People thought the Tropicana was a dump, too, but it looks pretty sweet right now. Granted, the Sahara isn't on a pretty hot corner, but it can be done.

Great post. I am incredibly bummed about this closure, even surpassing my disdain for seeing the Stardust and Frontier go away. If those two former hotels (along with the Westward Ho) had stuck around, I really believe that the Sahara could have made a remodel happen.

I fear that some got turned off by the Aladdin not being able to remake itself. But the Tropicana is sure showing that it could indeed be done.

Like coach, I favored Theus for the job, too. But I am happy that Rice got the job and feel that he will be really good.

Hopefully Dave can keep some of these kids home.

I was pulling for Reggie Theus, but then I heard whispers of Larry Brown which scared the (expletive) out of me. I have confidence in Rice though. And really, just the scare of Larry Brown really eases me past my disappointment of Rice not getting the gig.

Put me in the list wanting Reggie Theus. Not to knock Rice, but he seems like associate coach material to me. I don't think he's going to bring in the talent that Theus could bring in. I mean, if he makes New Mexico State an attractive place, I would imagine he'd do much more in Las Vegas.

Theus means a return to Gucci Row and the glitz and glamor of the old Vegas teams. Teams with scary talent making deep runs in the tournament.

Rice would be a good coach, and his teams would be a lot like Lon's. Well over 20 wins, nothing spectacular, and a first-round ouster in the NCAA tournament, with a first-round win here and there.

That would be great for a school like Cal State Fullerton. But I can't help but watch Butler and VCU and think that should be the Rebels out there.

I don't understand the baggage Theus had at New Mexico State? The Herb Pope deal was not his fault. He made New Mexico State a winner, something that didn't seem possible after McCarthy left. Theus should be announced as the new coach tomorrow. He will recruit the heck out of the local talent, plus probably gain some significant LA area kids, too. This needs to happen.

If Reggie Theus comes in, this might be an upgrade.

One other event to consider for a football stadium -- the Pro Bowl.

Hawaii is unwilling to build a new stadium, so the game is in Miami this year. Las Vegas could certainly get into the Pro Bowl mix. Las Vegas could easily become the permanent host once the event is an overwhelming success -- as it no doubt would be.

@dynamo

I was thinking about Fremont Street, too. How arrogant of Harrah's to mention that nobody in Las Vegas has thought of this before. No wonder the company is failing. I would be bullish on this idea if it was anybody else doing it. Harrah's will make it flounder.