Sources Say McQuarn May Stay

A source close to the Cal State Fullerton basketball team said that Coach George McQuarn, who announced three weeks ago that he would resign, effective at the end of the season, told his team before Sunday’s practice that he had changed his mind and would stay for at least two more years.

The source, who asked not to be identified, also said three players had confirmed the story.

Both Fullerton President Dr. Jewel Plummer Cobb and Athletic Director Ed Carroll have told McQuarn he could change his mind, and both have expressed their desire that he stay.

Another source close to McQuarn said that the Titan coach, in his sixth season at Fullerton, was at least “seriously considering” changing his mind.

“So many people have told him that they wished he’d stay, he’s really thinking about it,” said the source, who also requested anonymity. “Mainly, he’s concerned about how he’ll look in the media if he changes his mind.”

McQuarn, 44, when asked if he had reconsidered, said: “Where did you hear that?” Then he smiled, but did not confirm, nor deny, the report.

Carroll, contacted by phone Monday night at his home in Fullerton, said he had not talked with McQuarn since Friday and said he had not heard of any change of heart by the coach.

“I’m hoping he did,” Carroll said. “If that was the case, I’d be excited and happy to hear that.”

Titan players questioned Monday night declined to comment.