UK Basketball: Pondering the Possibilities of Calipari
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 12:49 AM EDT
in Commentary
688 comments
The Difference
No, nothing is "officially official," but my, how the mood of the Bluegrass can change: From sullen and downtrodden at the thought of a protracted search for a new head coach for Kentucky, to cautious elation at the mere mention of Memphis coach John Calipari's name as a potential candidate for the job.
And with the possible forthcoming announcement that Calipari will be the new head coach at UK, many fans, and media members alike are hailing the potential hire as not a home run, but rather a grand slam.
I would have to agree, but of course the determining factor in whether a Calipari hire is a grand slam selection won't be known for at least another year: If one recalls, Billy Gillispie coming to UK two years ago was greeted with praise and happy days are here again... not so fast my friend ...
But in Calipari's case, his body of work is much more substantial than Gillispie's, and his media savvy and fan friendly nature (i.e. he's not allergic to speaking to various organizations and boosters) are much more apparent than the previous UK coach -- Calipari has been a head coach either at the NCAA Division I level, or the NBA, since 1988 (he assisted his mentor, Larry Brown, with the Philadelphia 76ers in 2000). Contrast that bountiful experience with the fact that Gillispie had a total of five years experience as a head coach before taking the UK job, and one surely recognizes the difference between potential, and ...
... achievement: Calipari has won at the highest level of collegiate competition -- The NCAA Tournament: Calipari sports an impressive 25-11 record (.694) when it matters most, two Final Fours ('96, '08), and three Elite Eight appearances ('95, '06, '07). For those keeping count at home, that's a minimum of an Elite Eight run in '95, '96, '06, '07, and '08. In between his '96 Final Four with UMass and his Elite Eight with Memphis in '06, Calipari was occupied with coaching the New Jersey Nets, and rebuilding a moribund Memphis program.
Overall, his lifetime winning percentage of .761 (445-140) falls in line with what one would expect from a potential Big Blue head coach.
Dribble-Drive Motion Offense
Some may, or may not know that Calipari employs the Dribble-Drive Motion Offense. This offense can best be described thusly:
"The Dribble-Drive Motion is first and foremost a motion offense, complete with its own discipline, rules, and philosophy. The basic philosophy is the ball-handler tries to push the ball for a layup. If there is no help, he continues for a layup. If there is help, he finds the open man for either a shot, if on the perimeter, or a dump-off to the post. Driving lanes are created by great spacing and constant hunting of open areas for kick-outs."
Very similar to the Spread Offense in football.
Although Calipari did not invent this style of offense, the credit for that goes to former Pepperdine head coach Vance Walberg, but he has perfected its execution. So much so that many people now refer to the Dribble-Drive as the "Memphis Attack."
*This type of offense is not completely foreign to UK fans. Former UK head coach Rick Pitino used a variation of the Dribble-Drive Motion in his eight years in Lexington. He enjoyed a fair amount of success, if I remember correctly.
If Calipari matriculates to UK, it should be an exciting, fun style of basketball to watch. The combination of UK's tradition and facilities, along with this player-friendly offense, should ensure that Calipari has his pick of top-flight high school talent. Nearly as important; UK fans will once again have a fast-paced, high octane offense running the hardwood of Rupp Arena.
Potential Tag-a-Longs
There has been much speculation and conjecture around who Calipari may bring with him if he comes to UK. No one has any solid answers at this point, but let's take a look at the possibilities:
- Current Memphis Tiger players, and former UK targets, sophomore Roburt Sallie and freshman Wes Witherspoon, have reportedly expressed interest in following Calipari to UK, if he decides to take the job. Of course, Memphis would have to release them to come to UK, and even then, they would not be eligible until the 2010-'11 season (I'm not crazy about current or signed players leaving one school, to follow a coach to his new job -- Ethically ambiguous is the best way to describe how I feel about this practice).
- ESPN overall #1 player in the country Xavier Henry, a 6'6," 210 lb shooting guard reportedly has an "out" clause in the Letter of Intent he signed with the Tigers in the fall. This clause would force Memphis to release Henry if Calipari decides to leave the school. One can only speculate that Henry would then come to UK with Calipari, if that is how this high-drama ends. Henry's older brother C. J. Henry, a former #17 draft pick of the New York Yankees, is currently on the Memphis roster.
- DeMarcus Cousins, a one time UAB commitment, verballed to Memphis on March 8 of this year. The 6'9" 250 lb power forward is listed as the #2 overall Rivals.com high school prospect. Obviously, he may choose to reconsider his verbal commitment if Calipari comes to UK.
- Rivals.com overall #1, John Wall, a 6'4" 184 lb point guard, who earlier committed to Baylor, but later backed-off that verbal, has reportedly been the apple of Calipari's eye for some time now. The "love" has been requited according to most sources, but Duke, Kansas, and Baylor are still players for the probable one-and-done performer.
- 2009 prospect Eric Bledsoe, another guard (6'0" 160 lbs), also lists Memphis as one of his potential destinations. Bledsoe is rated as the #12 point guard in his class, and the #67 player overall by Rivals.
Who knows how all of this will play out if Calipari comes to Kentucky, but one thing is for certain, the UK roster will most likely receive a considerable upgrade for the '09-'10 basketball season. Of course, retaining current UK signees Daniel Orton, Jon Hood, and G. J. Vilarino should be a priority for any new coach.
It Ain't About the Benjamin's
I'm sure Calipari will take every bit of UK's reported eight-year, 35-million dollar offer, but the money, or more accurately, the mountain of money awaiting him in Lexington, will not be the primary reason he takes the job, if he indeed accepts.
No. Calipari will take the job because he knows that winning at Kentucky is unlike winning anywhere else in the country. The "Roman Empire" of college basketball has a habit of deifying it's college basketball successes, and he knows that he can succeed wildly at UK.
He's thinking like us: "If I can bring in great talent to Memphis, what can I do at UK?: I'll have the best facilities in the Craft Center and Rupp Arena, the most passionate fans, and endless opportunities to be adored."
As it stands now, Calipari is a big fish in a small pond, competing with the Memphis Grizzlies for the public's attention and adoration. Conversely, Kentucky gives him the best opportunity to showcase his coaching acumen on the biggest stage in college basketball. What more can one ask for? Simply put ...
... it's a priceless opportunity.
Thanks for reading, and Go Mitch, get your MAN!
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Good Read
Two years ago this was the man I wanted for the job.
UL Football Fan/UK Basketball Fan ~ Shreveport Louisiana
by The White Mandingo on Mar 31, 2009 12:59 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Nice Ken
For me, the difference in excitement this time is that Calipari will come to UK with much more legitimacy than BCG. His track record is much more impressive. I wanted Cal last time around so suffice it say my excitment level is sky high.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 31, 2009 1:00 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
As they say you hit the nail on the HEAD!
by lccat on Mar 31, 2009 1:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks WM and Seven
We must think alike — Two years ago my 1a was Cal, and my 1b was Gillispie.
I can’t help but think that he would set the college BB world on fire if he came to UK.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 1:09 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
the proverbial
mushroom cloud over all college basketball
by uk1982 on Mar 31, 2009 7:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
As a Vandy fan
I get the feeling wins over you guys are about to be a lot harder to come by if this is true.
By the way, pretty much everybody I know in Memphis thinks Calipari is already gone.
by Tom (RFTN) on Mar 31, 2009 1:12 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Hey, don't sell Stallings short.
You have who is probably the most underrated coach in the SEC (well, along with Stansbury).
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 1:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not selling Stallings short
Just saying that the rest of us are scared that Kentucky is about to be, you know, Kentucky again.
by Tom (RFTN) on Mar 31, 2009 1:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
About damn time!
Lets not completely F it up this time....
by floundringaround on Mar 31, 2009 2:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Granted
Some of us were scared that would happen when Gillispie was hired, so what the hell do we know?
by Tom (RFTN) on Mar 31, 2009 2:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not many of us...
I thought Gillispie was unlikely to be successful at Kentucky when he was hired. Frankly, for my team’s own benefit, I was hoping he’d be back a third year, at least. Cal’s not good news.
Orange and Blue Hue: The World through GATOR-colored Glasses -- http://www.orangeandbluehue.com
by Gatorpilot on Mar 31, 2009 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ken well written as usual
Great explanation of the dribble drive motion offense. I also agree that Cal is driven to meet the many new challenges that UK will bring him. I also believe that Cal is up to the challenges.
