UA WILDCATS BASKETBALL
Stoops says Olson resignation not a shock, cites difficult past 2 years
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LUTE OLSON ARCHIVE
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Arizona basketball coach Lute Olson's retirement has taken away some of the buzz from a UA football program preparing for its biggest game in nearly 10 years.
Wildcat coach Mike Stoops didn't seem bothered.
"He has been a great friend and mentor for me," Stoops said after Olson stepped down Thursday.
"He is a icon. I hope and pray he is in good health and happy with this decision. He has put a lot of time and energy building a tradition here second to none. He is going to be recognized as one of the top 10 coaches ever."
The news of Olson's departure after 25 years at Arizona may have made some Wildcat fans forget about Saturday's football game for a while.
The Wildcats (5-2, 3-1) host No. 6 USC at 7:15 p.m. Saturday, with first place in the Pac-10 at stake.
"I'm sure there will be a lot said and written over the next 24, 48 hours, but it is not going to affect our program and our team this weekend," Stoops said.
Arizona is focusing on the Trojans, but Stoops had plenty of time to reflect on his long-time friendship with Olson.
The two go back to days at the University of Iowa, where Stoops was a defensive back for the Hawkeyes in 1981-82 while Olson coached in Iowa City. Olson took the Arizona job a year later.
"We used to room with all the basketball players there," Stoops said. "We had a great group of guys and great continuity when I was playing at Iowa. There were a lot of good times back then."
Stoops appeared saddened a little bit by the news.
"Is it disappointing? Sure. I hope he finds peace and happiness," Stoops said. "He certainly deserves it. I am not shocked by it. Coach has been fighting through a lot of personal issues over the last two years. I'm sure he had great intentions . . . He obviously has come to terms with it and is happy. He needs to enjoy his life and move on."
Stoops understands the transition for Olson's players won't come easily.
Stoops has been working the last four-plus years trying to rebuild a program after coaching changes involving Dick Tomey and John Mackovic.
"This can be somewhat disruptive now but kids are very strong and resilient," he said. "I think whatever happens, our kids will handle it and go out there and play.
"That is what this team has to do. This team is full of talented players."
Stoops admires how long Olson coached.
"Things have changed so much in the last 10 years," he said. "It is a very difficult position. It takes a lot of time and there are a lot of factors that go into each day in jobs like these.
"It takes time and energy. Sometimes you just run out (of energy). I'm sure that is where he is at."
He has to go pick up his new Lincoln Continental.
He has no worries till his graduation rates bite him in the butt.