The questions surrounding Steve Lavin

If it turns out to be Steve Lavin at USF then that will be a decision drawing both huzzahs as well as thumbs down, the proportion to one another unknown right now.

Lavin is likeable, telegenic, well-versed in the media and represents a school well. His philanthropy efforts are well documented. Call him a good, all-around guy.

However, he isn't known for being a cagey Xs-and-Os guy nor for helming over-achieving teams.

UCLA made the decision to let him go after seven years, St. John's after five.

So can he raise the level of USF's recruiting? He certainly brought in excellent prospects at UCLA but was it him or actually UCLA as the overriding factor in that equation?

Of this group of Bruin signees--Trevor Ariza, Matt Barnes, Baron Davis, Dan Gadzuric, Ryan Hollins, Jason Kapono, Earl Watson, Jerome Moiso, Charles O'Bannon, Jelani McCoy, Toby Bailey, Dijon Thompson, and J.R. Henderson--who became an obviously greater skilled talent while in Westwood?

While at UCLA, Lavin enjoyed post season appearances: one Elite 8, four Sweet Sixteens and a First Round. His conference records were 15-3, 12-6, 12-6, 10-8, 14-4, 11-7 and 6-12 with a single first place finish.

His recruiting at St. John's was solid but tailed off towards the end of his tenure as greater chances were taken on prospects adorned with warning signs. His squads made two First Round Big Dance shows plus an NIT First Round and a Second Round. His records were 12-6, 8-8, 10-8 and 10-8 (he missed some time due to illnesses).

Can Steve Lavin get the USF program headed in the correct direction? Any interview focus should zero in on the question of what's different now for Steve Lavin? What has he learned from his tenures at UCLA and St. John's? Why would he be a better coach now?

For more and it covers the spectrum:

"Why We Hate Steve Lavin" -- DC Bruins

A look at Lavin & Ben Howland

Pumping Lavin for the AZU job (Bobby Hurley was hired)

"Steve Lavin to St. John’s: Well, he won’t be boring" -- Tim Kawakami