However, I have to disagree with your comments about the money. In my opinion, it is always about the money for all but the rarest of situations. 35 million reasons, the highest paid college coach in the country, is a heck of a motivator.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 1:19 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You may be right
But for the reasons I stated above, I feel that he would come to UK regardless of the money, but that’s just my opinion.
Money is certainly the root and motivating factor in most decisions of this nature, on that we can agree.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 1:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Billy G Interview from today coming up on ESPN SportsCenter in a moment 10:23 p.m. PST
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 1:23 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Just watched it
He can come off so likeable if he wants.
It’s a shame it didn’t work out.
As someone in the mainstream media said — “He blew the chance of a lifetime.” — That may or may not be true, but I do wish him well.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 1:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know he has to be in shock right now (at least a little)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 31, 2009 1:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did you read my response to your post on the last thread, Seven?
Just curious.
I think he looked like a goon.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 2:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read it...maybe a little harsh
it was Billy being Billy
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 31, 2009 2:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He just said...
during the ESPN interview, “the worst advice is bad advice” thanks for that revelation, haha
by KentuckyKate on Mar 31, 2009 1:35 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I believe what heard was "the worst vice is bad advice". I could of misunderstood.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 1:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He mant to say "the worst vice is ADvice." He used that line in his post-termination press conference.
In true Gillispie style, he bungled the line in front of the national media. Ha.
I wish the best for him.
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 31, 2009 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should add that I think then he attributed the quote to Bill Self
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 31, 2009 12:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Awesome, Ken.
Love all the links. You obviously spent more than a half hour on this one. : )
I haven’t really said all that much about Calipari up to this point as I’m a bit nervous to say anything because I thought the last guy was the right guy for the UK job, but alas, I was sorely mistaken and although I, along with what appears to be the rest of the BBN am quite excited about what Calipari might potentially bring to the table, I will hold my loud and boisterous applause until the final announcement.
But, even though I haven’t been really vocal about Calipari, I do see our potential for next season as phenomenal with him and because of that possible fact — I went ahead and already purchased tickets to the first round of the 2010 NCAA tourney being held in Houston (we have family there) — YAY! Yes, I know I’m getting a little bit ahead of myself here, but hey, it’s something to look forward to and its part of the fun of being a fan. I will, of course, attend regardless, I just really hope our boys (our team and our new coach) make the field of 65 and draw Houston. : )
by BigSkyCat on Mar 31, 2009 1:35 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Thanks BSC and oldcat
You have a right to be nervous about any potential new BB coach. The job carries with it huge responsibilities … and worrying if the guy in charge is capable of doing the job the right way is to be expected, especially when there are a few question marks surrounding the target’s past.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good Job
as all ways Ken. I don’t know if I will sleep again tonight!
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 1:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Having been lucky enough
in my lifetime to Hear,see or listen to all of the Cats coaches. I’m now ready to turn another page in our glotious history. GO BIG BLUE!
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 1:45 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I don't
think the spell checker is coming. Don’t worry about it. It happens to all of us.
Also, yes, I am ready to look forward and turn the page, living in the past just isn’t healthy — good things are just around the corner, right? : )
by BigSkyCat on Mar 31, 2009 1:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry I didn't
respond. I’ve been meaning to congratulate you on your new job. Nice to read your posts.
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 2:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If you use Google Chrome
as a browser it has a spell checker built into it. I think Mozilla does as well.
Lets not completely F it up this time....
by floundringaround on Mar 31, 2009 2:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about the ESPN.com article
that says he is “sleeping on the offer” tonight….does this make anyone else nervous also? I hope that he is sleeping with thoughts of BBN in his head, Patterson, Meeks, Orton, Wall, Cousins, etc……anyone else dreaming of that too?? :)
by Doctor Mike on Mar 31, 2009 1:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Me = nervous
I just keep thinking about past letdowns with Tubby, Billy, and for some reason Billy Donoavan’s Orlando deal and keep thinking…OHNONOTAGAIN…man I hope I am wrong, but the longer this goes on, the more pessimistic I become
by Thestache on Mar 31, 2009 8:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know I barely can (but I'm also working tonight) :)
But I agree, I couldn’t sleep if I were him either.
by Doctor Mike on Mar 31, 2009 1:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know the feeling
I spent 36 years working swing shift. They won’t kill you,but some days you feel like it.
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 1:50 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Billy G Interview with Dykes
Continued high road, same as his presser on Saturday-to his credit. I do wish him well.
I am going to preface my next comment that I am a native Kentuckian. Both of parents
still live in Kentucky are from tobacco farmer stock. Their parents (my grandparents) are from very humble origins in eastern Kentucky. I also have 3 brother who still live in Kentucky as well.
I understand his strategy to be at his best with the media right now. I am not attacking the fine people of Kentucky when I write that I have a difficult time with Billy G’s Gomer Pyle ACT. That goofy grin is difficult to swallow.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 1:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I commented on this in the last thread...
I basically said that BCG is an idiot and his career is ruined if he doesn’t have a job lined up in the next 72 hours.
I thought it was a good post. ;-)
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 2:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not sure he is an idiot. He does come off as goofy in this situation. Glad I did not offend you.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 2:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No way is anyone
offended. Everyone has any opinion.
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 2:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You didn't offend.
He got PWNED.
simple as that.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 2:08 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Everyone has been ignoring him!
I think He is 2 sheets to the wind!!
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 2:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
pwned = owned
It’s a viral online misspelling made famous by the game Warcraft.
sorry.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 2:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
=P pwn (and pwned) have been around a lot longer than that =P
by schizm42 on Mar 31, 2009 11:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
a new job opening
looks like Wazzu’s Bennett is headed to Virginia – I think Wazzu is a great fit for BCG – about as far away from the Bluegrass as possible. Shove him WEST to the Pac NW and let him play around up there…
by UKFaninSoFla on Mar 31, 2009 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Billy G
Billy G’s style may work in the PAC-10 but he will have to contend with UCLA, USC, Arizona, Arizona St. Looks like he would be a cellar dweller in the PAC 10
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure
I agree with you. If He was smarter than that He would have signed the contract and played the game.
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 1:53 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You don't have to
explain your Kin. Moat of us came up poor. Theres no better people in this state than dirt farmers both east and western Ky.
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 1:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I wrote a similar description after his presser on Saturday and offended
at least one person. They thought I was just an out of state urban person who does not understand
Kentucky folk. I love Kentucky and Kentuckians.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 2:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sort of Funny
The Louisville women are going to the FInal Four and not the mens team. They beat Maryland earlier tonight.
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
by SevenRings on Mar 31, 2009 1:59 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Maryland
but that Maryland Women’s coached EARNED her money!
by UKFaninSoFla on Mar 31, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Great read but here's my question...
I get that the Craft Center would certainly be considered state of the art, but can we honestly say that Rupp would be so?
by TXCat on Mar 31, 2009 1:59 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Sports Center will be reshowing the BCG interview shortly....
Just letting everyone know.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 2:00 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think I'm the only one who feels sorry for the guy.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 3:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I still feel sorry for the guy getting harassed down the hallways by the media . . .that wasnt cool
I
"The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're willing to pay the price. "
Vince Lombardi
by Kuhnnie on Mar 31, 2009 3:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not the only one.
But life goes on. He will be fine, and so will UK.
I still think UK handled the situation extremely poorly. But then again, Gillispie can give them six million degrees of misery if he feels inclined to do so. I hope not, though. I would like for this messy divorce to end as amicably as possible from this point on.
And to everyone else — Keep your comments about Gillispie respectful. I don’t allow Tubby bashing here, and I’m not going to allow Gillispie bashing.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 7:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Horrible situation
Anytime someone is fired, it is a horrible situation. As well, I feel sorry for Coach G and wish him the best in the future. I honestly belief that he was completely overwhelmed by the scope of the Big Blue Nation. I honestly belief he handled it the best way that he knew. As for the media, they were simply doing their jobs. My question is: Where was the security at? I could not chase Coach G down the hall of the Craft Center so why was the media allowed to do this?
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for that Tru.
I know I was getting a little tired of the “Billy sure is an idiot” or “he’ll be a cellar dwellar in the PAC10” comments.
The man gave his heart and soul to the BBN for two years. Give him respect.
