IMPROVED VALUE by ST

Much talk on Sportstalk about the parameters that would allow Ernie Kent to continue coaching this team into the new Knight Arena. Count me as among the most vocal supporters of his having earned that right. That said, we've gone in eyes wide open that there is no denying the big business of Pac 10 basketball. The body of work is unprecedented in program history, but if here and now in 2010, the stands are empty and the games meaningless, it might not be enough. After the nice start to league play with the 2 wins at the Washington schools, things got awful in a hurry. The 5 game losing streak led some to believe a change was pending until Mike Bellotti wisely put that talk to rest saying a post season evaluation would take place. Then came the 2 victories against the Southern California schools. If those out there want a change on the sidelines can point out the negatives to aid their cause, they must acknowledge the other side. These victories mean Oregon is playing meaningful games in February. 12 & 9 overall, 4 & 5 in conference. Last year they won 2 Pac 10 games. If a level of success continues and the Pit is rocking with important matchups come March, I think Coach Kent will be there when the new facility opens it's doors next autumn. We'll get into the details of the Trojan victory on today's show for sure but for now, a digression. It was great to see Greg Ballard having such a great time. Nice dance with the Duck. In the post game Ernie Kent was talking about their enduring friendship which has lasted 3 1/2 decades and was evident during their interraction. It was also telling to hear the emotion in Ernie's voice when he spoke with Jerry Allen after the win. I've often said that the Duck job is not a destination for most on the national scene, in particular any name coach. Coach Kent is the exception. This was his aspiration from the days as an assistant to his first D-1 gig at St. Marys. I don't know anyone exists with his passion for Oregon basketball. Okay, for a $50 gift certificate to Poppi's Anatolia, classic downtown eatery, email the correct answer to the following to
stevetannen@live.com
Greg Ballard owns one significant single season Oregon record and one career mark. They were printed on the souvenier ticket handed out Saturday at the Pit. What are they??
Good luck.