Bruce Weber revitalized at K-State

"We got a new president, a new chancellor and a new athletic director. It was pretty obvious things were going to be different," Weber said. "I gave my heart and soul. I do that every day no matter where I work. I worked my tail off. I guess it wasn't enough for those particular people."

With better administrative support, Weber thinks the Illini could have contended for a Big Ten title in his final season. But once Illinois started losing close games, players realized Weber was gone. They couldn't bounce back.

Watching them suffer was the hardest part. He has long been a player's coach, and it killed him to see them so upset. Some came to him in tears.

kansascity.com