Monday Morning: The Search Goes On for the Next Great Kentucky Men's Basketball Coach
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 8:14 AM EDT
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So this is officially day 3 of the 2009 Kentucky coaching search. Rumors are flying. Comments are being made everywhere. Nobody knows much. That is as it should be.
It won't be long, though, before some real news starts to be made. Athletics directors will begin answering "yes" when asked if they have been contacted by UK connections about the possibility of an interview with this coach or that. There will be actual news (not people reporting private aircraft flying from hither and yon to Lexington) about the progress of the coaching search for UK. We have been through this before, recently. We know how this works.
We also have a pretty good idea of who the top candidates for the job will be, although we really don't know who the administration favors and who they do not. I actually hope there will be more than one interview this time, but to be honest, I think that is a vain hope.
One would think a coaching search would be similar to a search for any other employee -- you line up qualified candidates, interview them, vet them as well as possible and make an offer -- but history tells us that's not how it works with coaches. The interview process tends to be nothing more than a formality before the hire, and interviewing more than one candidate these days seems like something only mid-majors do.
For my part, I actually don't have a preference for who is to be the next coach at UK. I do have a pecking order of sorts, one that I laid out in this earlier post. But as to whether I prefer Izzo over Calipari or Donovan or Jay Wright, I don't really care. They all have things to recommend them, they are all outstanding college basketball coaches who would bring a lot to Kentucky.
But as I said, I do have a pecking order. I am not a believer in hiring a young-up-and comer with single-digit years of coaching experience. We just did that, and it didn't work out. I think we need to learn the lesson implicit in that failure and resolve not to make the same mistake twice. So my preference this time is for experience, and there are a number of highly qualified candidates.
But if those don't work out, years of experience have to become less of an issue. Some may think it odd that UK can't just pick the coach it wants, offer him a huge salary and be guaranteed acceptance, but times have changed since the days of Adolph Rupp, or for that matter, even a young Rick Pitino. These days, coaches even at smaller or non-powerhouse programs can get all the media exposure they need to lure quality players to their program -- one only need look at Billy Donovan's success at Florida or Rick Barnes' success at Texas to see how that works. Back before the days of ESPN and hundreds of cable channels covering sports, this was much more difficult.
So when people tell you that great coaches won't be interested in UK because UK isn't what it once was, just scoff at their ignorance -- that isn't why. Coaching has become much more of a lifestyle choice now that it was only 25 years ago. Coaches can now stay in comfortable places, secure in the knowledge that they will be paid a salary competitive with what they could get at a national power and still have a shot at landing the next Kevin Durant. That's the way coaching works these days, and that's why Donovan and others have resisted UK's advances up until now. If today were even 1989 instead of 2009, things would be vastly different. In this way, coaching has become just like playing -- no longer must a recruit travel far from home to Kentucky, UCLA or North Carolina to get the exposure they need to be drafted at the next level.
When I think of UK getting a coach, I think about the qualities I would like to see in a UK coach:
- Comfortable with the media -- I think recent experience has taught us this is no longer optional.
- A relationship-builder on every level -- You can't just forge a relationship with the elites, or with the common man. You have to relate to everyone.
- A great recruiter -- I don't think this needs exposition. Great players make great teams.
- An ambassador for UK -- The ultimate downfall of our last coach, apparently. This is a necessity.
- Clean as a whistle -- This is UK, not IU pre-Sampson. We are not squeaky clean, and have had an unfortunate history with the NCAA. For years, we have been a good NCAA citizen. That must continue.
- A coach that at least looks conventional -- UK fans have very parochial attitudes about what basketball should look like. John Beline's strange schemes would not really be welcome here, nor Jim Boeheim's match-up zone.
- A coach that can understand and embrace Kentucky's fans -- Our last two coaches have had a dysfunctional relationship with the fan base. That needs to change. Everyone doesn't have to love whoever the new guy is, but we should not bring in a coach that will divide the fans into a bickering mob. We need a guy that almost everyone can agree is qualified at minimum, and has the capacity for winning over any detractors.
- A coach who can develop young men. UK wants to be known as a school that puts players in a position to succeed in life, either in basketball or in some other endeavor. No matter who we get as the head men's basketball coach, every player at UK will not be playing in the NBA or otherwise professionally. We need someone who can help our players graduate from college and succeed in life.
- A coach that will embrace and understand Kentucky's traditions -- He doesn't have to be born to them to learn, study, understand and most importantly, embrace them. Coaches at Kentucky, as recent experience has shown, can't just hope to come here and be a coach. He must be a press secretary, a salesman, a TV pitch man, a guidance counselor, a teacher, a fund-raiser, a community leader and many other roles.
- A coach who will win, and win right away. Kentucky has suffered through four consecutive un-Kentucky-like seasons. That must stop, and it must stop immediately. We have seen what happens when college sports programs take too long to get back on track -- they wander in the wilderness for years.
There are a number of good candidates who meet all these qualifications, and surely Mitch Barnhart can convince one of these good men to take on one of the most challenging and rewarding positions in all of sports -- that of Head Men's Basketball Coach at the University of Kentucky.
I would hope this search would be as thorough and detailed as possible while proceeding with all deliberate speed. We cannot afford another debacle like we just suffered through two or even five years hence, or there really will be long-term damage done to this great program. We don't need a quick fix, or a coach close to retirement. We need a man with at least ten good years left. Indiana hired the "quick fix," to their ruination.
Let's not relearn the lessons of the lessons of the recent, or even distant past. Let's get it right this time.
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Great list...
of qualifications – I only hope this time that the coaching committee, since it is not an army of one now, actually looks at the fellow in the interview/meeting straight into his eyes as they ask a similar set of questions and can see these things.
Calipari was my first pick last time and my first pick this time and I would be even more excited no matter who it is if they want to cement a legacy, embrace the job, and work again at climbing out of the hole we have dug.
My reservations with Calipari considering the job is that we are almost full on scholarships and a lot of our commitments just are not at the same skill level of his type of players. I’m just not sure if he could walk into a situation knowing that he is going to have a truncated roster for a few years.
