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Matta's strategy solid despite defections

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By Kyle Nagel, Staff Writer Updated 4:20 PM Tuesday, April 7, 2009

There isn't much not to like about Thad Matta.

The Ohio State men's basketball coach is entertaining, smart, friendly. He wins games. Makes the NCAA tournament.

He just can't keep those darn players in uniform.

This week we learned another OSU big man, B.J. Mullens, will be leaving the school after one season to make himself eligible for the NBA draft. Not a big surprise. Even though he often struggled against opponents his own size, Mullens might have been boosted by Daequan Cook's success in reaching the NBA from a reserve position.

So, again, we have to ask: Should Matta change his recruiting practices? He might never have a stable team if he doesn't.

But he wins games, right? I can't fault him, not with the constant pressure placed on coaches to win, as much as many fans like to say otherwise and lament sports' dominant business aspect.

Billy Gillispie got two years at Kentucky. Granted, his off-court actions played a part there, but the point remains the same. The attention span and patience are short.

One-year wonders will continue to fill college basketball, and Matta's attitude will likely mirror that of his colleagues. If you can get them, get them. If not, someone else will, and likely beat you.

Contact this reporter at (937) 225-7389 or knagel@DaytonDailyNews.com.

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