The "this is D1 athletics" people will think otherwise, but I say you have to know your guys and treat them in a way that helps them get the most out of their abilities. I tend to doubt treating Marcus like that is going to help the kid.

I don't know how many of you remember Bob Hamilton, but he looked like a maniac at times during games, yelling at the players from the bench and on the bench, throwing towels and chewing on them. I knew a few of the varsity players back then and few of them had a whole lot of love for the man, but he was good coach. He did what he had to do to win. They at least had a lot of respect for him.

I always felt that Ham was just venting his frustrations and anxiety but he didn't seem to personally directed at individual players.

I remember when ham got so frustrated with the way the game was going he told them to “coach yourselves” and went into the stands (with his towel) what a guy! Loved him.

I was there when he did that! He also used to stomp his feet so hard that I was sure he was going to break a bone.

Those were the days

What do you mean? Les didn't use Clint Bozner, and had a high player turnover rate before the Covid era. His career coaching record is .506.

Ham was gracious, warm, and funny off the court, and loved his players. His rantings weren't mean spirited or personal, he was a bundle of passion and intensity. I knew players who loved him, and most respected him. I witnessed many practices at Hickey and Rec Hall when he was both intense and funny.

He helped many get into grad school, and a lifelong friendship with Judge Gordie Baranco speaks volumes. I'm told the Hamiltons were there when Gordie was sworn in as one of the youngest judges ever in our state. He nurtured Audwin Thomas, Jason Rabedeaux, and many others. I've been told stories of Ham's kindness to players, and spending hours visiting with his players, sharing personal time. One former Ham assistant flew from back east to attend his memorial.