto this forum yesterday while chasing down Mizzou rumors, my only way of staying "informed" with Lobos basketball was through my online subscription to the ABQ Journal and the Athletic Department's website. I assumed the New Pit was a disaster because Mark Smith's comments are pretty much the only information I've had access to.

Wow!

[loboray]

If you stay tuned on this board, you will eventually want to experience a pit game yourself. It would be a fantastic experience.

[Jim Chitwood]

If you stay tuned on this board, you will eventually want to experience a pit game yourself. It would be a fantastic experience.

Oh, there is no "eventually" to it. The Pit is without question one of the biggest homecourt advantages in College BB. I've been dropping hints to my 15 year old son that NM might be a great place to go to school, but his mother is fighting me on that a little bit.

The looks I get here in Hawkeye Country are bad enough when I sport my MWC Conference Championship tee shirts. I figure I'm about 15 years from retiring. I can't imagine what they'll be saying if I decide to spend my winters in ABQ.

[COLOLOBO]

Good job RPS that is how it is done go directly to the source! Alford came from a family that taught family values and was in a program which stood by "say what you mean and mean what you say". No double speak, no spin, just straight talk media can't handle that and was proven so many times with Bobby and now it is happening with Steve. Many may question Knight about a bunch of things but at the end of the day he was who he was with no hidden agendas, no BS, he had ethics. That is one of the many reasons I admire Steve Alford. We are very lucky to have someone with his ethics and moral values leading our basketball program. Thanks Coach!

[RustyTX]

RPS....Thanks for the clear information and work it took to get to that interview. With that being said...you have raised the bar higher for all other fan sites in terms of integrity and class. I'm sure Coach appreciates the effort you have put in to clear up this rumor crap. Other media outlets will come to you for information....I guess that makes you on the same level (as related to accuaracy of information) as Orangebloods. They still have some work to do in terms of keeping it classy.

[MacLobo]

Oh, there is no "eventually" to it. The Pit is without question one of the biggest homecourt advantages in College BB. I've been dropping hints to my 15 year old son that NM might be a great place to go to school, but his mother is fighting me on that a little bit.

The looks I get here in Hawkeye Country are bad enough when I sport my MWC Conference Championship tee shirts. I figure I'm about 15 years from retiring. I can't imagine what they'll be saying if I decide to spend my winters in ABQ.

All depends on what your sons interested in. UNM has some great programs and some ok programs. As far as retirement goes...you won't find a better place than Albuquerque! Except maybe the Caribbean...hit me up in about 14 years! My wife's a realtor, and she'll find you a killer retirement home! Lol!!!