I often wonder how much the coach really effects a teams success in the NCAA Tournament. I believe the most important job for the coach is the mental preparedness and focus. If he is able to not let the moment get bigger than his team, he’s a success. The X’s and O’s are there, but really minute when it comes to all the other stuff.

With that said, there are 5 coaches in the field that if I my school was playing in the tourney (which they are) I would want leading them. I can also say that I would prefer any one of these guys than the coach of my alma mater. That’s all I’m going to say about that.

In no particular order….Take a look…..

(5) Mike Krzyzewski – Duke

Lets get the obvious one out of the way first. When we’re talking about Coach K, we’re talking about one of the greatest college basketball coaches of all time. I think his demeanor is perfect. He’s calm, yet intense, and his teams usually play that way. There is one thing I can say about Duke; when I filled out my bracket the team least likely to lay an egg because of lack of focus was Coach K’s squad.

(4) Steve Fisher – San Diego State

Steve Fisher is a great coach. All the BS aside, the guy can coach. He’s had success everywhere he’s been and he’s resurrected this San Diego State program amazingly. He’s another one with a calm demeanor that suites a group of 20 year old guys playing on a huge stage. I like Fisher’s ability bring home a winner.

(3) Jamie Dixon – Pittsburgh

I’m going with a personal favorite for #3. A man who is 215-59 at Pittsburgh in his career. This guy can flat out coach. His teams, unlike most, are just hard nosed, physical, defensive-minded groups just like their leader. Make no mistake about it Jamie Dixon will win a National Championship or two before it’s all said and done. It may not be this year, and it may not be at Pitt, but he will.

(2) Tom Izzo – Michigan State

I can’t leave out Izzo. Michigan State had a horrible year on and off the court. Horrible for their standards. The fact is this team should be out round 1. The mere fact that people are thinking about them is because of their coach. Izzo is one of the best. Flat out.

(1) Jim Larranaga – George Mason

Sentimental favorite here. Larranaga is the best of the little guys. I like Brad Stevens, don’t get me wrong, but Larranaga is the class of the mid-majors. 13 consecutive seasons, constantly the class of the CAA. He’s showing year after year that the run to the Final Four was no fluke.