I can't get over the thought floated that BU might go to Arkansas.
If you're Arkansas, are you really looking at the coach who lost to you in the first round?
That's what keeps bouncing around my head.
It really seems like a bizarre match on both sides. Look, Arkansas is a great program/job, but it's absolutely in no way a tier above Illinois; their current success is a testament to Muss' incredible recruiting abilities, IMO. Additionally, I'd argue Arkansas' attractiveness as a job is LESS than its historic accomplishments, whereas I'd argue Illinois' attractiveness is MORE than our historical accomplishments. So, in that regard, it seems like a bizarre move for Brad to me.
On the other hand, as you said, what exactly is in this for Arkansas?! I think BU is an amazing coach, but we did just lose to them in a stinker, and (fairly or unfairly) it helped solidify the narrative that Underwood's teams do not show up in March. They're fresh off of an Elite Eight and heading to a Sweet Sixteen.
This is all just really weird, and I'd be insanely curious to know what exactly Underwood doesn't like about his plush situation at Illinois, if those rumors are even true. And what he thinks will be better at Arkansas, lol.