[Bamabeachlivin]

Through the past year, Alabama athletics director Mal Moore hasn't said much publicly about the state of the men's basketball program. The Crimson Tide missed the postseason for the first time since 2000 and the NCAA tournament for the second consecutive year, leading to grumbles from the fan base and speculation about the future of Alabama coach Mark Gottfried.
In the wake of Monday's news that guard Ronald Steele was returning and forward Richard Hendrix was staying in the NBA draft pool, I had the chance yesterday to ask Moore about his take on the basketball program for today's story in the Press-Register examining the program's prospects and expectations for next season.
Things have changed quickly in this fickle business. It was only a few years ago that Moore was applauded for offering Gottfried his $1 million salary in the midst of a five-year NCAA run to keep him at Alabama instead of potential suitors like Ohio State.
Now it seems Gottfried has heard from everyone about how pivotal his 11th season at Alabama will be. That includes his boss ...
"Coach Gottfried recognizes that this is an important year," Moore said. "Every year is, of course. But this is a big year for this program. He's got good players coming back, I think, young players. I feel good about the prospects and am certainly looking forward to the year. He's had a good year recruiting. He's got a great player out of Montgomery coming in and Ronald Steele's brother. Steele is coming back, as I understand. Hopefully, when the season starts, if he's in full tilt, he's as good as there is. So that will make a difference. I'm looking forward to it, as I am the football season."

On the criticism Gottfried endured from fans last season ...
Full Story

[Stoney]

I am no fan of Gottfried.

[crimsonlass]

Neither am I. I did enjoy this past season, though. I liked the quick pace and the fine plays, defensively and offensively. I started enjoying it for the first time.

[Stoney]

We can do much better at the Head Coach position like for instance Bobby Lutz of UNCC he would be a nice fit and inexpensive.

[crimsonlass]

It WOULD be nice to start building on our BB program. I was really proud of the way they played this season.

[Stoney]

I doubt it will happen as long as Mal Moore is in charge.

[crimsonlass]

Mal Moore has not been a favorite of mine, either. I have long wanted him replaced with someone more progressive thinking.

[Stoney]

Gene Stallings would be an excellent replacement for Mal Moore.

[crimsonlass]

I thought Gene Stallings was a good coach. He loved the Crimson Tide, too. My concern with that is his age. I think he would be very good at the job.

[Stoney]

You do realize Saban is in charge that Mal is just a figure head right?

[crimsonlass]

I like to think Moore has no power, but I'm not sure....

[Stoney]

They are placating the old man. They don't have the heart to fire him.

[Bamabeachlivin]

Saban had control over football but I think Mal does run the rest of the AD.

[Stoney]

Originally Posted by Bamabeachlivin

Saban had control over football but I think Mal does run the rest of the AD.

That might be the case... I guess we will find out if they fire Gottfried.

[crimsonlass]

I have a feeling they won't fire him....