May 1, 2008

When you look at the coaching ranks, it is so different to see what happens in college compared to the pros.

In college, there are changes that take place. There is also security built up when you post good seasons. Contracts are renewed for several years and you can have a bad year or two and not lose your job. You are allowed to continue your quest for success in the NCAA tournament with the ultimate goal of a trip to the Final Four.

In the NBA, it is all about what happens today. If you don't do well, just pack your bags because you're gone. Go ask Avery Johnson, formerly the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks. All he did in less than four full seasons was put up an impressive 194-70 regular-season mark.

The problem is, his playoff record was 23-24. Dallas was on the verge of winning an NBA title, which would have made Johnson a hero. But after going up 2-0 against the Heat a few years back, the Mavericks won just three of their next 15 postseason games, ultimately leading to Mark Cuban's decision to say bye-bye to his coach.

Johnson handled his firing with real class. He said there was no animosity between himself and the Mavericks, even believing that a change could be beneficial to everyone. Johnson did a phenomenal job in Dallas; his personality is so infectious. I feel his knowledge of the game is certainly special. He got the most out of his ability and did the same with his talent.

Unfortunately, life in the NBA can be unfair. It takes just a couple of poor performances in the playoffs to lead to the hook. Last year's loss to the eighth-seeded Warriors was painful for the Mavs. Then following that up with a loss to New Orleans led directly to the dismissal.

Dallas could not handle the unbelievable play of Chris Paul. So a man who won 60, 67 and 51 games over the last three seasons found himself unemployed. My friends, he will not be out of a job for long as several teams have openings.

Johnson will survive and he will not be kept down. He has spirit, energy and enthusiasm. Johnson has knowledge and knows how to communicate.

It is all about winning the gold trophy. If you don't accomplish that lofty task, it is tough to survive. You can be Coach of the Year one season and then out of work the next. With the mega-dollars being thrown around, the owners certainly have a right to make changes when they desire.

Life in the big time is like a rollercoaster. Johnson has gone through a few bumpy playoff rides, but trust me … he will land on his feet and do just fine.

Dick Vitale coached the Pistons and the University of Detroit before broadcasting ESPN's first college basketball game in December 1979. Send him a question for possible use on ESPNEWS.