Cavalaris: Vitale: Arena created monster for UT coaches

Learn from your huge mistake: The 25,000-seat multi-purpose facility that was built in the mid-1980s is just too big for basketball.

"One thing they have a dilemma with is not solved by firing coaches," Vitale said Tuesday. "I think that building creates a monster for everyone.

"Because of the size of it, they would be much better just building a brand new building that holds about 16,000. Make tickets really, really hard to get.

"Make it something that’s desired, something that people are going bananas to get," he said. "They would pack it every night and you would create that incredible environment that excites kids."

Vitale also endorsed the hiring of Bruce Pearl as UT men’s coach and praised Lady Vols coach Pat Summitt.

"Whatever they are paying her, man, it isn’t enough," he said. "She should hire me as her agent. I would break the bank with her, man. I would have the football coach (Phillip Fulmer) nervous with what she would be making if I were down there. She’s worth every dime and maybe more."

The 65-year-old Hall of Fame broadcaster has been recuperating from hernia surgery. He has been doing ESPN remotes from his home in Sarasota, Fla., but plans on attending the Final Four in St. Louis.

"I really haven’t missed much time on the air," said Vitale, who has become a fixture in a variety of ad campaigns.

Although he is recognized as a cheerleader for college basketball, many people have forgotten that Vitale was a college and NBA coach in Detroit. He also won high school championships in his native New Jersey.

When the act is toned down and Vitale uses his insight to evaluate four regional champions, there isn’t much separation.

North Carolina can’t afford to lose Raymond Felton, who has an ankle injury. The Tar Heels also must improve defensively.

Michigan State needs to be physical and productive in transition. Freshman guard Drew Knight has a tough task.

Louisville just needs to listen to coach Rick Pitino — and continue to hit 3-pointers.

Once-beaten Illinois has three excellent starting guards and could rise to the occasion.

Vitale stopped short of giving anyone the edge, but is sticking with a prediction that’s almost a year old.

"I said this on April the sixth of 2004," he said. "I told people on the last college basketball show on ESPN, ‘Hey, this might make you mad, but I am going to tell you that North Carolina is going to win the national championship next year.

"The kids from North Carolina are going to get away from thinking NBA, NBA that and put their focus on NCAA, NCAA," he said. "Roy Williams is a good coach and he’s going to make sure they make a commitment to play with the type of pride that goes with wearing that jersey. That’s the way it is supposed to be."

It remains to be seen whether the Tar Heels are solid enough defensively to win it all.

One thing’s for sure: Dick Vitale is going to have a diaper dandy of a time watching what happens.

Send questions or comments to AskChuck@knews.com. Chuck Cavalaris will also host The Ticket Sports Page Live today from 3-4 p.m. on WQBB-AM 1040.