I have to believe that they made the 10 million dollar decision to let Anderson go based on the fact that they really believe they can land Pitino. I am guessing back channel work has been done. But Georgetown does present a problem. I don't think Texas Tech is realistic threat. He is a NY and Big East guy.
If for some reason he does not come, the answer is NOT an up and comer that is unproven. Really should go for a Chris Mack or maybe Mike Brey. The program needs to get better immediately with a name. We have to be in the conversation again for top recruits and a good coaching staff.
Pitino is neither a NYer or a BE guy. He's coached in Greece as long as he coached in NY and the only time he references NY is to say that whatever happened to him he can get through because he survived 9-11. AKA he's a completely horrible corrupt POS. That said, I wouldn't bet against him being the next SJ coach and I'd have to reexamine my relationship with SJ if he were hired, because he's a great coach and SJ will likely be good, so I'd have to root for them to win. Plus I could start blogging again, which is a win for everyone.
If not Pitino, SJ should absolutely hire Steve DeMeo. Gets them out from under the lawsuit, shits on Anderson, and gets them an amazing seven time COTY. Let it be, let it be done.