Majerus Poised to be Named Sun Devils Coach

He has expressed his interest in Arizona State University’s Head Basketball Coach position, ever since the school released former skipper Rob Evans. Now, according to various sources, pending a background check and physical exams Majerus will be named the Sun Devils’ next head coach. An official announcement is expected to come later this week.

This is not the first time Majerus’ name has been associated with the Arizona State Basketball head coaching position. In 1998, the five-time national coach of the year was one of the Sun Devils‘ leading candidates for the position. However, a contract with Reebok, who wasn’t ASU’s official shoe sponsor, prevented him from assuming the role eight years ago. However, he remained intrigued with this career opportunity. Sources have indicated that following Evans’ dismissal, that he lobbied for the position and was willing to come at Evans’ salary of $600,000 per year, which would clearly be below his value in the open market.

Majerus is one of the most colorful individuals in the college basketball community. He’s synonymous with his trademark sweaters, and jovial personality. He has battled weight and health issues for several years now. Majerus is diabetic and has had two bypass heart surgeries. Undoubtedly, the Sun Devils’ brass would have to be thoroughly convinced, following his physical exam, that he is fit and ready to take on the rigors of coaching once again.

The most interesting story line in his hiring, is the fact that ASU’s Vice President of Athletics, Lisa Love, was an Assistant Athletic Director at USC in 2004. At that time, Majerus accepted the Trojans’ job, was announced as head coach, and resigned just five days later citing health issues. His likely hiring by the maroon and gold, is a telling sign that Love is convinced that he’s truly committed to become ASU’s man at the helm.

If hired, Majerus would be one of the most accomplished coaches to ever land in Tempe. His career winning percentage is 74%, and he has remarkably never been part of a losing season. His squads have been part the NCAA tournament 11 times, with his Utah team, where he coaches from 1989 to 2003, reaching the final four in 1998, and lost in the championship game to Kentucky. He also coached at Ball State University from 1987 to 1989, and Marquette from 1983 to 1986. He had a shrot stint in the NBA, as the Milwaukee Bucks assistant coach in the 1986-87 season. Currently, he has been working as a College Basketball analyst for the ESPN Network.