Gillispie's Demise as UK Basketball Coach: My First Take
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 5:51 PM EDT
in Commentary
547 comments
As I write this, I am listening to Mitch Barnhart and Lee Todd talk about the firing of Billy Gillispie and have reached the conclusion that this parting not only wasn't amicable, this relationship has been badly dysfunctional for some time. This was an ugly scene worthy of a soap-opera.
Based on the unfortunate nature of some of Barnhart's and Dr. Todd's answers, I am not encouraged that the administration handled this with the kind of professionalism that it required. But I am not going to draw that conclusion just yet. I have not gathered enough facts, at the moment, to make any kind of really rational judgment except that it is perfectly clear to me that this a) does not even have the appearance of a "mutual agreement," and b) is the most unpleasant firing I have seen at a Division I school since Ron Zook from Florida, and this may even surpass that one.
I understand that Gillispie will have something to say at some point about his dismissal, and I will be interested to hear his comments. As I write this, I am having to force myself not to draw conclusions, not to make accusations and not to race off into an angry screed that I will either wind up regretting or having to explain.
Unfortunately, the entire news conference was not covered here in Louisville, so I could not gather up every single fact that was presented there. I am disappointed to hear that the University intends to attempt to keep some of the money they clearly owe Gillispie. I doubt Gillispie will take them to the mat for that, but a big part of me would love to see him do it. A settlement and avoidance of court is likely best for both parties, but if Gillispie doesn't get at least 3 million dollars, in my view he will have been robbed.
It is my considered opinion, subject to later revision and extension when more facts come to light, that Gillispie lived up to the terms of his agreement with the University in every particular, and the University just didn't like the way he did his job. A coaching contract is not a suicide pact, though, so it is not unreasonable for the University administration to decide that the way he was doing his job was not the way they wanted it done, and to terminate that agreement. What I am saying here is that the University has a defensible argument that this action is in the best interests of the University of Kentucky and its basketball program.
With that said, it is perfectly clear that the University of Kentucky in general and Mitch Barnhart in particular did very little to help Gillispie succeed. It looks to me like the AD and many in the athletic department as well as in the local media decided early on, perhaps as early as last December, that they had little use for this bumpkin from Texas, and were perfectly happy to leave him to his own devices and even encourage his demise. Of course, the blame doesn't belong squarely on them -- clearly, Gillispie had difficulty finding commonality with the Bluegrass elites in Lexington, although it is also clear that he was able to establish a bond with most of the common folk of the Commonwealth. The urbane national sports media will laugh uproariously at the notion that people from Kentucky found themselves looking down on someone else as a bumpkin, but in my estimation, that is precisely what happened among the Lexington gentry, academics and media members who have Dr. Todd's and Mitch Barnhart's ear. Gillispie came in as one of us common folk, and has essentially been expelled because he was too much like us common folk. Bitterly ironic, I know, but there it is.
In the end, I suppose this relationship was always doomed to failure. The plain-spoken and honest-to-a-fault don't really belong at the head of legendary college programs -- they will always be seen as too small, too petite bourgeoisie for such an important position. You would think that Barnhart would have recognized that being the suave, genteel, pezzonovante that he is, but apparently he just isn't quite as savvy as most of us have given him credit for.
Barnhart is going to get beaten up over this, and deservedly so. Perhaps even Dr. Lee Todd will not escape significant recriminations. The bush-league way this was handled will fit nicely into what has become the national narrative about Kentucky basketball -- a formerly great program running coaches out of town in a vain hope to recapture faded glory, a program whose brilliance has been bedimmed by moneyed zealots driving bad decisions and unwashed masses of closet racists riotously clamoring for the return of Rick Pitino, who laughs at them up his french-cuffed Armani sleeve in Louisville.
What a great way to start a weekend.
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Where's the petition to have Barnhart fired?
As a Kentucky resident and UK alumni, I am terribly embarrassed.
by eeluk on Mar 27, 2009 5:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I have to agree...
you don’t hire a mule and then expect Secretariat. Billy G is what he is.
by jpbluekat on Mar 27, 2009 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If
it is as it appears……..you are spot on.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 27, 2009 6:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Wow
What a great piece. Thanks for the enlightenment.
by Nuss on Mar 27, 2009 6:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Thanks, Nuss.
I appreciate it.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You're welcome
I gave it a plug on my site.
by Nuss on Mar 27, 2009 9:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
common man
I agree growing up in the heart of the bluegrass, if the blue blooded elite turn on you as they are famous for doing you cannot succeed.
by rodoc on Mar 27, 2009 6:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't know that this could have been handled any worse
I don’t know how to feel about it. Primarily, I’m conflicted.
I’m embarassed about the way this has all been handled, but relieved to at least have this level of closure. Todd and Barnhart have left Gillispie to wiggle in the wind like a worm on a hook and it hasn’t been pretty.
At least we have handled it and can move on… such as it is.
Strike one… Donovan has said he’s staying put.
Strike two… Calipari says he’s not interested.
Just what we need, a scroll on the bottom of ESPN telling the world that the winningest basketball program of all time can’t get a coach. This is mismanagement of epic proportions bordering on gross negligence.
Anyways, I’m out for the evening. Back in the office on Saturday morning… I’m sure I’ll have interesting threads to read through first thing!
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
by chirop1 on Mar 27, 2009 6:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
WHY?
If this blog is intended to be positive and supportive of our University and coach, then why do we continue to support Gillispie? He is no longer with us, and at least they waited until the end of the season to get rid of him!
by ukfan6060 on Mar 27, 2009 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i should have added...
and you MUST fit in with the Blue Elite in Lexington. Billy G was one of the regular people. Blue Elite don’t want that for their program.
by MKarland on Mar 28, 2009 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well ...
… it is my intention to be supportive. It is also my intention to call them as I see them, and if that doesn’t look very supportive on occasion, so be it.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
but do you honestly blame coaches for not wanting to come to KY?
After this especially! the message sent was obviously, “if you don’t make it to the final four in your first year, (or win, like Tubby did… though i give credit for that win to Pitino as much as Smith) or the second, your OUT.” It’s setting potential coaches up to fail. There are plenty of programs out there that pay well without all the baggage that comes with being the men’s head basketball coach at KY.
I challenge ANYONE eager to be rid of Gillispie to come in and do a better job than he did. With the recruits he has/had lined up, next year is set to be the year KY gets back in the groove. There’s no way anyone could have come into this situation and won a championship immediatly. it’s rebuillding the program.
course, i’m just a fan. what do I know?
by MKarland on Mar 28, 2009 9:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"What a great way to start a weekend", indeed.