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 31, 2009 12:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I also feel sorry ....
for him in that he was not cut out for the job. It wasn’t his fault he was a mule hired to be Secretariat. I hope that the AD learned from this and makes sure Calipari is advised and guided. Keep the positives and make sure the past concerns stay in the past.
by jpbluekat on Mar 31, 2009 7:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No
your not. I certainly do. I think alot of us do actually. I really wanted him to work out. This guy eats and lives basketball alot like us. It just didn’t work out but I think alot of us feel badly that it didn’t. Maybe he was too much like us I don’t know. I really do like the guys passion for basketball. I hope he finds a great job somewhere and does really well.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, Ken,
you are certainly not the only one. I was actually going to write something in detail, but then thought better of it, due to the fact that dwelling on his unfortunate departure is really not all that productive, for him or for us.
But, I too felt sorry for Gilispie — for about 5 minutes, and then I realized that is probably 4 1/2 minutes longer than he felt sorry for himself. I am sad that he didn’t work out for us as I really thought he had the whole package, and even though he didn’t end up being the right guy for UK, I still think he is a good person. I still believe he will do good things, they will just be elsewhere. I will probably even check in on him (virtually, of course) from time to time and I hope nothing but the best for the man.
Go ’Cats! : )
by BigSkyCat on Mar 31, 2009 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hey Blue Oregon
My family dates back to the mid 18th century for Kentucky…I am generational and bleed Blue…and I too live in Oregon (Silverton to be exact)…dad wanted to be a forest ranger…where are you located???
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 2:07 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
2 funny
I know there are some UK alums floating around Portland…but it’s good to see a fellow Oregonian/Kentuckian who bleeds the right shade of blue
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 2:10 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Same to you! Right on ! I fly my kentucky flags and I painted my house Kentucky Blue
only one on the block :) My wife (from Chicago) was mortified at first, then got used to it.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 2:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
we fly
the commonwealth flag right below ol glory…confuses a ton of people because my mom is Greek…so we have that one on the front porch flag holder…
my ex-wife never understood the “Kentucky” room…her first time meeting my parents was the Duke/UK game in 92…she couldn’t understand why a grown man would openly cry over a basketball game…had to explain to her it wasn’t about the game, but those 4 seniors
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 2:24 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
oh my!!
I still cannot talk about those guys and that game without crying. My husband will get me talking about it in front of our friends just to show people how passionate I am about Kentucky.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
My truck is
Kentucky blue with UK license plat and basketball on radio ant.
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 2:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Do trucks come in any other color ? :)
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 2:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not many
true wildcat blue in western Ky.
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 2:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am laughing at the flag confusion. I have a UK american flag that most folks
just don’t “get”. As you know everything is green and yellow around the U of O
neighboor hood.
92 game was very painful memory. We had a Kentucky visitor out in Eugene during that game. We all went out for many drinks after that game. I have to admit that I hate those
reminders on SportsCenter from that game. However, I do also very fondly remember how Jeff Sheppard lead the charge in 1996. He will always be in my top 5 players forever because of that game against Duke.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 2:32 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not as much
going on to night. Everyone is worn out. Think I’ll cave in> night all
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 2:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
one last shot before i sign off
went to a bar near my alma mater (Willamette University) during an Oregon Duck game… Kentucky was playing Arkansas (it was 93 spring…with the wacky claw uni’s)… the bar (The Ram Pub) didn’t have ESPN 2 (it was fairly new) so I asked the manager to buy the satellite add-on package so I could watch the game…he agreed and I gave him my credit card…the game is on in 10 minutes…the place is packed with yellow and green and I have my one little TV with UK/Arkansas…these big football bruiser duck fans come in and ask the waitress to change my TV to the duck game…she goes up to get the remote, but the manager says no…he comes down to their table and tells them that the fella behind them has bought that TV for the night…telling them that I paid for the bar to buy the ESPN 2 feed…wearing my Kentucky Basketball t-shirt they chuckled…one could be heard saying that he had “heard Kentucky fans were rabid”….the manager comes up to me, gives me my credit card and tells me it’s on the house…anyone willing to buy a cable channel for a night to watch his team play shouldn’t have to pay…even got a couple of free drinks out of the deal…flew to vegas the next day…
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 2:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That's what it's all about. . .
"The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're willing to pay the price. "
Vince Lombardi
by Kuhnnie on Mar 31, 2009 3:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And That My Friends
is why the UK job is the best in the world. No fan like a UK fan, anywhere or everywhere!
by Bluegilla on Mar 31, 2009 7:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thanks
been thinking of writing my fave personal UK stories (seeing as how I grew up in Oregon, it certainly gives me a different perspective on things)…like how I convinced my dad to buy one of those monstrous satellite dishes (you know, the NASA versions) when UK went scandal in the late 80’s…so we could pick up the local feeds…used to call the station in Kentucky and get their satellite info so we could program it into ours and pickup the games…
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 3:16 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Nice Piece
I hope that we dont get so good we get bored with 20 point wins. But I am ready to dominate again. I cant wait to beat NC at Chapel Hill
"The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're willing to pay the price. "
Vince Lombardi
by Kuhnnie on Mar 31, 2009 3:19 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I can't wait
to not lose a home game to a team with more initials than coaches
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 3:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I hope that period quickly becomes an old memory
Im ready to dominate with Cal and his talented recruits
"The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work. Hard work is the price we must pay for success. I think you can accomplish anything if you're willing to pay the price. "
Vince Lombardi
by Kuhnnie on Mar 31, 2009 3:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
or the 98 ex-wife jinx
during that stretch…my wife begun watching each game with me (starting with the Duke game) and by half-time I kicked her out of the house (“go shopping…spend money but just leave”)…then she wanted to watch the Stanford game…same thing…“get out”…and then Utah…each time she was watching the game till half-time…I kicked her out of the house to go shopping…UK comes back to win…that was the year my father had his stroke and by the end of the Utah game, my dad lying in a hospital bed at our home, the last time we watched a game together…so yes…UK basketball is more than just basketball to plenty of us…it’s family…and we always want our family to do good
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 3:22 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
UK fans are officially crazy.
Up at 4 AM just to see if anything new has occurred, even though I know it hasn’t….
Lets not completely F it up this time....
by floundringaround on Mar 31, 2009 3:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I was really only refering to myself...
yeah, I’m crazy. But aren’t we all?
Lets not completely F it up this time....
by floundringaround on Mar 31, 2009 4:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah...tongue in cheek response really
during signing periods I tend to not sleep either..
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 4:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
so...
only 1 a.m. here…and I have insomnia…as well as two cracked ribs (so sleeping is really out of the question)
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 4:01 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
one of my 20 month twin girls
likes to head butt daddy on the chest…thankfully the other likes to watch UK game with daddy and actually claps when the Cats score…
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 4:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ouch with the ribs....
gotta love the kids getting involved though
Lets not completely F it up this time....
by floundringaround on Mar 31, 2009 4:08 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
New news maybe?
Mentions a booster saying that he think Calipari is gone.
http://www.azcentral.com/arizonarepublic/sports/articles/2009/03/31/20090331bkcnb0331.html
Lets not completely F it up this time....
by floundringaround on Mar 31, 2009 4:14 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
funny how
arizona is saying how they had calipari all but “wrapped” up before UK came calling…
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 4:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Nice piece Ken
Think some of our current players will be asked to give up a year of scholarship to make room for incoming players? Like stevenson or harris>?
Off to work ….. No more bloggin
by ukcris on Mar 31, 2009 4:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I thought about including some thoughts on the schollie situation ..
… but since I have absolutely no idea who’s coming and who’s going, I thought the idea futile.
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that scholarship questions always seem to get worked out. I trust, if Calipari takes the gig, that the same will happen here.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 4:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah...
pretty loaded roster as it stands now (keeping Meeks and Patterson of course) with the addition of Orton and Hood (as I assume they may enjoy playing for Calipari as much as they would have enjoyed playing for BCG)
whomever decides to come…just wish they stay longer than one year…
by fincity on Mar 31, 2009 5:03 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Not Happening Anytime Soon
Mitch is not going to say a thing until Cal has actually signed the contract. Many things can happen simultaneously but with two sides involved it wont be done in a day. That day doesn’t start until Cal says yes.
Kick back and enjoy being the biggest fish in the ocean.
