But it changed my life for the best. In the years since, Bibby has played nine seasons in the NBA, coached his way up by taking obscure jobs all over the globe and earned a reputation as one of the demanding men in the business. One day, I think we'll be friends. But if you don't have a tough skin, it's hard to play for him. After years of coaching in the professional minor leagues, Bibby landed the Southern Cal job in March 1996 and immediately imposed a rigorous work schedule, in and out of season.
Several players quit or transferred.
Those who stayed often were at odds with the coach. Recruiting wasn't easy because word soon got around that Bibby could be difficult on the nerves. I know I'm tough, but I'm frank, too. I also think I can turn out good players. If anything, Bibby has been painted as something of a villain in recent years.