Steve Alford could be bolting to Indiana

Before their big game against Kent State, it’s time to wonder about the future of Steve Alford.

On the eve of their first round game in the NCAA tournament the UCLA Bruins may have to deal with the a huge distraction.

This morning, with the firing of the University of Indiana head coach Tom Crean, speculations soon arose that a leading candidate to take his place is Bruins head coach Steve Alford.

Alford, a former Indiana player, is seen as leading candidate, as was always the speculation when he was at his other coaching spots and the Indiana job became available.  If Alford were to leave UCLA and take up the Indiana position he would go from a program on the rise to a program in need of repair.

In the nine years under Crean, Indiana won two Big Ten titles and advanced to the Sweet Sixteen three times.  But that was not enough for the administration and a rabid fan base searching for it’s first NCAA title since 1987.

Alford leaving to Indiana would be seen as a prodigal son returning to his house. No doubt Alford would have the full support of the fans.

The question then begs — why would Alford leave UCLA at this time?

After some growing pains last year has the Bruins on the rise, most of this year due to a stellar freshman class remained in the top of 5 national rankings.

Next year, Alford is supposed to have an even better recruiting class. To throw that all away to return to Indiana is nothing but an exercise in ego.

Next: Figuring Out The Lakers' Mt. Rushmore

For now the rumors of Alford leaving is just speculation, if Alford is truly committed to the Bruins he can prevent the rumors