I really have no idea what to say right now. I am pretty far from putting anything together that is even remotely intelligent and worthy of ya’ll and ASoB as my emotions are definitely getting the best of me at the moment.
I can say, though, that the “gift” of looking for a new coach is definitely not what I wanted for my birthday this year and even though it’s only 4:00 pm here, I think it’s time for cocktail hour. I think I’ll have a few for Coach Gillispie too, what the hell. Cheers, people.
by BigSkyCat on Mar 27, 2009 6:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Cheers, BSK.
Time for a big, double-strong Martini. Or maybe a Manhattan.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 6:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm in Manhattan
But I’ll be drinking bourbon tonight.
the REAL fake Mr. Bob Dobalina
Formerly known as "senowen"
by bluesquire on Mar 27, 2009 6:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Likewise x2
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 27, 2009 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll join you...
from a considerable distance south. I’m heading for the Woodford now.
by blupride on Mar 27, 2009 6:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
may have to set aside the scotch tonite
and join you with some bourbon. Got a bottle of green label Makers ready.
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cheers as well....
going straight to the tequila…
by memphis wildcat on Mar 27, 2009 6:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cheers to you BigSkyCat!
I’m in the same timezone as the good folk in Lexington, but already well into a bottle of Mr. Beam. Hope that some good can come out of this.
by KyDoug on Mar 27, 2009 9:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good points
I feel almost wishy washy on my opinion going back and forth as more info comes out, but I do think that it absolutely could have been handled better. I feel bad for BCG, but I really get a sense that the Admin wanted to avoid a situation like Daugherty’s 3rd year at UNC where the players quit playing for him. There’s no way to know if that would have happened. The players were playing hard, but something just wasn’t clicking. I’m sure there is a lot that we are not aware of that went on. I’m kind of in “wait and see” mode.
by cthom on Mar 27, 2009 6:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Barnhart
The worst part of the news conference was the “total trust and Confidence” that Lee Todd has for Barnhart. How can
such an epic public relations debacle be anything but a mandate for the removal of the AD in addition to the coach
by westcat on Mar 27, 2009 6:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Just sayin'
Donovan saying he is “committed to building the Florida program” is NOT the same thing as “I will not be the coach at Kentucky” (of course, if you’re Nick Saban, neither matter).
Calipari’s statement was even more wishy-washy.
We are not in the last act of this drama. . .
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 27, 2009 6:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
all i will say is
i will bet Cal issued a statement without every being contacted – i do not know that, but i have watched him up close and he loves the attention so he fans the flames…
by memphis wildcat on Mar 27, 2009 6:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, simple negotiating tactics by both coaches. Playing hard to get = higher price
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 27, 2009 6:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Until I hear that they were offered and turned it down or another coach is hired....
I will hold out hope for both however unlikely that seems at this point.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 6:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i am too...
Donovan learned from Pitino, the master. You never reveal your hand too early.
I need a Sea of Blue because I am surrounded by Tennessee orange!
by sleepytimetea on Mar 27, 2009 9:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are spot on Tru, again, this has been one of the few sites in the last few years with rational and sane discussion; watching the UK message boards explode since the SEC tournament defeat, the call-in show shenanigans, and just listening to people in stores in Lexington obviously have a different agenda than the guys who just made this call…
Todd and Barnhart have made a tough decision and potentially explosive to our fanbase and one of the corporate cash cows to their merchandising. This was a debacle for them and you could see it on Barnhart’s face and the total repetition of talking points.
I’m beginning to think Wilbon’s comments the last few days on PTI – well I’m beginning to think he is right. Really right, not just I’m being the crank curmudgeon, but that this program needs to squirm and suffer.
At this rate we wouldn’t keep Rupp around during the late 60s or hell the entire period after the Texas Western debacle.
by trich on Mar 27, 2009 6:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well ...
… I’m certainly squirming and suffering, so I damn sure hope they are. And if they aren’t, I might just make it my mission to make sure they do.
>:-\
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 6:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Come on...
If all this was done without an ace up a sleeve, this program is heading for until-recently Alabama football, until-now post-Wooden UCLA hell. We will be viewed as toxic. I only hope they are not using the same Georgia-based consulting firm they have been using, the same one that brought us Gillispie and probably Barnhart, Sampson to IU, and Felton to UGa. Eddie Fogler consulted on Crean to IU, Horn to USCar, and probably today’s hire at TSU here in Nashville, John Cooper. Which track record looks best to you?
by blupride on Mar 27, 2009 6:19 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think we were toxic the last time
Didn’t see any big names “jumping” at the chance to coach Kentucky basketball last time. Did you? Hence we ended up with BCG. Who I ended up liking and would have happily given at least another year to prove himself.
But Mitch says “Unfortunately there are times when a situation and the people involved do not create the right chemistry or right fit. It is our belief that is where we are and where we find ourselves with Kentucky basketball today.”
And God knows Mitch must be right.
by jwnky on Mar 27, 2009 7:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Go ahead
and bring John in……..I know everyone is one Travis’ side right now, but we have all seen one year is not telling
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 27, 2009 6:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I will take back EVERYTHING I say
If it comes to light that Gillispie broke NCAA rules or anything else inappropriate.
Todd and Barnhart should be ashamed for the bad press this crap has brought to the university and the state for that matter. I can’t IMAGINE this whole debacle being dealt with any worse. I thought surely, SURELY these two had more sense than this. I would absolutely LOVE for Gillispie to take them to court or whatever he’d have to do to get the 6 million, but like Tru says, probably won’t happen.
They just fired a coach after TWO WINNING SEASONS, put next year’s recruits in jeopardy potentially, and threw the team into FURTHER turmoil. Not to mention, what potential hire is going to want to jump into this mess? I didn’t feel like Gillispie was a high caliber coach, but I was willing to give him a chance. I’m absolutely dumbstruck.
That being said…….we don’t know every single fact or detail about the situation. If anything arises to change my opinion, then I’ll GLADLY admit I was wrong.
by uk1982 on Mar 27, 2009 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
disgusting
As tru has noted the implication given during that press conference is that UK does not intend to honor Gillispie’s MOU. I have only read parts of it, so if I have not seen the clause which says “this is a year-to-year contract, terminable at the will of either party” or “the parties do not intend for this memorandum to have binding effect” then I too will retract this. However, from what I can tell, the MOU is a binding agreement, and the buyout clause tends to show, in my mind, that both parties intended it to have effect as such going forward.
