PITTSBURGH - Whether Duquesne made the right decision in firing basketball coach Ron Everhart won't be clear until the university chooses his successor.
There have been rumors for two years that Everhart and athletic director Greg Amodio had a rocky relationship, so the change is not that surprising.
Everhart deserves much credit for making a 3-24 program competitive again.
Duquesne wants more, like some postseason appearances. That's not unreasonable.
Most of the Atlantic 10 teams have been to the NCAA Tournament in the last 15 years. Duquesne's last visit was 1977. The Dukes have been in the NIT twice in the last 30 years.
Everhart's teams established a pattern of late-season fades with mysterious turnover in both players and staff. The university felt strongly enough about the need for a change that it bought out two years of Everhart's contract.
Duquesne is not wrong to think it can do better. Now it's on the administration to make good on that plan.
Who's No. 1?
Sports Illustrated has picked the Cincinnati Reds to win the National League Central this year.
Why not? The Reds would appear to have as good a chance as anyone in the division, which is far from formidable.
Look at the top teams, and the biggest issues are replacing major names.
The St. Louis Cardinals always find a way to contend, but how do they function without Albert Pujols? The Cardinals still have talent, but Pujols was the game-changer.
Now it looks as though the Cardinals' pitching staff has taken a hit with news that Chris Carpenter has a nerve problem in his shoulder.
Carpenter is 37 and has battled major injuries throughout his career.
The Milwaukee Brewers reached the postseason last year. This season, they're without Prince Fielder, who signed with Detroit as a free agent.
Free agent acquisition Aramis Ramirez should make up some of that offense, but Fielder was a major part of the Brewers' attack.
With the top teams dented a bit, maybe it's a scenario where the Reds can take advantage.
Two thing appear likely: The division could be wide open, and it's doubtful the wild card will come out of the Central.
Fan favorites
How long until Evgeni Malkin's parents start getting booked for autograph appearances and commercials?
Mehno can be reached at johnmehnocolumn@gmail.com.