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 7:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Probably A Must Do
After the BCG M of Understanding I suspect one of the first things to be done would be to have a signed contract in hand.
by Bluegilla on Mar 31, 2009 7:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Excitement
The past 24 hours have been exciting to say the least. Consider the possibilities with JC. Style of play, new lineup, media/PR compatibility. All this excitement reminds us how much that was missing last year. There was tension, disappointment, bland interaction with the press by BG. If the deal goes through, remember, ‘The Waitng is the Hardest Part" (thanks TP & the HB). I can’t wait to be excited about UK basketball again. I think JC will bring that excitement back to Lexington. And that will be a beautiful thing!
When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro...Hunter S. Thompson
by UK72CatFan on Mar 31, 2009 7:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Another Day being unproductive
apologies to my boss…
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 7:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
LOL
Apologies to the taxpayers….
Umm Nevermind
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 8:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have an incredibly stupid question.
Where does the money come from to pay the coach?
All I’ve heard for the past 12-18 hours are people saying “Well…..How much is tuition going to go up this year?” I’d love to fire back with something.
by uk1982 on Mar 31, 2009 7:55 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Money
I suspect ticket prices may go up but there’s a lot of horse money around Lexington and donations to the University may increase substantially. JMO.
Wonder what Coach Brooks is thinking these days?
by Bluegilla on Mar 31, 2009 8:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thankful
For Pops it is all about his staff and accomplishment. He already has one field named after him, eventually he might have another. What more could a coach want?
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 8:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
a lot of this money is going
to come from the new ESPN contract. SEC going to ESPN for week night and weekend broadcasts is a much sweeter deal for the schools.
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 8:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
money to pay for the coach
it TOTALLY separate then regualr UK funds. Believe me I am a UK empoyee! UK basketball money is even totally didfferent then the UK Athletics. 1. Rupp Arena ticket sales and season ticket holders. I have season tickets upper level, but the lower level season ticket holder pay extra. Not sure how much extra but they make a nice little donation. 2. Also there is the K-Fund that people donate money too. Don’t know how much it costs to be a K-Fund member. 3. You have all kinds of promotions and companys in Lex and across the state that use ky basketball and coach with advterising. They brings in money. 4. Private donations form private donors.
by bigbluebigfan on Mar 31, 2009 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
money for UK BBall
I don’t expect it to be long before UK is building a new stadium if they get Cal
Rupp doesn’t give UK priority over anyone else… if Ice Capades wants the date, they get the date
When I was @ UK getting my MBA, the HOCKEY team made more money for each game than UK… they drew 2500-3500/game!
They paid $50K/game for the arena….got 1/2 concessions, all of the programs, all of the merchandising
UK paid $150K/game, 22K+ per game, NO concessions, no programs and only royalties on merchandising!!!
Lexington will have to think HARD … but UK could build an arena for 30K and be the biggest around and still set fan records even for VMI/Gardiner-Webb games
UK BBall and UK Football get earmarked funds. The boosters’ monies cannot go to the school for general purposes…. the SEC monies go to the team first, and then Title IX second – meaning they pay for the female, non-revenue producing sports before general scholarship. The Chevy player of the game stuff is EARMARKED for the General Scholarship fund, not the Athletic funds.
BCS monies go to the school for Athletics First…then can be disbursed. The more SEC teams that get BCS bids, the more money each SEC school makes.
But the whole school benefits from any athletic program that is self-sufficient like UK…
by UKFaninSoFla on Mar 31, 2009 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thanks bigbluebigfan!
I just get tired of hearing everyone say “wonder how much tuition will go up” blah blah blah. I knew it was probably something to the effect of what you said, but didn’t exactly know how it all worked. Thanks for the explanation!
I just don’t like it when people run off at the mouth, and talk about things they know NOTHING about….pet peeve of mine!
by uk1982 on Mar 31, 2009 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't know for sure
about UK but my husband attended UL (not a UL fan, just a graduate) and while technically the athletic department’s budget is seperate from the “school” part there was still an “athletics fee” that we had to pay. Suddenly showed up when they hired Pitino…hmm…
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 8:04 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Also
the athletics department makes it’s money from tickets/concessions/leasing out their buildings for events. But, just like any other university department they appeal to their alumni for donations. UK just happens to have some really really generous alumni who donate to the athletics program.
Perhaps we should call Ashley Judd and ask her to chip in a little more?
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 8:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I remember having to pay that fee
in 1999. Here I am in music school thinking, why do I have to pay this, I’m a fat tuba player, it’s pretty clear that I am never going to be athletic in my life :/
JXClaytor on the 360
by JoshuaClaytor on Mar 31, 2009 12:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think this is new
“headline: Calipari is Kentucky’s New Coach
University of Memphis men’s basketball coach John Calipari will accept the head coaching job at the University of Kentucky, according to Memphis television report.”
dateline: Tuesday, March 31, 2009, 7:38am EDT
by StillCatwoman on Mar 31, 2009 8:11 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
hope it is new, but
based on what i am hearing, seems early still…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 8:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yeah, and I can't find anyone else saying this.
by StillCatwoman on Mar 31, 2009 8:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The report came from Memphis news
on one of their 11pm broadcasts last night. Have family in Dyersburg, TN who watched it and then called me about 11:30. The reporter said his “sources” told him that UM wants to have their new guy in place within the week so they can try to hang on to some of these recruits.
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 8:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
More media confirmations
“WHAS-TV 11 and WAVE-TV 3 are both reporting that John Calipari has accepted an offer to be the next head coach of the University of Kentucky basketball program.”
by from_left_to_right_on_your_radio_dial on Mar 31, 2009 8:45 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
that was posted yesterday at 4pm… not saying it isn’t true, but nothing new
by JRod1229 on Mar 31, 2009 8:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pessimistic AGAIN
:) :) :) Thanks JRod1229, now I am nervous, my last 4 hairs fell out, I ate 2 dozen Krispy Kreams and drank 4 pots of coffee, I am now smoking and drinking as I type ;)
AND
I am at work…this is teh suck
by Thestache on Mar 31, 2009 9:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oops (nice catch)
if google can be wrong about its “most recent articles” I just don’t know what to believe anymore.
by from_left_to_right_on_your_radio_dial on Mar 31, 2009 9:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Georgia Southern position open
BCG?
Okay, no, he won’t have to go down that much.
Hey, maybe Nazr has a suggestion!
by olddoc on Mar 31, 2009 9:20 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Lapides
I just listened to an interview with him on Bill King’s radio show. There were a few points that I found interesting and I had not heard yet. He said that yesterday it was a forgone conclusion that Calipari was leaving. Today that is not the case. There were two major reasons for this.
1) Members of the Kentucky media had already begun to scrutinize him and break him down. He was not a fan of this at all. Close contacts of his within the media began to warn him that the microscope will be so intense that he began to back off a little. Leave it up to our own to run a good one out of town…
2) Several of the biggest Memphis boosters were still trying to persuade him to stay in Memphis (including the founder of FedEx and the largest cotton trader in the world). That’s old news, but the interesting part was that this apparently has never been about the money. Calipari told those close to him that he would not accept a raise after this season if Memphis were to offer one (due to the economic state). When Kentucky came calling, this became a moot point and the negotiations began.
Just a little more insight for us to ponder over this morning why we all sit and wait, anxiously.
Sorry if anyone else already posted this information. It is hard to keep up with all that is going on.
by ukcat2169 on Mar 31, 2009 9:21 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm surprised
That Calipari would be put off by the “scrutiny” he has received so far. It really doesn’t seem that harsh/negative (if anything, he’s being slurped by the media right now), and surely he expects it – the intense focus is, after all, part of the lure of Kentucky basketball.
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 9:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did you read they Mark Story article?
It was pretty negative, IMHO.
(I’m not going to link it for that reason)
by EEWildcat on Mar 31, 2009 9:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not negative.
He asks some good questions that should be asked.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
not yet! not yet!
let us keep to the plan of hire first, question later!
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 9:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I totally agree.
