UK Basketball: Searching for the Home Run Ball
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 2:50 PM EDT
in Basketball
494 comments
Now that it has become official, and Billy Gillispie has (rightly or wrongly) been told to hit the proverbial pavement, the search team of UK Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart, Wildcat great Mike Pratt, and UK President Dr. Lee Todd will embark on a job-saving journey to find a home run hire for the nations most prestigious college basketball program.
I've gathered information on several potential candidates, but I have not included those who I feel pose a zero probability of accepting the position (Read: Billy Donovan and Rick Pitino). So without any further wasting of time, here we go, and IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER:
Date of Birth: December 29, 1969 (39 years old)
Birthplace: Madisonville, KY
Currently -- Head coach at Oklahoma State.
Head Coaching Experience
1997-2000 Campbellsville - 67 - 31 (25 - 11 in the Mid-South Conference - NAIA)
2000-2005 Eastern Kentucky - 61 - 80 (28 - 52 in the OVC)
2005-2008 Massachusetts - 62 - 35 (31 - 17 in the Atlantic 10)
2008-Present Oklahoma St. - 23 - 12 (9 - 7 in the Big 12)
Career Totals --- Division I -146 - 127 (.535)
NAIA - 67- 31 (.684)
Overall - 213 - 158 (.574)
NCAA Tournament Experience
2005 with EKU - 0 - 1
2009 with Okl. State - 1 - 1
Totals - 1 - 2
NIT Experience
2007 with UMass - 1 - 1
2008 with UMass - 4 - 1
Totals - 5 - 2
Championships Won
2005 with EKU -- OVC Tournament Champion
2007 with UMass - Atlantic 10 Regular Season Champion
Coaching Accolades
None
Double-digit loss Seasons
Seven of nine seasons.
Playing Career
Missouri - 1989 - 1990
Kentucky - 1992 - 1994
Positives -- Kentucky native, and former star UK player ... He coaches an up-tempo style of play ... More than any other serious candidate, he knows what the job entails, and he knows what UK basketball means to the fan base ... His relative youth.
Negatives -- His relative youth ... Very little NCAA Tournament experience ... Only one year of experience at a non-mid-major.
Probability of accepting the job, if offered: 99%
Date of Birth: February 10, 1959 (50 years old)
Birthplace: Moon Township, PA
Currently -- Head coach at Memphis.
Head Coaching Experience
1988 - 1996 Massachusetts 193 - 71 (91 - 41 in the Atlantic 10)
2001 - Present Memphis 252 - 69 (117 - 25 in C-USA)
Career Totals -- 445 - 140 (.761)
*Calipari also coached the New Jersey Nets from 1996-1999. He compiled a record of 72-112. He also served as Executive Vice President of Basketball Operations with the Nets.
NCAA Tournament Experience
UMass -- 11 - 5
Memphis -- 14 - 6
Career Total -- 25 - 11 (.694)
Final Four -- '96, '08
Elite Eight -- '95, '06, '07
Sweet 16 -- '09
NIT Experience
UMass -- 3 - 3
Memphis -- 12 - 2
Career Totals -- 15 - 5 (.750)
Championships Won
A-10 Tournament Champion -- '92-'96
A-10 Regular Season Champion -- '92-'96
C-USA Tournament Champion -- '06-'09
C-USA Regular Season Champion -- '04, '06-'09
NIT Champion -- '02
Coaching Accolades
Naismith College Coach of the Year -- '96, '08
NABC Coach of the Year -- '96
Basketball Times Coach of the Year -- '96
Sports Illustrated Coach of the Year -- '09
A-10 Coach of the Year -- '93-'96
C-USA Coach of the Year -- '06, '08, '09
Double-Digit Loss Seasons
Five of 17 seasons.
Playing Career
UNC-Wilmington -- 1978 - 1980
Clarion State -- 1980 - 1982
Positives -- Great recruiter ... NCAA Tournament success ... Final Four experience ... Media savvy ... Perceived to be fan friendly, but has been known to be surly at times ... Mastered the dribble-drive motion offense ... Comes from the Larry Brown coaching tree ... Coaches an up-tempo offense ... One of only four coaches to lead two different teams to #1 seeds in the NCAA Tournament ... He wins.
Negatives -- Calipari had a run-in with the NCAA while at UMass ... Star player Marcus Camby was found to have accepted money from a sports agent while still competing collegiately ... The NCAA found that neither the University, nor Calipari was culpable, in any sense, for Camby's actions ... But UMass was forced to vacate their 1996 Final Four appearance ... Calipari has had a few player arrests while at Memphis.
Probability of accepting the job, if offered: 40%
Date of Birth: November 10, 1965 (43 years old)
Birthplace: North Hollwood, CA
Currently -- Head coach at Pittsburgh
Head Coaching Experience
2003 - Present Pittsburgh 163 - 44 (.787) 70 - 30 in the Big East
NCAA Tournament Experience
Pitt -- 9 - 5 (.643)
Elite Eight -- '09 (Pitt still playing)
Sweet 16 -- '04, '07
NIT Experience
None
Championships Won
Big East Tournament Champion -- '08
Big East Regular Season Champion -- '04
Coaching Accolades
Big East Coach of the Year -- '04
Double-Digit Loss Seasons
One in six seasons.
Playing Career
Texas Christian -- 1984 - 1987
Positives -- Worked under UCLA's Ben Howland for nine seasons at Northern Arizona, and Pittsburgh ... Holds coach's record for most wins in first six seasons ... 8-3 record over last four years in the NCAA Tournament ... Excellent defensive coach ... Tremendous winning percentage ... Very solid recruiter ... Media friendly ... All of his coaching experience is at the high major level.
Negatives -- Only six years as a head coach.
Probability of accepting the job, if offered -- 60%
Date of Birth: July 17, 1954 (54 years old)
Birthplace: Hickory, NC
Currently -- Head coach at Texas
Head Coaching Experience
1987 - 1988 George Mason 20 - 10 (9 - 5 in the Colonial Athletic)
1988 - 1994 Providence 108 - 76 (47 - 55 in the Big East)
1994 - 1998 Clemson 74 - 48 (28 - 36 in the ACC)
1998 - Present Texas 270 - 105 (129 - 47 in the Big 12)
Career Totals -- 472 - 239 (.664)
NCAA Tournament Experience
George Mason - None
Providence - 0 - 3
Clemson - 2 - 3
Texas - 17 - 11
Career Totals -- 19 - 17 (.528)
Final Four - '03
Elite Eight - '06, '08
Sweet 16 - '97, '02, '04
NIT Experience
Providence - 5-2
Clemson - 0 - 1
Career Totals -- 5 - 3
Championships Won
Big 12 Regular Season Championship - '99, '06, '08
Big East Tournament Championship - '94
Coaching Accolades
Colonial Athletic Conference Coach of the Year - '87
Big 12 Coach of the Year - '99, '03, '08
Double-Digit Loss Seasons
Sixteen of 22 seasons.
Playing Career
Lenoir-Rhyne College - 1974 - 1977
Positives -- Great recruiter ... Very good with the media ... 8 - 4 record in the NCAA's over the last four years ... Final Four experience ... Fan friendly ... 21 years of "big time" experience ... Mentored former WKU coach Dennis Felton, and current head Topper Ken McDonald.
Negatives -- Nearly .500 record in NCAA's ... 72.7% of his seasons coached have resulted in double-digit losses.
Probability of accepting the job, if offered: 30%
Date of Birth: January 30, 1955 (54 years old)
Birthplace: Iron Mountain, MI
Currently -- Head coach at Michigan State
Head Coaching Experience
1995 - Present Michigan State - 334 - 136 (.711) 160 - 72 in the Big Ten
NCAA Tournament Experience
Michigan State - 29 - 10 (.744)
National Championship - '00
Final Four - '99, '01, '05
Elite Eight - '03, '09 (MSU still playing)
Sweet 16 - '98, '08
NIT Experience
Michigan State - 2 - 2
Championships Won
National Title - '00
Big Ten Tournament Champion - '99, '00
Big Ten Regular Season Champion - '98, '99, '00, '01, '09
Coaching Accolades
Big Ten Coach of the Year - '98, '09
AP National Coach of the Year - '98
Henry Iba Award - '98
Double-Digit Loss Seasons
Seven of 14 seasons.
