Drew’s rivals react to his retirement
By Mark Lazerus 648-3140 or mlazerus@post-trib.com May 17, 2011 9:14PM
Updated: September 24, 2012 6:25AM
RESPECTED RIVAL
In the wake of Homer Drew’s
retirement, the Post-Tribune
contacted some of his fellow coaches to get their reactions.
Milwaukee coach Rob Jeter:
“Homer has made a big mark in the college basketball world and should be congratulated for everything he has accomplished in his tremendous career. He has made a positive impact on a large number of student-athletes and built the Valparaiso program with many years of hard work and dedication. The Horizon League and the college basketball world will miss having Homer on the sidelines leading his team.”
Cleveland State coach Gary Waters:
“We have truly lost a special leader in our profession and the Horizon League today. A professional like Coach Drew only comes around a few times in a generation. We had developed a very special relationship over the the years and I will definitely miss coaching against him this year.”
Detroit coach Ray McCallum:
“Considering what Butler has done to bring a lot of recognition and exposure to the league, the way Homer has transitioned to the top of the league in such a short time, it’s quite a compliment to him as a coach. I’m sad to see him go, but on the other hand, I’m happy for Bryce, having watched him grow up through his high school, college and pro career.”
Wright State coach Billy Donlon:
“Coach Drew has been a great ambassador for all of college athletics and he will be missed. Coach Drew proved time and time again to be one of the best all-around coaches in the game and competing against someone of his caliber made other coaches and players raise their level of performance.”
Youngstown St. coach Jerry Slocum:
“Coach Drew has had an outstanding coaching career. I’m happy for him so he can enjoy life after basketball. I wish him nothing but the best and congratulations on an outstanding coaching career.”
Oakland coach Greg Kampe:
“There are very few people that go through a coaching career and never get it tainted and can say they are the face of an institution, and Homer did that. Throughout the country, when people talk about Valpo, they talk about Homer Drew. And it’s always positive. …I think the game itself takes a step back when he leaves because there are so few like him left.”
— Mark Lazerus
