Washington Huskies: Will Lorenzo Romar Return Next Season?

Feb 13, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies head coach Lorenzo Romar speaks with his team during a first half timeout against the Arizona Wildcats at Alaska Airlines Arena. Arizona defeated Washington, 86-62. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

Okay, so the Washington Huskies lost against the Arizona Wildcats, but it’s not like it came as any great surprise. The reality was that the “Dawgs” were always likely to be beaten by a superior opponent that was ranked number seven nationally.

Regardless, there are a growing number of people out there who believe that Lorenzo Romar should be fired. The 86-72 defeat is just another piece of ammunition to be used by those who think it’s time for the Huskies head coach to call it a day.

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From my perspective, this is – quite simply – ludicrous. I guess that’s just the sporting world we now live in, where the “what have you done for me lately?” mentality is more prevalent than ever before.

However, I think it’s time everyone took a step back and considered this more rationally. Well, at least before the inmates completely take over the asylum.

Last time I checked, Romar had done some pretty remarkable things during his tenure with the Huskies, essentially reviving the fortunes of the program. Amongst other things, he’s overseen the team make six trips to the NCAA tournament (March Madness), including three appearances in the “Sweet Sixteen”.

And let’s not forget about his two regular season and three conference tournament titles. We could go on, but I think it’s safe to say the South Gate, California native has left an indelible mark on his time in Washington.

Now don’t get me wrong, I (sort of) understanding why there are folks out there that want to see Romar go. Pending the rest of this season, three straight mediocre campaigns will do that to people.

Jan 28, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Washington Huskies head coach Lorenzo Romar reacts to a play against the Stanford Cardinal during the second half of a 84-74 Stanford victory at Alaska Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports

However, don’t you think that the guy’s earned the opportunity to be given more time? Loyalty should work both ways, right?

By all accounts, Romar is one of the most genuine and decent people you will ever meet. Other coaches respect and like him, often referring to the 56-year old as one of the best basketball recruiters in the country.

Apparently, the former Golden State Warriors draft pick was once voted in a poll as the coach opposing players would most like to play for. Heck, even the media seem to like him!

Of course, I realise this isn’t a popularity contest. You don’t just keep someone around because everyone loves them.

By the same token, there have been other factors that have contributed to the Huskies struggles this season. For example, let’s not forget the knee injury to Jernard Jarreau or the dismissal of Robert Upshaw, who raised the expectation levels of the team, the school and the entire fan base.

There’s still the possibility that the Huskies could make the postseason, thanks to the PAC-12 tournament. (That’s right, I will readily admit I don’t see them winning enough remaining regular season games to qualify the conventional way.)

However, regardless of what happens, I strongly believe that Romar should be given at least one more season to turn the Huskies around. Surely he’s done enough to deserve that?

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