Playing Career
Northern Michigan - 1973 - 1977
Division II All-America in '77
Positives - Bountiful NCAA Tournament success ... National Title to his credit ... Master strategist ... Good recruiter ... Fan and media friendly ... Four Final Fours in a seven season period ('99 - '05).
Negatives - Sometimes coaches a deliberate style.
Probability of accepting the job, if offered: 50%
Editor's Note -- This obviously is not an all-inclusive list of possible candidates. Thad Matta, Jay Wright, and Mark Few are just a sampling of the college coaches not included on my list. As the search progresses (and based on the length of the search) I will continue to offer-up in-depth information on possible candidates for the job.
Final Thought
I thought the best thing to come out of yesterday's press conference was the naming of former Wildcat Mike Pratt to assist in the search for UK's next coach. Pratt brings to the table a unique perspective, and an intimate knowledge of what it takes to succeed at Kentucky. His insight and advice will be invaluable to the impending search.
For a look into Pratt's way of thinking, here is an interview I conducted with him back in November of '08.
Good look to the trio. A restless Big Blue Nation anxiously awaits what the "chicks" dig: The long ball!
Thanks for reading, and Go 'Cats!
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maybe we should get Ford
and give him time to grow into it.
if it works, he will be here for a while – plus we need to get him before his kids get settled in some other college town……
i know its only one year, but 9-7 in the big 12 is not bad….plus maybe his oklahoma connections might help keep orton
by memphis wildcat on Mar 28, 2009 2:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Ken
How did you come to you percent chance of accepting the Kentucky coaching position for each coach you listed?
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 3:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Just my opinion.
Based on previous statements by each coach, and a gut feeling.
I probably should have notated as much in the post.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 3:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i've
also read these rumors on a different site,if true we are better off w/out bcg,and by we i mean the kids.they kinda make since in some instances,players very rarely made eye contact with bcg,seemded more than unhappy and you could tell it was more than just losing,there is something to be said about checking out players body language.You could plainly tell there was more going on with Jodie than being tired,and on and on.
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 28, 2009 7:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The rumors on the other site either need to be backed up with confirmation from people who witnessed it or they need to be taken down. If it's true it needs to go public to protect other players, if it is not, it could ruin a man's reputation.
by teech62 on Mar 29, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
NAMES should be given
Of people who witnessed or were victim of these alleged happenings.
I read on foxsports Friday after the firing of Gillispie that a “former UK player” said Gillispie treated people like they “weren’t even human” or something to that matter. If this is in fact TRUE, then that player should be named. If people don’t want their names published, then keep your damn mouth shut. This only fuels more rumors.
I’ve come to the conclusion that I am not going to believe anything that says “our sources say” people “close to the program” blah blah blah. Remember Cuba Gooding in Jerry McGuire? “SHOW ME THE MONEY!” Well, SHOW ME THE NAMES!
by uk1982 on Mar 29, 2009 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gillispie
Anyone who is still a Gillispie lover needs to c heck out KSR and the report Matt did on him. Anyone deserves more than 2 years,but theres no excuse for treating your players like that!
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 3:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Matt has his sources, and I'm not saying I don't believe what he's saying,
but those are fairly strong accusations, especially situations like forcing a player to spend halftime in a bathroom stall. If true, he definitely mistreated his players, on more than one occasion, but I’d prefer to see something supporting those statements, other than “sources.”
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 3:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jones' source is rumored to be Dwight Perry.
Like you said blbskue, I’d like to see something definitive.
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 28, 2009 4:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think this would've come out LONG before now
If in fact he did do something like this….
Little stories like this are gonna circulate for awhile though.
by uk1982 on Mar 28, 2009 7:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not saying it didn't happen...
but Matt Jones is a shill for the administration. He was bragging last night about Lee Todd really liking him. Like Kenny Walker, I don’t know if Bobby Perry is a reliable source for inside information. Bobby is going to spend the rest of his life in Lexington living off a UK career that, in my opinion, he never should have had in the first place.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have questioned his sources before on his blog and since this all started I have not been able to log in to give a comment. Just wondering?
by teech62 on Mar 29, 2009 2:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He Banned U Then
Classic Matt Jones.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 29, 2009 5:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Calipari has too many ghosts
Graduation rates, NCAA run-ins, etc.. I would think that Mitch won’t take a flyer on him.
Izzo maybe but he’s a my way type of guy.
Barnes, if you want him you might as well give Travis a chance also.
Ford is a long-shot at this point. His experience isn’t quite there quite yet. I would love to see Ford coaching here but I recognize that his experiences at Campbellsville, EKU, UMass and OK State don’t match what he would deal with here. Would fans give him 4 years based on his ties? Probably not.
Dixon maybe. Pitt can have cutting fans and he’s dealt with it pretty well apparently.
by jwnky on Mar 28, 2009 3:40 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Calipari has A run-in with the NCAA and he was not at fault whatsoever.
Let’s see: Barnes has been a head coach at a high-major for 22 seasons, Ford for one — There is no comparison.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 4:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My Favorite
Is still Sean Miller from Xavier. Has a lot to offer if you look closely.
by Bluegilla on Mar 29, 2009 9:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mike Anderson gets my vote
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 3:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I like Anderson, a lot ...
… but, of course this list isn’t all-encompassing.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 5:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lets be honest..
would UK hire another black coach this soon ?
by 59Bennett on Mar 28, 2009 5:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think that would enter into the equation.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I feel comfortable in saying that.
Winning and winning the right way is what matters, regardless of skin color.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 5:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Absolutely The Only Factors ...
… although “right way” can be construed to mean everything from within NCAA rules to with right style of play.
by Wild Weasel on Mar 28, 2009 5:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I cannot believe you said that
Who would feel that way may I ask? The elite people of Lexington?
If the man is qualified, there is no reason to not.
by kykat51 on Mar 28, 2009 5:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Shouldn't matter if they're green
Ridiculous comment. Go back to your shed.
by hoboat33 on Mar 28, 2009 8:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Calipari....
For me, he is the 1st choice. As you said, Ken he is a great recruiter on par with Roy Williams as the 2 best in the business. His style of play is very attractive and is a proven winner. He is highly experienced and will embrace his role as “ambassador”.
I really hope Mitch and the committee do their due diligence on this guy because everyone talks about him being shady and yet really do not offer any specifics. As you mentioned, Camby’s problem at UMass had nothing to do with Calipari. The arrests you mention do not bother me because that stuff can happen to any coach. How many arrest were there under Tubby and he is held in high regard (as he should be)? My bottom line is that IF Mitch wants to take a look at him and IF they may feel there could be warning signs, then investigate them to a satsifactory understanding. DO NOT just dismiss him because of rumors and/or innuendo. UK owes it to itself to look at all the best candidates and then judge them.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 3:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Agree 100%
Excellent X’s and O’s coach and an even better recruiter. He’s built two teams from non-BCS conferences into national programs and took both to the Final Four. Read that sentence again because I don’t believe anybody else in the history of college basketball has done that, certainly not in the post-1979 age.
He comes off as a slick salesman, but frankly that’s what big-time college basketball recruiting is and he isn’t afraid to embrace that. I’m guessing he bends the rulebook, but doesn’t specifically break it. Maybe he takes some academic and character risks, but to win at places like Memphis and UMass you can’t just take BCS castoffs.
If the goal is winning, then he has by far the most upside of anybody on this list. He could easily replicate the 93-98 years.
by DoubleB on Mar 28, 2009 4:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Re: DoubleB
Excellent point!
I’ll look at the FF participants since ’79 and see if what you theorize is true, but off the top of my head I think that it probably is.
One caveat — Memphis does have a strong BB tradition. Dana Kirk did a great job their, but of course he wasn’t operating within the rules.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 7:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
For me too.
