USC men’s basketball coach Tim Floyd downplayed rumors Tuesday that he is a candidate to be LSU’s next men’s basketball coach. LSU officials contacted Floyd about the position, according to the L.A. Daily News. Floyd reaffirmed his allegiance to USC when asked about the report Tuesday during the Pac-10 coaches’ teleconference. “I would give you the same response I’ve given you the previous five times you’ve asked the question,” he said. “This is my last job.” LSU fired coach John Brady on Feb. 8, and associate head coach Butch Pierre has coached the Tigers since Brady’s departure. LSU Assistant Athletic Director Eddie Nunez, who is involved in the search to replace Brady, said he could not shed any light on the reports.
“Our stance is we’re not commenting on the search,” Nunez said. “I’m gathering background information on candidates, but the direction that we’ve been given from the beginning is that we’re not going to contact anybody until their seasons are complete.” LSU Senior Associate Athletic Director Herb Vincent said the athletic department will not comment on the ongoing search to replace Brady. Floyd, who coached the Trojans to a 20-10 record this season, has several Louisiana ties. He graduated from Louisiana Tech and previously coached for the University of New Orleans and the NBA’s New Orleans Hornets. He has also recruited several players from Louisiana, including guards Marcus Simmons of Alexandria and Dwight Lewis of Metairie. David Tuttle, USC assistant sports information director, said USC Athletic Director Mike Garrett would not comment on any possible contact from LSU. Tuttle said Floyd has repeatedly said USC will be his last coaching stop.
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