Patterson Says He Is Returning
Well, this is very good news indeed, if he doesn't change his mind between now and then. We have all heard this before from players, but I am actually inclined to believe it from Patterson.
There is also a news story here that reports the same thing.
I must say that if this bears out, it casts Gillispie in a whole new light. Many have speculated that Patterson would leave because of the coach. At this precise moment, that appears to be demonstrably untrue.
8 months ago
Truzenzuzex
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I hope it's true
But I doubt he would say anything but that on the eve of the SEC tourney. Of course you hear all kinds of things but on one of the Lexington sports talk shows last night it was reported by the host that Patterson’s family was unhappy with the program and concerned about Patrick’s future here. And that once the season is over the family will sit down to discuss his future. I don’t think we will know until the season is said and done.
by maysvilleblue on Mar 12, 2009 7:07 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sanguine about it either.
But he could have just said, “We’re gonna talk about it after the season.” That’s the usual way it’s done, and that’s why this is somewhat more encouraging to me than normal.
With that said, if he’s still not signed with an agent in June, that’s when I’ll celebrate. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 12, 2009 7:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
I think if Patterson was not returning that he would not have said so.
I believe in Billy G.
by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 12, 2009 9:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Interview...
OGETARTS posted this video in a thread below, thought it may be useful here.
by the spork on Mar 12, 2009 8:14 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Patterson is not leaving...
He knows if he comes back not only can he be a lottery pick next year, but UK could have a special team with Orton and Pilgrim being eligible to play. Meeks will also be back.
No way he wants to leave UK in these dire times. Patterson has too much pride and integrity. He loves UK, and apparently loves his coach. That says a lot about this young man.
It’s a smart business decision also. Why settle for being the 20th pick in the draft? When you could spend one more year in college, and be a lottery pick next year? Makes sense to me.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 8:16 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Playing with Orton would allow Patterson to play.....
…… at the 4 spot.
If Patterson could expand his mid-range game that would be huge and would probably bump him into the lottery range.
GBB!!!
by OGETARTS on Mar 12, 2009 8:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think we stand to gain more from the Jon Hood improvement at the 3 position
than we do from gaining a freshman Orton at the 5. When Perry plays hard he’s actually very good. I am hopeful that Orton will produce more consistency for us, but I don’t expect him to be so far superior as a freshman that it generates ten points’ difference in the score. Matt Pilgrim’s potential contribution excites me as much as the Orton factor.
On the other hand, if Hood can deliver as promised and hold his end on the defensive side, trading up for him at the 3 position would be like trading Liggins for Steve Nash.
Speaking of Liggins, I don’t expect any miracles at the 1 next year, unless unexpected defections open up scholarships that can be plugged by unknown point guards with first year eligibility. I don’t think Porter will regress, so that will provide a minimum level of competence, but I haven’t seen anything to suggest either he or DeAndre is going to be transfigured over the summer. Can’t hold my breath on the G.J. Villarino hopes, either, but I am looking forward to seeing what he’s got to offer.
by Ken Pomeroy on Mar 12, 2009 3:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would absolutely love to see Patterson and Orton play together.
Man that would be fun.
Throw in Pilgrim, Stevenson and Harrellson and that would arguably be one of the top frontcourts in the nation.
GBB!!!
by OGETARTS on Mar 12, 2009 8:20 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Some earlier interviews had
Patterson’s mom talking about how Orton constantly texted and called Patrick to talk about how much he wants to play with Pat.
They could be a very special 4/5 next season.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
by blbskue on Mar 12, 2009 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Patterson is...
my favorite UK player since Jamal Mashburn. Hands down. Bogans is also up there.
He’s such a great kid. I’m so glad he decided to wear the UK uniform. I wish all our players had his heart, pride, integrity and determination. This team would be drastically different if that were the case.
From the comments I’ve read about Orton, he is cut from the same cloth as Patterson. If they play together next year, watch out everyone!
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 8:33 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Favorite player since Mashburn
Agree 100%. I guess I feel better than most on here about this proclamation. From almost any other player, I’d be skeptical, but Pat’s not any other player. I think he means what he says and says what he means. There were 100 different ways to deflect that question, but he took it head on and answered it pretty unambiguously.
I think this sets a positive tone for today’s game, and it also gives Jodie a big reason to come back. Agree with Hoze below that I wish we had a guaranteed stud point guard for next year, but this already has me feeling better about next year. (Agreeing with Hoze? Am I deliriously happy or what? LOL)
by Acdixon on Mar 12, 2009 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with Both!
And did you see that huge grin during the interview?? I think he intends to stay and finish some business here. 8’)
Please excuse me while I go dance in the streets! . . . OK, done.
by EEWildcat on Mar 12, 2009 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Love Patterson
and he seems like a great guy in his interviews, but but I’m gonna stick with Chuck Hayes for now….
by BigBlue87 on Mar 12, 2009 11:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now if Patterson returns to play point guard...you have something.