They've...
been talking about it on Mike and Mike all morning. Greenberg questions why Calipari would make the jump for obvious reasons, but something that surprised me were Bilas’ comments. He said something like UK is one of the “plum” jobs in America and if he were Calipari he would already be there. He went on to say that one of the reasons would be that once you start conference play at Memphis you’re pretty much in a blackout with no televised games. Gottleib also thinks he’ll go.
Have ot disagree with you on one point Tru, I only want one interview, his.
the tv issue ...
is the biggest i think. memphis may make the Espn highlight reels, but nobody wants to watch them beat tulsa by 30. Hell, do Memphis fans want to watch them beat Tulsa?
Calipari must be the right choice.....
because so many folks are desperate to talk him out of the UK job. They must be scared to death of what he would bring to Lexington.
Likewise
We can’t listen to who Pitino wants us to get. He just wants to beat us soundly for the next few years until he retires because we won’t give him the job.
Still, I like Pitino though, I would take him after Calipari and Izzo. (Izzo gets the edge because he upset him in the NCAAs.)
Izzo is an NCAA Tournament Monster.
I am not sure ....
the bickering will stop short of a national championship. Some folks get so emotionally tied up to one stance they will not budge. Just think of those who have actually wish losses on UK so the coach would be fired and those that hope players leave and recruits refuse to enroll. Rupp had teams with 3,4, and even, I think, 5 All-SEC players and still lost conference games. He would no doubt have been ripped online had that been available. Joe B is still criticized for not letting the guards shoot more. Had he done so, the same ones would say he was not using his big men enough, and so it goes.
memphis radio
at 8:10 cdt. the “dean” of talk radio is discussing calipari:
http://www.sports56whbq.com/listen.php
hit the listen to space to the right
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 9:12 AM EDT reply actions
quoting LHL articles today
george lapides is the talk show host, been doing it for 38 years. i do not always agree with him, but he knows his stuff
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 9:16 AM EDT up reply actions
the consensus from what i have heard
is that Cal should at least talk to UK – he has earned that much.
most think he has a good thing here and will not leave – but they are concerned.
However, this flirtation with other jobs occurs almost every year and Cal plays the media very well – curious how he is in the midst of negotiating a raise AND contract extension.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions
but I think
he hasn’t actually flown to other cities before has he?
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
but the key here is
Has he made a public statement at all concerning talking to UK, etc? If not, that speaks VOLUMES to me….don’t know about anyone else.
The fanbase...
has not been united since Pitino left. A large group never wanted Tubby, just as a large group never wanted Coach Gillispie. And some in both groups have been actively hoping UK would fall on its face.
I started a thread about the fractured fanbase the other day. Oscar Combs had some interesting things to say about the subject prior to the Notre Dame game. It’s a good bet that we will never succeed until at least 90% of the fans get behind a coach here. And I don’t know if that will ever happen again.
this is the material
used to convince the sports world that UK is the worst job in sports.
You say “A large group never wanted Tubby, just as a large group never wanted Coach Gillispie. And some in both groups have been actively hoping UK would fall on its face.”
….which insinuates that a substantially large portion of UK fans root for UK coaches to fail. Do you have any real evidence of that? (and I would say that 5000 people would not be “substantially large.”)
scholarships
If Cal does come and say, the #1 recruit in the country also wants to come – wouldn’t you almost HAVE to make room for Wall on the roster?
The fan base would love Cal – because we would win, win all the time.
waiting on a new banner being raised into the rafters of Rupp..........
He makes me nervous
He may be a great coach, and he may come to UK and run a clean program, but his past leaves something to be desired when it comes to NCAA violations.
he also ...
didn’t do anything wrong (at UMass). It was Camby who accepted money from a third party. Calipari may have been at fault for not doing enough to prevent it, but he didn’t really do anything wrong.
Didn't 'really' do anything wrong
I like that. And he can adopt it at UK, as long as he is winning…‘I didn’t REALLY do anything wrong…not REALLY
Guys, forget about the days when Kentucky got the best in state players, and get ready for one-and-done thugs, tattoos, player arrests, etc…. but, as long as we win…………
best in state players
I get tired of UK fans who in one breath say they want to recruit local talent and in the very same breath say they want to compete nationally.
That’s not how it works unless your “in state” talent is New York, California, or Michigan/Illinois.
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
Not just UMASS
There are constant rumors of wrongdoing at Memphis.
I’m not saying he would do that here, just saying I’m aprehensive about him.
How many times have you posted that link? Sheesh.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
I wouldn't worry about the scholarship situation right now
It’s possible that players will transfer and we have no idea what is going to happen with Orton, Hood and Vilarino. That may decide that want to get released from their LOI. Let’s wait and see who the coach is first. IF it’s Cal, then I’m sure he will find a way to make it work if John Wall wants to come. You don’t say no to the number one point guard in the nation.
GBB!!!
Tru
if Cal comes should we give him three to four years like some thought abut BG…………or is that for a lower tiered coach? I was suprised by your win now statement.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Im not true
but the way I look at it, if UK fires another coach 2 years from now, the media would crucify us beyond what the program could withstand, that is exactly why this hire has to be a HR
waiting on a new banner being raised into the rafters of Rupp..........
by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 30, 2009 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions
I
agree with you ………..if the wins are not there then I don’t think anyone would be fired……but the true judgement is what I was talking about………US the FANS!
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
We should give any coach 3-4 years.
But we need one that will win right away. Not the NCAA championship, but certainly more than 18 games.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
**** BREAKING NEWS*****
Hey guys, just heard Andy Katz on Mike and Mike……..said Cal met with UK and is going to meet with Memphis today and see what they will counter and then decide.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Raise
I can easily see Calipari doing this to get a raise. Credible. But he also might be interested.
ding ding ...
i think we have a winner. best comment so far.
my immediate reaction was … looks like calipari is getting a raise.
yep
forgot to mention that part :). Oge you up? You were up early :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
OH my
Greene thinks Pitino is going to Arizona
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
I don't see Pitino going anywhere
I’m not sure how I feel about Calipari, but Kentucky needs a coach of his stature to avoid making this coaching search the laughing stock of the entire country.
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
Disagree
I could see him leaving this year, he ain’t going to win a title in Louisville, especially if he couldn’t do it with this team. Watch out Arizona! Not to mention, he will always be second fiddle in Kentucky to UK, and he can’t like that with his tremendous ego.