I know some folks who shall remain unnamed :) aren’t crazy about him, but I think he would fit UK like a hand to a glove. Of course one can’t go by me …
Two years ago my choices were 1a. Cal, 1b. Gillispie
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 5:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
SevenRings, Calipari would be my choice based on what we know at this point. Hopefully he will
get the look some of us thinks he should have. Let me say in response to your Tubby comment, that I completely agree. He should be held in the very highest regard by our fan base.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 28, 2009 6:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I keep posting this but apparently...
you Calipari supporters keep ignoring it. So here goes nothing (again)…
http://men.style.com/gq/features/landing?id=content_5735
The NABC was worried about texting, early commits, etc. with Gillispie. The stuff that Calipari is involved with runs much deeper and into a somewhat sinister world.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 9:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do you really think Calipari is the only one involved with Worldwide Wes and people like him?
Are you that naive?
by BBallSophist on Mar 28, 2009 9:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's the only college coach...
who appears to be receiving recruits from WWWes. Calipari calls him an “ambassador for our program”. Of course he’s not the only one involved with guys like this. But he appears to have a direct line into WWWes’ world of casinos, hip-hop stars, shady agents, etc. WWWes identifies young people with lots of talent and little direction from adults in their life. He then steers them in whatever direction he chooses (mostly Calipari’s) knowing that the shoe companies, agents, scouts and coaches will take care of him for his trouble. And it scares the hell out of me.
It has nothing to do with who or what other coaches are involved with/in. It has to do with what the next University of Kentucky coach is involved in.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 9:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where's the illegality?
I mentioned this above, but it bears repeating. Calipari comes off like a used car salesman at times and there’s no doubt in my mind that he deals with some of the more unsavory characters involved in big-time hoops recruiting.
Proper vetting by the UK administration might reveal a lot more, but innuendo and guilt by association just isn’t a big deal.
by DoubleB on Mar 28, 2009 9:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As high profile as UK is...
…eventually questions would start getting asked, investigations on the horizon… and I bet that there is something in there that wouldn’t sit well with the NCAA.
It's outta my head but stuck in my mind, in time I find my spine is crooked in design.
by UrthWyrmJim on Mar 28, 2009 9:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It doesn't have to be illegal.
Given our history, we have to do things the right way and with the right people. This is not guilt by association. Calipari openly flaunts his relationship with this guy. Don’t be naive enough to think that this is not going to eventually land somebody in hot water.
Calipari may be smart enough to stay out of reach of the mess. But $50 handshakes by boosters damn near brought this program down once upon a time. A points shaving scandal before that. Given the attention this program gets on a national level, we cannot afford even a whiff of improper conduct.
And while this type of stuff is ignored at Memphis, you can bet next year’s salary it wouldn’t be ignored here. This is one reason Calipari has been near toxic with other big name programs.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The file is a lot bigger...
on WWWes than that story alone. There is a website, mentioned in the story above, that devotes most of its time to tracking WWWes and his stroll between the raindrops. I would venture (and this is just conjecture on my part) that the only reason the NCAA isn’t publically investigating WWWes and the Memphis pipeline is because of its (the NCAA’s) close relationship with Nike.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 10:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I’m willing to take the chance IF he’s properly vetted by the UK administration. I think most of the stuff he’s seriously accused of is baseless. Nobody mentioned, other than Izzo who I don’t think would come, is even remotely close.
Again, if the goal is to win championships he’s the guy. If it’s to run the squeakiest program in the country then you better get used to the NIT.
by DoubleB on Mar 28, 2009 11:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
with UK's reputation we have no
choice but to be squeaky! If Calipari came to UK the NCAA would open an office in Lexington to save money. Then it would just be a rental as they wouldn’t have to be in town very long.
Good one Double B. If we want to win championships we gotta cheat! SHEESH!!!
by bluecrip on Mar 28, 2009 11:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Where did I state
UK had to cheat to win?
All I stated is that if you want the cleanest program in the country, then the NIT is a worthy goal.
College basketball recruiting is an unsavory business with all sorts of shady characters. Calipari knows these guys and isn’t afraid to work with them. So do hundreds of other coaches in the business. Cal isn’t afraid to take academic non-qualifiers that ultimately hurt his graduation rate. Is this perfect? Is this what I’d want in a perfect world? No. But it is what it is and it’s NOT ILLEGAL. If UK vets the guy and finds out that there’s a lot of fire then fine—I’ll agree with you. Until then, he should get serious consideration as the next coach here because he’s clearly the most qualified for the job.
by DoubleB on Mar 28, 2009 11:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I cant believe anyone would suggest UK
settle for anything less than both a clean program and winning basketball. If you honestly think the two cannot go hand in hand then how do you explain coack k @ duke and williams @ unc. As much as it makes me want to puke pointing out there sucess one cant deny they win and they do it the proper way.
How in the hell could anyone hope Kentucky will take someone based just on the fact that they win games. Anyone want to ask the University of Indiana how well that works?
Our next coach has to be able to win games and have a reputation that is above reproach. NOTHING less is good enough for UK.
by wldcatsfreak on Mar 28, 2009 11:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't buy that either
of those guys run squeaky clean programs. Just because we don’t hear about it doesn’t make it true.
Coach K in particular comes to mind. He did nothing spectacular in his first 10 years (5 at Army, first 5 at Duke). Look at his record. All of a sudden, he goes 37-3 in 1986 and the ball starts rolling. Was Danny Ferry really that good?
by DoubleB on Mar 28, 2009 11:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry just b/c you dont buy it
doesnt make it true. Obviously I cant tell you what goes on behind closed door w/ williams or coach K (not even going to try to spell it) but the fact is you do not typically hear their names or their programs being tied to shady figures or players being arrested. That same statement cannot be said in regards to Calipari.
I just do not want UK throwing their lot in with anyone that has a perception/reputation of not dealing on the up and up. Its not good enough for our program. We are Kentucky damnit, there is no reason we cannot have the best of both worlds.
And no, Ferry wasnt that good…he could shoot but gawd he couldnt guard his own shadow! :)
by wldcatsfreak on Mar 29, 2009 12:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with Wildcatsfreak. Kentucky has a suprior basketball program. I don’t live in KY now & the people I meet in GA know that and dont argue against me like folks in Louisville did, mainly b/c they are football freaks here. They should have a coach with a good winning record an name. Coach K could take his time at Duke b/c Duke doesn’t have the history that Kentucky has.
by princedavender on Mar 29, 2009 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WorldWide Wes/Coach Cal
This is an incredible article. Coach Calipari is not the focus, but mentioned enough to make one wonder. I am sure guys like this are all around basketball, but that doesn’t make it right. I just hope the AD does his homework before handing over one of the best jobs in all of college sports.
by hummhoosiers on Mar 29, 2009 1:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Allegations
As a college basketball fan Calipari has always rubbed me the wrong way, but the fact is…The man can coach. If he comes to Lexington next year and brings his top tier recruits from Memphis then the Wildcats will be back where they belong.
I just hope that the UK does its homework on this guy. I am an Indiana fan, we recently handed over our program to a guy who had accusations attached to his name. The Sampson era set our program back five years. While I love Coach Crean, it would have been nice if we didn’t have to go through the Sampson years to get him. Calipari may be the perfect fit for UK. It is possible the allegations that surround him are unfounded. I urge UK to not simply dismiss him, nor the allegations without seriously searching for the truth.
While I think Travis Ford will be the hire…If Calipari is clean and available, then he is clearly the right choice.
by hummhoosiers on Mar 29, 2009 1:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My take on Cal
is this……….I feel that this ball program needs a nice guy and lovable guy who can coach. All of those things. Not just one or two but all. Its gonna be hard to trust MB again after the first foul up(and no matter if you support the decision or not you have to say this was a bad hire) but we need to stand behind this person no matter what. I am sick and tired of all the bickering. I think that is why I defended Tubby for so long as well as BG. I am sick of the bickering. We need to get excited about this program again no matter who is coach. It only helps our players and our program if we jump behind it. I am proud to be a part of BBN and am ready for the healing
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 29, 2009 1:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sampson didn't have "allegations"
Sampson had honest to goodness “violations.” There’s a huge, huge difference between the two.
by DoubleB on Mar 29, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
BTW nice work Ken....always appreciated
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 3:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Overall
Mike Anderson doesn’t have the resume’ , but he’s exactly what Ky needs! His style of play is exciting and effective, He’s great with the media, and he would take the job. His resume’ is close to including a trip to the final four. Sure he’s an up and comer, but I would love to see what he could do here.
