Officially, it is listed as employment "position number 80810" at the University of Hawai'i.

You may know it better as the men's head basketball coaching job in Manoa. Riley Wallace's soon-to-be former office.

We know UH is prepared to pay upwards of $400,000 for its next hire, if necessary. But, outside of the minimum qualifications such as graduation from an accredited college, five years experience coaching the sport, etc., UH really hasn't said much about what it requires.

So, before matters get too far along, here's a shopper's guide to what the 'Bows ought to be looking for when interviews begin.

Local knowledge. We're not just talking how to find the on-ramps or the proper way to wrap a musubi, though both skills are bound to come in handy.

Frank Arnold, Wallace's predecessor, knew basketball. He knew UCLA and Brigham Young. What he didn't know was Hawai'i. Not how to recruit to it or how to sell the sport here. Because of that, both he and UH suffered through two miserable seasons, three if you count the mess Wallace inherited. That's why whoever takes over needs to either possess some local knowledge or be a darn quick study.

Scheduling. It is looking like the new coach probably shouldn't expect much help from the main office in this regard, so previous experience in scheduling is necessary, and widespread contacts are a must. Anybody who cites Florida Atlantic or Northern Colorado should be excused immediately.

Courtside demeanor. Wallace was sometimes a coat-flingin', foot-stompin' show ... Vesuvius in an aloha shirt until his "mellow" years.

But for a change of pace, not to mention players' nerves, how about looking for a coach to dial down the decibels a little? Except in last-minute situations to get the referees' attention in games against Nevada, of course.

Dining out: For several years Wallace was partial to having his team eat at Golden Corral buffets on the road. And when the 'Bows went on their 27-6 roll in 2001-02 he got downright superstitious about it.

The next coach shouldn't be expected to travel with a Michelin guide in hand. Not in the WAC. But some variety would be nice. And, if, in his next job, Wallace turns up in the front office at Golden Corral, it will explain a lot.

Media interaction. One of the lesser-appreciated responsibilities for the new coach will be dealing with the media. Hopefully, in a timely and civil manner. He may, however, bang on radio analyst Jeff Portnoy as much as he likes. It's one of the perks of the job.

Reach Ferd Lewis at flewis@honoluluadvertiser.com or 525-8044.