I just noticed that someone below me says “[Todd and Barnhart] work for these people who will be paying the big bucks settlement.” If that’s the situation, then both men need to be removed as soon as possible. Lee Todd is not the GM of a professional sports team, he is the president of a university, the goal of which is to promote the search for truth. I find his decision to put finances over that is at best disingenuous, at worst an abdication of his role as the head of an institution of learning. I suppose the year-to-year position isn’t wholly indefensible, but the way Todd and Barnhart kept parroting that line reminded me of Al Davis shouting “FOR CAUSE!” at anyone who would listen during the Lane Kiffin firing so he wouldn’t have to pay the buyout.
I’ll stop before this gets too rant-y. I’m just a little fed up with the way this has all been handled.
by chstrckwl on Mar 28, 2009 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know it
Once you get going ranting, you get more pissed off and it’s hard to stop..heh.
I am just sickened by this whole mess.
If Gillispie was all the things Barnhart and his puppet Todd said he was, then he shouldn’t have been hired in the first damn place!
by uk1982 on Mar 28, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree that Barnhart and Todd
didn’t handle this like we would have liked,but they work for these people who will be paying the big bucks settlement.
by oldcat70 on Mar 27, 2009 6:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That's a big problem, if true
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 27, 2009 6:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How long for the first book to come out?
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 6:32 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Hobo....
do you know that currently you are tied for first in the ASOB pool?
However it looks like things could change quickly.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 6:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not for long. . .
Signed,
#2
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 27, 2009 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Equate my standing in the bracket with
BCG’s standing as our coach yesterday. Sad day for both of us. ;-)
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 7:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don’t you think Billy would be in a lot better shape if only he had found time to sign that contract? And why didn’t he. Two years was plenty of time. And if he doesn’t get the full 6million, then it looks to me like that’s the reason why.
by wildcatlee on Mar 27, 2009 6:33 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
He should have brought a signed copy to the meeting this afternoon.
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 27, 2009 6:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have no idea the truth of it...
but i read somewhere that that contract was full of strange personal clauses dealing with subjects like if he’s convicted of DUI he loses a portion of his salary. Can anyone confirm this? If it’s true, I wouldn’t have signed either.
I need a Sea of Blue because I am surrounded by Tennessee orange!
by sleepytimetea on Mar 27, 2009 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is a nightmare.
By the way who wrote Barnhart’s speech?
Unfortunately there are times when a situation and the people involved do not create the right chemistry or right fit. It is our belief that is where we are and where we find ourselves with Kentucky basketball today.
huh?
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 27, 2009 6:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
considering the talk that had been going around for WEEKS, I think I would have gotten the thing signed.
by wildcatlee on Mar 27, 2009 6:36 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Morons on 1300 being broadcast on ESPN. . .
Unbelievable.
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 27, 2009 6:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Place the blame where it belongs
On Gillispie. He got himself fired. You don’t like the decision, but it’s not yours to make. Barnhart screwed up by hiring Gillispie, not by fring him. He’s not a good fit and never would have been.
by BravoBigBlue on Mar 27, 2009 6:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
oh MY GOD!!
I just read the news and looked online. Mr Todd and Mr Barnhart are complete and total clown shoes. I think FRED is a better term though. I am embarrased, by the afore mentioned, as well as some of my fellow UK fans. Some of the ignorant “crap” I have read (not on here) online is amazing. Let’s see just how ugly this baby is going to get.
I wish Coach Gillispie all the luck in the world. I am in a bad mood now, and I have to finish a 12 hour shift. Maybe I will go through an entire ticket book today…
by shepslaw on Mar 27, 2009 6:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes . . .
Two seasons were enough to know that it wasn’t going to work. Cut your losses and move on. We may never hear what the players think, but it was interesting to read Mr. Meeks’ comments on the Herald-Leader site. He certainly is glad Gillispie is gone and said he had nobody to blame but himself.
by BravoBigBlue on Mar 27, 2009 6:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Barnhart made a bad call on BG.
AD’s are right on there selection some times and wrong on others. Barnhart was right with Brooks when we said he wasn’t and he was wrong with BG when we said he got it right.
A lot of you are irrational in your thinking. I do not believe you fire Barnhart for not always being right.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 6:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I have not called for Barnhart to be fired.
Not yet. I don’t have enough facts to do so.
You are right that he is entitled to a mistake, even a big mistake. But he will take heat for his lousy handling of it, and he should.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 6:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As far as I'm concerned
This is Barnhart’s second huge mistake. The first was the “support / non-support” statement on Tubby.
by The Lexpatriate on Mar 27, 2009 8:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Two mistakes.
- Hiring of Gliispie.
- Mishandling the entire situation when letting him go.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 27, 2009 9:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So that would be
three total.
by The Lexpatriate on Mar 27, 2009 9:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Barnhart got lucky with Brooks
I think Billy G is a good ball coach and great recruiter, just not right for UK. He came to UK for the $$ and Barnhart wanted a real b-ball coach. Once BCG was in town it became obvious that neither one of them thought it through.
As far as Brooks, that’s not even who Barnhart wanted. He went to Brooks for advice on who to go after and Brooks said “how about me?” I’m glad that’s working out for the pointy-ball guys and all, just don’t give Barnhart more credit than he deserves. If he really cared about the kids or the team as he says he’d be getting those 70 year old women in their season ticket seats away from the court and letting the students and real fans cheer on their team.
by DTharp on Mar 27, 2009 7:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
after taking a deep breath
and trying to let the emotion subside…..
i ask – could it have been handled better – i know yes, is the easy,popular answer. but what if they had let bcg hang in the wind until the NC game? that would have been much worse.
clearly, mitch lee decided to move – 2 days after the end of the season – which is more than fair (gosh i hate defending them). perhaps they tried to make the “easy” hire in billy d, but he is either not interested or negotiating but now they move forward with a reasonable search.
at this point, i think you have to let the tourney run its course and – hopefully – mitch has learned not to rush the decision (unless of course it was billy D)
i do not necessarily like the cutting your losses argument – but it has merit.
ultimately, this hire will be the most important since pitino
i guess hope springs eternal…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 27, 2009 6:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
It will be alright.
