Bill Walton Says Barack Obama Should Be UCLA's Next Basketball Coach

UCLA ’s struggling basketball team needs leadership, so why not get a coach with perhaps the ultimate experience in that department?

ESPN hoops analyst Bill Walton campaigned for former President Barack Obama to take the school’s coaching vacancy during a broadcast of UCLA’s home game against Stanford on Wednesday.

“I’m sticking with Barack Obama until he says no,” the former UCLA and NBA great told broadcasting partner Dave Pasch.

Walton says lots of off-the-wall stuff. His coaching recommendation, however, does have a certain logic.

Like America, UCLA is a traditional power fallen on difficult times. And like America, it could perhaps use inspiration from a respected figure (who happens to love basketball).

UCLA, which fired head coach Steve Alford this week after four straight losses, beat Stanford , 92-70, under interim coach Murry Bartow. But the permanent gig remains open.