College Hoops Today with Jon Rothstein

Chris Jans, head coach of Mississippi State, shares his vision for the Bulldogs program and focus on immediate success. Topics include building a team for the season, respecting SEC competition, and the possibility of a deep NCAA tournament run in year one.

Louisville's Kenny Payne is back at his alma mater and ready to re-establish the winning culture the Cardinals are accustomed to. Why he left a great NBA job to coach in college... What is he anticipating as far as possible NCAA sanctions? How last year's adversity will make for a stronger team this year. What are his year one goals? The importance of rallying the community. And why it's all about sustaining success. Plus, some of the sports marquee names are finding schools to play at next season!

Florida's Todd Golden is eager to get the Gators back atop the SEC and into the NCAA Tournament making a deep run. How he engineered the turnaround at his past job. Utilizing analytics. Coaching experience. Impressions of the team. Goals for year one? The Billy Donovan factor. And the path taken to a prime job at the age of 36. Plus, Creighton lands a top transfer. And "Portal Kombat" rages on!

Villanova's Kyle Neptune ushers in a new era of Wildcats' basketball. How did he land one of college basketball's most coveted jobs after one season at Fordham? His relationship with Jay Wright and what he learned from him. Replacing a legend. Thoughts on the team he is taking over. Updates on Justin Moore and Caleb Daniels. And why it's all about focusing inwards and building team relationships. Plus, how N.I.L. is heading toward uncharted territory. And other "big picture" storylines.

Xavier's Sean Miller is back for another round with the Musketeers and knows the future is bright. What did he learn from his year away from the sport? Anything new in the coaching holster? Why his biggest goal was to keep the talented core of the program intact. His feelings watching Arizona. Playing in the Big East, a basketball centric league, with no Jay Wright at Villanova... Exciting? How long should Xavier fans expect it to take to get back to a high-ranking tournament team? And why regaining a balanced life was key to getting back into coaching. Plus, a salute to Jay Wright!

Butler's Thad Matta is recharged and excited for the opportunity to lead a program he has such pride for. Discussing why Butler was the right landing spot for him coming out of retirement and how much familiarity played a role. How has he evolved as a coach? Early impressions of the roster. Dealing with a new style of recruiting. Thoughts on the Big East. The importance of enjoying the journey. How he viewed his time at Ohio State. Why passing on knowledge is a big focal point. And what are realistic goals in year one at Butler? Plus, get ready for Portal Kombat!

Kansas State's Jerome Tang has worked his whole life for this and is finally stepping into a head coaching role after serving as an assistant for over 20 years at Baylor. What are the biggest difference from being an assistant to the head coach? Taking us through the process. His coaching philosophies and inspirations. The passion of the K-State fan base. Fear the "Octagon of Doom"! Getting more "Big Twelve" athletes into the program. And coach shares an amazing story about his good bye with Baylor Coach, Scott Drew. Plus, how the Big East is stepping up a weight class.

Maryland's Kevin Willard is humbled and hungry to be the next head coach of Terrapins. What put the Maryland job over the top in his mind? Saying good bye to Seton Hall. The importance of player development. Discussing the impact N.I.L currently has over the sport. How home court advantage can be a weapon. The importance of Gary Williams to the program. And his early impressions of the roster and the biggest needs to fill... Plus, it's never too early for a Rothstein Preseason 45!

Jon provides analysis and perspective into the 2022 NCAA Tournament. Talking Final Four and potential Championship Game match ups!

Jon provides analysis and perspective into the 2022 NCAA Tournament. Talking Sweet 16 and potential Elite 8 match ups.