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 3:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Please not Ford
I love Ford as a player and maybe someday he will make a great coach, but let us not keep going down the wrong path and offer him the job. He has just not proven himself to be a top quality coach. Are there any coaches in the NBA thinking about plunging back into DIV-I ??? Just wondering
UL Football Fan/UK Basketball Fan ~ Shreveport Louisiana
by The White Mandingo on Mar 28, 2009 4:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Mike Tomlin
is a lot younger….and inexperienced but he led his team to the Superbowl……age doesn’t always matter and youthfullness can be a major asset.
by UKNATION1996 on Mar 28, 2009 5:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he looks like
Omar Epps. it’d be sweet to see him in a huge poofy UK coat
by uk1982 on Mar 28, 2009 7:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sources
as far as sources you cant trust Media, but when you have even Meeks and other’s coming out and saying it was a good decision tells me it was a good decision. I’m thinking alot of the things that Gillispie is accused of are probably true! anyways Forty whats you take on Mike Anderson?
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 4:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
What do you all think about....
Sean Miller and Jeff Capel?
by sarnh7 on Mar 28, 2009 4:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I like Miller. He's still fairly unproven. Capel's good.
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 4:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No thanks on Capel.
He’s a Duke man and we don’t need any mixing of blood with them.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 10:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Sean Miller.
But he’s not a homerun. Not experienced enough. Capel is the same way.
by BBallSophist on Mar 28, 2009 4:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
agreed...
they definitely wouldn’t be where I would go first, as in not a homerun, but they are still quality and if Izzo, Calipari, Wright, Dixon, and Barnes either aren’t interested or aren’t “our guy” for whatever reason, I just thought they may be looked at as well and wanted to get an opinion.
by sarnh7 on Mar 28, 2009 4:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
On the other hand, Sean Miller can do this:
by BBallSophist on Mar 28, 2009 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Haha...Nice
for whatever reason the volume didn’t work though…I had my speakers and the volume meter at full blast.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 5:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great Video
Kid is very well spoken not to mention his bb skills.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 5:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great Video
Kentucky sure could use some of his teaching on handling the ball!
by Bluegilla on Mar 29, 2009 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ken or Tru or blb
whats you take on Anderson
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 4:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
For What Its Worth...my take on Anderson
He plays probably the most exciting brand of basketball in the country. He is a Nolan Richardson disciple and apsires to the “40 Minutes of Hell” pilosophy. His Missouri team leads the country in assistas per game. Not sure how good a recruiter he is but couple the style of play with the UK brand, he could successfully recruit here. Seems very good with the media etc.
Not sure how good he is with the X’s and O’s when his style of play is not working. I would think he would fall into 7-12 range on a wish list. Interesting name though.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 4:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Big 12 Favorite
Anderson is highly thought of among Big 12 pundits especially considering he is early in his tenure at Columbia. Runnerup to Bill Self as COY. Tiger faithful were very concerned over him leaving for Bama but are breathing a bit easier with Grant’s decision. Georgia is their next worry but they vow to do whatever it takes to keep Anderson with a $1.3 million offer.
by Wild Weasel on Mar 28, 2009 5:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about
Nolan Richardson for coach? :-)
"Learned to love the Cats at a young age, via tape delay."
by ukpastor on Mar 28, 2009 6:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Calipari Or Izzo = HR
The rest = not.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 4:15 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I would welcome Izzo with open arms...
40 – of all the names (besides the pipedream of Pitino) isn’t he the least likely to leave his current job? How do you view that?
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 4:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's Never Been Asked
Mich St (though very good) is not UK, UNC, Kansas, Duke, or UCLA level.
I think he’d listen.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 4:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
MSU Better
Spartans have been a better program — of course many others have as well — than Cats last decade: NC and 3 other Final Fours with another a possibility.
by Wild Weasel on Mar 28, 2009 5:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You Missed The Point (Again)
Mich St is not elite program like those 5 are.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 6:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not An Elite Program
My point is that UK is not now, nor has it been for a number of years, an elite program. To include, as you do, UK in the same group sas UNC, KU, Duke and UCLA is ignoring contemporary reality and focusing, as so many of us UK fans do, on a glorious road that has had to endure years of disrepair. The inability to attract an elite coach is but one of many symptoms.
by Wild Weasel on Mar 28, 2009 6:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
BS
UK is an Elite program All-Time.
THAT’S what you don’t get.
Those 5 programs stand out from the others in Div I all-time.
From 1998-2007, UK had a better record than UCLA or UNC. Only Kansas and Duke had better record than UK did.
2008 and 2009, those are different situations. Thanks to alumni from the 50’s, fraternity brothers, etc.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 11:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Glory Days
Despite being a Fifty-eightYearCatFan and sharing in many glorious moments I try not to dwell on long past glory when the recent past and present strike me with a realistic slap that UK is no longer competitive. Or as the always quotable Sparky Anderson put it:
"People who live in the past generally are afraid to compete in the present. I’ve got my faults, but living in the past is not one of them. There’s no future in it."
by Wild Weasel on Mar 29, 2009 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
UK Is One Of 5 Elite Programs All-Time
UK, UNC, UCLA, Kansas, Duke (replaced IU).
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 30, 2009 6:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Izzo
a Michigan native. Isn’t he already in his dream job?
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 4:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not expecting a Homerun
I rather have Izzo than anyone! just don’t really see it happening. Cal name is tarnished. As far as I’m concerned with Donovan he can stay where he’s at.
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 4:24 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Another point of view - I expect a home run out of the AD this hire. Since Donovan blew us off
last time, he can stay in sunny Gainsville for all I care, but I need to see proof that Cal’s name is tarnished before I would be opposed to that choice.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 28, 2009 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Off Topic....not sure how everyone else feels
but I am very excited for the 2 NCAA games today…UConn v Missu and Nova v Pitt….should be excellent
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 4:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Yes. Bonus 3 of the coaches are on Tru's/Ken's list
Dixon, Wright and Anderson
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 4:36 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Mustard?
UConn rolling early
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 4:44 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Does appear to be a mustard color
I went to UM website. According to the site, colors are supposed to be gold and black in keeping with the colors of a Bengal Tiger.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 4:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Calipari should be 1st
I think Travis is a sentimental pick … I don’t want to diminsh what he’s accomplished but, I don’t think this is the right time. Pelphry same thing. I hope they will give Calipari the best shot. We really need a proven winner. I think Izzo would be ok – but I think only 20% he takes it …
Read KSR – I’m sure more will suface on mistreatment of players by BCG ….
by ukcris on Mar 28, 2009 4:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Mike Anderson for Head Coach!
The King is dead! Long live the King!
by NYCCats on Mar 28, 2009 4:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Just because a coach..
says he is staying put doesn’t always mean he is..My brother is friends with Tommy Wade who is on Travis’s coaching staff and Wade says Ford is happy and is staying where he is..Now you and I both know he would come home in a heart beat..
by 59Bennett on Mar 28, 2009 5:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Calipari is my #1 pick as well.
Add John Wall to next year’s class and either keep Orton or replace Orton with Cousins, and you have a top 10 team.
by BBallSophist on Mar 28, 2009 5:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Today I joined the "John Calipari to UK" group on Facebook....lol
there are several of them to choose from.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 5:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read...
up on most of the candidates last night. My personal choices were: Calipari, Ford, and Anderson. Calipari would be a dream, with the recruits that we lure and the recruits that he lures we would be looking at top recruiting classes every year. Ford’s stats aren’t good, but neither were any of the situations he was put in when starting at a school. Anderson looks like a good up and comer, but not a big enough improvement over Ford IMO. Thats why I would give the nod to Ford for dibs on 2nd.
I didn’t list Izzo because I don’t think there is any way he leaves MSU. He has established them as a national power. Plus, I don’t know how much he is making up there, but I can’t imagine us paying him much more. IMO, Izzo is a lifer up there.
by the spork on Mar 28, 2009 5:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, one news organization seems to think Izzo might leave:
by BBallSophist on Mar 28, 2009 5:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read this article this morning.
Unfortunately, the source that he would accept is out of Lexington. Hope it is true-but not buying it.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 5:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't we want a coach who has established where they are now as a nat'l power?