If BD doesn’t take the job, it is then I will be nervous. My source left me a voice mail at 5:03 saying BD and UK were in negotiations at that time. Notice how Vitale if going soft on UK right now. He knows right now what is going on and he loves BD. The whole aditude about UK will change by Monday.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 6:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
All I Know
is that right now, it is a hard time to be a Kentucky basketball fan. I feel. . .empty.
by Bluegilla on Mar 27, 2009 6:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I just went to the store to pick up a few things and AM 590 (I think his name is Larry)
said that Katz reported that Calipari may be interested in the job. I truly don’t want to rumor monger but that is what they said. Did anyone else hear this? Did they misquote anything?
Once again, I am just repeating what they said. this was about 10 minutes ago.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 6:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
God, I hope not.
I don’t want to have to take a bath after every UK game just to feel clean again.
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 9:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
Cal is to high on using one and done players and doesnt seem to place graduation rates as a very high priority.
by wldcatsfreak on Mar 27, 2009 10:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I Don't Know
if Gillispie is the best “fit” for the rapidly declining UK basketball program but I would have loved to see him stop, turn on that idiot chasing him down the halls of Memorial, and plant one right on that beak he wears over his ’stash.
by Blujean on Mar 27, 2009 6:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
News from Oklahoma
The news in Oklahoma is that Billy was treated unfairly and was never given a chance. They also say that the admisistration never gave him any backing. The talking heads down here believe the net coach will be Ford or Donovan. It has been on every sports program since noon.
by oldkentucky on Mar 27, 2009 6:58 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Memphis, some people hav
professions that they work in a fish bowl. Every eye is on them and when they don’t let the masses in on what is going on everybody thinks it is being handled wrong.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 6:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Great
article, Tru. I have contended all season a disarray has occurred in Lexington. With this latest decision it is apparent the AD is clueless and has created an environment that even Rupp would suffer. I do believe however that Billy G. has made some stupid decisions also. He should have been given one more year…..
by ukfan4sure on Mar 27, 2009 7:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I do not believe this
to be the case.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
The unknown scares everybody.
I personally am very excited right now. I have been told some great things if BD takes the job.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
great things for who..?
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Grasslands
Billy D is on record as not interested!
by blue oregon on Mar 27, 2009 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Grasslands
Billy D is on record as not interested!
by blue oregon on Mar 27, 2009 8:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Grant taking the Bama job
backs that up….
‘When you build a house and you make it hurricane-proof by putting certain kinds of windows in it, and use cement instead of stick construction and all that kind of stuff, you’re getting prepared for what? A hurricane that may or may never every come." ’We’re going to have 12 hurricanes next year, we know they’re coming.’
- Coach Nick Saban
by bammer on Mar 27, 2009 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sarcasm Is A Motivation Killer
As a school principal it was clear to me that classroom teachers who used a steady diet of sarcasm with students had a difficult time motivating them. Research confirms this as fact. I also found that sarcastic teachers tended to be chronic and incurable. From various reports, Billy was consistently sarcastic with his players and beat them down.
by catmax on Mar 27, 2009 7:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
big mess
Todd will never hire Calipari..his graduation rate is way to small.I think Billy D has 4 children…some teens…who in their right mind woudl want to move them..now however…Billy G should have never said thatHe wasn’t an ambassador for the program…that was like a direct hit to Barnhart,,,,…Still they should have given him more time…..and they simply have not acted like gentlemen…Barnhart hardly looked at the camera..Hopefully BCG will find another quickly ……Maybe Texas Tech…..
by fanforlife on Mar 27, 2009 7:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I hope he has an offer before UK replaces him, and I say that as a UK fan. He's been
treated with a complete lack of respect, and this from a bunch from whom I expected to have more class about themselves.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 27, 2009 9:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree gal...
I’m just sorry it won’t be Alabama.
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 9:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
UK COULD NOT
afford to give him another year. Have you ever thought that if he was not only hated by EVERYBODY in the AD department but by the players also. Good grief, you people are not smarter that people at UK about what is good in the long run for OUR BELOVED PROGRAM.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I will
concede I am not smarter than those guys. However, you and I may not live long enough to see how this fiasco helps our program…reminds me of the stock market recovery….
by ukfan4sure on Mar 27, 2009 7:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have faced poison in
by career and trust me you give them only so many chances to correct there attitude. UK gave BG plenty of chances to change his ways. He didn’t and he is gone like he needed to be. That is what is important for UK basketball.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think ...
… you are very much mistaken.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 8:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Louisville v Arizona about to tip off
I am torn…I don’t like UofL but I drew them in a pool that pays very well. Money talks so i have to go with the cards…
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:08 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ieeeieeieieiieieiieieiieieieieie
GO ’ZONA
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
we are talking 3-0's in the payout...hard to overlook...;-)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Vince, the recruit
that BD will bring with him if he comes.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:08 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
thanx Grass
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The NCAA, SEC, and UK need
UK basketball to be stong. That was very evident at the SEC tournament.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What are you talking about?
Donovan bringing “recruit”?
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Long run
Espn just stated taht they felt that next years team will be a sweet 16 team. In the long run if he’d left after that we might have gotten a better coach…..Many are simply not interested in us……..now…..This will be tough… Barnhart and Todd talk about football like we are going to the Rose Bowl…THere are many many more bowls today and many more mediocre programs going to these bowls. Yes they improved football some but not to Bear Bryant Days…What will they do with the basketball program
by fanforlife on Mar 27, 2009 7:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
The only reason the football team was mentioned
was to make the point that they were not being impatient on wins and losses or listeing to all the fans that were calling for Brooks’ head.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I loved the way Vitale
threw out names to cover for BD. I donate money to my source. Tjhat must be why he was so open to me about what he knows. I guess if this all works out the way I think it will I will have to up these perfectly legal donations.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Grasslands
Give ASoB credible info that can be found in writing or read of how this will work out. ESPN NEWS has
reported over and over again Billy D is not interested in Kentucky job.
by blue oregon on Mar 27, 2009 7:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My source is solid
This isn’t know friend of sister’s husbands and stuff.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Enough!
Stop with the rumors. I don’t give a shit if it’s Donovan himself.
Please.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The money
I disagree with you Tru that the school owes Billy G the entire six million. According to the MOU all the terms outlined in the MOU were contingent upon a signed formal contract. Read that way UK owes him nothing. I dont like how the admin has handled the matter but I do agree that his failure to sign a formal contract and the language of the MOU leave the school oweing him NADA.
DEEETROIT BASKETBALLL!!!
by davw83 on Mar 27, 2009 7:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That's the way I read it
The MOU requires both parties to sign a contract. Then it says such a contract would include the severance pay, among other things. Thus, no signed contract, no payout. UK has a strong argument. I’m not sure Gillispie would want to take his case to a jury in Lexington.