Seriously, if Patterson is a first round pick, it would be foolish for him to stay. Tru, I think your skepticism at this point is proper.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 9:06 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not always a good decision to leave....
… because from what I’ve read/seen, Patterson is right on the cusp of being a lottery pick. If he stays and improves then he could become a definite lottery pick. That would make it worth his while.
by Clay Mason on Mar 12, 2009 9:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not always a good decision to stay...
….because he could blow out a knee or shows a lack of improvement. That would not make it worth his while.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So you are saying...
Earl Clark’s decision to stay at UL was foolish? Come on…As a Louisville fan, I wouldn’t want Patterson to come back either.
I understand the PG issue. But to me, almost as importantly this team needs TWO lost post threats to run BCG’s high-low offense effectively. Stevenson is not effective enough. Orton will be more effective in my opinion.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 10:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Earl Clark was not going to be a first round pick last year.
******A first round pick should leave early******** I could give a hoot in heck as a UofL fan. I think Blair should leave early at Pitt…I could go on an on. It’s not a UofL v. UK thing.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Earl Clark was...
a projected late 1st round pick in last years draft. He most certainly was. Pitino told him that if he came back, he would be a lottery pick this year. And be in a better position to get a better 2nd contract. Like Pitino said, your 2nd contract is the one that means the most. And by coming back and working on his game, Clark not only has made himself a lottery pick this year, but has positioned himself to get a better 2nd contract by working on his game for another year. He also had a chance to be injured. But the likelyhood of an season ending injury is low.
If Patterson comes back I think he will have made the right decision. And I don’t say that as a UK fan. His game is not ready for the NBA. He can not play back to the basket in the NBA. He has to prove he can play facing the basket and consistently hit the 15-20 ft jumper. He has not proven that yet.
With Orton down low, Patterson can play the high man at the top of the key in the high-low offense. Facing the basket, he can work on his 15 ft jumper, his passing and possibly dribbling. It makes sense for him to come back.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Next year could be a lot more fun
Patterson is a winner with a competitive attitude. I believe he wants to come back next year because he knows what a great team we could have next year and he doesn’t want to leave on such a low note as this season has been.
by gright on Mar 12, 2009 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In regards to Clark...
…I think it was debateable. I could likely pull up a number of articles which would suggest otherwise. Regardless I think it is fair to say that Patterson’s position this year is more solid than Clark’s was last year. But again that is arguable.
If Patterson does come back, there is upside I guess. However, I think the downside is greater. You are correct that he hasn’t shown the ability to face the basket…or at least limited ability. With Orton coming in, he will have not only the opportunity to show this, but will have to show it. If he can’t perform up to his potential, his stock will drop not rise.
I think Clark was different. He showed the ability last year and wasn’t asked to play a different position. It was more fine tuning what he had, as opposed to showcasing some potential that he hasn’t even shown, yet.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I see more upside...
Patterson has shown that he can hit the 15 ft jumper. I’ve seen him hit numerous 15 footers since he came to UK. Just not consistently. Reason being is because he is playing the 5 position, when he should be playing the 4. So he is down on the block posting with his back to the basket most of the time. He does not get to shoot the 15 ft jumper consistently in the offense right now. With Orton coming in, this most likely will change.
Patterson has great work ethic and is a good kid. And he will improve if he stays. Guys like him usually always do improve. His game also just needs some fine tuning. Plus it will be benefit his draft status if UK has a better year next year, which they will if he and Meeks stay. I know the good year UL has had this year has probably helped raise Clark’s draft status a bit.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 11:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yea, I get it.
From what I see Patterson is a great kid. I am rooting for him. It’s just that if he stays another year, it will be more than just fine tuning. He will play a different position that requires completely different skills. He may have potential, but he hasn’t shown them yet. For his stock to rise he has to perform.
At this point, I do not think he has consistently shown the ability to defend a #4, to shoot a 15 ft shot, or to put the ball on the floor. Do you really see him performing like Clark (although Clark is more of a #3 than Patterson ever will be)? I just think there is risk for a potential 12-15 pick to come back and perform at a completely different position. It’s not like the currrent coaching staff has been successful with improving Stevenson.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 11:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stevenson...
Is not going to improve in my opinion. No matter what the coaches do. At some point a player has to “want” to make themselves better. I don’t think Stevenson really “wants” to get better.
No doubt Patterson “wants” to get better. And the coaches will help with this. Meeks has improved since his freshman year. Why? Because Meeks “wants” to get better. Joe Crawford got better last year – why? Because after finally buying into BCG’s system, he finally “wanted” to get better. For the 1st time in his career at UK. Another year at UK under BCG, and Crawford would have been a 1st round pick in the draft.