Rick Bozich has some opinions on the matter too, but it’s just a rehash of what we already know.
http://anythingbutgatorade.blogspot.com - yet another SEC sports blog
by Anything but Gatorade on Mar 31, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
All this has been brought up....
and there was nothing new and there was nothing considered wrong by the NCAA. If anything, I would think that the fact this has been brought up, including concerns by the Administration itself, is likely to make oversight of the program very stringent. The bottom line is that he has no evidence that the questions were not asked. Previous stories seem to indicate they were and that the UK officials seem confident that they can keep anything similar from happening. Again, was there anything new that was aked? If the answer is “no”, then maybe a better question would be to the motives of the author.
by jpbluekat on Mar 31, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mark Story wrote...
a piece examining all of the questions surrounding Calipari (WWWes, Camby, player run-ins with the law), etc. It didn’t paint a flattering picture. And he kept asking basically if, given our history, we could afford to hire someone with these questions in his past. It was a fairly brutal piece. If this turns the tide and Calipari doesn’t come, I would hate to be Mark Story and the LHL. Of course I would hate to be associated with the Herald-Leader anyway.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 9:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
LHL
Has never worried about being nice to UK. They won a Pulitzer for their coverage of the Sutton fiasco (and did uncover much of the dirt). They have been negative towards to school (IMO) since, I suppose hoping that being so will someday get them another Pulitzer.
by olddoc on Mar 31, 2009 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
my first reaction was to be mad at LHL
but if Mitch Lee will not police themselves, the unfortunately that job falls to tipton/clay/story/etal
as my wife says “if you aren’t not doing something wrong, why do you care?”
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Agreed.
But a lot of people are going to be hurt if this thing falls apart. Barnhart and Todd for starters. Our prestige suffers another huge blow nationwide. The Herald-Leader closes its doors due to lost of revenue (or somebody blows up the building). Man, this could get really bloody.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
yes -
it might have been better if the LHL at least let the ink dry on the contract first -
i am sure mitch lee would love for LHL to have to go get someone.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
and I thought it was very poor taste on Mark’s part. I really like Mark. He is a good writer. I just thought yesterday was in poor taste and honestly a shot a Cal before he inked the deal possibly putting some doubt in Cals mind. I think that is what he was going for. Yes there are questions to be addressed but we have to trust Sandy Bell on this. I do. We have been clean over twenty years and she is NOT going let that change. Mark is a Kentucky boy and fan I am sure and has some concerns. Many of us who lived through that cringe at the thought of going through that again but Mark picked the wrong time to bring it up.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe I'm naive
but I just don’t imagine that Cal had time to be reading articles from the press about it.
Meeting with players, meeting with boosters, probably phone calls for advice to trusted advisors, talking with assistants…when would he be sitting at his computer clicking through stories?
Maybe one of his assistants watched that stuff but I just don’t think he would take that into consideration.
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand
what your saying…….but I guarentee you that boosters were looking FOR EVERY reason to get him to say and it got to him somehow….those Boosters in Memphis were all over it I am sure
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't you think...
that the way Coach Gillispie was treated by the media and the way Tubby was treated by many fans, it would have to at least put a question in the back of Calipari’s mind. Hell, people talk like Pitino was universally loved here, but questions were raised about him as well. It all depends on how big of a microscope you are willing to live under.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 9:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sure
And if you don’t want a microscope, you stay in Memphis. With great power comes great responsibility. . .
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks, Uncle Ben.
Another question that needs to be answered it “Who is driving this bus?” When I heard Mike Pratt was involved, I knew this would be a decision that was best for IMG first and the university second. I love Mike and respect his history here but he was placed on the search committ to represent the unofficial powers that be.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Interesting point
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And don't forget ESPN...
They have been all in with this since it was first mentioned. They start showing the gamesnext season. Ever wonder why Vitale has so changed his tune on the Kentucky job in the past two years? Calipari to Kentucky means HUGE dividends for the Wold Wide Leader.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Should read "World".
Spelling is off this morning. Trying to make sure my inmates don’t run the asylum here while I keep up with what is going on. One eye on the door and on eye on the screen. Maybe I should sent everybody home for the day, turn out the lights and hunker down in front of the screen.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 10:16 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I sure didn't like Pitino unitl 96
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, I am sure the Tubby/Gillispie thing mattered
But I don’t think one article about Cal would really add any weight to that argument.
I definitely think the media/scrutiny aspect is a factor in his decision. I just don’t think this one article would have any weight.
Everyone already knows UK dissects every piece of a coach. So I can’t imagine any articles yesterday would make a difference in the decision for Calipari.
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 10:04 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tubby Was Treated FINE By M-O-S-T Fans
And KY media treat the Uk coach the same regardless. G no different.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry Tenken
but I disagree. I would rather he bring this up BEFORE Calipari comes to UK. I am sure that the administration is checking some of these things out but the less knowledgeable fanbase have a right to know what they are possibly getting.
If Calipari can’t handle the heat then he don’t need to come in the kitchen.
by bluecrip on Mar 31, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok
again…….I am not worried about UK checking on this. Mark isn’t either. We all know they will deal with al this, but Mark gave the boosters in Memphis more evidence………“see here Cal THEY ARE ALREADY picking you apart”. UK doesn’t need Mark tothe job for them.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heat
Yes, but eventually someone has to be able to come into the kitchen.
It is not worth an intelligent man’s time to be in the majority. By definition, there are already enough people to do that.
by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 31, 2009 9:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah but do you want a scaredy cat? :)
by bluecrip on Mar 31, 2009 10:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We didnt have one before. :)
It is not worth an intelligent man’s time to be in the majority. By definition, there are already enough people to do that.
by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 31, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep
you are so right on this. Cal is not my first, second or even third choice. But I got excited about him yesterday and if we lose him, it will be a blow to UK.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
sorry this was for JB's post not my own :).
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah, but
it is NOT the LHL’s job to be a cheerleader for UK. These are fair questions, and things an objective, competent journalist is required to ask.
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 9:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree that they shouldn't be cheerleaders.
But if Marc Maggard ever did one thing right in his entire life, it was exposing the tactics employed by the LHL in interviewing recruits and potential recruits. There is a large difference between honest journalism and the crap they peddle. That being said, Story did ask a lot of the questions I have been asking over the last few days.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 9:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
seriously...
the dude coached the Nets…lived w/ the NY media…can it seriously be any worse. UK is passionate, but it’s not NY. He can handle it…this is his ONE shot at taking over a top 5 Collegiate program…if it’s not for him, then we will move on…can’t imagine he will blink…this is the shot these guys always want…Roy/K/Dean/Bobby K/…you only get ONE shot at this type of program and he is too smart to not recognize that…seriously…he can handle it…
by bradylteague on Mar 31, 2009 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It's the Nets
No one in New York cares about the Nets.
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 10:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I dont think it has ever been about the money......
Money is nice, but as my wife says, if you’re happy with what you do for living, the money doesn’t matter. I think Cal knows that he has done all he can at Memphis and wants to seek a new challenge. C-USA is NOT the SEC in any circumstance.
by CATFAN85 on Mar 31, 2009 9:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
George Lapides at Memphis station WHBQ ...
… is still sure that Calipari is gone to UK.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
24 more hours of this and I'm going to have to be committed
by btcoop71 on Mar 31, 2009 9:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tru...
I’m not saying it’s gonna happen, but wouldn’t it be ironic if the people who gave Coach Gillispie such a difficult time (recruiting youngsters, gameday practices, boot camp), ended up cost UK a chance at Calipari? How do you think that would impact their bottom line?
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 9:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'd be surprised ...
… if that were an issue, actually, at this point.
Calipari is probably not thinking along these terms. His ego is such that he will not worry about perceived press negativism — he knows (or rather, thinks he knows) that he can handle them.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
jimmy sexton is on george's show right now
he talks every tues. he is agent for fulmer, saban, tuberville,parcells, etc. interestingly he is also mike anderson’s agent.
you should hear some of the stories he has about dealing with some of his clients that are players….
pretty level headed guy
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 9:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dave Baker
was interviewed by Nashville sports radio this morning and said that if it doesn’t happen today, it probably will not. Don’t know where he is getting his info.
by wklawdog on Mar 31, 2009 9:37 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I think ...
… that’s informed speculation. But I also think that the longer this drags out, the more likely it is to fall apart. That’s just the nature of the beast.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Scholarships
Assuming Cal comes and assuming no current Memphis players attempt to transfer…..
and assuming he Cal tries to bring his top 3 recruits (Wall, Cousins, & Henry) how could we have enough scholarships?
PG: Wall, Liggins, Vilarino / [Porter]
SG: Meeks, Henry, Galloway / [D.Williams, K.Tucker]
SF: Miller, Hood, Harris, / [Stewart]
PF: Patterson, Cousins, Pilgrim
C: Orton, Harrellson, Stevenson
That’s 19 players — with only 13 scholarships. If Porter, D.Williams, K.Tucker, & AJ Stewart leave UK (as playing time would be limited since they are fourth or fifth string), that would leave us with 15:
Then if we could get the two Kentucky boys (Miller & Hood) to walk-on (they get in-state tuition) for just one year, we would have enough scholarships. Of course, it is still possible that between Patterson/Cousins/Orton we only get 2. That would mean we would only need one walk-on.