As I said above, I like Anderson as well, but I’m not sure if the “search committee” would be interested.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Definitely...
if we can get Izzo, I say offer him the castle and the deed to Keeneland. I’m just saying that I think he is a very long shot. I believe we could get Calipari before him. That article, and maybe you as well, disagree with me, but its just hard to see him coming.
by the spork on Mar 28, 2009 5:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
personally
even the notion of Izzo coaching the Cats makes me throw up in my mouth a little. Thinking about that plodding style on display regularly at Rupp is the stuff of nightmares.
by IgnatiusJReilly on Mar 28, 2009 10:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Billy G....
..if those stories about the players treatment are true, then he needs help, seriously…
Reminds me of the football coach in Varsity Blues, (Jon Voight)…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 28, 2009 5:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Do not want to repeat those stories here without further reliable sources
several situations reported are very disturbing, if true
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 5:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One that I do beleive...
…Is the Derrick Jasper one…
Apparently, this kid is in deep sh!t now and doesn’t know when he’ll be able to play…
And just think of all the times Pat played injured…
We don’t know all the facts, so lest not jump to conclusions here, but man, it looks bad for Billy G…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 28, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read a Vegas article in January. I was/am a big DJ fan. I did get to see him in Aneheim 1st round
NCAA last spring. You could tell he was playing on 1 1/2 legs in person. He was still effective, although without Patterson, he just wasn’t healthy enough to be a reliable 3rd scorer against Marquette.
The Vegas article included information from the UNLV trainer. Rebel trainer said his knee was 30% when he arrived at school. Derrick was/is taking the 08-09 entire season to heal and work towards 100% for the 2009-2010 season.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 5:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heh Vince...nice analogy
I think that if they are true that might change some opinions about this firing. My jaw hit the floor when I read them.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 5:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
"you don't know the difference between a sneeze, and a wet fart.....
…you’re gonna be second string all your life, boy!" ‘oopty-oop, gimme a break’
Voight was CLASSIC
by teambeam on Mar 28, 2009 5:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is there articles on this?
Is there any articles on websites posted about this? If so, please post so I can read them.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 6:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
go to
kentuckysportsradio.com
it is the lead article.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 6:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should provided it as a link....
http://new.kentuckysportsradio.com/
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 6:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Go easy on this stuff guys.
Jones is “reporting” these rumors and crediting them to another source to insulate himself from a potential lawsuit. If a player comes out and details this stuff at some time in the future, I will believe it then. But Jones is making his bones (rhyme) with the university by reporting this stuff now. How come none of this stuff was kicking around during the off-season?
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 10:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You are exactly right.
I like Matt, but he should not be enabling this narrative. I think it will hurt him in the long run.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 29, 2009 6:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree
Matt Jones is fighting the national perception that UK fans ran off another coach.
by btcoop71 on Mar 29, 2009 1:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No.
He is helping enable it.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 29, 2009 5:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
After reading what Matt Jones wrote...
…and hearing many in the MSM corroborate what was said, I have lost all respect for Billy G. I am glad he is gone.
by btcoop71 on Mar 29, 2009 1:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How come there are no NBA coaches listed?
There are a lot of good coaching prospects in the NBA, Pitino came from there if you remember. Not a bad coach, did a good job of handling the media as well as the high profile players, not to mention his style of play.
I think Riley would be the MAN, but if not him what about Mike D’Antoni, former coach of the Suns, they were the highest scoring team in the NBA during his tenure
by Kylakerfan on Mar 28, 2009 5:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Why Would He Leave NYK?
He’s gonna coach LBJ someday soon.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 6:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lyndon Baines?...who knew...;-)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Lebron James
is LRJ – not LBJ
I don’t think he’s usually referred to as LBJ – despite his plethora of nicknames
by schizm42 on Mar 29, 2009 3:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Le Bron James - LBJ
His name is spelled LeBron – not LebRon.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 29, 2009 8:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Incorrect.
His first name is LeBron.
His middle name is Raymone
His last name is James.
by schizm42 on Mar 29, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Re: Kylakerfan
This isn’t an all-inclusive list.
I may have more later, based on the length of the search.
Tru mentioned someone that I haven’t even thought of in Reggie Theus. He’s and interesting possibility.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 7:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about Bob Knight?
Dick Vitale actually suggested him on ESPN yesterday. He said he would coach again if the right opp came around. Dickie V stated to bring Knight in, have Travis Ford be his assistant for 5 years, and then allow Travis Ford to take over the head coaching posit after the 5 years. Interesting concept?
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 7:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
NOT
It is a foolish comment by a foolish man…
1st- Bobby Knight has made it clear over the years that he HATES UK..
2nd—Why would Travis give up a head coaching job at a BCS school to be an assistant…?
3rd—How would it make Travis feel to be ask to let Bobby Knight tutor him for 5 years…?
Vitale is just trying to get some face time on ESPN because he has a man crush on Robert Montgomery Knight…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 28, 2009 8:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's not the only one ;)
The General needs a job.
by BR7 on Mar 28, 2009 8:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I did not, but...
…I would hope it was said in a joking manner…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 28, 2009 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I Think Reggie would be an excellent choice
Reggie had an outstanding NBA Career, he definately has a lot of class, and I think he would bring
a new atmosphere to the halls of Rupp. We need to think outside of the box, with this selection of a coach. Most all of the top named college coaches are probably not coming, why not, go to the NBA for a candidate. If not Theus or Riley, what about Mike Fratello, or even Isiah Thomas, as I fell he could be an excellent college coach.
by Kylakerfan on Mar 28, 2009 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I
wanted to share something that I heard Digger say yesterday……..no matter who coaches Kentucky next year……if they keep their players and recruits………they are easily a sweet sixteen team.
Also, Cal seems the popular media choice right now. Heard someone say that if Cal comes with his recruits we are an automatic top five team……interesting to say the least.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 28, 2009 5:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, I agree, but
who we hire will play a big part in whether current players stay and recruits honor their LOI. I’m not sure someone like Travis Ford could keep Orton here (though Orton’s dad mentioned OK St. as a place he expected would call Daniel if he reopened).
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 6:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like Cal, but isn't he a little overrated??
I think him winning at Memphis and getting accalades for it is just a little over-rated. His recruits don’t play that much competition, so wouldn’t they be a little over-rated too?
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 5:45 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Cal-set to have 4 McDonald's All-Americans next year.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 5:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
A-A next year
I didn’t say he couldn’t recruit, I just simply stated that they may not be as good as it looks on paper with the competition that they play. Some don’t pan out, just like DeAndre, Galloway, Miller, but that could have just been BCG style of play that caused them not to pan out the way they were expected.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 5:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
kbb....you may have a valid point
but I think you have to take the conference affiliation out of it. He has led a UMass team to a final four out of the A-10 and a Memphis team to a final four out of the Conf. USA. When you have NBA talent dotting your roster, the conference affiliation really doesn’t matter. He has done well out of conference against BCS conference teams. Hopefully he is sick of these types of questions and tries his hand at UK in a BCS conference…;-)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 5:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i have watched the memphis games
versus other CUSA teams – it is not good basketball
that being said, Cal has gone out of his way to schedule strong OCC teams – he even admited to playing the RPI game after being out of the dance in his early years at Memphis.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 28, 2009 6:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Respectfully,
the weak conference debate is not always valid. Take a look at Ken’s stats (above) for Cal. Look at his career NCAA wins (outside of his conference) .694 % Pretty Impressive record.
I will go with Forty on this one. Of the remaining coaches who are real possibilities:
Calipara & Izzo = HR
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 6:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, but you can also throw out....
Yes, I agree, but you can also throw out about 2 wins in the NCAA Tourney per year (at least 1) because they are playing weak comp just like in CUSA for the first 1 or 2 games of the tourney because of their wins and rank in the tourney. So, if you beat up on your first opp in the NCAA tourney and lose to the 2nd, you are already at 50% for your career in the NCAA tourney.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 6:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Even if
Even if you go by non-conf wins and losses, I haven’t researched earlier years, but look at this year…hardly any comp outside of CUSA either.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
SOS for UM
according to Pomeroy was 36th – not bad. they had georgetown in a home and away last year and this year. GT turned out weak. Syracuse, tennessee, and gonz (last two on the road) were also on schedule
OOC SOS Rank
2009 36th
2008 11th
2007 37th
2006 18th
by memphis wildcat on Mar 28, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Also, I would argue that
C-USA was at or at least not far behind the level of the SEC this year.
