Per Matt Jones this morning:
1 The decision is all in Barnhart’s hand..
2. The money will be there.
3. The University leadership is supportive of whatever he decides, I think we know something by Monday, if not before
If all the above is true, Mitch has to let CCC go. The obstacles ($ and university backing) are no longer. I would think that a list of potential successors has been completed and possible candidates may have already been contacted. I believe Mitch will be hesitant to inqiure about Golden or Oltzelberger (not seasoned enough). Does not want a Billy Clyde repeat!
IMO, Mitch will look for a coach with an experienced coaching resume in Div 1, either Drew or Pearl.
Pearl is a 5 year coach given his age, who will not demand a buyout but will pour his energy and try to re-recruit some of the current year players (Reed, DJ, Z, Thiero, Burks, maybe Edwards), the COW high school recruits, and perhaps bring some of his AU freshmen with him.
Drew is known as an X and O’s coach that we have been missing during the CCC era. He is possibly a 10-year guy at age 53 and has brought a program from the scrap heap to a National Championship. Has not been in trouble with the NCAA and is fairly low key. He is not a charmer or media darling which would be refreshing.
I would think that Mitch is looking for a Drew-type personality as the next coach who does not bring any past baggage with him. Of course, Baylor is still in the tournament so no announcement would be made until Baylor is eliminated or wins it all. My $.02 worth!