If they are going to offer him...
it better a HUGE offer. Five million or better if they are gonna have a shot. Might have to go higher than that. I understand he’s makinjg $4 million currently.
I suggest we will find out a lot about how much the administration is committed to basketball through this process.
nonsense ...
as of april of last year he makes 2.35 million annually.
I have to think the ancillary income opportunities are greater at UK
Marketing, speaking engagements, shoe contracts, etc. Not to mention the potential book deal after he leads us to back-to-back titles. . .
I don’t know this for a fact, but that seems logical, such that the “salary” may not need to beat his existing salary by much to make it worthwhile.
The King is dead! Who is the King?
Lute
Lute Olsen used the open UK job in 1989 to grab cash from Zona. Cal could do the same.
He is losing a lot this year, though, and his frosh class might be more inclined to play SEC ball than CUSA ball. I think Xavier Henry would stay put, as his bro plays at Memphis, but Cousins and potentially Wall are unsigned.
Also, Liggins was rumored to be a Memphis lean before choosing UK. You’d have to think he’s stick around for that.
What about Orton? Does he want to play in a running style?
I’m nervous as hell, and I think there’s still a good shot we don’t get Calipari, for lots of reasons.
The Heart & Mind of the Big Blue Nation ...
liggins
has something about him…..maybe a different coach can bring it out of him,he has some pretty good talent and if bcg was a prick,maybe that is all his problem was…it should be interesting to see how several players compete next year.
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
yep
and Cal has an attitude of “let the players play”.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
somebody
made the comment after the VMI loss that certain players seem to play with one on the court and one on the bench,and watching the rest of the season that made sense,you can’t contribute if you fear one mistake will get you yanked from a ballgame!
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
I don't see us getting Orton and Cousins, but 1 of those 2 definitely.
Wall has already taken 2 visits to UK and Cousins has been on the UK campus too.
Can you imagine this starting lineup?
G Wall
G Meeks
F Miller
F Cousins
F Patterson
GBB!!!
I know, but coaches have a way of being creative and I don't see Cal...
…… telling them no if they want to come.
GBB!!!
I
agree with you JL. Don’t worry Kentucky fans if he jerks us around…..I will drive to Memphis and smack him for all of yall :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
losing a lot
BUT if he could bring some of his freshman or Wall and hang on to Orton Pat and Jodie he would be right back where he should be next season at Memphis IMO.
DEEETROIT BASKETBALLL!!!
Great List of Criteria
I would add: Respect the AD. Or at least pretend to.
What does the "thought" of Calipari coming to UK do...?
Billy Donovan is shaking in his gator boots and will not leave his bat cave…
Bruce Pearl has moved in with Pat Summit and ask her to regularly shave his back..
Rick Pitino has flown to Arizona because he’s scared to death… (this may actually happen)…
Coach K. has already begun taking the best players from smaller schools (Seth Curry)…
just for fun folks… lol
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 30, 2009 10:04 AM EDT reply actions 1 recs
*****MORE BREAKING NEWS*********
Just heard from a friend in Memphis………on the radio heard that UK offered 30 Million over five years……….Fed Ex dude is going to meet with him to see what they can do! Andy is saying that he feels that he all but going to UK.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Oh….my….god…
‘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
I just
IMd John Clay on facebook……just said he got an offer…..no money mentioned officially
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
I shoulda been a coach
The only thing stopping me was lack of knowledge about how to recruit, coach, or play basketball. I was THIS close!
Crane...
… and yet, how far could the Crane have gotten you? We’ll never know.
The Heart & Mind of the Big Blue Nation ...
WOW
I am so surpised that no one saw his plane in Lexington last night :). Hey if anyone wants to know……ESPN 2 is about to show SKip and the other lady debating about whether or not Cal should go to UK!
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Skip D**kless
Probaby will say he shouldn’t go…….since he hates all things UK and is the most annoying person on ESPN.
The crane shot is unstoppable, it's true
If your opponents are your teenage sons.
well
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=4026848
Tried to post as a link.
Great Link on Calipari
That’s exciting news on Calipari. Thanks for the link olddoc.
Tenken, did you really hear 30 mil for 5 years? Holy Moley! Unreal!
I heard from a friend who heard it on the radio..so take it for what its worth
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
OK
yall , I am just surfing around and I am thinking that I am starting to get on board with this. LOL.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
All the rumors about Billy G were true last week....
So we can presume these are, as well.
Congratulations all around!!
thisi is different
I don’t post anything unless its on a media source……a trusted media source and George L. is a trusted media sourse.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Correct.
When it’s on the radio, especially from a reporter, who says he spoke to the AD personally, it is not a rumor.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Source: Calipari meets with players, hints at departure
I don't know
I think Sandy Bell will be attached at his hip.
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
first things first
first: get the right guy
second: parade
Step 1: Get the coach
Step 2: ?
Step 3: profit parade
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
I don't understand
Has Cal ever been in trouble? Or is this all inuendo? I know about Camby and that wasn’t Cal’s fault. I’m just curious why people think he will get us in trouble.
Its the old addage of Birds of a Feather
There’s been rumors and suspicion floating around Memphis for the last several years about stringers for agents and hiring of family members, etc. As you say, he’s never been “convicted” of anything.
Another major concern for many people is the kind of student athlete he brings to the fold. His graduation rate is piss poor.
Ultimately, the man wins games, has never actually been in trouble, and can handle the media. I think the University will keep a close eye on compliance. I’m okay with the hire.
We need a name like his to keep us from getting slammed in the national media over the Gillispie firing.
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
I think UK's academic standards are more rigorous for student athletes than are Memphis'.
Players would still have to qualify.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
And let's be honest....
Graduation rates for any good program should go down after the NBA made people come to college for one year, because most of the people leaving after one year wouldn’t have came in the first place if they didn’t have to…….they leave/don’t graduate because they’re all-americans, nothing wrong with that in my opinion.
I agree
No one makes a fuss if a tennis phenom goes pro when she’s 15, but it’s supposed to be a great tragedy if a kid goes to the NBA at 18. I strongly suspect it has more to do with the NCAA not making money off of them than any real concern about the young men’s well-being.
