Pearl is a good move for sure. he's one of the best college b-ball coaches around. UT is VERY lucky to have him.

Fulmer -- well, not so much. Fulmer has been shaky ever since winning the NC in '98. I'd hazard to say he has lost more "big games" than won. I'd say he's probably .500 against top 20 teams; .250 against top 10 teams. And, that's not great.

On the other hand, he is a good recruiter. Administers a large program well. Fits in well at UT. Just not the best game coach.

Hard question though is whether UT would do better with someone else. In the context of the ferocious SEC, particularly SEC East -- frankly I doubt it. I really think odds are if UT got rid of Fulmer and brought someone else in -- odds are the program would decline.

at least now they are in the mix every year. and that's pretty good in the sec. 1 million raise -- crazy in the abstract. but, in context of what other sec coaches are making -- i guess it's fair.

so -- all in all -- i guess it was the right move. just hope UT can fire him in future if need be without paying too much out...