Regardless, it’s a sad day for UK.
by Fortunatus on Mar 28, 2009 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would be shocked if there is any other info
from UK until Momday if they work out a contract with anybody. The NCAA doesn’t want anything taking away from the tournament.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:15 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think KY would rather have it settled BEFORE monday
Why have this drag out past the weekend and get that much more attention focused on our little fiasco?
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 7:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Anthony Grant does not except
Alabama job, which word is he is to let them know today or tonight, I believe that will be the sign of BD coming to UK.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:16 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
So now that he's taken it...
What’s that say for your little “everyone wins” scenario?
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
by chirop1 on Mar 28, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I told
Tru that I would tell him who my source is if he didn’t reveal it until Monday. My source is very, very credible here in Florida. I also said I would reveal his name not later than Monday night. I might not exactly be able to tell the name but I will figure something out. Monday is big because the NCAA doesn’t want to over shadow the tournament. He will bring his top recruit if BD comes. That recruit, I am being told is going with BD if he goes anywhere.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Don't.
Please. I don’t care.
Stop with the source. It’s disturbing to the blog, and it is annoying the hell out of me.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 8:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I would be surprised...
at any announcement for a few days. A new coach needs to talks to his AD and players to give them the respect of hearing it from him and not from the media.
by jpbluekat on Mar 27, 2009 8:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tru, I think We Can
draw the conclusion that this what not handled with professionalism. It may have been necessary to fire the coach but not like this! This is how it should have gone. We are here to announce the ****** ********* will be the new coach at UK and that Gillispie will be replaced.
Sure we do not know all the facts which is why I am willing to give Barnhart the benefit of the doubt and say UK needed a new coach but this is one more turnover in a turnover prone season. Fumble, or whatever sports analogy. This was certainly not text book managing.
I love the write up though Tru. And all you guys I appreciate the level heads.
Based on the unfortunate nature of some of Barnhart’s and Dr. Todd’s answers, I am not encouraged that the administration handled this with the kind of professionalism that it required. But I am not going to draw that conclusion just yet
by LyricSmith on Mar 27, 2009 7:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
There has been an issue
with BG for awhile. Has anybody ever thought it was BG telling UK to screw off when he said his job was recruiting and winning. Because he knew everything about what the school us upset about when he made that stupid comment.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dear Lord.
Give the Deepthroat routine a rest.
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 9:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
we are in the middle of the
sweet 16/elite 8 and narrowing it down to the final 4. with most coaches that uk would target, how else could it have been handled?
afraid it is the nature of the beast…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 27, 2009 8:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wait to Fire BCG
After you hire a new coach at the very least.
by LyricSmith on Mar 27, 2009 8:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about Mark Few
I am surprised that he isn’t mentioned for any coaching job. Is it just common knowledge that he won’t leave Gonzaga?
I don’t think Arizona is going to be able to hang with Louisville much longer. Cardinal lead will be double-digits by the half.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 7:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Mark Few
Is from the PNW. He was born in Oregon. He went to school at Oregon. He has been at Gonzaga 10 seasons. He has turned down Indiana, USC, and countless others. In the extremely unlikely event that he goes anywhere, it will be home to Oregon or Oregon State. Period. Off the table.
by The Lexpatriate on Mar 27, 2009 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Regional coach
at a regional program. Same with Lorenzo Romar, blah, blah, blah. Only a rockstar will come close to fixing this problem. And there ain’t too many of them around these days.
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 9:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Blue Oregon,
If somebody on here lives by me, they can come and listen to the voicemail I recieved at 5:03.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
If I were there
He would be on my short-list. I’m just shocked I never hear his name mentioned for any job opening. Why wouldn’t Miss St. give him a call? That’s why I asked if there is info that there is no way he ever leaves Gonzaga about which I have no knowledge.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 7:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Grasslands1
I will give you credit. You have stuck your neck out on this topic over and over with strong convictions whether it turns out to be true or not.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:29 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
At least we still got a powerfull name in basketball
Just like two years ago, all the significant coaching changes go on hold until Ky gets settled. Small consolation but any consolation is better than none.
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 7:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
yes
i find it interesing that Cal had to make an annoucement that he is staying at memphis – if bd does get the job, he will look ridiculous….
by memphis wildcat on Mar 27, 2009 8:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
the boy who cried wolf.
the respect that the name KENTUCKY used to get is gone, thanks to the idiots running the circus now. You can be sure that a few more episodes like this and there will be no more cache’ associated with the UK job.
by thehoopnazi on Mar 28, 2009 1:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You may be right
Since Alabama didn’t wait, it looks like other programs figure Ky’s search for a head coach won’t have significant impact on their search or potential coach’s decision. Going by past performance of two years ago, it’s sad but true.
by hoboat33 on Mar 28, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's impossible to dress up a train wreck
Count me among those who greet this decision with relief. And, those of you who are inclined to pile on re: Todd and Barnhart, at least give them credit for admitting a colossal mistake, knowing the national derision that would follow.
Coaching at UK requires a balance of PR skills, ego, self-control, and toughness. You can’t be a (seemingly) nice person with great coaching ability and keep the hangers-on at bay (see Sutton, Eddie); nor can a coach’s palpable love for the program forever immunize him from the consequences of modest coaching ability and thin skin (see Hall, Joe B.). Perhaps even more than Rupp, Rick Pitino will stand for some time as the model for what UK basketball needs to be successful in the modern era.
So, let the Gillispie train wreck provide a cautionary tale for those who pine for Calipari or even Donovan. His track record showed Gillispie could coach, but he brought the wrong personality traits to Lexington – and those characteristics clearly impacted the team’s performance on the court.
Two years ago, Barnhart was forced to wait several weeks on Donovan, only to get a surprisingly quick rejection – he then clearly jumped at a coach he could sell as an up-and-coming winner. Let’s hope this time, instead of rushing to show he has a “plan,” he settles on a realistic candidate he can truly vet as right for the job and then takes the necessary time to make the hire happen. As much national ridicule as Alabama received between the Shula firing and Saban hire, they did what it took to get the program back on track after years of disastrous decisions.
by blueskies89 on Mar 27, 2009 7:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Barnhart better get this one really right
His job will be next if he messes this one up.
by jwnky on Mar 27, 2009 7:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alabama got lucky with a former college who absolutely flamed out of the big leagues and we do not seem to have these options currently.
by trich on Mar 27, 2009 7:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Folks...
