Ernie Kent wins the press conference

If you were on the fence about the Ernie Kent hire prior to Wednesday, you're probably in favor of the move now. That is, if you watched Kent's introductory press conference. Heading in, I expected Kent to be impressive during the press conference. He's articulate and engaging. a press conference is the perfect setting for him to shine. Yet, even with high expectations, I still came away impressed.

If you haven't seen it yet, you can watch it below.

Winning the press conference doesn't do much other than get the new regime off to a good start. Mike Leach won his press conference and then went 3-9 in his first season. But, watching Kent, you can see why Bill Moos hired him. Recruiting to Pullman is a unique and difficult challenge. Coaches have to sell the program and the community. If Kent can engage players and families in their living room like he engaged the audience at Beasley Coliseum, it's easy to imagine him having success recruiting. Or at least more success than others may have.

Day 1 was a success. Let's hope the next 1,800 or so go just as well.

Men's basketball:

Tramaine Isabell waiting on uncertain future - SportsLink - Spokesman.com - April 2, 2014
While the excitement of a new basketball coach had Washington State students in a tizzy this afternoon, it's been a bitter few weeks for WSU signee Tramaine Isabell. The point guard out of Garfield high school in Seattle committed to coach Ken Bone originally and signed a National Letter of Intent in the fall.

Kent hiring brings buzz back to Cougars - Spokesman.com - April 3, 2014
For one day at least, Bill Moos’ wish came true: people cared about men’s basketball again at Washington State.

Kent excited to lead Cougs | Sports | The Register-Guard | Eugene, Oregon
Ernie Kent always said he gave his heart and soul to the Oregon Ducks as a player and coach, but Kent had a ready answer when asked if he’ll feel any allegiance toward the Ducks next season as the coach at Washington State.

Ernie Kent needed the Cougars, and the Cougs needed him | Bud Withers | The Seattle Times
Ernie Kent has started up again, wearing those dapper suits, preaching the gospel, swearing it can be done, doing what he was meant to do.

Ernie Kent introduced as Washington State Cougars' coach - ESPN
New Washington State basketball coach Ernie Kent says the rebuilding project he faces in Pullman won't be a long one.

Greg Graham and Silvey Dominguez Join Basketball Staff - Washington State University Official Athletic Site
Greg Graham and Silvey Dominguez have been named assistant men’s basketball coaches, Washington State Head Men’s Basketball Coach Ernie Kent announced, Wednesday.

Ernie Kent Introduced As Cougar Basketball Coach - Washington State University Official Athletic Site
Washington State University and Director of Athletics Bill Moos introduced veteran head coach Ernie Kent as the 18th Cougar men's basketball head coach during a press conference Wednesday, April 2. Kent was signed to a five-year roll over contract. Terms of the deal are unavailable.

Baseball:

Cougars Hosts Golden Bears - Washington State University Official Athletic Site
The Washington State (12-13, 3-3 Pac-12) baseball team hosts California (14-12, 3-3 Pac-12) in a three-game Pac-12 Conference series, April 4-6...game times are 6 p.m., Friday, 2 p.m., Saturday and noon, Sunday.