Following the 2009-2010 season, we will lose four seniors (Meeks, Stevenson, Galloway, & Harris). We might also likely lose 2 to the NBA (possibilities include Patterson/Wall/Cousins). That frees up 6 scholarships. The walk-ons would get their scholarships back and Cal could still recruit some freshmen for 2010.
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 9:40 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
We don't.
I think, at this point, we should just wait and see. The scholarship situation will not really allow Calipari to bring in new players unless we have large number of defections. That is just reality.
But for now, I don’t think we can speculate. There are a ton of possibilities, and I feel confident that the administration will not let Calipari come in and throw away a bunch of current players to make room for his recruits, no matter how attractive that prospect would be from a basketball standpoint.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I also don't think you can go back on scholarship after giving it up
Of course its difficult, its a shortcut... if it was easy it'd just be "the way."
by chirop1 on Mar 31, 2009 11:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Scholarships ...
… are year-to-year, in actual fact. It can be non-renewed.
But it never happens except for extraordinary circumstances. These don’t qualify.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
i don't know
they sure feel like extraordinary circumstances….. :)
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well............
I went to bed early last night. Real early! I was emotionally exhausted last night. Plus staying up and blogging till almost three didn’t help either. I woke up at 5:30 reached over grabbed my phone and got on ESPN without even getting up. Yes I am obsessed but now rested :). But I hated to hear that he was sleeping on it. I am very nervous. My Memphis friends said that he played with NC state but honestly I don’t even remember this. So i am not as sure as I was yesterday.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:41 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
he did NOT play with NC State
nearly this much….no comparison
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 9:43 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I pulled
the same exact move with my phone this morning. Didn’t even have the contacts in yet. Just rolled over and went straight to the worldwide leader.
by ukcat2169 on Mar 31, 2009 9:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its sad huh :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pitt and St Johns were closer to NC State
than UK situation
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 9:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Can we bring back DoorCam to keep everyone calm?
Or will that just make everything worse? :)
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lol.....that will go down in UK folklore for sure!
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 9:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I just want this to happen...
I can’t take it anymore!
by JRod1229 on Mar 31, 2009 9:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Relax.
It will be OK, no matter what.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep you are so right on that! Kentucky will be fine!
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It appears the back door cam was there because his car was parked in that parking lot.
He was too savvy to walk to his car. There were a dozen news vans.
I supposed the back door cam has lost it’s luster.
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 9:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
this supense is going to cost me my job!
and in this economy, who can afford that???
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 9:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Family first.
Wildcats second. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The person who replaces you?
Gotta admit you walked right into that one. ;)
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 9:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK.
Gotta work. I’ll look in from time to time.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 9:59 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Wanted
to let you guys know on ESPN 2 they are about to talk about what the Memphis Boosters are willing to do to keep Cal
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:03 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
1530 Homer in Cincinnati Reporting Mike Anderson to Georgia
$2.2 Million per year.
by btcoop71 on Mar 31, 2009 10:04 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
oh
my……..blow to Memphis and possibly to us…….Tipton said UK still waiting
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good hire, if true
Lotta money for a program that doesn’t really care about bball, though. . .
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just heard John Pelphery/Travis Ford are the second choices if Cal doens't come
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:06 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
per Tipton
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
So Cal was sleeping on the offer
Can someone give him a wake-up call and end this already???
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 10:08 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
can you imagine the blow our reputation will take if we are turned down AGAIN?
The UK Boosters do NOT want that to happen.
Maybe we are not praying to the Basketball Gods hard enough?
All together now!
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 10:10 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Oh beneficient Hoopsgod,
master of the round, bouncing leather ball . . .
by olddoc on Mar 31, 2009 10:12 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just sacrificed a chicken to Jobu
The floor is a mess, and my colleagues are staring at me. . .
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 10:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Nobody drink Jobu's rum....
it’s very bad
by CATFAN85 on Mar 31, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There's a lot to be said for bloodletting.
GOOD PLAN!
I will find a source, ASAP!
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Calipari has his own rep to think about as well
I have a hard time believing he wouldn’t take a pretty big PR hit if he backed away now.
Then again, Donovan got off mostly scot-free with the media after actually SIGNING with Orlando and then backtracking.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:14 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ESPN Radio
Currently discussing “How could he NOT take the Kentucky job?” and basically questioning his manhood if he doesn’t take it. LOL
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 10:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
stranger things have happened
Stranger things have happened. The longer it takes the worse feeling I get about Coach Cal coming
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Kentucky had some funny math even before the flirtation with John Calipari. The Wildcats had one scholarship open but signed three players under Billy Gillispie, meaning there had to be attrition either through the NBA draft, transfers or scholarships not being renewed. Whoever is the new coach is likely going to have roster upheaval privileges. Remember, technically scholarships are renewable every season.
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 10:15 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
the troll has this to add
"Talks between Kentucky and Memphis coach John Calipari have intensified and the two sides are moving closer to an agreement that could make him the highest-paid coach in the country.
According to sources close to the Tigers coach, Calipari is close to a deal that will pay him in excess of $5 million per season.
Barring any unforeseen circumstances, all signs point to the deal being completed in the next 24 hours.
“It’s a slow process,” said a source familiar with the negotiations. The same source cautioned that the process could drag out until Tuesday.
According to Scout.com, the two sides have already reached an agreement."
i've been waiting for this moment all my life...but it's not quite right.
by small balls on Mar 31, 2009 10:16 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
the link, sorry.
http://www.comcast.net/articles/sports-cbk/20090331/Goodman.033109/
i've been waiting for this moment all my life...but it's not quite right.
by small balls on Mar 31, 2009 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
New live feed.
Some rainy side street on campus.
Front grill of Nissan.
Will insert toothpicks in eyelids and not miss anything!
Will keep everyone posted!
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 10:18 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
MEMPHIS FANS ARE CRAZY!!!!
MAKING THREATS @ THE COMMERCIAL APPEAL AND ON FACEBOOK AND MYSPACE ROFL!!!!!!!!!!!!! THEY ARE CRYING OVER THE ECONOMY AND SAYING HES STUPID TO MAKE IT ABOUT $$$$ BUT LETS BE HONEST HERE,,,,,,,MEMPHIS IS NOT LEXINGTON AND HE ALSO WONT HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT GETTING ROBBED IN LEXINGTON OR OFFERED CRACK @ EVERY CORNER
by jaxukfan on Mar 31, 2009 10:19 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ALSO........
THE ECONOMY ISNT THAT BAD………..THEY JUST WANT TO TAKE ALL OF OUR $$$$ AND KEEP US LIVING DAY TO DAY THATS EXACTLY WHAT OBAMA WANTS ERRRR I MEAN PRESIDENT PELOSI HOWEVER,,,,WHO CARES HOW BAD SHIT IS IF WE GET CALIPARI BWHAHAHAHAHAHAHA OBAMA CAN BLOW MW
by jaxukfan on Mar 31, 2009 10:20 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps
You should lay off the coffee?
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Settle down, Beavis
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 10:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I need TP for my bunghole!!!
My bunghole goes ra-ca-ca-ca-ca!!!!!
PS my avatar is a mug shot of a real life Beavis
by bluecrip on Mar 31, 2009 10:24 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dude.
Stop this irrational stuff. Stop with the caps lock.
Please.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Coffee red bull and cigarettes
I may not have enough for a whole day of this!May need to get some painkillers from my Doc to get through the backpain of sitting in this chair!
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 10:23 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Any news
Does anyone have any news out of Memphis or Lexington about a press conference???
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:23 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
If UK swings
and misses then what? do they immediately go to ford?or do they try another “big” name?
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 10:24 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Izzo
Izzo would get us to final fours but I don’t think he would leave Mich St
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Me neither
But if they don’t try then we’ll never know and if their next plan is Ford then I say try HARD for Izzo. They just can’t justify getting another Big 12 coach w/ even less experience than the last one we got. It’s a gamble at best.
by ben-p on Mar 31, 2009 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
hmmm
Barnhart evidently doesn’t take rejection well and his last coaching search ended up in what appeared to be a rash decision. I didn’t even know BCG was in the running until Billy D said no.
