This edition of the VN Interview features Florida Atlantic Coach Rex Walters. The former Kansas star is in his second season as the head man for the Owls. Thanks to Justin Johnson of the FAU media relations for his invaluable help in coordinating this interview. Hope you enjoy.

1. VN-How would you assess your team’s progress to this point in the season?

Coach Walters-There is no doubt we have improved over the course of the year. Unfortunately, we have been in constant transitions with injuries and other issues that have caused changes with the roster. Although we have a lot of areas that need improvement, I like the team we have right now. We just have to continue to grow and learn.

2. VN-Have the positive effects of your arena renovations started to benefit your program on the recruiting trail yet?

Coach Walters-There is no question the arena renovations have improved our program in a lot of areas. From a comfort level for our current team to a recruiting tool to show the commitment of our Athletic Department and University. The Arena has been a big lift in so many ways.

3. VN-What are the toughest road venues in the Sun Belt?

Coach Walters-Travel on the whole is very difficult in the Sun Belt. Although we can get to a lot of places with direct flights, there is still missed class time and (short-hour long)bus trips after our flights. Winning on the road will be difficult at all the SBC schools. South Alabama and Western Kentucky have the best venues to play in.

4. VN-How much does having been successful as a player help your credibility with your players?

Coach Walters-It helps in a lot of ways. The players know that I understand what it takes to play at a high level. In some ways, however, it can hurt their confidence level when I get on them. I don’t believe that they truly understand how much work (or just how good) the players in the NBA put in.

5. VN-What is the biggest crisis currently facing college basketball?

Coach Walters-I have really been upset over the lack of discipline some of the players have shown in their day to day work both on the court and in the classroom. Going to class, tutors, and study hall and being prepared is something that should happen automatically. For the most part, this is not a problem with this team. However, there are always a couple of players that are not as commited as I would like them to be. Don’t get me wrong, there are only a couple of players like this, but a couple is too many for me.

6. VN-How much importance do you place on playing a challenging nonconference schedule?

Coach Walters-Obviously, we like to play a very challenging nonconference schedule. It is the only way to see where you are and where you need to get to.

7. VN-What benefit, if any, does the basketball program derive from the football team reaching and winning a bowl game.

Coach Walters-An awful lot! Coach Schnellenberger and the football team have shown that it can be done and will be done. Florida Atlantic University is a school that wants to compete and win championships.

8. VN-How much do good nonconference wins, like New Orleans over NC State, help the Sun Belt’s national profile?

Coach Walters-The success of other teams in the nonconference is very important. It is great exposure for the league and shows that there is very good basketball being played in the SBC.

9. VN-What are your thoughts on the three point line being moved back next season?

Coach Walters-The great ones will adjust. I think it is a good thing for college basketball. Percentages may drop a little, but teams will make the adjustment with time.

10. VN-Who do you see as the Sun Belt favorites?

Coach Walters-South Alabama, New Orleans, and Western Kentucky.

That’s all for now. More interviews are on the way.

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