Local legends inducted to Big Five Hall of Fame

Three local legends of college basketball were inducted into the Big Five Hall of Fame today – coaches Speedy Morris from St Joseph’s University, Rollie Massimino of Villanova, and Temple’s John Chaney, whose 24 years were marked by color and controversy.

Caption: Former Temple Owls Coach John Chaney.

Three local legends of college basketball were inducted into the Big Five Hall of Fame today – coaches Speedy Morris from St Joseph’s University, Rollie Massimino of Villanova, and Temple’s John Chaney, whose 24 years were marked by color and controversy.

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Coach John Chaney retired from the Temple Owls three years ago, but he still follows the game. He offered some advice to fellow inductee Coach Rollie Massimino about his potential rival, Carolina.

Chaney: There’s no team in history can give up 27 turnovers and win a championship – that’s what they did against Clemson last week. How many turnovers did you have, Rollie? Less than 5, am I right?

With his signature shabby tie and famous aggressive attitude, Chaney stressed how important education is for athletes. Greg Benjamin played under Chaney at Cheyney State College in 1980.

Benjamin: I remember him telling me back in 81 that I was not going to go pro and I needed to get an education, and I needed to marry the wife that I have now. I’ve been married 28 years.

Benjamin is now a college coach himself. Chaney, who never attended a Big 5 school, says the honor makes him feel more accepted by his peers.