Thursday Morning Dump

- Ben Howland is probably really excited that Boston made the NBA Finals. Doc Rivers', the head coach of the Boston Celtics, is the father of uber-recruit Austin Rivers. Austin recently decommitted from Florida and is interested in UCLA:

UCLA coach Ben Howland greeted Rivers when he walked in.

"Great job," he said. "I'm very happy for you."

Then Howland asked about Rivers' son, top recruit Austin, whom he hopes to have by the school this weekend.

- Good read about Gonzaga's work in the Spokane community

- Reports the UConn had hired former player Kevin Ollie were premature. Ollie is considering the position, but he has not yet retired from the NBA. The Huskies need to find an assistant ASAP, because early July is when the important recruiting season starts

- This could get ugly. Walter Pitchford was told that he would be granted his release from DePaul after signing an LOI before Oliver Purnell was hired. Now, the school is going back on that. Kids, this is why you don't sign an LOI

- Can we stop with the Coach K to the NBA rumors? He didn't leave to coach Kobe in his prime in LA for a ridiculous contract, he's not going to leave now

- Interesting theory on why Bledsoe's transcripts were released. While we're on the topic, Calipari had an impromptu presser last night at the SEC meetings (video below). He avoided talking about Bledsoe or anything related to transcripts. Bledsoe did the same thing after working out with the Pacers. Here's some more speculation on whether Calipari will get into trouble.



- ESPN's Pat Forde and a writer for the USA Today both take a look at whether major conference schools actually get punished

- Kansas is involved in another investigation, this time regarding some athletic equipment

- Trying to get a basketball foothold in Africa

- I've always like Samardo Samuels. I hope he does find a niche

- Georgia guard with unpronounceable name to transfer

- Career highlight video of Ryan Wittman, who just had a tryout with the Wizards