Yet it was a mere two years ago that the Ducks landed a less desirable berth in the National Invitational Tournament, leading to criticism by The Oregonian suggesting it was time for the team's longtime coach and sure-bet Hall of Fame Coach Dana Altman to ride off into the sunset.
Not so fast, my friend. I took umbrage at such a short-sighted -- nay blinkered -- suggestion. I was compelled to write UO Athletic Director Rob Mullens and show my support for Coach Altman, who has an overall head coaching record of 710-367, with 15 consecutive 20-win seasons at Oregon.
"Hi, Rob. As a 38-year season ticket holder to Duck basketball, I was disheartened to read in The Oregonian that Dana Altman, whom I consider a great coach, was so frustrated after the NIT game against Wisconsin that he consequently took too much responsibility for the lack of fans in the stands."
"While I appreciate the fact that Dana is a stand-up guy, the real reasons behind the lack of fans at the game go way beyond the performance of the team or the coaches. The real for the lack of attendance, aside from the fact that it was spring break, is lack of parking, ticket prices and late games."
"Dana is not the problem. He is a Hall of Fame coach-in-waiting whom I hope will remain at Oregon for many years to come. UO should develop new approaches to address the real reasons for lack of attendance: provide more parking options and get more creative with ticket prices and scheduling of game times."
Incredibly, I heard back from Rob Mullens almost immediately: "Thanks for your thoughtful note. And many thanks for your generosity as a long-time season ticket holder to Oregon men’s basketball. We are in total agreement that Dana Altman is a Hall of Fame coach and is the best person to lead the Ducks."
"You provided a lot to unpack in your other three key areas. Given your 38 years of experience, I would like to touch base with you via phone to learn more and share information which may be helpful. Please let me know your availability and best number to reach you. Thanks again for your loyalty. Rob."
Now that's what I call customer service. After a 15-minute conversation with Rob Mullens, I was reassured that Altman was in good stead with the athletic department. The very next season, the UO men made the round of 32 in the NCAA tournament. This season, the Ducks made the Big Dance again.
Along with Oregon natives Nate Bittle and Jackson Shelstad, Altman reloaded with key transfers from other former Pac-10 schools, such as T.J. Bamba from WSU and Branden Angel from Stanford. On Friday, March 21, the Webfoots will face off against the Liberty Flames in Seattle. Go Ducks!
