Controversial Hall of Fame coach eyes return to bench

Hall of Fame coach Bob Huggins is eyeing a return to the bench less than one year following his apparent resignation and retirement.

Kenny Payne was fired on March 13 following two seasons with Louisville after posting just a 12-52 mark.

It was reported on Tuesday that New Mexico coach Richard Pitino was a top contender for the Cardinals' vacancy. The 41-year-old is the son of former longtime Louisville (and now St. John's) head coach Rick Pitino.

There's been no indication that Huggins is in the running for the Cardinals gig.

If Louisville were to consider bringing in the 70-year-old, it would be even more controversial than hiring the younger Pitino.

Last May, Huggins used an anti-gay slur twice during a radio interview on 700WLW's "Bill Cunningham Show."

Then in June, the longtime West Virginia leader picked up his second DUI arrest in 10 years and reportedly resigned.

Huggins sent a letter to the university in July, claiming that he never resigned and threatened to sue if he wasn't reinstated.

According to a report from Rick Bozich of WDRB.com, Huggins said during his Wednesday appearance on the Jerry Eaves radio show that that he completed a rehab program and hasn't had any alcohol in over 300 days.

Per the report, Huggins added that he was in excellent health and expected that he could coach for 10-to-15 more years.

Since the elder Pitino's tumultuous exit from the program in 2017, Louisville has fallen on hard times, making the NCAA Tournament only once in the last seven seasons.