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Barnhart
Barnhart said Friday that UK wanted a BIG name. However, I think Ford would be the logical backup plan
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:26 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That may be
but I’d definitely wait to hear a “no” from Izzo first.
http://anythingbutgatorade.blogspot.com - yet another SEC sports blog
by Anything but Gatorade on Mar 31, 2009 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can't do this all day
I may have to rebel. Get some fast food and eat it slow.
by olddoc on Mar 31, 2009 10:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Let's be cautious
We don’t need another wham-bam, thank-you-ma’am one-night stand, I’ll respect you in the morning, but I won’t remember your name, let’s say we’re engaged (MOU) but marriage (contract) is out of the question. We don’t need another relationship that starts like that. At least, let’s spend a long weekend together and then take take the vows before God & Everybody (aka the BBN).
All parties should take scholarships and LOIs seriously. All parties includes UK, Memphis, Calipari and the signees/players. Everybody needs to take time to assess the pros and cons of going, staying, etc. Memphis players and signees need to talk to the new Memphis coach; UK players and signees and the new coach need to talk before any decisions are made.
Calipari & Todd need to come to a clear understanding involving the verbals. I don’t think UK or Calipari should be held to Gillispie’s verbals, but I understand why others might feel differently.
In the end, let’s hope all concerned make good decisions. We need to approach these decisions like we break down a defense: be quick, but don’t hurry.
by Fortunatus on Mar 31, 2009 10:31 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
correct me if I'm wrong
But the NCAA see’s recruits as commited to the institution, not the coach. I can defintily see that point as they try to maintain the mirage of the student-athlete. I would like to see UK and the new coach honor any standing commits.
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 10:34 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The
way I feel about it and maybe because I have seen schools get burned on this……..you commit to a school not a coach. I don’t think any of his recruits that verballed should be allowed to come to UK without penalty. I know I am alone on this but I feel its good ethics.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe
at least one of them has a clause in their LOI that they can follow Calipari. Don’t see how they could be punished for something already in writing.
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 10:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
well
I think in Memphis’ case it will cause them tremedous problems if these players leave. IMO, that LOI should not have even had that clause……..you commit to a school not a coach. If these players leave Memphis, it will put them in a world of trouble. I am not a TIgers fan but its not fair for Cal to take everything away from them
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I notate that in the piece -- Xavier Henry reportely has a clause in his LOI
that requires Memphis to release him without stipulations if Cal leaves Memphis.
by Ken Howlett on Mar 31, 2009 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I could see that argument with players who have already signed a letter of intent
But surely a verbal can’t be seen as binding enough to warrant any sort of penalty.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No.
Verbals are non-binding on either the institution or the recruit. There is no penalty at all for not honoring one.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
no penalty
but I believe there should be…..
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe ...
… although it would be difficult due to their lack of formality. It isn’t really anything more than a recruit saying “I will come if there is a scholarship” and the coach saying “we intend to hold one open for you.”
It’s hard to make something that informal punishable.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I believe in legal terms
BCG was acting as an agent for the school if/when he offered scholorships. Since the coach doesn’t own the team or program or school it is actually the school offering the scholorship so the offer should stand.
As far as uncommited players or verbals it would be acceptable for the new coach to not offer them a scholarship or to discuss with them the change in the program and how it affects their playing time etc.
The program needs to act as though they are on thin ice here, do what is right and give the new coach time to build a program, not worth hurting an already damaged rep by booting kids off or not giving commits scholarships.
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 10:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOI's ...
… are binding on the school and the player. The school cannot renege on a recruit who has signed an LOI.
Verbals are non-binding on either party, but for UK to renege on long-time verbals would be an ethical faux pas that would absolutely harm the program’s reputation and anger a great many fans, including this one.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But....
Was it ethical for Billy to offer schollys that weren’t “technically” available? I understand your point, but are we prepared to make the next coach (whoever it is) wait 7 years to play with a team he put together? That’s madness.
by sylvar on Mar 31, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If it was unethical ...
… it was unethical for Gillispie. He was still acting as an agent of the University of Kentucky, and his signature is binding upon the University.
The end.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know Tru
thats the only real problem with all of these “early” offers….it binds the program to something and someone that may have a really negative impact on the Univ in the long run
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Verbals Tru
Not signed players. You can’t make the new coach wait 7 or 8 years to have a team completely comprised of players he selected. Not when he is going to be expected to produce in 2 years or hit the bricks.
by sylvar on Mar 31, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Am
I thinking about verbals then. Do you remember the Ky kid that UofL pulled his scholly then went to UK. There was a write up about it and its said it happends more then we know.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes.
That’s bad behavior, and that’s what should not happen at Kentucky. We don’t need to go down that road.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
was that verbal commitment....not a letter of intent
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I know.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Apparently according to the new post over at Matt’s site:
“- Along that note, the same person said that almost all of the details were finalized late Monday night. One of the major sticking points was the status of the outstanding scholarship offers for the players in the 2010 class and beyond. According to this source, Calipari said that "only one is anywhere close to a UK-level player".”
Source:
http://new.kentuckysportsradio.com/?p=16488#comments
Apparently a bit of a to do about our roster and I’ve heard it mentioned on several radio shows already this morning.
by trich on Mar 31, 2009 11:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You know who else it happened to, once upon a time?
Tubby Smith.
If I remember the details right, he had a scholarship offer from Maryland, but then Lefty Driesell came in as the new coach and yanked it.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Legal Terms
Pitino said in LEGAL TERMS to Sosa to get the F out…find a new team
I think that 1/2 the “roster” from this year will be gone…. the bench riders will not get a framed jersey
just think about some of the people like Perry and Scherbenske… I feel bad for S but not P… they were going to ride that framed Jersey to a career with boosters…
Jarvis Walker surely had that on his mind as well…
by UKFaninSoFla on Mar 31, 2009 10:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Walk-ons really do stay on the team at the coach's pleasure, don't they?
Aren’t those guys you mention walk-ons?
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The walk-ons ...
… are not relevant.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
and
they are not binding…………they can be “kicked off” the team. Our Qb from my kids school went to Ole Miss and when the coach was fired we were all stressed that he would no longer be on the team. But Nutt kept him
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The walk-ons ...
… serve purely at the pleasure of the coach.
Or not.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And more to the point...
…they don’t affect the scholarship limit.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
do yall remember
that my Feldhouse(sp) gave up his scholly so it would free up one because of probabtion :) Yet another reason I love my unforgettables.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Didn't Actually Happen
Feldhaus offered to do so if Uk signed Chris Webber.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Estill did give one up
i believe
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Commitments
I really dont see anything wrong with a player that has verbally committed to or signed a LOI with a school to be released from it upon a coaching change. In essence and theory, yes you do commit to a school, but in reality the Coach of that school can play a big part in the players decision to commit. “Would I want to play under this Coach?” seems a very fair and important question for a potiential player to ask himself.
If a player commits to a school and suddenly the Coach isnt going to be around there anymore, I see no ethical problem with releasing that player and allowing them the opportunity to re-evaluate their decision.
It is not worth an intelligent man’s time to be in the majority. By definition, there are already enough people to do that.
by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 31, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Signing the contract
I think Matt Jones has mentioned a couple of times that getting a contract signed is #1 on Mitch’s list before making any sort of announcement, which is obviously understandable after the BCG/MOU saga.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:34 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
So if Cal says no...
and go the Ford/Pelphrey route. What contract do we offer them? I mean, they aren’t worth the $35 mill in my opinion. But do we look like *ssholes for offering them significantly less?
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 10:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
very good question
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ford maybe
but probably not ready….Pelphrey just had a horrible season so i’d say he needs more time.
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ford
did not have a better season the Pel did last year in HIS first year at Arkansas.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Arkansas is being investigated by the NCAA
I do not know if it is the basketball program or not. Saw this on ESPN.com about a month ago
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ford / Pelphrey NOT Ready For UK Level
BIG mistake if UK goes that route.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But there is no one else that is above them that will come
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Mark Story column
from yesterday is kind of disturbing to me…but I see the perspective he brings. And whether or not we want to admit it….someone has to be the steadying hand in this situation. We need to get the whole picture and weigh both sides. I want this thing done as much as anyone….more than most, but I really want to see us do this right. not for the media, not for the hype, but for the fans and the program. This thing is bigger than all of us….its bigger than Cal, and its certainly bigger than Mitch or Todd. We do need the grand slam….but we need it to be the right one. I dont want to see any corked bats rear their heads later
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 10:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Calipari ...
