COLLEGE BASKETBALL Eustachy returns to Iowa 'better at everything I do'

The reformed coach said seeking treatment for alcoholism changed his life.
IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) -- Larry Eustachy returned to Iowa with a new look and a new attitude.
He also picked up a technical foul. Some things never change.
"People ask me if I've lost my fire," Eustachy said. "I haven't for officials, I guess."
Eustachy's Southern Mississippi team lost to UNC-Greensboro 79-78 Friday night in the first round of Iowa's Hawkeye Challenge. The game brought Eustachy to an arena 130 miles east of where he used to coach at Iowa State.
He coached for five years before being forced out nearly two years ago after the publication of photos that showed him drinking beer and partying with college-age students after a game at Missouri.
"Iowa's a special, special place for me," Eustachy said. "I've got a bunch of great friends and a bunch of great people. It really is nice to come back. It would have been nice to win a game."
About 30 of Eustachy's friends and family members sat behind the Southern Mississippi bench, including his former wife Stacy, whom he divorced over the summer. His sons Evan and Hayden attended, along with Iowa State boosters Gary Thompson and Robert Gitchell, who became two of Eustachy's closest friends. "Iowa State will always be my school," Eustachy said.
Tough times over
With his wife at his side, Eustachy admitted that he was an alcoholic in an emotional news conference before he left Iowa State. He has undergone treatment and says he has stayed sober. He had his drink of choice with him Friday night: a can of Diet Coke.
"I know I'm a better coach," Eustachy said. "It didn't show tonight. I'm better at everything I do."
His return became a media event. When the game started, there were more reporters than fans, other than the ones who were Eustachy's guests. TV cameras focused on Eustachy far more often than the action on the floor.