Howland took over a program that had ran off the road. The first year was miserable but that was understood. In year two, the Bruins probably got one of the last at-large spots in the NCAA and lost in round one. Fans were happy and hopeful. The third year brought Bruin fans an unexpected surprise, not only a Final Four but an appearance in the National Championship game. Alas, Florida was too much. This past season was Howland's fourth year at the helm and the Bruins got to the Final Four where once again the Florida Gators blocked the road.
So what next?
UCLA fans are hoping for a National Championship sometime within the next few years. Winning the title is the goal of all the big program coaches.
When you think of coaching in the modern era (Wooden is an era unto himself!), the biggest name without doubt is Krzyzewski. He has been Duke coach for twenty-seven years! He has lead the Blue Devils to 10 Final Fours and 3 National Titles.
Thus, what are realistic expectations for Howland and UCLA?
If Coach K is the modern era top coach, roughly speaking to match his success, one needs to bring the team to the Final Four once every three years and winning a title once a decade.
Will Bruinsnation be happy with that?
Looking down the list of other "big name" programs, how have they done in the modern era of the NCAA. I'm defining modern as the 64-team field. In recent years, it has been 65 teams but the point is that realistic National Championship aspiring teams need to win six games to cut down the nets.
Besides Duke, North Carolina has been the biggest contender with two National Titles and seven Final Fours. Kansas is next with one National Title in six Final Fours. Arizona, Florida, Kentucky and Michigan State are all tied with four Final Four appearances with Florida and Kentucy winning it all twice and Arizona and Michigan State with one win.
What level of success is Howland going to have over the next few years?
What is going to be enough to keep the fans from running him out of town?
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