He was well known as a jolly and caring fellow.

Certainly, it increased familiarity with the name Gonzaga. Though a lot of people couldn't pronounce it then, we were glad they were saying it.

We didn't rush to add tenure-track positions because we didn't know how long the increase would continue.

We began to get inquiries in states where we've never recruited. When we have conversations with those students, there's no question that many heard about Gonzaga through basketball.

Our coach feels it's the last piece of the recruiting puzzle he needs to stay competitive with the big boys as a legitimate top-25 contender.

It's a little known blood sport that's been around for 25 years, mostly practiced in South Carolina, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Texas and Florida.