Tubby Smith gave the University of Minnesota prominence after the school experienced years of lackluster play on the basketball court. However, Smith was unexpectedly fired after six seasons as head coach.
Apparently, Smith didn’t meet expectations.
Below are five reasons Tubby Smith was unfairly fired by the University of Minnesota
1. Minnesota has never been a hotbed for talent
Tubby Smith has a history of being a great recruiter. In 1997, Smith led Kentucky to a National Title with one of the best college teams in history. Smith left Kentucky for Minnesota and was able to recruit several blue chip players.
2. Minnesota suffered from years of losing on the court
Before Smith joined Minnesota, the team won 3 games and lost 13. During Smith’s first season, the team won 20 games.
3. Tubby led Minnesota to an upset victory over highly ranked UCLA
Last week, Minnesota upset UCLA by crushing them by 20 points. UCLA was a favorite to make the Final Four.
4. Minnesota was marred by scandal before Smith
Minnesota went through years of probation after it was discovered former coach Clem Haskins recruited players illegally. Smith won games without breaking the rules.
5. Smith was a winner
In six seasons, Smith won 20 or more games five times.
