DICK'S TIDBITS | Feb. 19, 2004

	Christian Drejer won't be taking any more shots for the Gators.

Coach Billy Donovan and Florida suffered a blow when 6-9 sophomore Christian Drejer decided this week to accept a pro contract in Spain and leave the Gators immediately.

Drejer was a starter, averaging 10.2 points, 4.8 rebounds and almost four assists per game. His decision to leave in the middle of the season, just a few weeks before the SEC tournament and the NCAA tourney, is a selfish act.

Without Drejer on Tuesday night, Florida lost 76-62 at Georgia, its fourth defeat in the past five games. Drejer, who is from Denmark, considered playing in Europe after last season.

To me, Drejer simply quit on his team. He should have made his decision to leave after the season instead of abandoning his teammates and coaches at a crucial time. Once the No. 1 team in America, Florida is now a bubble team with a 14-8 record (5-6 in the SEC).

WELL WISHES TO TWO COACHES
Best wishes to Charlie Spoonhour, who left his position as UNLV head coach due to a stress-related illness. Spoonhour has been a great teacher and coach for years, leading SW Missouri State and Saint Louis before helping UNLV find success.

Also, let's pray for the speedy. healthy recovery of 39-year-old Trey Schwab, the Marquette assistant who recently underwent a double lung transplant.

Schwab is a beautiful guy who needed this transplant because he was given less than six months to live without it.

AN ASSISTANT TO CONSIDER
For those schools that may have a head-coaching opening in the near future, here's a name to consider -- Villanova associate head coach Fred Hill Jr.

Hill has more than 20 years experience in coaching, including stints at Marquette, Seton Hall (under Tommy Amaker) and Villanova.

He brings the total package -- recruiting success, enthusiasm and excitement plus a knowledge of the game.

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