College Basketball: Five mid-major coaches with decisions to make

ST LOUIS, MO - MARCH 18: Head coach Kermit Davis of the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders reacts on the sideline in the second half against the Michigan State Spartans during the first round of the 2016 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament at Scottrade Center on March 18, 2016 in St Louis, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images) /

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CHAPEL HILL, NC – DECEMBER 28: Head coach King Rice of the Monmouth Hawks walks onto the floor during a timeout during the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels at the Dean Smith Center on December 28, 2016 in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

King Rice, Monmouth

Record: 106-92 in seven years with the program.

NCAA tournament appearances: None

No mid-major outside of Gonzaga and Wichita State may have had as much attention thrown to as the Monmouth Hawks in recent years. With high-profile non-conference victories combined with high-scoring guard Justin Robinson, everyone in the basketball world has grown to know head coach King Rice.

Unfortunately, the Hawks missed out on the tournament in both of the last two seasons, despite the hype. After having their bubble burst on Selection Sunday two years ago, they lost in the conference tournament last season while playing on the road, despite being the top seed in the conference. Could that be the straw that broke the camel’s back for Rice?

Why should he leave?

The current situation doesn’t bode well for Monmouth going forward. Not only will they have to win on the road for the automatic bid, but it will be done without Robinson, who has graduated. Unless there is another hidden gem coming in, the Hawks will take a step back. Rice’s profile might not get any higher for the foreseeable future.

Why should he stay?

Another coach who has been rewarded with a recent extension, it seems like Monmouth is investing in Rice for the long haul. That’s a good thing considering the lack of interest he received this offseason. And unlike other potential candidates who have down the road opportunities based on location alone, Rice doesn’t have those same luxuries.

With expectations lowered for this season, another quality season could bring back King Rice in the discussion for names to consider, regardless of the region.

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