Also I had never heard of Acie Law when BCG was at A&M until his senior year. I think he improved tremendously under BCG while at A&M. BCG can develop players. Patterson will be no exception.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well I guess the entire team didn't WANT to get better this year.
I guess Jodie didn’t want to get better these last few games, in particular, either.
It takes more than desire, it takes coaching. I think most of the BBN thinks there is a coaching issue and that’s another reason I’d be worry if I were Patterson if I were coming back.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jodie has improved...
in my opinion. You obviously have your own opinion on the matter, which is fine. I also don’t think it matters what the BBN nation thinks about the coaching issue. I look at the facts and BCG’s record with developing players into 1st round/lottery draft picks.
It takes both desire and coaching obviously. If the players are not going to listen to the coaches, then they are not going to get better. Just like Tru pointed out in a previous post, some of the players aren’t listening to the coaches. Also some players may have reached their full potential (Porter and Harris could be examples of this). But BCG has shown he can develop players that will “accept” his coaching. And those that “want” to get better. That’s a fact.
BCG had 2 top 15 draft picks while at A&M (Law and Wright). How many has Pitino had at Louisville until now? How many did OTS have while at UK? The fact that Texas A&M, of all schools, had TWO top 15 draft picks this decade while UL and UL have had NONE speaks volumes to me as to whether or not BCG can develop players.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I get it.
Jodie is shooting 37% in the last 6 games. He has 17 TO’s and only 12 assists. He is really improving.
You’re saying that one of Gillispie’s greatest strength is coaching & improving first round talents and that he is better than Pitino.
I’m finished with this discussion. It’s always more interesting to debate with someone that has some knowledge in what they are writing about.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are biased...
because you are a UL fan. It’s pretty obvious to me.
Meeks has scored over 50 points once and over 40 points 3 times this year. Over 30 probably 3 or 4 more times. And yet you don’t think he has improved since his freshman year? I guess his defense hasn’t improved either. Certainly there are things he needs to improve on like passing and ball handling skills, but come on.
You need to wise up sir.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You need to learn to read, sir.
Here’s what I originally wrote:
I guess Jodie didn’t want to get better these last few games, in particular, either
Get it? I made comment over the last few games. I’ll give you that he has improved since he has been 6 yrs old, if that will make you feel better.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can't determine total player development...
over the course of the last few games. Good grief. This is getting ridiculous.
You said you were a coach? I thought you would know that.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It was a response to your thoughts of WANTING to get better.
I wrote I guess that Jodie didn’t want to get better over the past few games, in an effort to show you position was weak, at best. I guess you missed it.
It had nothing to do with ‘player development’. I didn’t even use that phrase.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Your guess?
How do you know Jodie didn’t want to get better? Did he tell you that? My guess is only Jodie knows that.
Yes he’s had some bad games recently. But it’s foolish in my opinion to say “Oh look, Jodie has had a couple of bad games lately – he’s really improving”.
You have to look at the whole season in my opinion, not just the games when he had a bad game. He is a much better offensive defensive player this year in my opinion. I already know your position on this matter so no need to reply.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are making my point.
How do you know Jodie didn’t want to get better?
You are absolutely correct that I don’t know. That’s why your comments about wanting to get better are so foolish.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
have you ever coached?
not saying it is the same thing, but i coach competitive girls soccer – one of my “best” players reminds me of stevenson. she has the physical ability to be really good – i have tried everything to motivate her – it just has not worked. on the other hand, i have had less physically talented girls work hard and now contribute as much or more to the team.
my point is – at the elite level of bball it is the rare gifted athlete that is self motivating that is the true star.
i agree that the coaching staff plays a role in motivation, but sometimes that “killer instinct” is just not there and there is nothing a coach can do to pull it out
by memphis wildcat on Mar 12, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, I have coached.
Both of my sons in every sport you could imagine. However, I am smarter enough not to translate my experience with major D-I challenges.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
sorry
did not mean that to come across that way – the one thing i hate about email/text/blog is that tone can be lost.
my only point is that there are players who just do not have the fire in their belly and coaches can only do so much to pull it out.
agree that what BCG is doing and what i am doing are completely different -
by memphis wildcat on Mar 12, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No coaching staff
has improved Stevenson.
I believe in Billy G.
by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 12, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Stevenson
Did step up last year when Patterson went out with injury. But he is very lackadasical sp?. Coach has said many times he does not know what motivates him to play well. He can play great one game and then not the next. He has a very laid back attitude IMO re basketball.
