Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SATURDAY, April 2, 1994 TAG: 9404020080
SECTION: SPORTS PAGE: B-3 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: CHARLOTTE, N.C. LENGTH: Medium
"It would be easier to do it if you have a real good year," the friend said.
The sign was stolen during the season, but Stewart did his part. He led Missouri to an undefeated Big Eight record and a 28-4 overall mark to be voted college basketball coach of the year Friday by The Associated Press.
"When an individual is pinpointed, it's a reflection of the people in your program, the coaching staff and the players," Stewart said. "This was one of the most fun years I've ever had as a coach."
Stewart, in his 27th season at his alma mater, received 102 votes in the national balloting that was conducted before the NCAA Tournament. Charlie Spoonhour of Saint Louis finished second with 57 votes, followed by Nolan Richardson of Arkansas with 40, Jim Calhoun of Connecticut with 37 and Lon Kruger of Florida with 22.
Stewart has a record of 640-310, good for 16th place on the career victory list for all collegiate levels. His 16 20-win seasons put him in the top 15 in that category.
The Tigers were not ranked in the preseason poll, but they wound up No. 5 and were made the top seed in the West Regional. They lost to Arizona in the regional championship.
The season started dismally, with a 52-point loss on the road to Arkansas. Stewart "For two or three games we struggled with that, but we came out of it," Stewart said. The leadership Melvin Booker and Jevon Crudup helped steady the Tigers, he said.
Stewart, who overcame colon cancer in 1989, has clashed with the media in the past, but he was appreciative of the award.
"I'm happy about the awards I'm receiving because they're on behalf of the ballclub," he said.
by CNB