Let's not start the rumor mill
Again. Calipari hasn’t been proven of anything. He’s got the personality to fit UK and every kid in the country wants to play for him. Rumors basically ran Billy G off, who has been about the only class act in this whole situation. Calipari would make me happy, Ford, not so much. Not for another decade.
These are not rumors.
Calipari’s situation is well documented and has been reported on extensively.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions
There are a thousand links around here. Read the thread and you will find them.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Typical UK
Always start with the negative and work from there. All I know is fans from other schools I’ve talked to are shaking at the thought of us getting Calipari. Until I see him on probation or something actually substantial, I will agree with them. I just wish they could move the university outside of Lexington, too many busy bodies.
So I haven't read through all the threads from the weekend...
What does Grasslands say the latest from the golf course is about Billy Donovan?!!?
LOL
And will he name his “source” now? ;-)
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
I am kinda curious about that too.. but I'm afriad to make "stupid" comments.
As you can see, some in UK has low threshold for the word “stupid comments”.
Leverage
I will not believe anyone but Travis Ford is the UK coach until said guy is standing at the podium with the blue and white UK logo on him.
We do this dance every time. We are the biggest leverage-helper in the country.
The Heart & Mind of the Big Blue Nation ...
No kidding.
We should get a commission for just mentioning somebody as a possible HC here. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions
Graduation rates.... some good info on Cal
But, the rise of Tiger basketball is more than wins and losses in the Calipari era. The program’s bounce back is also evident in the graduation of its student-athletes, the improvement of facilities and the flocking of fans to support their Tigers.
Much like he did at UMass when his players graduated at nearly 80 percent, Calipari is doing the same at Memphis. Fifteen of the last 18 seniors that have come through the Tiger program have earned their bachelor’s degrees. All three 2008-09 seniors — Antonio Anderson, Robert Dozier and Chance McGrady — are on schedule to graduate, and junior Shawn Taggart could graduate following the 2009 spring semester. Those graduates under Calipari have their cap-and-gown photographs hanging in the men’s basketball office.
http://gotigersgo.cstv.com/sports/m-baskbl/mtt/calipari_john00.html
GBB!!!
A little misleading
Fifteen of the last 18 seniors that have come through the Tiger program have earned their bachelor’s degrees.
Many of the players never make it to their senior year.
But I digress… as I said above, I think UK’s compliance office would have to know what they’re getting into and would watch the program like a hawk.
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
Angst
If this site gets credit for clicking on…I have contributed a fortune since Thursday. I can’t stand not looking …so I come to see if ASOB has a scoop. I also have enjoyed the real information in the chatter. I just read the LONG article from
For your reading pleasure. Calipari’s associates.
http://men.style.com/gq/features/landing?id=content_5735
While long I truly recommend this as an insight into Cal at Memphis. The Wesley character sounds like a kingmaker…and even more someone who will not go away. That could be trouble…if he follows Cal. I have never been a Cal fan. His graduation rate even with NBA activity speaks for itself.
I think the problem of a great guy (Tubby) and a slick guy (Pitino) in one is the issue. The overall program and likely the student relationships with the team was good with both for very different reasons. I have been concerned with the stories of the player treatment and relationships with BCG. If true I wonder how much this effected the play and performance of the team? I have been concerned for weeks that somehow Jodie was not achieving even his own goals. I wonder if at some level the team did not want an NIT trophy because that would have cemented BCG at KY. I don’t mean they deliberately failed but if this other is true on any level the atmosphere was polluted.
I am an old Blue fan. I have the beige Philco radio (with tubes) that I first used to listen to Caywood on the air. That voice is always with me as I watch this team play. I have been forever pleased to wear my blue. I cannot tell you how much I have enjoyed games and tournaments wearing Kentucky Blue. On the elevators. In the hotels. On the streets for tournaments. In the restaurants and in the stands. What joy I have experienced, winning and losing. I have traveled many miles to enjoy those days.
That is what I want a coach to bring back to the BBN.
I'm so sick of seeing that damn article linked.
I remember reading it when it was originally published. It’s GQ for god’s sake. I like the publication, but I don’t turn to it for insights into the recruiting world.
That article has seriously been linked to at least 20 times since Friday morning. We get it.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
Breaking news from Memphis Newspaper
BREAKING NEWS: Tigers coach John Calipari met with his players this morning and hinted he’s leaving for Kentucky, according to a source
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/mar/30/source-calipari-meets-players-hints-departure/
I'm giddy
About the prospect of Cal coming here. All the “unsavory” stuff is of course a concern, but I have faith that Sandy Bell et al. will keep him on the straight and narrow (to the extent he needs it).
Please make this happen. . .
The King is dead! Who is the King?
Sandy Bell is really, really good and I'm sure she has looked into everything....
…… Very, very thoroughly.
UK offered him the job…. that indicates that UK is comfortable that there are no problems or issues.
GBB!!!
Heh.
Don’t make me laugh. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions
Obviously,
given our sterling track record of hiring coaches, they’ve done every bit of due diligence.
There were and have never been any accusations against
Gillispie for recruiting or any other vioalations. Why wouldn’t Mitch have been comfortable hiring Gillipsie?
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
MEMPHIS RADIO LINK
here is the link to memphis sportstalk – i will have to say, this time Cal is either serious about leaving or taking the “i need a raise” game to a higher level….
still do not believe he will leave…
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 11:46 AM EDT reply actions
I think we're REEEEAL close here gang.
The article posted by OGETARTS said Calipari’s departure is “not definite”, but after a short meeting Calipari had with the team, the Memphis players are “convinced” he’s leaving. I wonder how far Memphis is willing to go if this all comes down to $$$? 30 mil?
lol
that is one of my favorite’s — he said it at the start of the sweet 16
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions
I like the news I'm seeing,
but as others have said, I’m not biting completely until I see him in UK blue and white.’
I’m guessing Memphis will offer him mega-$$$ too.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
More NEWS
Geoff Calkins: What is Calipari willing to risk to go to Kentucky?
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/mar/30/geoff-calkins-what-calipari-willing-risk-go-kentuc/
This is awesome!
If we can land him, UK will be back in NO TIME! Memphis will offer him big money as well, but I think at this point it’s all about prestige. He wants to coach at the winningest program in the nation. You know, these big time coaches have big time ego’s and I think he is just going to make the jump. We will welcome you Coach Cal!
