Tom Crean will be officially named head coach at IU tomorrow. Thus ends the circus that was the 2007-2008 season.  I’m thinking of writing a book on the whole thing, but I can’t decide if it should be a comedy or tragedy.  Documenting  the Kelvin Sampson era sounds like a fun book idea, but I need to finish Seven Dead Flamingos and a bunch of other book ideas.

Anyway, as an IU alum, I’m okay with this hire.  I know a few days ago I was advocating Dan Dakich, but I admit it was for more sentimental reasons than anything else.  I think Crean will bring class and dignity to the program. Also, I don’t think the recovery time is going to be as long as people think.  Only 2 of next year’s recruits opted out of their commitments and IU has an exceptional player committed for 2009.  Also, IU fans  might receive a surprise player commitment in the next few weeks.  Stay tuned for that!

Finally, I don’t think the sanctions by the NCAA will be too severe. Probably some recruiting restrictions and/or the loss of a scholarship.  Don’t look for a post season ban, since IU self reported and took measures against Sampson.  None of the violations rise to the level of Ohio State (paying a player), Purdue (student loan fraud), or Minnesota (academic fraud). None of those programs received post season bans.

Carry on, Citizens!