Gary built a model program while at Kent State. Throughout his career he has recruited student-athletes of the highest character, individuals who he developed into winners on the court and in the classroom. Waters acknowledged he is going to have to re-recruit his current players as well as the incoming freshmen. Not only in regards to losing a coach, but in all kinds of things relating to this team. So they need to be healed.
Waters already has one adjustment planned.
His players are going to have breakfast with him every morning and have to stop by his office every day to give him a hug. Kent State won a school-record 24 games this season. Waters had a 92-60 record in five seasons at Kent State. Leaving wasn't easy. The Golden Flashes had four starters returning next season and Waters had a hard time telling them he was leaving.