Speaking of Mr. Davis

grandmahawk

Well-Known Member
(from a current thread)

I also wondered why a doctor decided to get into coaching.

Speaking of Mr. Davis's academic career...on a whim I looked up his doctoral dissertation today (it's readily available as a .pdf on Digital Dissertations -- fellow academics will know what I'm talking about). Turns out it's a pretty interesting (if somewhat dated) study of sports in 18th-century colonial America, specifically of the discourse about the appropriateness of sports in a largely religious society. Submitted in 1971 at the University of Maryland. Look it up if you're interested. Skimming through it made me respect the great Dr. even more than I already did.

As a life-long Hawk fan, I already knew I appreciated what he brought to the basketball court; as a historian, I now also appreciate his contributions to the field!
 


I have the highest respect for Mr. Davis. It was a huge mistake to fire such an outstanding coach.
 


I have the highest respect for Mr. Davis. It was a huge mistake to fire such an outstanding coach.

Bowlsby made a bold move when he didn't renew Coach Davis' contract. He knew it would be very unpopular with the fans but he thought he was taking the program to the next level. Isn't it ironic?
 






I have the highest respect for Mr. Davis. It was a huge mistake to fire such an outstanding coach.

I guess all you historians forgive him for breaking the hearts of 8 year olds (among everyone) around Iowa. (see UNLV 1987)

TD did a lot for Iowa and Iowa basketball. That cannot be argued.

But, I guess I am in the minority of people who has now been on the pro-side of the coaching changes for the past 15 years.

Lick needed to go. We couldn't win at all.
TD needed to go. We couldn't win big games.
Alford needed to go. We couldn't 'just win' anymore.

The verdict is still out on Coach Fran. So far, so good.
 




I guess all you historians forgive him for breaking the hearts of 8 year olds (among everyone) around Iowa. (see UNLV 1987)

TD did a lot for Iowa and Iowa basketball. That cannot be argued.

But, I guess I am in the minority of people who has now been on the pro-side of the coaching changes for the past 15 years.

Lick needed to go. We couldn't win at all.
TD needed to go. We couldn't win big games.
Alford needed to go. We couldn't 'just win' anymore.

The verdict is still out on Coach Fran. So far, so good.

So you've decided to not completely write off our new coach already?
 








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