Bodog Press Release - bet ucla

March 21, 2003

Bodog tags Rick Pitino as favorite to be next UCLA coach

Bodog Sportsbook, Casino and Poker Bodog Sportsbook, Casino and Poker has posted odds for who will be named the next coach of the UCLA Bruins Basketball team.

"March Madness is definitely the biggest event right now in terms of college basketball," said Rob Gillespie, Bodog President. "But this prop gives fans something else to talk about and wager on."

Rick Pitino, currently coaching the Louisville Cardinals in the tournament, is listed as a 3/2 favorite to take the job at Westwood. Mark Few, head coach at Gonzaga, is the second favorite at 2/1.

"As soon as Steve Lavin was fired our bookmakers began researching this prop," said Gillespie. "These are the two who seem to be getting the most consideration, despite the fact they're currently employed."

UCLA administration has indicated that they wish to hire a coach with significant experience in coaching a top-quality program and Bodog's bookmakers have taken notice.

"When you think of UCLA and head coaches there really is only one name that comes to mind," said Gillespie. "As such we've made John Wooden a 2000/1 longshot. Who knows, maybe the Wizard will make a comeback?"

There is also a number of high-profile UCLA alumni who have been listed as potential replacements for Lavin. Bill Walton, who graduated from the school in 1974, is listed as a 100/1 long shot.

"He doesn't have any significant coaching experience," said Gillespie. "So, despite his strong allegiances to the school, it's unlikely he'll get the job."

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, who graduated from UCLA as Lew Alcindor in 1969, has openly campaigned for the job and is considered another longshot at 75/1.

"He has some coaching experience, but again doesn't really fit what the Bruins Athletic Director has suggested he's looking for," said Gillespie. "But the betting public seems to think he has a shot and we've already taken some bets on Kareem to get the posting."

To view the Next UCLA Coach Prop, click HERE.