Initial impressions from the press conference:
-I would estimate about 125-150 people there. Doesn't sound like much, but actually seemed like a decent crowd for a 10:00 press conference. The turnout tonight will be a better indicator.
-Nice setup for the event. I didn't see any current players there except Chase, but my guess is that they were in class. Kerry was in attendance as well.
-Very good first impression of CNM. He strikes me as a younger Kermit, personality-wise. Good speaker, very congenial, seems to have an identity in terms of what he wants his teams to do.
-Made a good appeal to the folks who are still mourning the loss of CKD- "you didn't just lose a coach, you lost a friend...i'm not here to tear down any murals...we should celebrate what we've accomplished...there's plenty of space in this building to hang more banners." (paraphrased)
-Prefers to switch between many different defensive schemes...on offense wants the players to dictate the tempo... "if we can play at 100 mph without turning it over, we are going to play at 100 mph...if we are turning it over at 50, we will dial it down to 40..." Wants to be a team than can grind out wins, because the shots won't always fall (very CKD-esque)
-Mentioned being excited about the opportunity to bring his entire staff in some capacity, but their success at UNC-A has led to head coaching opportunities for some. (I've heard he is bringing one assistant with him most likely).
-Said he had been in contact with Tye. Carlos, and KJ yesterday afternoon (mentioned them by name, nice touch) and was going to visit each of them in the next day or two.
-Overall, I feel good about him, The proof will be in the pudding, but he certainly won me over.