" I feel blessed that I had an opportunity to be in the Big Ten for four years as a player and be in the Big Ten as a coach for eight years. To get 12 years in a conference like the Big Ten – it’s a first-class league with great towns and great fans. "
- Steve Alford

In the statement, Steve Alford expresses his profound appreciation for his long tenure within the Big Ten Conference, both as a player and later as a coach. He reflects on having spent an impressive twelve years immersed in this prestigious college athletic league, which he considers to be of top-tier quality.

Alford's quote goes beyond mere satisfaction with his career duration; it also underscores the value he places on the entire collegiate sports experience within the Big Ten. By highlighting "great towns and great fans," he emphasizes not just the excellence of the conference itself but also the supportive environment surrounding it. This suggests that Alford values the holistic nature of college athletics, recognizing the significance of community engagement and fan support in creating a meaningful and enriching professional life.

Steve Alford is known for his extensive career in college basketball. He has had successful stints as both a player and a coach, with particular notability during his time with the Big Ten Conference teams. His reflections on this period speak to the deep connection he feels with the league that played such a significant role in shaping his professional journey.