- One tournament appearance in eight years. An incredible run that was the greatest postseason performance in our program's history. This was huge and Frank should get a lot of credit for it.
- Oh yeah... one tournament appearance in eight years. The greatest postseason run in program history was, all things considered, totally un-capitalized on in retrospect. Most recruits and other programs (rightly) viewed our run as a fluke.
- An overall record of 137-113. We can excuse the first two years of his tenure, since those ostensibly weren't "his guys". Now? This is Frank Martin's program, molded in his image. And where do we stand?
Common Pro-Frank Arguments:
"We just beat _____________! We are turning the corner!"
The fact that we can play objectively better competition and win proves that CFM needs to go. Our abhorrent inconsistencies are the mark of a lesser coaching staff. I can (begrudgingly) accept a mediocre roster that is unable to compete with Kentucky or Virginia. I cannot abide a roster that can, but proceeds to lose to the likes of Stetson.
"We are South Carolina! We can't expect to be a relevant basketball program!"
I question your allegiance if you have this mindset. Sure, historically, we aren't a blue blood. Not even remotely. We are, however, a school with top-notch facilities that can spend.
Is Auburn a traditional blue blood in basketball? Of course not. Are they a competent team that competes at an acceptable level for Auburn every year? Absolutely. The difference? I think we know.
"Coach Frank Martin shapes our players into men, ready to tackle the real world!"
That's great! He can do the same thing at SC State. I want wins. And honestly, half of our players seem to transfer before fully matriculating through the program anyway.
In summation, how anyone can defend CFM is beyond me. He should have (and would have) been let go by most other schools after last season.
Here's to hoping Tanner has the gumption to do what he needs to do once we invariably miss the NCAA Tournament (again).