Mike Dunlap: Was listed as a U. coaching candidate back in 2004. He was very successful at Metro State in Denver before going to the pros, where he's an assistant with the Denver Nuggets.

Todd Lickliter: His team at Butler has made it to the Sweet 16, but he has strong ties to the school and the Midwest.

Chris Lowery: Just 34, he's had three great seasons at Southern Illinois but would be more likely to hold out for bigger jobs than Utah.

UNLIKELY

Gregg Marshall: Very successful in nine years at Winthrop. Last year he apparently turned down North Carolina State and reneged on the College of Charleston job a day after accepting. Eagles AD Tom Hickman said he has not been contacted by Utah about talking to Marshall.

Dana Altman: An apparent candidate three years ago, he has had a solid career at Creighton, but a lack of NCAA tournament success (two wins in seven trips) and a bland personality make him unlikely to be considered.

Mark Fox: He has a top record in three years at Nevada. But he has close ties to Nevada and his blowup with officials after a loss in the WAC tournament didn't help his image.

NO CHANCE

Tubby Smith: He has a job but is rumored to be on the hot seat at Kentucky. Because he's beaten Utah three times in NCAA games, some Ute fans hope to get him on their side if he is let go.

Rick Majerus: Earlier this week, the ex-Ute coach was the focus of speculation on sports radio and Internet boards because of rumored interest in his old job. However, the chances of Big Rick returning are about 350 pounds to one.

Elaine Elliott: She can certainly coach, as her 500-plus victories at Utah show. But don't bet on Utah being the first major college to hire a female to coach the men's team.