It is easy to sit here and whine and complain about the way the past few weeks have been handled. However, I haven’t heard one plausible “I would have done it this way,” yet. There was no possible way for this to end pleasantly. I didn’t want Billy to be fired today, but what was to be expected if he was going to be. As a former UK athlete during Barnhart’s tenure, I can tell you I have a lot of respect for the man. He has set out to do two things 1) Win Championships 2) Deliver the student athlete the best possible experience (as he stated in the press conference today). If it doesn’t fit in his plan, he will pull the plug without second thought. Basketball is not the only sport in this world, although as Kentucky fans we don’t know much else. He has worked wonders among the non-revenue sports and brought a great deal of success, class, and hard work to our beloved university. Now, not only do we all look like the best state full of assistant coaches, we are also the best athletic directors in the country. Someone please tell me how you would have handled this situation if you were in his shoes. Take the option to fire or not out of the equation (as they obviously did not think it was an option) and tell me the best way to do it. Until I hear a better version, I will stand behind our AD, Pres., and the entire program. We create so much of the drama that swirls around this university and this program that it can become laughable. Can I just hear someone say “Let’s Go Cats, we’ll get through this!” with a positive attitude? People get fired everyday and I don’t think anyone has ever looked back and said “Wow, that really went well!” Geez. Let’s grow up.
by ukcat2169 on Mar 27, 2009 7:35 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
well said....
complaints without offering solutions are sometimes empty air.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Go Batcats! Get some basketball paybacks from USC
Many fans do care about other sports, though it is harder when one doesn’t live in the Lexington area.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 7:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed
Nobody should be calling for Barnhart’s head over this one mistake.
However, I do think he could have handled it better with the media and fans for sure. And wasn’t that the jist of why they said BCG didn’t work? Inability to fit in?
Mitch gets this next chance to do a good job of helping to select the next coach of Kentucky basketball. But if he’s wrong again, the REAL calls for his head are going to be there not just from fans but from boosters.
He HAS to this next coaching search and get it right. I don’t think he can weather another one of these situations.
by jwnky on Mar 27, 2009 7:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He could have started...
by actually supporting his hire after the initial press conference. At some point, somebody could have done some blocking for Coach Gillispie, especially with the local media. For God’s sake, Tipton even threw that crap about the Lexington Rotary Club into his gleeful goodbye to the coach today.
Several people took shots at a post I made yesterday about the sense of entitlement surrounding this program. This decision and the reasons given for it are prime examples of that. It couldn’t have been more condescending if Lee Todd had accused Gillispie of not knowing the difference between a salad fork and a dinner fork.
This program doesn’t belong to Lexington’s fabled elite; it is simply located in Lexington.
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 9:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What is he supposed to do...
come out to the media and say “guys p p p p please leave Billy alone…he is the best coach ever.”? Are you kidding me? The Lexington writers are a bunch of vultures and we all know that. It’s not Mitch’s job to rebut their terrible columns.
by ukcat2169 on Mar 27, 2009 10:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have to help make decisions
just like Mr. Todd and Barnhart, and I’ll tell you it sucks. People want to know everything and our policy is always and I mean always, we cannot comment on this issue and we have know plans too.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
no to John Cal
Uk does not need another BG, or the players he would recruit. We need a squeaky clean coach with a UK perspective on court and off court. IMO Travis Ford, Mark Phew, maybe even a Rick Stansbury, at least he takes the players he can recruit and makes them into a basketball team.
by ukjoe on Mar 27, 2009 7:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Travis Ford?
I was in college at Ford’s first coaching job at Campbellsville. For you to say he would be a Squeaky clean hire makes me laugh. You can rumour about BCG’soff the court “issues” all you want, but Ford isn’t to far behind on those. I saw it first hand. He would not be a squeaky clean hire.
by Bige541 on Mar 27, 2009 9:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The very idea of Ford or Pelphrey drives me nuts. Why - simply because they are UK Alums?
These guys are too new and J.P. sure hasn’t shown anything at Arkansas. I don’t know who the right guy would be, and I’m quite sure that the AD isn’t going to call me up to ask my opinion, but for the love of heaven, don’t drag TF or JP in there. That’s just sitting them up to fail.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 27, 2009 9:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't understand why
everyone is so determined that we need a coach by next week. Let’s take our time, get it right and get everything rolling again.
"Learned to love the Cats at a young age, via tape delay."
by ukpastor on Mar 27, 2009 7:36 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Recruits at Stake
The cubbard is kinda bare and we can ill-afford to lose recruits in masses. We are in a hurry because apparrently Barnhart and Todd were in a hurry to let Gillispie go. Why the hurry on that?
by LyricSmith on Mar 27, 2009 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Long Term > Short Term
Finding the right fit is more important than next year’s, or next couple of years’ recruits, at least in my mind.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 7:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think so
I think we just need a PG and a decent center. Let’s take our time. :)
"Learned to love the Cats at a young age, via tape delay."
by ukpastor on Mar 27, 2009 8:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
most recruits have signed
standard practice is to not let them out of LOI until they have met new coach.
may not sound right, but they are stuck for now
by memphis wildcat on Mar 27, 2009 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Signed Yes, Dressed No
The point is not when you let a recruit out of his LOI but rather when he decides in his mind to go to another school. I think some probably have already decided. I simply do not see that Long term goals and short term goals had to be at odds here either. In fact, I would say they are actually the same. Get and keep good players dressed in UK blue.
While one can argue wether firing Gillispie was a good or bad move overall, I saw the news conference and heard no reason to fire BCG that was urgent. I think he just p***** them off.
by LyricSmith on Mar 27, 2009 8:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Likely gone anyway.
Of course Barnhart could always give the program another black eye and refuse to let them out of their LOI.
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 9:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
UK cannot legally
say anything bad about BG. He could sue them.That is what has made it hard to hire anybody today.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
UK can say "bad" things about him if they're true. No legal liability for truth.
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 28, 2009 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep.
Truth is an absolute defense against libel or slander.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'll miss Billy Clyde
telling ESPN reporters that their questions are dumb. Made for great TV.