This is big time money we are talking here, I mean NBA kind of cash! GO BIG BLUE!
Where is Tru and Forty?
What are you guys hearing? Anything new?
Nothing that you aren't hearing.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions
How Would I Hear Anything?
Nobody in Chicago from UK.
I can categorically state that neither Jerry Wainwright of DEPaul nor Bill Carmody of Northwestern will be considered by UK.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 30, 2009 1:26 PM EDT up reply actions
That's a comforting thought, actually.
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
Forty, I saw a rumor that Cal was in Chicago over the weekend
You mean you weren’t right there ?? :)
best UK sports site I've seen
I heard about this site 3 weeks ago, been coming here nightly ever since.
Great articles, great fans, very enjoyable.
Go Cats
Welcome.
Glad to have you with us.
Thanks for reading.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions
Same here Bluehound. I LOVE IT!
Great stuff here and I love mingling with all of the other Cat fans across the nation.
Sleazeball
Something about Calipari has always made my skin crawl just a bit. Kinda seemed like a sleaze ball to me. Not that I have anything on which to found this opinion, just a feeling. That being said, nothing excites me more than the prospect of calling him my/our sleaze ball, haha. I really do think he would turn us around in a year maybe two. Would be surprised if it didn’t happen that fast.
Now that I think about it, Pitino kinda did/does give me that same skin-crawly feeling. I think it’s probably anyone with their style from the Northeast (not sure where Calipari is from.) Regardless, I don’t mind having that Pitino-esque feeling when I’m talking about our prospective new coach.
God wouldn’t Calipari coming to UK send the media into a frenzy, and finally a good one. Their opinions of UK’s future would turn 180 degrees in a split second. Come on Cal……
Give me a tin roof, front porch and a gravel road. Go Cats and Go 'Canes!
by Kentucky 'Cane on Mar 30, 2009 12:21 PM EDT reply actions
Memphis radio station ...
… is examining possible replacements for Calipari at this moment.
http://www.sports56whbq.com/listen.php
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Mike Anderson
should get the job.
questions is does he go from BCS to not BCS conference….
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Just a thought for fun
Cal > UK
Pitino > Arizona
BCG > UL
just kiddin’
A guy called in and said ...
… that he spoke to the AD at Memphis. There has been an offer, of 4-4.5 million range with incentives that could take it up to 6 million.
George Lepitus [sp?] was the guy’s name, also said RC Johnson (Memphis AD) thinks he will not be the Memphis coach at the end of today.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Lapides has been doing talk radio for 38 years
he is the most legit on the station.
RC Johnson has always been upbeat that a deal could be worked out to keep Cal at Memphis in the past – i find that telling.
clearly the hard court press is on to get him to uk – we will see…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions
well
they said on ESPN……Fred will get involved. But honestly I don’t think its about the money. I am thinking its real yall. Lapides is the BEST sports reporter there is……kinda deadpan but THE BEST.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
for non memphis people
Fred is Fred Smith, founder of Fedex – thats what uk is up against…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions
However,
FexEx has been laying a lot of people off of late, espesically in Memphis. It would sure look terrible if they got involved in this.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
izzo?
i really really want calipari, but do u think if izzo was offered the job he would take it, bc that guy is an amazing coach. i guess what im trying to say is that i hope we can get the best coach that is willing 2 take the job.
another question, what is the probability of cal’s amazing recruiting class following him if he comes to uk?
Unknown.
Just unknown. The unsigned recruits may come, if there are scholarships available, which there are not. It depends upon what Orton, Hood, GJ Villarino and Tucker do.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions
Has Tucker signed?
I thought he had not. If not, I doubt Calipari would be interested if Wall was wanting to come.
the REAL fake Mr. Bob Dobalina
Formerly known as "senowen"
Er.
I mean I doubt Calipari would be interested in Tucker….
the REAL fake Mr. Bob Dobalina
Formerly known as "senowen"
No.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
i would trade all 4 for
Wall and Cousens (sp?)
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
I really don't think that will happen, honestly.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions
i do not either but
we seem to win either way. i do think wall would be key
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
The #1 player in any class ...
… usually is.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Cousins isn't signed yet......am I correct on this. I wasn't for sure
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Yes.
But it’s doubtful he would want to come if Orton comes. They essentially play the same spot. Plus, we simply don’t have a scholarship available.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions
correct, but Wall is better than the #1 player
he’s the #1 PG
If the Memphis AD is really saying that
then it looks great for UK. I just can’t see Calipari turning down this kind of money for a HC position at UK. Like I said before, all big time coaches have big time ego’s and this may stroke his ego perfectly. This just goes to show that UK is recognizing that it can’t fail in this next hire and they are going for the jugular! Looks like there is a chance we may have a GREAT coach by the end of the day! Lets wait and see.
was orton pursued by memphis at any point? bc i really dont want to lose him, the others i could probably deal with though we do need villarano bc hes a pg, but u never know if wall would be willing to come
Nope.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions
That LOI ...
… has been signed. It won’t be undone.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh, believe me I know.
I know. Oh how I know. He ain’t goin’ nowhere else. That is for sure.
the REAL fake Mr. Bob Dobalina
Formerly known as "senowen"
we will be fine.........there are things I don't like about him but his recruiting is awesome
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Wall most likely a "one and done"
but we may need that right now to get us on the right track.
Imagine Wall and Meeks and Patterson: WOW!
I read
the article where the player stated that Calipari said UK was the Notre Dame of College Basketball, doesn’t anyone else think that’s a pretty negative analogy?
No, he's talking about tradition I would think.
Probably a great analogy as far as that is concerned.
Cal is a strong Catholic
who grew up in the hey day of Notre Dame football – or at least before it has lost all its lustre
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions
You beat me to it.........for alot of people Notre Dame IS football
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
it can be positive or negative
Depending on context.
But if the Memphis players sincerely said they thought Cal was going to leave to take the job, that would suggest “Notre Dame” is a positive thing, yes?
I am going to watch Memphis news at 12:00...guarntee its lead will be Cal
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Be interesting
to see how much coaching salaries increase now. Either way, Calipari will be making a bundle.
Almost certainly ...
