The world of college basketball rarely throws curveballs as unexpected as the one that landed at Long Beach State this March. In a story stranger than fiction, veteran coach Dan Monson found himself on the precipice of unemployment, only to lead his team on a Cinderella run to the NCAA Tournament. This is a tale of resilience, defiance, and the unyielding spirit of competition.
Monson's week was a whirlwind of emotions. With the regular season nearing its end, and the team's performance faltering, a meeting with Athletic Director Bobby Smitheran sealed his fate. Monson, ever the dedicated coach, refused to abandon his players, proposing to resign if they underperformed in the upcoming conference tournament. Smitheran, however, had a different plan. He wanted Monson out immediately.
Despite the awkward circumstances, Smitheran allowed Monson to coach through the conference tournament as a gesture of appreciation for his 17-year tenure. Whether intended or not, this decision proved to be a catalyst for the team. Monson, now a "lame-duck" coach, noticed a shift in his players. Their focus sharpened, their determination amplified. Perhaps the vote of no confidence from the administration served as a potent motivator.
With a newfound fire in their eyes, the Beach tore through the Big West tournament. They crushed UC Riverside in the opener, then stunned top-seeded UC Irvine in a thrilling semifinal. Monson, recognizing his players' exhaustion, delivered a pre-championship speech that resonated deeply. He painted a picture of a possible future: Selection Sunday celebrations, the camaraderie of the NCAA Tournament. His voice cracked with emotion, and the players responded with a surge of loyalty and determination. They won the championship, securing their ticket to the Big Dance.
This improbable victory triggered a clause in Monson's contract, awarding him a performance bonus – a strange twist for a coach who was recently shown the door. The situation left Athletic Director Smitheran in a precarious position. The man he fired had just delivered a championship, and with each NCAA Tournament win, Monson's contract entitled him to even more money. Reporters bombarded Smitheran with the question everyone was asking: Would he consider re-hiring the coach he just fired? His answer, a cautious "never say never," hinted at the absurdity of the situation.
Monson, basking in the unexpected glory, expressed his desire to coach elsewhere next season. However, his focus remained on the present. He had a team to lead, a tournament to conquer. As he entered the NCAA Tournament, Monson reflected on the journey. He would have gladly accepted being fired if it meant reaching the Big Dance with this team. It was, as he put it, "a great deal."
The story of Dan Monson and Long Beach State transcends the realm of basketball. It's a testament to the power of perseverance, the galvanizing force of a shared goal, and the unpredictable nature of human motivation. Monson's journey is an inspiration for coaches and athletes alike, a reminder that sometimes, the greatest victories come from the most unexpected places.