Cannons... fire them.
www.BucEm.com - SBNation's home for discussion of all things regarding the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
by Craig T on Mar 27, 2009 7:38 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Lousiville is dunking all over Arizona
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
CBS already switched to the other game here
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 7:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
UofL 41-21....they look impressive
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You call for references and get
nothing but bull crap flying out of somebodies mouth.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I have a quote that is perfect for this occassion,
President Teddy Roosevelt in a speech he delivered in Paris, France in April, 1910. (An excerpt from the speech):
"It is not the critic who counts: not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, who errs and comes up short again and again, because there is no effort without error or shortcoming, but who knows the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, who spends himself for a worthy cause; who, at the best, knows, in the end, the triumph of high achievement, and who, at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who knew neither victory nor defeat."
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Odd...
I posted this very quote on another site just the other day. At that time I was referring to Patrick Patterson.
And I also added this from the same speech -
“There is little use for the being whose tepid soul knows nothing of great and generous emotion, of the high pride, the stern belief, the lofty enthusiasm, of the men who quell the storm and ride the thunder. Well for these men if they succeed; well also, though not so well, if they fail, given only that they have nobly ventured, and have put forth all their heart and strength. It is war-worn Hotspur, spent with hard fighting, he of the many errors and valiant end, over whose memory we love to linger, not over the memory of the young lord who "but for the vile guns would have been a valiant soldier.”
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 10:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Somebody sent me that
part only. It had perfect timing and meaning for me for I was in a similar sitution as UK is in right now. All I know it was hell while going thru it but has worked out very well so far.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 11:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'VE GOT A QUOTE TOO.
Thehoopnazi to grasslands1:
only those men who can’t think for themselves quote other men.
BG was the one fighting the good fight, only to be hamstrung by lesser men.
by thehoopnazi on Mar 28, 2009 2:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's not a good situation for UK
So now we are put in a situation where either our fans are too crazy and unrelenting to give a coach time to build his team with his players and system.
OR
We have an AD and President that are hard to deal with and make too big of demands on coaches that lead them to leave because they want to control the assistant coaches, scholarships, and other things that the HC should be in charge of.
Excuse me while I go hurl.
http://kentuckyink.com
by cobbycobb on Mar 27, 2009 7:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not ever sure about my spelling.
My wife is calling me for dinner.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 7:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Wish we had Jonny Flynn this year.
We would likely not be having this situation. At least until after we won the NC…
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
by hoopchi on Mar 27, 2009 7:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No kidding
I’ve never liked Syracuse, but he is fun to watch.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 7:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
are you getting their game
how is he doing against OKlahoma? I am getting the Ville game.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Doing as he wishes right now.
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
by hoopchi on Mar 27, 2009 7:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's heating up
OK has lead the whole way, but Syracuse has cut it to 1 at the under 8 TO, OK’s ball.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 7:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
UofL +21 at half
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Zona in the weeds and probably can't get out, eh?
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
by hoopchi on Mar 27, 2009 7:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OMG UofL is dunking, nailing 3's, getting steals....
scoring TD’s, hitting homeruns….you get the picture
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 7:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
dang....i forgot that...;-)
they are about to apply a submission though
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 8:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
sleeper? abdominal stretch? figure-four leglock??
by teambeam on Mar 27, 2009 8:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
rear naked choke....resulting in sleepytime
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 8:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure makes my prediction of a double-digit lead
look silly.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 8:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Zona was not even close to being the best team in Pac 10
some felt they should not be in the NCAA
by blue oregon on Mar 27, 2009 8:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Grant to Bama
Not good news for BD to UK.
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 27, 2009 8:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
When
Is JEff Goodman right?
JXClaytor on the 360
by JoshuaClaytor on Mar 27, 2009 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i disagree that there is a classist element to gillispie's firing, and i think he has messed up
and i am not a blue-blood; but i definitely agree that whatever the reasons, the school handled the situation poorly. More importantly, i assumed that if they fired gillispie they would have a coach who wanted the position ready first. Gillispie is much, much better than nobody, especially with the talent coming in next year. If we don’t hear about a new coach by this time next week, MB should be fired, no question…you dont fire a adequate coach with personality problems if there is nobody there to take his place.
that being said, while i disagree, as usual the article was extremely well reasoned and written, tru; have you considered trying to get a msm sports writting job? honestly this is better written than most of the herald-ledger stuff.
by idigl7220 on Mar 27, 2009 8:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
And take a pay cut?
Are you crazy? :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 27, 2009 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not to sound sketch
but i have been drinking to ignore all the drama abound today, and i’m not sure what you’re referring to
by idigl7220 on Mar 27, 2009 8:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
To your question ...
,,, about trying to get an msm writing job. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 12:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i just hope orton stays
guess that’s a long shot though. You all think it’s a good sign meek’s dad wasn’t thrilled with gillispie?
by idigl7220 on Mar 27, 2009 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why assume a new coach was in place?
Wasn’t there an uproar when other schools have tried to contact a coach with theirs still in place? Auburn contacting Petrino comes to mind. The question on letting Gillispie go should have been based solely upon Gillispie and whether or not the University wanted him to stay as coach. Once that decision was made, then a search for a new coach can begin.
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 8:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you make a good point..
guess i was really hoping that we would not have to go through this search. i do beleive if billy d was coming, that was the only way it would happen fast….but now, here we go.
since we are into it, we might as well not rush it – i know we do not need to take too long, but it probably needs to extend past the end of the season
by memphis wildcat on Mar 27, 2009 11:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Minimize overall national media damage (dysfunctional program), keep current players...
and damage to potential incoming/future recruits
by blue oregon on Mar 27, 2009 8:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Grant accepts Alabama job
http://blog.al.com/rapsheet/2009/03/former_vcu_coach_anthony_grant.html
I know you were looking for clues to what Donovan may do- thought you’d like to know.
by yellowhammer on Mar 27, 2009 8:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Thanks
Included in the article, is a comment about Billy D not being interested in Kentucky, freeing Grant’s way to accept Bama job.
Seeing is believing!
by blue oregon on Mar 27, 2009 8:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well that says it all.
Sorry Tru if I upset anybody. I figured people would appreciate somebody that had some inside from Florida.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 8:31 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Inside information ...
… that cannot be confirmed. It’s divisive, and just leads to more rumors.
I appreciate the sentiment, I really do. But I believe it’s just counterproductive.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 12:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone a premium member at TCP?
?
GBB!!!
by OGETARTS on Mar 27, 2009 8:33 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think I'm ready to ask the Peruvians to let me back into jail.
(Note: If you don’t understand the reference, it’s from last night)
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 8:36 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Grassland
fire your source then again weirder things have happen
by briangwildcatfan on Mar 27, 2009 8:42 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
This is true..
