QUOTE (IlliniKrush @ Mar 21, 2012 -> 11:01 AM)
Shaka has agreed to do studio work for the tournament this weekend, starting tomorrow. This means 2 things IMO:
1) He'll have a decision made by today
2) He's not coming here
I don't think he'd go on TV with this hanging and make that the storyline. I also fail to see how he'd accept a job and then be in the studio for the weekend. I think this just comes down to the fact he doesn't want to leave his little place in Richmond. It's not about the money, as we've reportedly offered enough. It's a much better job, all things considered, he just doesn't want the change. I know the perception will be Illinois is down because they didn't get him, but if we made a great offer and he wants to stay, that's on him. Minus maybe 4 programs (and even that's a maybe), Smart wouldn't leave his current position. I don't think it's Illinois in particular. IMO it's a dumb long term career move, but he's going to do what he wants depending on what makes him happy.
If this is the case, time to move on, lot of good candidates and interest in the job.
I think it is number 2.