College basketball’s popularity is at an all time high. The game offers many strategy and plots undetected by the average fan. Through the eyes of a successful college coach, learn how to intelligently watch college basketball this season. 1. Do Your Homework- Print a page of information from ESPN’s web site on each team and review it. Study each team’s record from last season, current record, schedule, leading scorer, rebounder, and play maker. Note the respective coaching backgrounds and records. Extensive information is available in many magazines prior to the season. 2. Study the Coaches- Personalities come out in coaches and their players during games. How long have they been head coaches? How successful have they been? Check for clothing styles. Do they wear traditional suits or do they dress down with a sweater or turtleneck. Do they sit or stand during the game? Are they calm or crazy on the sidelines? Do the players emulate the personality of their coach on the floor? Notice how they deal with officials, especially early in the game. Coaches will fight for turf early and throughout the game. What are the contract terms of the coaches? Notice the difference between a new, energetic coach and an established coach. How does a coach in the last year of his contract react under the bright lights? If the Athletic Director is sitting directly behind the bench, it’s usually not a good sign for the coach!