I have been attending DePaul basketball games since I was 5 years old with my father and brother, starting in 1968. I am 39 years old. I have been embarrassed to say that I am a loyal Blue Demon follower, and boy, has it been hard to watch March Madness again with our program nowhere in sight.
The competition in Conference USA has dramatically changed with the arrival of big-name coaches. If DePaul does not choose a solid coach, its program will be a doormat for years to come.
Has this program settled for something other than the lofty goal of a Final Four appearance? DePaul needs to make the commitment–the financial commitment–and now. When was the last NCAA game DePaul won? It was the 1988-89 season when they beat Memphis–13 years ago. Illinois, Marquette, Notre Dame, Northwestern, Southern Illinois . . . other area universities have improved their programs. Why can’t DePaul?
There is absolutely no reason that a consistent top-30 program cannot be a major part of the sport scene in Chicago. And please consider building an on-campus arena so we have some home-court advantage. Can you imagine what type of entertainment value a facility in Lincoln Park would provide?
If nothing major happens, DePaul can expect continued small crowds, and my family’s seats will be empty. Or DePaul might want to call the Horizon League to see if they have any openings. Loyola and UIC would not mind having another local team to compete with.