… the highest paid in the land.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:45 PM EDT up reply actions
yep..how in the world is Uk gonna afford this is my question
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
That's ...
… a problem for Mitch Barnhart. Not me. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions
Calipari vs. Pitino : Can you say HUGE RIVALRY!
UK vs. Louisville will be up there with the Duke/Carolina, Ohio St/Michigan, Auburn/Alabama. THAT WOULD BE GREAT!
No word yet, although Cal said to have "strongly hinted" he was taking the job to his players.
Just reported on Memphis radio.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Cites the Commercial-Appeal article.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions
Listening now
Hehe, I bet their ratings are the best they have ever been today :)
we will wait for WHAS to break the news :)
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions
Guy on Memphis Radio
Said Calipari needs to think about Billy running down the hall from the cameraman. Also said he supports Calipari and the team. They are happy he has been here 9 years and one announcer said he does NOT think he will leave.
If he needs someone to wipe out Cutler
I’m sure there will be many volunteers. . .
The King is dead! Who is the King?
Memphis fans ...
… calling in are being pretty classy about the possibility of Calipari leaving.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Bozich
Blog has some info …
"In fact, I’ve heard that the nation’s third-ranked recruit, Xavier Henry, a 6-6 forward from Oklahoma City, might ask for a release from his letter of intent with Memphis so he can also enroll at UK.
Calipari is also expected to bring his entire coaching staff, too — if he makes the move to UK."
The Heart & Mind of the Big Blue Nation ...
Hard to figure ..
… how we would make room for those players.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions
That's...
… what i’m sitting here trying to figure out. Jared Carter leaves, there’s one. Then there’s the Donald Williams 1 yr scholarship freeing up, that’s two. I doubt that Meeks goes to the draft, there’s a better chance that Patterson does (only b/c he’s higher on the draft board), but they possibly go, which would make 4 open (which is just enough for the recruits we have now). There might be some other guys transfer. I guess we’ll see.
ok....
if Cal is the guy….and we know what to expect….how much is this guy gonna cost us??
Are we talking 3-3.5 mil per yr….?….Maybe a 10 yr contract?
Remember, were having fun now!!!
Heh.
Yeah, I saw that too, and that could be so if you figure in the incentives.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
See above.
The figure I have heard is 4-4.5 million plus incentives for winning championships.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Glenn Logan on Mar 30, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Memphis is about to show the latest update
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Edge of seat...not fingernails
Hair falling out, if he turns us down, I am bald in one day :)
Interesting read...
KU guys talking about how this will shake up recruiting:
http://uponfurtherreview.kansascity.com/?q=node/811
BTW
Discusses the fact that KU is only 18 wins behind UK on the all tie list…I did’nt realize they were that close. Anyway, He doesn’t want Cal2UK to happen because it kills their chances of catching us. Love that…..could do without the limping baby antelope comparison though :)
we are not a limping baby antelope
we are an antelope in the middle of the herd that looks unremarkable
RC from Memphis
Memphis has just given permision to Kentucky basketball to talk to Cal
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
I love how Bozich just drops his name
As if it is some random friend, not “Worldwide Wes”
The King is dead! Who is the King?
"Monumental?"
Could that be anything besides him coming to UK? I mean surely a new contract at Memphis wouldn’t warrant “monumental”…
Monumental...
probably equals one of the biggest college basketball contracts ever! This is gonna be interesting!
WREG
in Memphis just about repeated everything said above….nothing new!! Did repeat that George L from Memphis was told that Cal would most likely NOT be the Memphis coach.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Crawford ...
… just put up this take. I think he nails it.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
agree
it is well written. that is why i am not concerned over the character issue.
again, it is the x and o in the SEC. but am about to relent on that.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 1:13 PM EDT up reply actions
sandy bell will keep him check.....she has all these years and she will continue to do so or Cal will find himself out sooner then BG
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
hmmm, imagine the BBN reaction
if Cal wins big (Final Four) and UK says “okay, now let’s fire him”
That sums up my feelings pretty well
Good, thoughtful writeup by Crawford.
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
Dick Gabriel ...
… Cal was second choice. Donovan first.
Heard last week Cal was interested. Says it was a challenge Cal would like to try.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
1500 Cat Fans on Facebook going after Calipari?
“Online, more than 1,500 people have joined a Facebook group entitled "Bring John Calipari to UK.” It is one of four groups on the site dedicated to luring him to Rupp Arena."
http://www.wmcstations.com/global/story.asp?s=10094711
Don’t spend much time at Facebook, sure didn’t know this was going on.
Numbers:
4.5 with extra incentives as high as 7 million.
Hot topic is whether or not they’ll have to pay all 6m to Gillispie.
Tickets likely to go up.
Will make or break Barnhart.
This is still Gabriel.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
On the same report...
Kennedy has been shot!!!
What was
interesting on here was that its stated that UofM did not give permission to Kentucky but I saw with my own eyes……the sports information director give WREG’s sports guy a paper which he read and it said……..Memphis gives permission to UK to speak to CAL
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
well they
didn’t before they did, then the did after they didn’t. LOL
Can we please start on a good foot with Cal if he comes
Some have asked us to let the Billy rumors go but now some of the same people are pulling up rumors on Cal. I am not totally thrilled witht thsi hire but I tell you what I CANNOT take people already starting stuff against someone who isn’t here yet.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Just posted as a FanShot
Jodie has been named a 2nd team AP All-American.
Well deserved.
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
Good for Jodie and much, much deserved!
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
WHAT..???
Dick just said we could have had Izzo in 2007, but Mitch said “No, it’s Billy G.”…
Mitch….. YOU’RE FIRED….
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
If only it was that easy :). Also I don't take verbatim from a guy who didn't even know that we beat Nova two years ago
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
I'll pass that along to the tech guys.
They’ll be pleased. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Advantage of being an SBN site
A larger network, run by people who know what they are doing.
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
From Rick Bozich's blog
One more thing I’ve heard today as the word intensifies that Memphis coach John Calipari will be the next coach at Kentucky.
Cal won’t be the only person coming to Lexington.
Don’t be surprised if Cal signs John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins not long after he gets to UK.
