JJ Quotes

Michael Tsai has a recap of June Jones' press conference.

Jones said he first spoke with SMU five days before the Sugar Bowl but deferred talking about specifics because he wanted to focus on the game.

SMU eventually offered Jones $10 million over five years. UH made three last-minute counter-proposals, including one that specifically addressed Jones' concerns about funding and facilities.

Jones said he agonized over the decision. After flying to Dallas and meeting with school officials, Jones said he still was undecided.

"Right down to the 11th hour, I wasn't ready to go because of my attachment to friends and people here," Jones said. "I really thought this would be my last job."

Jones said he thinks the undefeated season and Sugar Bowl appearance provided ample evidence that a successful football program is a boon to the state. His eyes watered briefly as he recalled the thousands of UH supporters who flocked to New Orleans to attend the Warriors' first-ever BCS bowl game.

"That was very moving to everyone who was there," he said. "That was a taste of what football can do for the school. I think people need to never forget that football can be the best ambassador for the school."

June Jones speaks of his time in Hawaii in this article by Dave Reardon:

Anyone watching closely should not be too shocked that Jones is gone. He wanted to leave after a tumultuous 2004 season, but then an old partner rode into town.

"I was very frustrated going into 2005. If Jerry Glanville hadn't come, I wouldn't have been part of the undefeated part of it," Jones said. "Jerry made it fun again for me. He relieved a lot of the things that frustrated me. He did it with smiles and laughter."

Jones did not seem to find much joy during the just-completed 12-0 regular season. The pressure of putting it together was all-encompassing. And then the issues of lack of support from the university and the state came up again, the ones that pushed him out of Hawaii and to SMU.

"I have not had any time to enjoy the moment," he said.

In another Reardon article, Jones talks about the Sugar Bowl loss and endorses Greg McMackin.

"We talked, talked to him again today, and met with him. I want what's best for Hawaii," Jones said. "I'll survive and find another coach if he does not come that will allow us to win and do what we need to do at SMU. I have great confidence in that."