If you have heard this from different sources, chances are good that same rumor has reached Lickert. Would explain some frustration... He’s a top quality individual and nobody wants to be treated unfairly.
I can’t help but feel like a big message is being overlooked in all this. The guy caved because of his loyalty to his home school. At the same time, Highlands grads with deep loyalty to the program were overlooked in the hiring process. No judgment, but something the interview committee needs to consider for future.