Wall is a guard from Raleigh, N.C., considered the top prospect in the nation by rivals.com. Cousins, a 6-9 forward from Mobile, Ala., is ranked second by rivals. Wall is uncommitted. Cousins gave an oral commitment to Memphis but has not signed a letter of intent.
http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/bozich/blog.html
GBB!!!
So basketball will join baseball as UK squads with 25 man rosters?
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
Yeah.
Not gonna happen. He may bring one to replace Orton, who I think is likely to go elsewhere.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
is there any reason to think Orton would not want to play for Cal?
other than Cousins coming along? Or is it that you think Cousins will come along?
He talking about us listening ...
…and his site may crash… lol Funny
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
Got to love the internet...!!
…You can listen to just about any radio station in the land, most for free…!
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
CJ Henry
from Memphis told Glen Carver from WREG that Cal met with the players and that he told them that he was mulling over the job offer. Either he is a class act or a real pig for doing that to his players.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
I would say class act.
He brought these players in and is keeping them posted. I think it is great.
I think its classy too...
its great too….you know he was letting them know things instead of making them wait
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
If you are Cal, how could you not come?
The money, the prestige, the challenge, the stroking of the ego? If you are want to be anyone in the world of college basketball, to be remembered fondly for all time by a fan base, you HAVE to take this chance.
In fact, I don’t see why anyone would turn us down…but maybe I have my Big Blue Blinders on.
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
Just clicked on TCP
Over 30,000 on there…….this is nuts.
Don’t even bother trying KSR. More that 25 peole on there and it crashes.
Statement from Memphis AD
From the Commercial Appeal
University of Memphis athletic director R.C. Johnson released a statement that said he had been contacted by Kentucky AD Mitch Barnhardt and has granted Barnhardt permission to talk to Calipari about the coaching vacancy.
“We have given Kentucky permission to talk with John (Calipari) about their position,” Johnson said in the statement. “However, I will tell you that we are elated with the job John has done as our head coach and we will do everything in our power to retain his services at Memphis.”
GBB!!!
It may all come down to what the wifey says...?
…Colin Cowherd said that hi morning… FWIW
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
It's cowherd
So it’s not worth much
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
OK
BREAKING NEWS:
Kentucky has given him 24 hours to mull over the offer per WMCTV in Memohis
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Call Now!
If you are one of our next 20 callers we’ll throw in this booklight absolutely free!
Memphis
has just stated that they WILL DO everything they can to keep Cal……Memphis people are going nuts…….people are really freaking out
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
And they will too. With FedEx backing them, they can pay some $$.
The auction has officially begun!
If it's an auction ...
… we will lose. It’s that simple.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Exactly. Not going to be pretty.
Coach Cal will be extremely rich either way though!
rumbling is that Cal is serious -
does not mean he will come, but it is not just the annual spring dance he does to get more money.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 1:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Cal would get more money if he just asked.
Don’t think he would have come to extremes such as this if he were not serious.
maybe he would, but that is not how he operates
he had UM convinced he was going to NC state a couple of years ago, just to get RC (the memphis AD) to the table.
Cal loves the chase and the game as much as the end
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't
think he has ever met with the players and that is what some are very concerned about…….I do have to say I have alot of Memhis friends and they are being very classy about this…..comments like “I hope he brings them back to glory” or “Thanks for the memories coach, go on and do your thing”. Just astounding to me
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
never met with the players in his past spring dances
good point, had not thought about that…
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 1:43 PM EDT up reply actions
Amazing Memphis fans
I was listening to the radio stream and every caller was upset, but wished Calipari the best. They thanked him for an incredible job and are showcasing NOTHING BUT CLASS.
Incredible people down there. Wish some of us could take a lesson (but that’s why I come to ASoB and not Cats Pause!)
Don't think it's about money
Memphis is no UK, never will be while they’re in CUSA. If it’s all about the money, they can keep him.
Exactly.
We cannot win a money race with Memphis.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Oh Great ..ALan Cutler is on Memphis news right now talking to the media as I write this
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Heh.
As long as we keep him away from Calpari.
Don’t want him chasing the guy into buildings. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
I dont think it's all about the money....
its the challenge of coaching in a Conference that’s NOT C-USA. Tulsa and Houston vs. Florida and LSU? NO CONTEST!
Cal...
I’ve read through all these comments and while at first I wasn’t comfortable w/ Cal and his “relationships”, fact is that is how the game is played today. D1 basketball is AAU/Coaches and the relationships with the shoe companies and the coaches…this is exactly what Tubby wouldn’t get involved with. Facts are that Cal gets great players, has taken two non- BCS schools to the Final Four. He has never been sighted nor on probation…BCG was getting us back in the game and I think Cal can get us there quicker…UK is either in the game or not…we’re on the outside looking in, right now and simply not top of mind for today’s top talent…
OK, so I've been thinking about Calipari
So. These are my thoughts.
Calipari is an elite coach, who has never coached at an elite college bball program.
Not too many times does an elite coach like Calipari get a chance to coach at an elite school like UK, while they are in rebuild mode. I think this is an opportunity of a LIFETIME for ANY coach, especially an elite one such as Calipari. The things he could accomplish here would be absolutely phenomenal, things he has never done before.
The whole money issue aside, I think he’d be all about coming here (IMHO)
think about it...
Everything calipary\i wants with a program is already here. Money will not be an issue i don’t think..we pay well i think billy g can attest to that unfortunetly. He can bring big time players for a progam that gets national attention. Sounds like a good deal to me. then again, i know very little about coaching.
I must get back to work now.
I will be out for a while. I’ll check back in later, I’ll probably have to open another thread. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Calipari's Song
Put on my UK blue
And I boarded the plane
Touched down in the land of the Big Blue
In the middle of the pouring rain
Adolp Rupp — won’t you look down over me
Yeah I got a first class ticket
But I’m as blue as a boy can be
Then I’m walking from Memphis
Walking with my on Bluegrass till
Walking from Memphis
Yes I really feel the way I feel
lyrics from
Marc Cohn – Walking In Memphis
Draw of UK
I think it’s also about the possibility of the glory if he is able to restore the program. UK fans can be brutal but we also have a tendancy to worship.
If he can bring the program back to the top no fan base could stroke his ego better.
Don't you think
He would get more money with endorsements in Kentucky? He sure would be better on the Kroger commercials than Billy G talking about the liquor specials(just kidding, miss ya already billy g)
President Obama Told Mitch To Far Billy?
