The Northern Illinois job has been open for less than 24 hours, but the names are already starting to pour in. Because of it’s proximity to Bradley – they are about 120 miles apart, a lot of the same names are being mentioned – Illinois assistant Jerrance Howard, Wisconsin assistant Greg Gard, and Purdue associate head coach Paul Lusk. A few names to add to this lis would be:

Former Bradley head coach Jim Les. He did have a winning overall record at BU and his 2006 team advanced to the Sweet 16.

Clemson associate head coach Rick Ray. Former assistant at NIU and part of some successful teams.

Wisconsin assistant Lamont Paris. He was an assistant at MAC foe Akron for 5 seasons. Knows how to win in the league.

Soon-to-be former Providence head coach Keno Davis. Obviously has some big-time mid-west ties. Was National Coach of the Year in 2008 at Drake.