Yes, I would expect him to be more excited then saying "nice". All you have to do is read some football recruit trip articles after they see TCF and you'll know the difference between "nice" and "unbelievable". Bottom line is that if ISU gets Coleman it certainly won't be because of better facilities, the reason will be that either he likes Hoiberg better than Tubby (unproven, inexperienced coach vs. a national championship winning coach); he wants to get away from home (Ames vs. Minneapolis); he likes the conference better (Big 12 vs Big 10); or he just feels like there is more opportunity and is a better fit (hard to believe considering the lack of a big time 2 guard in Minnesota's recent recruiting). When you look at all the positives and negatives in each program I've got to believe Tubby is still the heavy favorite (unless of course there are some personal issues between Coleman and the coaching staff).
I suggest you take a look at the new basketball facility (
especially the private theaters and lounges) they have built in Ames and the experience in Hilton (
prior to being underwater). To say there is a lack of opportunity at the 2 spot is a little short sighted, the only true 2 on the 2011 roster is Babb (
transfer from Penn St.)
Iowa State will have a better scout team this upcoming season then the guys on the actual floor, it's a given with all of the transfers. The 2010 team is going to struggle, but with the likes of Babb/Booker/White/Cook and the possibility of Allen (
Michigan St.) becoming available next year, it's going to be an enticing team to join, especially compared to the upcoming Minnesota recruiting class (
not trying to bash the players and solely going off recruit grading on this, but it's not a strong class to say the least.)
You also have to take into the account that the Big12 is more condusive to his style of play, at least from what I've read he's more of a 15' and in type of guy that likes to slash to the basket. That is Big12 play at it's core, where as the B10 is suited better for taller guys with range.
I'm not saying that I am 100% confident that he'll choose ISU and I think based on home ties that Minnesota is probably the favorite at this point, but with that being said, I wouldn't be suprised if he ended up as a Cyclone.
Plus, who can possibly say no to Hoibergs eyes.