Memphis is very good, and Houston and UAB are generally solid. Some teams are terrible.
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 6:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Look at the RPIs
at the risk of sounding like Forty – look at the RPIs
SEC – 25,37,54,57,63,64,79,82,108,147,192
CUSA – 7,46,53,85,86,154,164,171,188,220,223,267
in an “off” year for the SEC, the worst team UGA would be better than 25% of CUSA and ALA would be in the top 50%.
I am not opposed to Cal, but i do think you have to know what you are getting. the man can recruit, he is a solid (not great, imo) coach and he can handle the media.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 28, 2009 8:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hmm, McCarty, Delk, Walker, Anderson, Mercer, Crawford, etc...........
I know the list goes on, Pitino could recruit. I also think Tubby could recruit, he just got a bad rap. Let’s look at some of his recruits…rondo (left early NBA), Azabuike (left attempted NBA, now is NBA), Randolph Morris (We all know how that went), and the list could go further. Tubby just couldn’t keep his players from leaving, that was his only downfall imo.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 5:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Cedrick Jenkins, Kenny Walker, James Blackmon, Ed Davender, Winston Bennett....
by teambeam on Mar 28, 2009 6:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Whew, you went a little in the earlier years than I expected :)
Let’s throw Mashburn in there too.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 6:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pitino Signed All Of 5 McDonalds A-A In 8 Years
Delk, Rhodes, Walker, Mercer, Turner.
That’s all – just 5.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 6:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So Negative
Wow, it just seems like every comment I read of yours has negativity to it. I was just throwing out players that I thought to be great players at Kentucky in the past 2 decades and you want to go and get technical about it.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 7:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Facts
I stick to facts.
Too many worship Pitino in every aspect.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 11:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think
kbb is referring to your stats. I think he’s referring to the tone in which you sometimes deliver them.
by schizm42 on Mar 29, 2009 3:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK Here Goes
UK recruited LOTS of McDonalds and Parade A-A in 70’s and 80’s but averaged 23 W with 1 NCAA title and 3 FF.
UK recruited FEWER HS All-Americans in the 90’s but averaged 27 W with 2 NCAA titles and 4 FF.
Half the time, fewer HS All-Americans, but more NCAA success.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 29, 2009 9:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tubby was added to Pitino's staff
for his reputation as a recruiter.
I think the big problem was the lack of good recruiters among his assistants in the last few years he was here. A lot of the early recruiting is on the assistants.
by schizm42 on Mar 28, 2009 7:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
More Baloney
Scott Rigot brought Ramel Bradley, Derrick Jasper, and Jodie Meeks to UK.
UK signed the #1 class (first time since 1992) in 2004 with Rigot, Hanson, and Hobbs as staff.
And Top 15 class in 2006 with those 3 on staff.
Patterson and Lucas (would have been) in 2007 with them.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 11:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If it was so easy to win at UMass
how come nobody else has done it (before or since)? Would you rather have Travis Ford (who did a nice job leading them to 2 NIT berths) or the guy who made them a mid-major national power in the 1990’s?
Memphis has more history, but isn’t exactly a blue-blood basketball program. He turned them around from sliding into permanent mediocrity into a national power. If it is so easy to win 61 straight conference games, how come nobody else has done it in 60 years (not those unbelievable UNLV teams in the Big West and not the current Gonzaga teams in the WCC)?
Again, Calipari is the only coach that has led two non-BCS teams to the Final Four. He’s done what few have done once, much less twice. He might be one of the most underrated coaches of his generation.
Again, if you’re looking for upside and a “return to glory”, he’s the clear-cut first choice.
by DoubleB on Mar 28, 2009 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hah! ROTFLMAO
John Calipari. 5 straight conference titles, 5 straight conference tourney champs, 5 straight NCAA (including FF in 1996) at UMass!!!
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 11:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is great to see to the elder statesman of ASOB
embracing the internet vernacular.
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 29, 2009 12:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He was one last-second shot away from winning a championship last year.
Had it not been for the ‘95’-‘96 UK team, he probably would’ve won the championship that year.
I don’t think he’s overrated.
by BBallSophist on Mar 28, 2009 7:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is Thabeet the modern day Mutumbo?
He may even be better but time will tell.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 5:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Is...
he doing the finger wag already?
by the spork on Mar 28, 2009 5:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha...well played
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 6:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
what about Capel at OK?
Mike DeCourcey (who i like) seems to think that is the best fit.
2 years go, he thought it should be Crean – who appears to being a good job at IU.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 28, 2009 5:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Crean?
If Billy G and Crean were in the same beauty pageant, Billy would be Miss Congeniality.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 6:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Crean Is An Ass
Both to work FOR and WITH.
I know his boss at Marquette.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 11:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One drawback on Capel
he played for Puke. Don’t think I could live with that even though he has done very well and is getting great results. “Philisophical diffferences” ’-)
by hoboat33 on Mar 28, 2009 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ANDERSON
has his team competing with a very talented UCONN team. UK hiring committee take notice.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 6:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Sometimes we have to sacrifice for the greater good :)
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 6:27 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Anderson
Is proving why he has my vote. The guy is doing this 3 star recruits.
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 6:35 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Up and Comers
Anderson would only sort of fall in the up and comers catergory. He was an assistant at Arkansas for a long time. No way Travis Ford should get the job over Anderson!
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 6:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Isn't UCONN's key guard out because of injury
How deep is UCONN?
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 6:42 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think
that the search committee will take a while and interview a lot of people even if they have their eye on a certain coach – if for no other reason to give the impression that some iterative process took place. This search team can ill afford another BCG type of selection … that being said I still like Cal for the spot – I just think a quick decision will not be made.
by ukcris on Mar 28, 2009 6:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Committee needs to take enough time to get the correct Coach, but
not so much time that we loose current players and possible solid recruits.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 6:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The last time
Mitch was like a shopper at a doorbuster sale. He ran in an grabbed one before they were all gone.
by Fortunatus on Mar 28, 2009 7:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Right
I don’t see that happening this time …. I’m not sure what direction they will go, but it’s my hope that they will give Cal their best shot – and if he really isn’t interested then … I’d look at an NBA head or assistant coach … there are good quality coaches out there that can bring us where we want to be. The way Calipari recruits … he may be looking at a NC type team (lots of one and dones coming in at memphis) and that might keep him in Memphis.
by ukcris on Mar 28, 2009 7:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
All right guys and gals....
I am getting ready to head off and party with my fellow miscreants and ne’er-do-wells!
Enjoy the games!
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 6:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Seven Rings
When you run into Hoosier Fan give him hell.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 6:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'll smack him just for you...;-)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 28, 2009 6:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think He
would leave Michigan,but doesn’t Izzo play way too slow for our liking?
by oldcat70 on Mar 28, 2009 6:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You know as a mother I've often looked at Darius Miller through my TV screen and
thought that he looked beaten down and unhappy, and my heart just hurt for him. Now, before y’all jump all over me for being too soft or whatever, remember that I have a son near DM’s age, and I’m speaking right now from a mother’s perspective. Then I run over to KSR (don’t post there – read only) and read that Darius was perhaps mistreated this season (if you believe the rumors), and my heart breaks for that child. I so want to look forward and not back so I’ll just say that I truly hope that whoever comes to UK treats these young men with the respect they deserve. While I realize that young people need discipline and motivation, they are still kids and need a little understanding and kindness as well. I want to say here that I so much appreciate all our UK athletes and their parents and wish the very best for each of them as they move forward on their journey.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 28, 2009 7:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I will give you the same warning I have given others about this information.
There is always more than one side to every story. Trust in that, and you will be properly skeptical. I’m not saying that the story isn’t true, I am saying that there is always more to it than meets the eye.
Many people have sources that they trust. What you most often don’t know are the sources’ sources’ sources, which could reveal both their motivation for passing the rumor and its intended target or purpose.