Just kidding!!!
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 30, 2009 1:47 PM EDT up reply actions
In sorrow
Trying to figure out how I feel about the Billy G departure. I’m excited about Calipari, still kind of down about Billy G though.
24 hours to mull over the offer..?
…I have a hard time believing this is true… It may be what Cal told someone so He could soften the blown, but why would UK give him a window when we also want to talk with Izzo..?
May be true, but I doubt it…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
Because if we can land Cal
we don’t have to wait another week to talk to Izzo.
don't know
it was just on the ticker on WMCTV
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
espn article/vid
Someone may have already posted this….
http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=macgregor/090330&sportCat=ncb
Head to Head Competition
Next year Calipari (or whoever) will get to go head to head against Rick Pitino, Roy Williams, Tom Crean, Billy Donovan, Pearl — those are bigger challenges than he gets at Memphis. We might even add a decent team or two to the schedule.
The Cal vs Pitino battles are going to be unreal....
It’ll be hyped the same way Duke/UNC is every year.
GBB!!!
This ......
will be the reason that brings a guy like Calipari to Lexington.
More than the money.
More than the “fame”.
More than an idiot like fata** Cutler.
The CHALLENGE to excell will be the motivating factor if he is the guy I believe him to be.
Actually,
Kentucky is about to see itself and one of its biggest rivals promoted to the level of UNC-Duke. That rivalry did not get tons of publicity until ESPN got the rights to the ACC. They used to hype Syracuse-Georgetown. With ESPN taking over the SEC telecasts, Kentucky and someone is going to be pushed, megatime.
this year, he played
against Pearl, Boheim, Few, and JT3rd.
may not be the same, but not totally different……….
i think it is the low end where the difference is – UGA’s rpi was better than 25% of the CUSA
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions
NO
and like Tru said we have to be careful of what we beleive…………I have already seen two things from media sources that are contradicting
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
If so, I bet Cal gets a silent countdown
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
Dammit John... we're running out of time!!!!
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
We don't have any scholarships as of right now......
……but we have no idea if there will be any transfers….. that’s always possible when you have a coaching change. We also don’t know what Orton, Hood and Vilarino will do.
GBB!!!
gillispie overcommitted by 2, i think
so anyone cal brings only adds to the problem – i think we can make room for the 2 bcg committed – any of Cal’s recruits
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 1:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Confirmation ...
… I don’t often have anything resembling a source, but let’s just say things looking very good on the Cal front from inside.
The Heart & Mind of the Big Blue Nation ...
I am not
working very well today. Let’s just say I am distracted. :-)
Man...you said it.
I have been horribly unproductive today
Dang it..!!!!!!!!
I have so much to do today, but can’t leave the blog…!!!!
I’m sick, I need help… My wife is right…!!!!! lol
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
again
as Memphis and I said George knows is stuff.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
yes, as i said below
Lapides saying he is gone is like WHAS reporting billy g was gone – not 100% but pretty good
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 2:02 PM EDT up reply actions
If that's true, then the internet is about to explode
Boy, the Jedi are really going to feel that one.
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
I have the news on.........great now I am going to have
to watch the darn soap operas so I can see them breaking in………….I don’t think I was born to be a woman.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Lapides saying Cal is leaving is
like WHAS saying Billy G was leaving – it is not 100%, but pretty close
by memphis wildcat on Mar 30, 2009 2:00 PM EDT reply actions
who do
you think will break into programming WMCTV or WREG?
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
$$$$$$$$$
What is the highest salary paid now? Is it $3mil. to Bill Self and Billy D?
Got a reply from Alan Cutler:
You have written to our station to voice a complaint about the coverage that I did on Friday on the termination of UK basketball coach, Billy Gillespie. Your criticism of my story, and the criticism that I have received from many other viewers is appropriate and appreciated, and I want to apologize to you for putting that report on the air. I realize now, that in my zeal to aggressively report on a major story, that I crossed a boundary that I should not have crossed. Coach Gillespie deserved more respect than I provided and I regret my involvement in making a difficult time for him even more difficult.
I have been in contact with the UK Athletic Department and they have been kind enough to accept my apology. I am attempting to reach out to Coach Gillesipie with the hopes that he too will be so kind. And I am reaching out to you, our viewers, to try and make amends for a situation that took on a life of its own, and that I enormously regret.
During the past 25 years of reporting on sports, I have tried to cover all stories fairly and factually. Unfortunately, in this particular case, I failed to live up to my own standards and those of WLEX-TV. I will try harder in the future, and I hope that you will continue to watch WLEX news and my reports, as I learn from this valuable lesson.
Sincerely,
Alan Cutler
Lex18 Sports Director
When I hear that name..
I still see the Stach. Man, he had a LOT of look in the 80’s.
He is attempting to reach out to Billy?
Billy still has nightmares about the whole, “I can run with you forever coach” thing.
Gillispie would have every right....
to tell him to take a hike……dont think he will…but he has the right….Cutman made it look like a politician caught in some 2 bit scandal…..low class…..truly….I dont care what the man was….he didnt deserve that
Remember, were having fun now!!!
New thread opened up.
This one’s getting a little stiff.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Tru....do you really think we can control this guy???
with a “megadeal” and all of the hype….he brings another banner in here and he will be untouchable wont he??
Remember, were having fun now!!!
Cal vs. Pearl..
the border war could be back..
Cutler2
I wrote the station manager…I did not fool with Cutler….
Hey Tru...
I never noticed this before, so maybe it happens all the time. But you are showing up on Google News for “Calipari” search term. That’s pretty cool in terms of SEO.
argh, 2:30 conference call … my work is soooo interfering with my Wildcat fanhood!
There is a live Camera crew on site at Memphis Athletic Dept waiting for Cali
here is the link http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/generic/video/streaming_1/Live_Stream_1
Remember, were having fun now!!!
Only thing for sure is that
Calipari is there…they have his car surrounded!!!!….lol
Remember, were having fun now!!!
This is hilarious
Just heard them say send food and a Patrick Patterson jersey from the myfoxmemphis link.
by middleman_99_98 on Mar 30, 2009 3:02 PM EDT reply actions
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