The search for a new coach is a process that the parties involved usually like to remain silent about.

Four candidates with ties to Pennsylvania--East Tennessee State's Ed DeChellis, Penn's Fran Dunphy, St. Joseph's Phil Martelli and Chattanooga's Jeff Lebo--have been included in the search.

Reports have circulated that both Lebo and DeChellis have been contacted by Penn State Athletic Director Tim Curley, but neither coach nor school has confirmed or denied these reports.

Jeff Lebo said that he doesn't talk about possible job openings while employed by another university. "I don't have a comment," Lebo said. "I'm not trying to be rude it's just my policy."

Sports information director Jeff Romero said yesterday that he spoke to athletic director Steve Sloan, who told him that Lebo had yet to be contacted.

Lebo, who was born in Enola, has turned down the coaching job at Virginia Tech after having preliminary meetings with Virginia Tech Athletic Director Jim Weaver. According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, Lebo made an estimated $350,000 this season.

DeChellis, a former Nittany Lion assistant coach and Penn State graduate, has continued to remain silent about his future status with East Tennessee State or any school, including his alma matter. He led the Buccaneers to the NCAA Tournament before losing a close game to Wake Forest Friday.

"During this time of year, speculation always seems to arise about coaching positions throughout the country and my name is often a part of these rumors," DeChellis said in prepared statement. "This year is no different. While I think it would be inappropriate for any information to be released by ETSU or the inquiring institution in regards to an open coaching position."

DeChellis and athletic director Dave Mullins were unavailable for further comment. The rumors surrounding DeChellis and Penn State have been closely watched by East Tennessee's staff for the past week. Sports information director Michael White designed special rules regarding media asking about the Penn State situation.

"There is just one stipulation," White said in the Knoxville News. "You can't ask anything about the Penn State job."

Martelli remains open to the opportunity that could arise, but said that Penn State has yet to contact him.

"I would be arrogant to say that I wouldn't listen," Martelli said. "Although, I really don't think about it, because no one has called."

The Red Hawks, like East Tennessee, dropped a first round game in the NCAA Tournament to Auburn on Friday in overtime. If Martelli is not contacted by Penn State, he is fine with the idea of staying at St. Joe's.

"I have a great job," he said.

Penn State continues its search based upon the job description posted, which includes "five years of coaching experience." Seemingly this leaves out Duke assistant Steve Wojciechowski, who has four years experience.