If you will read The Cats Pause thread to which you have been referring, the site moderators have allowed certain people to pass along unverifiable rumors as fact, and then added comments to certain ambiguous ones to the effect of, "that is true." They have not themselves described these events, nor explained how they know them. Instead, they set up a scenario to provide this information by allowing others to obtain and pass these rumors, people who hide behind the anonymity of the Internet, and supported them strategically. If these were true as stated, and witnessed, why would they not put their name to the story. Further, why would any athletic administration allow a coach to be employed even one day after performing some of these alleged acts?
The Cats Pause, as is Matt at KSR, is little more than an adjunct to the UK Sports Information department. Do you believe for a moment that Mitch Barnhart is not trying to save his own bacon by creating a situation where the public will be persuaded that the firing was absolutely necessary? Do you believe him incapable of making sure that happens by using others who depend upon sources within the athletic department that he controls? Do you further believe him incapable of having begun this process some time back?
Without the good will of the UK AD, The Cats Pause is just like the LHL. Same with KSR. If you uncritically accept the information there, you are doing yourself an injustice.
I recall to you the movie, "Absence of Malice," one of my favorite movies of all time. Sally Field, playing the reporter Megan Carter, was asked by her editor if a story were true. Her response was, "No. But it’s accurate."
Beware "The truth" in situations like this. It often isn’t.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 7:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey Tru
i would like to get your opinion on fridays presser.If even one of these accusations are true,which there is no proof,but,if so does it change any opinion of Barnhardt?I think i heard somewhere the Mitch began traveling with the team to keep an eye on things,so i guess if that is true then the decision to fire bcg was probably made long ago.I suppose the reason for not publicly releasing the info(if true)would be to avoid more negative publicity from the national media.IMO……However,if in fact some of these are true then i am sorry i supported bcg.I have two boys and don’t wanna say what i would do if any of those happened to one of them!
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 28, 2009 7:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't you think ...
… allowing a coach to abuse players is much worse than worrying about negative publicity for firing such a disturbed person?
If the decision was made long ago, why are some of these allegations as recently as the SEC tournament this year?
Doesn’t anyone beside me see the incredible incongruity here? We are being sold the exact bill of goods that most people want to buy. They want to have faith in Barnhart and the UK administration to do the right thing, even if they in fact did not. This feeds exactly that perception, and very damn conveniently, too.
And nobody is the least bit suspicious?
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 8:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Indeed.
Something’s rotten in the state of Catsville.
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 28, 2009 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Very
suspicious indeed.Like i stated i have two boys and would not want them going through anything like that..I am also not sure about mitch traveling w/team or for how long,just pretty sure i heard that.If they knew this was going on(if it was)he should have been fired immediately IMO.At the presser friday mitch did say more than once,something to the effect of how it was their responsibility to ensure that the student athletes have a positive experience and they needed to be protected(paraphrasing).If his firing was due to not being the "ambassador"that goes with being the UK coach,then why the need to say this more than once?I really have a hard time believing what i have read,but you could clearly see something was going on between coach and players.
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 28, 2009 8:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok Tru
but one thing is…….is this not the first time we have heard these type of rumors of one of our coaches. I never once heard them about Tubby and as despised as he was by some…..I would think that if there was no basis for this we wouldnt hear any of it. I heard Dolly Parton say one time(about tabloids) that most times there is a speckle of truth to these but then they embellish them. I suspect this is the case.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 28, 2009 8:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I tend to agree with that
Things are beginning to spiral out of control with the rumors. There is probably some truth to some, but it may be getting blown out of proportion. We just have to wait and see.
by cthom on Mar 28, 2009 8:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I never said there was no basis.
I said that these rumors have painted a picture that I believe to be false. You can tell the truth, and still tell a lie. You all know how this works.
Ask yourself why Jerry Tipton, who brought Dusty Mills’ story to light (to almost universal scorn) did not follow up such a compelling story. It seems obvious, if you believe what you have read, that he could have made a heck of a name for himself by exposing an abusive coach.
Ask yourself why the administration did not act sooner. This is not rocket science or nuclear physics.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 8:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
didn't you just
repeat what I said?
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 28, 2009 10:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The rumors about Tubby...
Involved his personal life. I won’t dignify them by airing them once again, but there were lots of rumors.
by jbt36 on Mar 29, 2009 12:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tru
I am always suspicious. Always. Yes it is very likely there is ‘damage control" from UK going on. Yes it does seem very convenient to have this published after the Billy G presser this morning and not before. As you indicated these types of accusations would have been a UK admin’s responsibility to fire Billy immediately. Failure to do so would be cause to let Mitch go as well
The only caveat is that Billy G described himself as “hard core” and “very,very honest”. If as a consistent pattern he allowed himself (in his “get better”, “work harder” way) to be excessively hard on athletes. Billy may need to step back and reevaluate his coaching methodology.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 8:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tru, I'm not trying to spread rumors or anything. I don't read TCP and only read KSR once
in a while. Very sorry – didn’t mean to bring anything improper onto this site. And, your points are valid and I get your meaning. I just keep thinking about how something went very wrong (just my opinion) mid-way through the season, and the look on the kids faces at times; don’t need to say anymore about that. Frankly, I’m really struggling with processing everything that’s happened the last few weeks. Bewilderment has replaced the joy I normally feel about the basketball program. Hopefully that passes soon, because following the team for the last umpteen years has been one of the joys of my life.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 28, 2009 8:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You didn't do anything wrong.
It’s understandable that people would read this and be concerned.
Look, I’m not calling anyone out on this. I have no doubt that TCP and KSR are being told this stuff, and they are dutifully reporting it as they feel compelled to do, and there may be other, more self-serving motivations there — I don’t know.
All I’m saying is that this process of destroying the reputation of the former UK coach among the fan base has no integrity whatsoever. It is nothing more than character assassination, and I just want everyone to recognize it for what it truly is. I can’t say for sure where the information comes from, because nobody is willing to quote a source, which makes me wonder why, and it should make everyone wonder.
Gillispie has been fired. If somebody witnessed these actions, they should come forth and put their name on it. These rumors paint Gillispie as a lunatic, and I don’t think such a man aught to be coaching college kids if all this stuff represents reality. For the greater good, his actions should be exposed to the light of day if this is how he actually behaved — but not like this.
All this back-channel rumor-passing is evil, and destructive. I wish both Matt and TCP would have some respect for both our former coach and the proper way to handle sensitive information like this, but it seems to me that either hits or the love of the UKAA/SID are more important. I may be wrong about that, but given the way this is going, I’m not sure what else a rational man should believe.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 29, 2009 6:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I became horrible suspicious yesterday when this stuff started leaking all over the HOB boards about the intent as the athletics department attempt at damage control.
by trich on Mar 28, 2009 8:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
With all due respect
I don’t have to take these examples to be truths to see that something was going on behind the scenes … are these reports accurate? I don’t know, but you’d have to blind not see that there was some turmoil between players and coach/
by ukcris on Mar 28, 2009 7:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Don't you think ...
… that “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” is exactly the desired perception?
Look, I’m not saying Gillispie wasn’t tough on them. I am convinced that he was. But allegations like this go beyond being tough and into the arena of … well, for lack of a better word, insanity.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 8:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm just saying
I was at the Georgia game in Athens and I saw Ga beat us in Rupp … never should have happened. We were much better than that team … the wheels were coming off – The Alex Legion thing and the tough game day practices … you can call that spin or desired perception or whatever you want – but there is no denying that there were problems on the team and they were between the coach and the players … I don’t want to give credit were credit is NOT due, but I don’t think Barnhart and company wanted this embarassment any more than any of us did. I think Billy let his riff with his bosses spill over on to the team and that should never havehappened.
by ukcris on Mar 28, 2009 8:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not insanity at all
Billy G was very rough on his players. This team collapsed this year from the toll it took from his style of coaching. Anybody who thinks otherwise is sticking their head in the sand. I say this is what got BG canned perhaps more so than the whole media thing. The guy was a coach the players didn’t want to play for.
by maysvilleblue on Mar 28, 2009 10:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, that may not be the case.
