By Gavin Keefe
Publication: theday.com
UConn athletic director Warde Manuel told the Associated Press Monday that he has no plans for a coach-in-waiting situation for the men’s basketball program.
That’s interesting news.
Coach Jim Calhoun would like to set up a succession plan before he retires. Assistant coach Kevin Ollie is the likely candidate.
But apparently Calhoun hasn’t sold Manuel on the idea. They have met to discuss the future of the program.
“Jim's going to participate in the future direction of the program when he decides that he's not going to coach anymore,” Manuel told AP. “But at this time, I haven't made a commitment to a coach-in-waiting. That doesn't mean that in the future I wouldn't change my position. But right now, I'm not naming a coach-in-waiting for men's basketball or any program.”
When reached by AP Monday, Calhoun said: “Warde and I are on the same page. We’re both working for the success of the basketball program.”
Manuel expects Calhoun to return next season. Calhoun has two years left on his contract. He turns 70 on Thursday.
“I don't sit here wondering on a day-to-day basis who is going to be my coach next year," Manuel said. “Unless something changes that I don't foresee ... Jim's our coach and I'm moving forward in that direction.”
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