LITTLE ROCK — If it has never been said before, then here it is - former Razorbacks head basketball coach Nolan Richardson is nearly a perfect blend of Bill Cosby and a revival tent preacher. If he isn’t making a rapt crowd throw their heads back and squeal, he has them solemnly nodding, even uttering, “That’s right” in stage whispers.
Richardson was the speaker Jan. 20 at the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce’s regular Tip-Off luncheon series. Moe’s Southwest Grill provided burrito and nacho fixings.
The 71-year-old coach of NCAA men’s basketball teams and the WNBA’s Tulsa Shock was as animated as ever. He touched on the subject of former University of Arkansas at Fayetteville athletic director Frank Broyles - “I don’t hate him. I didn’t like him at the time. I’ve moved on.” - his history with current Razorbacks basketball coach MikeAnderson - “He played with heart” - his often lightningrod attitude - “I’m half-assed crazy” - his rocky stint coaching female ballplayers - “My wife said to me, ‘You’re gonna handle 11 girls out there when you can’t handle one at home?’” - being a great-granddad to seven - “I’m glad to see them when they come, and I’m glad to see them when they go” - and living according to the Latin shibboleth carpe diem - “I have never lost a game.The damn time ran out. ... Now, my gray hair [tells me] time is running out.”
For all his candor, inspiration and congeniality, he received a standing ovation.
High Profile, Pages 44 on 01/27/2013