If Hamilton had fired Pearl earlier, then it would disrupt our effort to go far in the NCAA. Hell, if he had fired him earlier, we may not have even made it to the NCAA. It took us up to the last game before we were solidly in the NCAA. Had he fired Pearl a few weeks ago, I would think that the team would stop giving any effort and we fail to qualify for the NCAA.
Had Hamilton fired Pearl, probably no NCAA appearance and that would mean loss of performance based bonuses.
If Hamilton messes up this hire, then he will be packing his bags. He can't hire a Buzz or a Wade, this time. He has to be right on the money or he will lose his job.