Marquette University Athletics
Quotes From Tom Crean's Press Conference
4/22/2003 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
April 22, 2003
MILWAUKEE --- Marquette University announced today that head men's basketball coach has signed a long term contract at the university. Here are quotes from this evening's press conference.
(On being in Milwaukee...) "We have always been very comfortable here, my wife Joani, my little girl Meghan, our little boy Riley was born soon after I was hired here, we have always been unbelievably comfortable here. I work in an environment that is totally on the same page of what I think my values are and how I think things should be."
(On his team...) "I love being with our players. Last night we had individual workouts. They didn't get a spring break. But after they came back from Easter Break, we were back in the gym. I love our relationship. I love the way it builds. I love the way I learn to coach them better. I love finding out what makes them tick just a little bit stronger and harder, I love the passion they have. I don't love the fact that they aren't in study hall right now, but I guess I understand. I love their willingness to put the team first. For that I am unbelievably privileged to be with them. We have had a lot of things go well in this program and they deserve the credit. It has been an unbelievable joy to be a part of their lives."
(On the contract...) "I can't tell you how proud I am to be here. It is a long-term contract. It is more than generous; it is something that I could have never imagined. To work here in this community is a great, great feeling. We just agreed on it and we wanted to get something done. With all the speculation that was out there, it was right to put it out there right now, the finishing touches are being put on it right now. Marquette has a policy to not discuss the length. I'm very happy with it and they are too, so we'll go from there."
(On using the Marquette job as a stepping stone...) "Every time I read something about a source, I know they hadn't talked to me. I know I wasn't real good about doing a lot of calling back, but I didn't have a lot to say. It was all speculation. Marquette isn't about that. We have had three coaches go on to be a head coach, which says something about Marquette. I have been flattered by the interest that has been shown in me. Everyone wants to be known for doing a good job, it was most important to me that my players felt the same way (about staying). My wife and I are very comfortable with being here and I have never viewed this as anything less than an outstanding opportunity."
(On Marquette...) "I feel very comfortable and confident with the people I work with and for everyday. I feel like I have real great friendships and relationships with the people here. The ownership of this university has transformed. All I look at is the ownership of the program is growing and growing, the people are just getting behind it. It is a great feeling."
