Nov. 19
The college basketball world was really excited about the return of two star coaches with new addresses -- Louisville's Rick Pitino and Texas Tech's Bobby Knight. I give both coaches five stars for their debut performances at their new schools. Is this really a shock?

	Despite the blowout, Rick Pitino was still barking at players and refs until the final buzzer.

The Red Raiders opened at home with an impressive performance over William and Mary in the first round of the Texas Tech tournament. Knight's second game was supposed to be tougher, as people have been excited with coach Steve Fisher's improved San Diego State squad.

Let me tell you, it was an NC -- no contest -- as the Aztecs were handled by Knight's Red Raiders. Fisher's club was supposed to turn the corner this year, but Texas Tech responded in big-time fashion. The Red Raiders were in control, building a 20-point lead in the second half.

Texas Tech's top inside player, center Andy Ellis, put on a super performance. The Red Raiders played an aggressive defense that led to the gold trophy in the tournament. Knight's team really showed something by winning its first road game Tuesday, coming from behind to beat Mike Dement's Mustangs at Southern Methodist, 78-75.

Pitino's Cardinals put on quite a performance in a 92-38 blowout of South Alabama. Dressed in one of his Armani specials, he was crouching on the sidelines, cuff links showing, black suit as sharp as ever. The coach was ready to perform in an environment where he belongs.

Pitino is a teacher and motivator, a guy who really works the sidelines. His style and ability belong in the college landscape.

Louisville came out and played in a frenetic style. Their defense was swirling, and Pitino said after the game that he gave his team a 10 for intensity.

The Cardinals played with emotion and excitement, which figure to be trademarks of the Louisville program under Pitino. Just wait until they get the personnel that matched his teams at Kentucky. Remember the club that won the '96 national title with the Wildcats? That team had seven guys go on to the NBA.

Pitino doesn't possess that kind of talent now. What he does have is a roster of kids ready to play with a lot of desire.

So the initial review is five stars for Knight and Pitino. This is great not only for Louisville and Texas Tech but also for college basketball.