Dick Gabriel, who has some bonafides, stated on his radio show a few weeks back that there were some jealousy issues with the team after Meeks’ performance in the Tennessee game and the attention he got for it. He said this in response to a question on Coach Gillispie’s call-in show about what happened around the time of the Ole’ Miss game. Coach stated at that time that he knew what the problem was but it was an internal team matter. The comment Gabrial made could only be interpreted one way – some players on the team were jealous of Meeks.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 10:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
With all due respect
I don’t buy that. This team was just a mess because of the coach. I don’t think jealousy played into it at all.
by maysvilleblue on Mar 28, 2009 10:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Take it up with Dick.
He said it, I didn’t. And I think his sources are likely better than yours.
by jbt36 on Mar 29, 2009 12:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You don't buy it ...
… because you don’t want to believe it.
Ask yourself hard questions, honest questions. Maybe then you will.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 29, 2009 6:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok this
makes sense…….and people as I stated before……….that is why he said what he said to jeanine edwards. He took to opportunity to tell the nation that this wasn’t about Jodie……it was Kentucky. Like I said I had Stacey Reed on my team and it takes careful planning and careful words to play like a team not play to the star of the team. Its a difficult balance. I don’t begrudge coach at all for saying what he said. He did the right thing on this.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 29, 2009 1:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
At the same time...
…you, I, and no one else here was there. How do you know this stuf didn’t happen? How do we know it did?
by btcoop71 on Mar 29, 2009 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tru
If I read your words correctly in the previous blog, you write that the TCP and KSR are one in the same? I really do not know-I do not live in KY or rarely look at their sites.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 7:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No.
But they are both beholden to the administration for their access, though, and are clearly being fed identical information — likely from the same sources.
That’s what I believe.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 8:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ditto.
I have no doubt Billy Gillispie is a hard man to play for. But the book on him from past players is that he is one of the most caring people they have ever met. Doesn’t really fit the profile.
by jbt36 on Mar 28, 2009 10:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Gillispie was that big of an ass......
Would Patterson have said this? (a couple week old article still, but it proves my point)
http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20090312/SPORTS03/903120484/1029
"We just say the truth: ‘We love Coach Gillispie; we know that he wants to continue on the tradition here of Kentucky basketball. Unfortunately, this year we’ve had not that good of a year in the SEC.’ "
Now, show me a QUOTE from a PERSON (not “sources” or our “people who are close w/ the program” bullshit) who says Gillispie was unnecessarily mean, abusive, etc. THEN I will think twice about it.
by uk1982 on Mar 29, 2009 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alan Cutler...
…(Vince says with a sheepish grin on his face)
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 29, 2009 2:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did Oliver Stone just walk through the door?
by btcoop71 on Mar 29, 2009 1:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha oh man...just had a thought
A movie about Gillispie called “G”. HA!
by uk1982 on Mar 29, 2009 2:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
When even some of the players are coming outand saying things
You could tell Meeks wasn’t happy. I will take meeks and his fathers words as truth and not speculation. The guy had serious problems and I’m surprised your still behind him Tru.
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 7:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Behind who?
I am just objecting to people drawing conclusions from rumors, and damn convenient rumors at that. I’ll take it all back as soon as the Herald-Leader writes and article detailing these offenses and people go on the record.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 8:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I will
say Mark Story has a peice up today rebuking rumors and talk about BG abusing the media. He said Pitino was much worse…….humm Forty, who was it that said that? Was it me? Wasn’t it you who said I was out of my mind for saying that? :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 28, 2009 8:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I Never Said That AT ALL
Pitino said the F word about every other sentence. He was terribly abusive (verbally) to some of his players.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 28, 2009 11:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not players forty, media......and yes you did say Billy G was worse then Pit
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 29, 2009 12:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I couldn't agree more
Show me NAMES of people, NAMES dammit, and then I’ll believe it.
by uk1982 on Mar 29, 2009 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
In addition
The jasper situation supports the speculations are true also.
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 7:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No.
It does not.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
TRU
I’ve watched you defend Billy to the end …. he’s gone man … it’s admirable of you but, to keep on defending him is insanity … I think Billy or anyone else with half a brain could see that he thought he was holding ALL of the cards and pushed his “advantage” until everyone was at the breaking point. Well, guess what it finally broke. That he made it to the end of the season is amazing, that these kids were able to win the NIT games they did is also a tribute to them…
by ukcris on Mar 28, 2009 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am not ...
… defending Gillipie. I am objecting to character assassination by rumor and innuendo.
It’s unethical, it’s unworthy of any group of people and by God, it isn’t right.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 29, 2009 6:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Orestes Meeks says
“…clearly, a lot of things happened behind the scenes that made it difficult for the kids to play basketball and focus on winning,”
I trust there will be more forthcoming … I trust what Jodies dad said … you could tell by Jodies’ performances as the season went on that something was wrong
by ukcris on Mar 29, 2009 8:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One Point Of View
But Mr. Meeks was unhappy with Gillispie all along, last year and this.
Because he said that, doesn’t make it so.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 29, 2009 8:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You have to also understand ...
… that you are hearing only one side of the story. Why is this so difficult for people to grasp?
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 29, 2009 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You can spin a rumour to fit any situation
and to support any end result you are trying to obtain.
by hoboat33 on Mar 28, 2009 9:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Coaches Poll?
Hey everybody, I created a poll to see what the majority of the fans actually thought of who the best fit would be? Right now, TF is winning, but it is still early. If someone you like isn’t on there, just tell me on here and I will add them.
KentuckyBasketballBlog.com
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 8:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Sorry
I wasn’t trying to show you up. We were posting at the same time.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 8:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Poll at LHL
22,664 votes as of 8:00 est
5998 — Calipari
5660 — Ford
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 8:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Ken
Have you read the article in GQ about “World Wide Wes”?
by oldcat70 on Mar 28, 2009 8:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As a matter of fact I have
Tru and I were talking the other day and I brought up WWW.
Frankly, Cal having the relationship he has with WWW makes me a bit uneasy.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 8:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
They are referring to an article that is linked on here
It is some guy that’s linked to a lot of sports teams, but no one really knows how he links himself with them…sounds a little shady.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 8:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've been trying to send ...
… this to you through email, but I’m experiencing some nasty weather and my email isn’t operating properly.
This is a GQ article from a couple of years ago that chronicles WWW’s exploits.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 28, 2009 8:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ken & kbb
Thanks for link. Read it. You are both correct. It should be a concern
for anyone thinking about hiring Calipari. kbb the article does indicate
that no one seems to know exactly what this guys connections are and that is the way he likes it.
A side note, WWWes is apparently buddies with Phil Knight who I will assume you know is the Godfather at the University of Oregon sports
department. We call U of O Nike U
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 9:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No one Knows...That's Exactly why it's so shady
I like Calipari as a coach and think that he could be great at UK, but at what cost? Of course, all of this is speculation.
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
By the way Phil Knight is the founder and owner of NIKE
He is a legend here in Eugene, he donates millions of dollars
for stadium upgrades, new basketball facility, new baseball facility, new library etc…however he controls sports hirings and firings. Word is you do not want to take him on.
by blue oregon on Mar 28, 2009 9:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey Ken..Thanks
That shows that most are split between Ford and Cal
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 8:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Ken
No prob, I actually didn’t know about that one?
by kbb on Mar 28, 2009 8:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
the jasper situation
supports that alot of things should have been handled differently. I bet derrick would agree
by danial on Mar 28, 2009 8:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No.
You are mistaken. Betting he would agree means nothing. He has not made any accusation against Gillispie, and Gillispie explicitly defended his decision to play Jasper just today in the press conference. Nobody has gainsaid him, not the trainers (who are not his employees) nor anyone else.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 28, 2009 8:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But
Jodie did say earlier this year that he was told he was using his injury as an excuse just as Jasper said.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 28, 2009 8:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't recall that.
Refresh my memory — where was that again?
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 29, 2009 6:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As someone in the medical field.
I can absolutely not imagine medical staff clearing Jasper if he were not ready to play. If the trainers deemed him unfit to play, Gillispie decided to go against their recommendations and Jasper acquiesced (by playing) then there are two that are culpable (Gillispie and Jasper).
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 28, 2009 8:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
as a former
athlete……….I hurt my ankle numerous times and the clearance was……if you can walk you are fine……
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 28, 2009 8:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs