NBA Vine Q&A: ESPN's Jay Bilas

ESPN and CBS Basketball Analyst Jay Bilas stopped by the NBA Vine to discuss his top 3 NCAA freshmen, Tyler Hanbrough's pro stock, his playing career at Duke University and whether he ever gets the urge to return to coaching at the collegiate level.



Lang: Hey Jay - thanks for stopping by the Vine. What's up?

JB: I'm doing great! The season is well underway, and the sadistic ground acquisition game that decides its champ like figure skating does is mow over. What could be better?

Lang: We want to congratulate you on the 2007 Emmy award nomination for Outstanding Performance by a Studio Analyst. How did you feel after you were notified of the nomination? Did you ever imagine being recognized nationally for the award?

JB: Clearly, it was a "down year" for studio analysis! I was honored, but that's not why I do what I do. Frankly, I thought Kirk Herbstreit should have won the statue. He's the gold standard.

Lang: From 1990-92 you served as an assistant coach on Mike Krzyzewski's staff at Duke, which included three trips to the final four and two national championships. Great run! Do you ever get the itch to get back into the coaching ranks? Would you ever consider taking a college head coaching opportunity?

JB: I doubt it. I have had a few offers that were tempting, but I really enjoy where I'm at. Plus, the broadcasters never lose! I have so much respect for what coaches do. If I ever did get back in, I would certainly make use of what I've learned from all of the great coaches that have allowed me into their programs over the years. I've learned a ton.

Lang: You were a four year starter for the Duke Blue Devils from 1983-86, and played alongside Johnny Dawkins - what were the expectations when your freshmen class hit campus?

JB: We wanted to win. We were the nation's No. 1 recruiting class, and we started all freshmen in 1983. It was a rude awakening. We steadily improved, and in 1986, we won 37 games, which I believe is still a record. It was a great ride, and I was lucky to be a part of it.

Lang: Who is the toughest underrated player you had to defend? Who was the best pure scorer you've ever had to cover?