Hall of Famer Bob Knight

Bob Knight deserves better.

The news this weekend that Knight has been selected for the IU Athletics Hall of Fame is really a no-brainer. The fact that he isn't already a member is an insult. The man has been a member of the basketball Hall of Fame for 18 years.

Now the debate rages about whether Knight should return to Bloomington for the induction ceremonies in November. Athletic Director Fred Glass apparently sent a hand-written note to Knight requesting he attend and has enlisted Bob Hammel, one of Knight's friends, to beg for his attendance.

I like the olive branch approach by the university. And I want to say Knight will decide to let bygones be bygones, attend the ceremony and receive the appreciation of the Hoosier faithful. But I suspect he will decline.

Knight may not want to upstage the other members of his Hall class, as was one guess, which include former soccer coach Jerry Yeagley, who won six NCAA championships at IU. Knight also may not care about the recognition. If he wishes to repair his legacy, honoring him like the other Hall of Famers would be unfair.

Like it or not, Knight is a special case and should be honored in a special way. It should be done in Assembly Hall.

There's no question Knight did not always bring honor and distinction to Indiana University. We are not asking anyone to forget that. But I think it's also time to stop ignoring his accomplishments.

IU clearly wants to mend the fence, and may need to considering the men's basketball program's recent turmoil and rebuilding. Glass wants to gather as many fans as he can, including re-engaging those who left the program after Knight's departure.

If that's the case, why not honor Knight during a basketball game this season? During halftime of a game against Kentucky, Purdue or Ohio State, bring him out to the floor for a few minutes. A great number of former players would gladly speak on his behalf. It may even provide some extra motivation for this year's team in a tough game. Imagine the hype if ESPN had Knight call the game and then televised the halftime ceremony.

Knight deserves better than halftime at a football game. Honor him at the place he made famous and maybe he will return.