We (Bama) also had an agreement in principle with Rich Rodriguez, so until I see Grant being introduced at a press conference on campus, everything’s WIDE OPEN.
by yellowhammer on Mar 27, 2009 8:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bet you're glad that didn't work out
by GoLightning on Mar 27, 2009 8:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Definitely!
KY will end up getting a better fit and all this will be old news. Been there, done that.
by yellowhammer on Mar 27, 2009 8:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
couldn't be happier....
‘When you build a house and you make it hurricane-proof by putting certain kinds of windows in it, and use cement instead of stick construction and all that kind of stuff, you’re getting prepared for what? A hurricane that may or may never every come." ’We’re going to have 12 hurricanes next year, we know they’re coming.’
- Coach Nick Saban
by bammer on Mar 27, 2009 9:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is the Arizona..
coach available? By the way who is he ?
by 59Bennett on Mar 27, 2009 8:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
He will be very available in about 7 minutes.
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
by hoopchi on Mar 27, 2009 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who is on your short list forty?
"You are what you are and you ain't what you ain't"
by iam4ukintn on Mar 27, 2009 8:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Gotta Be Top 5 Coach
Calipari.
Gonna cost $3-4 million (per).
But he’s 1-2-3 on my list.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 27, 2009 8:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I got a couple of extra Dollars
I’ll pitch in :)
by LyricSmith on Mar 27, 2009 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sources
At the worldwide leader say he is interested.
"You are what you are and you ain't what you ain't"
by iam4ukintn on Mar 27, 2009 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Katz said that....i had to rewind it to make sure
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am glad you said that because....
it seems to me a few months ago you were not high on him because of reputation.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't Remember Saying "I" Thought So
Just that some at UKAA did.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 27, 2009 9:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
gotcha....lets hope they do their due diligence in that respect
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There are Lies, Damn Lies,
Statistics, then there are coaches talking about where they are and are not going. :-)
Perhaps we need to check with WHAS?
by LyricSmith on Mar 27, 2009 8:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Fire my source?
He never said BD was taking the job. All he has done is keep me informed on what was going on with Billy Donovan today. I suggest you read what I have said today briangwildcatfan .
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 8:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Grassland
i have and remember tru telling you to stop
by briangwildcatfan on Mar 27, 2009 8:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He told me to stop
talking about a certain subject.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 28, 2009 12:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Syracuse and Arizona both getting pounded
I admit, that makes me smile, even today.
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 27, 2009 8:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Just remember.
We were a Sosa 26 footer from this maybe being a very different season. I don’t think any of us at that moment thought we would be where we are. My gosh how things have gone sour.
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
by hoopchi on Mar 27, 2009 8:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
This guy only talks to BD
darn near everyday it is legal. He has had more than one player win a NCAA championship and has more guys going D I basketball. He has only won multiple State Basketball Tournaments here. No, I will not fire him.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 8:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
For what it's worth these are the coaches that I am interested in...and they all sound familiar
This is irregardless if it is possible or not…..just my wish list
Calipari – please please please
Donovan
Wright
Izzo
Dixon
outside of that throw them all in a hat.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 8:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
what about jay wright?
he knows how to build a backcourt, which is what we need
by idigl7220 on Mar 27, 2009 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have him listed...i like his 3 guard system
you know that next season he will have 7 McDonalds all americans on his team or so I heard on ESPN
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you really want to sell your soul to accept Calipari???
Why would UK want to reach down that low to hire a snake like him? Are you all that desperate?
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 27, 2009 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't see it like that Hoze....He has never been in trouble for recruiting violations or anything else
Its all rumors. Until somoene can give me a specific example of where he broke rules I will maintain that he is perfect for UK. He is arguably the best recruiter in the game, plays an exciting brand of basketball and is a proven winner.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 9:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well a lot of people do see it that way.
He can recruit and he does play an exciting game of basketball. I just think UK can do better and should demand the highest of standards (and if you recall, I said that same thing very early when Gillispie was mishandling the ‘CEO demands’ of communicating and representing the university). He certainly isn’t a bench coach.
After all UK has done the post-Sutton years, I can’t imagine why UK would want to sacrifice those gains and standards. UK should be pround for what it has stood for after those years. I just see Calipari as a step back. A step back that UK doesn’t have to take. UK can do better and should do better. However, I certainly acknowledge they are in a world of hurt right now with the relatively shallow talent pool that would truly want to come to UK.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Mar 27, 2009 9:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mike Anderson
Looked like a good one last night.
"You are what you are and you ain't what you ain't"
by iam4ukintn on Mar 27, 2009 8:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
my buddies and i were saying the same thing...in jest but its intruiging
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 8:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
coaches
I had rather have Cal tha B D anyway..
by 59Bennett on Mar 27, 2009 8:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
How many has
NCAA championships won by John C.?
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 8:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Regardles of who we get, the precedent is set
In two years, if we’re not happy with the coach, we make a change. Next time let’s make is Barnhart instead of the coach.
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 9:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
MB should be next to get ax anyway
by briangwildcatfan on Mar 27, 2009 9:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
fine by me, two years does seem too long. You know………. he’s “just not a good fit”.
by hoboat33 on Mar 27, 2009 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That is apparently what we said today........
…man i am pi$$ed over this
by teambeam on Mar 27, 2009 9:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some people will be mad
with whoever it is.
by Grasslands1 on Mar 27, 2009 9:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Lyric....please write a song conveying our wishes for Calipari
and we can go down there and serenade him outside his house…..or put a video on You Tube
;-)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 27, 2009 9:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
When we end up with the death penalty...
I will remind all of you Calipari hangers that you asked for it.
Read the entire article and, if it doesn’t make your skin crawl, come back and talk about Calipari some more.
by jbt36 on Mar 27, 2009 10:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Calipari still on the list of possible replacement Coach
I thought that it was reported on ESPN News that he declined any interest in Kentucky. I know
last night Seth Davis said he would have 4 All-Americans next season and was unlikely to want to leave .
by blue oregon on Mar 27, 2009 10:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've got a feeling...
that this hire will come out of left field but it better be right. I would not rule out an NBA coach. I don’t have any ideas but I think they will cast this net far and wide. Barnhart knows this one has to be right or he will burn.
I don’t follow the NBA. Are there any quality coaches with college ties anyone knows about?
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
by hoopchi on Mar 27, 2009 9:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
LHL
Currently has an article up that includes comments about taking the pressure of MB and forming a 6 to 8 person committee to hire new coach, unless they can find the home run coach over the weekend.