I thought with his Mom moving to Lex this year and cooking all his favorite Cajun meals it would incite a fire under the guy. Ho…hum.
by kykat51 on Mar 12, 2009 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
amen
see my post just above – sometimes there are physically gifted kids and there is nothing a coach (any coach) can due to get them motivated…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 12, 2009 12:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Late first round pick
could very easily slip into the second round. most players projected as a late first rounder are counseled to come back to school.
DEEETROIT BASKETBALLL!!!
by davw83 on Mar 12, 2009 3:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Excerpt from the article below proves...
that Earl Clark was a projected 1st round pick last year:
Louisville forward Earl Clark could’ve made the jump to the NBA in the offseason, but elected instead to return to the Cardinals and work on his game. After a slow start, he’s beginning to make the progress he hoped for.
Clark looks to build on one of the best games of his career as the ninth-ranked Cardinals meet Lamar on Monday night in the Marques Maybin Classic at Louisville’s Freedom Hall.
Clark was projected to be a first round pick in last June’s draft after averaging 11.1 points, 8.1 rebounds and 1.7 blocked shots in 35 games – 22 starts – as a sophomore last season. He decided to delay turning pro in favor of a third season with the Cardinals, a move coach Rick Pitino must have appreciated Sunday.
by Sharpera on Mar 12, 2009 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Somewhat unrelated, but somewhat related
Patterson is just 56 points away from scoring 1000 for his UK career. It’s not inconceivable (I do not think it means what you think it means.) that he gets that mark during the SECT which would be really cool.
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
by JLeverenz on Mar 12, 2009 9:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
One and a bonus
Point for noticing the 1000 point possibility; bonus for working in a Princess Bride quote.
Anybody want a peanut?
by Acdixon on Mar 12, 2009 10:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hello, my name is Indigo Montoya
You killed my father, prepare to die.
by btcoop71 on Mar 12, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Forget a PG
What UK REALLY needs is a man with six-fingers on his hand.
I wonder if Antonio Alfonseca has any eligibility?
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
by JLeverenz on Mar 12, 2009 10:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Forget a six fingered player...how about this girl(s) from Minnesota for the UK dance team?
I happened to run into them about 10 years ago in a Minneapolis Mall during a soccer tournament. Talk about a real head turner!!!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abigail_and_Brittany_Hensel
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 11:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is amazing
Thanks for the link.
by kykat51 on Mar 12, 2009 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Every few years or so the Discovery Channel has an 'update' show about them.
I think they are about 17 yrs old now….driving a car…playing on a softball and volleyball teams.
When I ran into them, they were trying on shoes at a Finish Line with their mom and there were about eight 10 yr old boys (including my son) in the back of the store. As you can imagine, I was mostly concerned about getting them out of there w/o making a scene. Undoubtedly, the most amazing and unexpected scenario I could have seen and experienced.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 12, 2009 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You never go in against a Sicilian
When death is on the line….
by btcoop71 on Mar 12, 2009 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Better that than get involved in a land war in Asia
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
by JLeverenz on Mar 12, 2009 11:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good article of Patterson speaking about Gillispie:
http://www.amnews.com/public_html/?module=displaystory&story_id=48580&format=html
Tru, sorry if that was going to go into the morning news. I think it’s solid support from his best player.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
by blbskue on Mar 12, 2009 10:20 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Patterson
is a good kid and I think he will wait till the after the season to decide. I mean if Kentucky breaks it open and he is dominate……..his stock rises. Ultimately its what is best for him and I don’t begrudge him for that. I hate to see him leave but understand if he does. I just remember Vince Young saying at the Rose Bowl that he was staying then he didn’t and oh do I wish that he had.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 12, 2009 10:45 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Vince Young
I expected him to be so much better than he is. Rather disappointing. I heard Kerry Collins is still gonna be the starting QB next year
by uk1982 on Mar 13, 2009 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
News....
Best news ive heard in a looongggggg time. We are UK!
" I believe in pipedreams"
by Magnoliacat on Mar 12, 2009 11:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
This made my day
Finally some good news for us cats fans.
by uk1982 on Mar 12, 2009 12:33 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
dont know if somebody posted this already but
http://www.kentucky.com/232/story/724437.html
After saying he wasn’t ready to leave and wanted to try again for a highly successful college season with his UK teammates, Patterson was asked how susceptible he might be to changing his mind.
“That’s my mindset right now,” he said. “My mindset is depending on on how I finish out this year. I will re-evaluate everything, talk to my parents as to my mindset. I want to finish out this year and if I do well enough, I’ll consider leaving.”
When asked what factors might cause him to change his mind, Patterson said, “If we make the NCAA Tournament, how far do we go? Talk to the coaches. See the NBA Draft (projections).”
by uk1982 on Mar 12, 2009 8:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
afraid i would take another banner
even if it meant losing patterson….. :)
by memphis wildcat on Mar 12, 2009 10:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
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