Mack Rhoades believes running a school in the Southeastern Conference job is not a big leap forward from Houston.
Missouri's new athletic director takes over next month and said he'll be leaning on Mike Alden for advice during the transition. He said the challenge will be to continue the momentum led by Alden the last 17 years.
There was much fanfare at the school's Student Center for the formal announcement. School mascot Truman the Tiger led a procession that included a mini-marching band and cheerleaders to seats in front of the podium, setting the scene for Rhoades' entrance.
Football coach Gary Pinkel, coming off consecutive Eastern Division championships, and wrestling coach Brian Smith, whose program is rated No. 1 in the country, were among those in attendance.
