Tubby Smith an NBA coach?

Peter Vescey of the New York Post is reporting that Kentucky coach Tubby Smith is hinting at wanting to take a job in the NBA next season.

"I think Tubby wants to test himself at the next level," a friend in the professional ranks says. "I'm not so sure he feels the fans fully appreciate what he's accomplished [capturing an NCAA title right out of the box and having a 26-game winning streak after last night's 63-57 victory over Wisconsin] in Kentucky since replacing Pitino in '98."

There is some concern because of unsuccesful attempts of college coaches to excel in the NBA such as Rick Pitino, Jerry Tarkanian, Tim Floyd, and Lon Kruger among others.

"Those coaches were flawed, but it was as much the players' lack of trust and confidence in them that was to blame," an Eastern Conference team president underlines. "The first bump in the road and the players said, ‘What does he know? He's from college.' It's too convenient an excuse."

Vescey names franchises like Washington, the new Charlotte franchise, and Philadelphia as teams that might be interested.

Via New York Post

Philadelphia 76ers, Washington Wizards, Expansion

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Charlotte to remain nameless a bit longer

Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reports: It doesn't look like the new Charlotte franchise, which will begin playing in 2004/2005, will have a name before summer.

Team spokesman Chris Weiller said not to expect a nickname before June.

This is a bit of a surprise because the expansion agreement between the NBA and team owner Bob Johnson called for a nickname in 90 days or "best effort."

If this were the case, a nickname would be choosen either this month or next.

Weiller said the team and the league are working together at a deliberate pace, and will seek input from the Charlotte community before deciding on a name.

Via Charlotte Observer

Expansion

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