As the Final Four tips off today in Detroit, there are currently two very high profile college basketball coaching vacancies. Arizona was recently turned down by USC's Tim Floyd, while Memphis is currently playing their cards close to the vest.
Instead of writing an article focusing on the predictable candidates for these positions, I want to look at 10 out-of-the box candidates that could fit in at either school.
There is a bit of a misnomer that Memphis is a "high-profile" job, but the reality is that Memphis immediately became a middle of the pack team once John Calipari left for Kentucky and the Bluegrass state.
Not only is Tyreke Evans gone, but so are important contributors Antonio Anderson, Robert Dozier, and most importantly, Calipari's heralded recruiting class led by the nation's No. 1 prospect, Xavier Henry.
Despite this fact, Memphis, with the right coach, can continue to dominate Conference USA.
Much like when Indiana surprised everyone and hired Kelvin Sampson several years back, these candidates would be a surprise to many if they were hired at either school.
We have to assume neither school will hire an assistant, so only head coaches will be looked at for these scenarios.
Candidate: 1. Jamie Dixon, Arizona (Pittsburgh)
Dixon could stay at Pitt and be a highly successful Big East coach for as long as he wanted in all likelihood, but the competitiveness of the Big East takes a toll on its teams in the regular season.
Dixon has been an excellent regular season coach for a number of years, but his team has not advanced to the Final Four yet, and this was probably his best chance to date.
Losing Lavance Fields, Sam Young, and DeJuan Blair will make next season a transition year, so if Dixon were to leave, now would be the time. Arizona would be a place where Dixon could go in and continue on the tradition of success left by Lute Olson.
While regional issues might arise when it comes to recruiting, Dixon would be an intriguing selection by Arizona, if he were willing to leave Pitt.
Candidate 2. Sean Miller, Arizona or Memphis (Xavier)
While this would not be a shocking hire, Miller changing time zones would be a big deal. Xavier is in the Atlantic 10, not a power conference, and Miller has probably reached his peak with any Xavier team.
The odds of them advancing past the Elite 8 are slim, although they have come close. Reasons why Miller would make the move to either school would include a huge pay raise, more prestige and better recruits. Memphis may be a bit of a lateral move, but if Miller wants a new challenge, either school would fit the bill.
Candidate 3. Gary Williams, Arizona (Maryland)
Why would Williams ever leave Maryland? It's no secret he had a very public spat with his athletic director this season, and perhaps Williams is tired of hearing the whispers from the fans.
Much like Tennessee's Phil Fulmer, the shine of William's national title has begun to rust, and he would be a perfect successor to Lute Olson. His team's play a somewhat frenetic style at times, something 'Zona fans are used to.
Another factor to consider is the longevity factor: Williams has been at Maryland a long time, and perhaps it is time to move on. I think both parties would be happy with each other in this scenario.
Candidate 4. Kevin Stallings, Memphis (Vanderbilt)



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