During the time of the Hauser recruiting miss and the Tyler Herro decommitment, as well as when Alando Tucker released the audio of the players criticizing Gard in a closed door meeting, I was one of many who questioned whether Gard should be the man to run the Hoops program. I admit I was wrong. Gard can flat out coach. He has kept many of the principals of Bo's style, but the freedom he allows his young talent (Johnny Davis, Hepburn and this year Essegian) is refreshing. I think he has been successful in the transfer portal, and he has clearly stamped his personality on this team. Hard nosed and tough, but with freedoms on offense that this program needed. Watching Fran, and Juwan Howard act like freaks, I like how consistent Gard is...he represents the school and the state well. At this point in time I wouldn't trade Gard for any coach in the BIG (partly because Izzo is old). I like where this program is. Mea Culpa!