… has to understand that this university will not allow him to flirt with NCAA sanctions.
That has to be understood by all involved. I don’t care about the past, I am talking about the present and the future.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
BIG YEP on that
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
AGREE 100%
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 10:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We won't find Basketball Jesus
Whomever we go after as coach, assuming that he has the experience it takes to take on the job, is going to also have a “history”. We won’t find a coach at this level who has not done, or failed to do, some things that have drawn criticism. (Even Basketball Jesus was known for His temper, throwing tables around a few times).
Our questions in vetting the next coach are whether we can live with the issues that have been raised about him; whether he seems to have learned and grown thorough mistakes and misjudgments; and whether he will be responsive to suggestions (and directives) should he err in the future.
If you find an adult man in a high visibility profession who has a flawless history, then that man has been in a coma for most of his life, not making any decisions at all.
by StillCatwoman on Mar 31, 2009 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But Catwoman
what about those WWJCD bracelets we were working on yesterday?…..lol….dont those count?
There was only one perfect man, and i am not sure if he is a KY BBall fan or not…lol
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oxymoron
in order to be a perfect Man, surely one would have to be a Cat fan!
by StillCatwoman on Mar 31, 2009 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Only from a woman
with a Jessica Rabbit Icon……lol…..gotta love that!!!
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ha.
Yes, I suppose that’s right, and although I love my ’Cat-fan men, my 30-some years of living has taught me that there is no perfect man — that is a fact. Not that I really mind all that much, perfection is overrated and I enjoy men for their warts and all.
Btw, your post above was fabulous. : )
by BigSkyCat on Mar 31, 2009 11:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Jessica Rabbit and legs I know I saw in Playboy
hehehe…..I am surrounded by things that cant be real….lol….doesnt bode well for this Calipari thing….
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I bet BigSky has great legs
and I make a pretty good Jessica Rabbit, so it’s okay, ALLBLUCAT, go ahead and believe.
Reinforcing the fact that women can be smart, attractive, and know their basketball!
by StillCatwoman on Mar 31, 2009 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Some of these posts really make me smile :-)
by kykat51 on Mar 31, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
KyKat--We Represent!
The female side of ASOB really includes some serious fans, and God Bless ‘em, the male side aways treats us with respect, don’t you think?
This is a great bunch, imho!
by StillCatwoman on Mar 31, 2009 12:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have to agree
I have never felt that my opionion is lessened because I am a woman although I will smack Vince if he doesn’t stop calling me dude :). J/K Vince —love ya!
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Dude....
…I get it… ;-)
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 31, 2009 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
alright mister
I warned you!!!!!!! :). Where do you live now :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
These days
“dude” is no longer gender specific. At least in my generation and younger. Guys call guys dude, girls call girls dude, etc.
by schizm42 on Mar 31, 2009 3:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
fedex big wallet guy says he will pony up $7 mill a year,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,noway hes coming to kentucky so time to hit the beach……dork out a little bit nerds
by jaxukfan on Mar 31, 2009 10:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Please, lets just get this over with....
I wish we could just get some sort of “official” announcement and prepare to watch the press conference. This wait is killing us and we need a little closure. I can tell you that I would not be shocked if Calipari heard all of the criticism before he even got here. BUT, I think that the “open arms” outweighs the critics in this case, I just hope he knows that. We better not run him off before he even gets here.
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 10:47 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
no way micth will pony up like the big $$$$$ from fred smith and whoever else,,,funny how much $$$ they will spend to keep coach cal yet their city is a filth hole….same city that cant afford 10 more new coppers this year yet they can spend 7 mill on a coach roflmamoaomla
by jaxukfan on Mar 31, 2009 10:47 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
hey jax.....
relax pal…this thing will happen one way or the other….no matter who we get….havent been dipping into the roid’s ave you?….you seem a little intense for a Tuesday morning
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 10:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anybody have an email address for Coach Cal?
We could flood him with short emails letting him know how much we WANT him. Just a thought?
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 10:48 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I seriously doubt that would help
I also think Cal is more than aware of how big a deal he would be with the UK faithful.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I understand that
but if he is sleeping on it, then maybe he needs a little refresher??
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I don't think he's forgotten about it overnight
He has various things to weigh in terms of whether to accept the offer or not. Enthusiasm of the UK faithful is surely not one of things he needs any more information on.
Matt Jones is now reporting from a source that most of the details were agreed on by last night, with the status of future commits being one of the only things left.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I JUST KNEW IT
I thought about that ……………the recruits being a big thing and I am sure its Memphis fighting this as well………Remember he will have to pay them so I am sure all that is being worked out
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
How much money
What would it cost UK to get Pitino back? I am sure he has a price tag. Any ideas??
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:49 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
it will cost them this fan
that is the one thing that could make me consider not being a UK fan anymore. i can not stand that man nor can i cheer for him.
i've been waiting for this moment all my life...but it's not quite right.
by small balls on Mar 31, 2009 10:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pitino going back east
not an issue or a worry
by bluecrip on Mar 31, 2009 10:52 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
The infamous "Door Cam"
has been replaced by a studio cam of the Fox studios in Memphis…hmmmm.
by CATFAN85 on Mar 31, 2009 10:53 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
my bad...
now back to the door again….I dont think a door has ever gotten so much attention.
by CATFAN85 on Mar 31, 2009 10:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pitino's hypothetical "door" got mentioned and referenced like a billion times
That is, “that door” that Larry Bird, Kevin McHale, and Robert Parish weren’t coming through.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:01 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Joe B and Denny Show
Does anyone listen to the Joe B and Denny Show on AM radio? Just heard a story there about Coach G and the way he disciplined players. It sounds pretty bad to me. Anyone else heard this??
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 10:54 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
i've
read some very disturbing things,but what are they saying?
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Joe B and Denny were very upset
Both said they would never let a child play for a coach like that
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Read it a few nights ago.....
my jaw dropped to the floor when I read it.
by CATFAN85 on Mar 31, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yep, Coach G had some weird ways of discipline to say the least.
The more we hear about him, the more we know he was not a good fit. I wouldn’t want my child to play for someone like that.
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 10:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Google Norcross Newspaper
Read the article about Jodie Meeks and the stuff his dad said about Coach G
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There was a big post on KSR last week about that
They mentioned a few things about disciplinary moves that angered the players, and also just some other player relations things, like sniping at Jodie for shooting too much.
Did any new details emerge on the Joe B and Denny report?
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
They talked about
They talked about the Liggins bathroom incident. They also referred to the Jodie shooting too much incident. They talked about an incident were Coach G bought one of the players some diapers when he complained about being homesick. Just some tasteless stuff
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:03 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotcha
Sounds like stuff we already largely knew about at this point.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The other thing was the verbal abuse
Cussing and extreme sarcastic remarks. These are young men. Darius Miller was 17 years old most of the season, These young men do not need this type of abuse. There is plenty of time for that when they enter the real world and go to work and get married. :-)
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:11 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Heh, exactly
But it sounds like a lot of the stuff that Knight always did at IU. I guess not many people cared all that much when he was winning national titles.
The sarcasm, though, might be going a bit too far for any coach. I’m sure players expect coaches to be tough with them at times, but being a flat-out-jerk can’t be helpful at any point.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Rumors
ALL rumors and I dont believe in the extremity of any of them. If Billy G were behaving like some sort of psychopath he would have been reported and something would have been done about it long before now.
That being said, and prefacing myself with I LIKE CALIPARI AND HOPE THAT HE COMES HERE, i just hope that people are not expecting him to sit around and hold hands with his players or tuck them in at night with a bedtime story. Calipari may be more polished than Billy G, but he can be a shrewd character nonetheless and definitely has his “sarcastic and verbally abusive” tendencies just like I feel that quite a few coaches do.
Little glimpse of Cal’s use of language with his players:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jzY2C33a1cw
I’m not saying that is bad or anything like that, but it is what it is. Call a spade a spade. Coach Cal is not all teddy bears and tea parties. He will still be a tough guy to play for and definitely has an edge to him.
It is not worth an intelligent man’s time to be in the majority. By definition, there are already enough people to do that.
by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 31, 2009 12:38 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm glad to see you on here Kentuckygirl, hadn't seen you in a while and know
there were a lot of people asking about you last week.
by UKfan79 on Mar 31, 2009 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Pitino
was quite the potty-mouth as well.
by schizm42 on Mar 31, 2009 3:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly
It is not worth an intelligent man’s time to be in the majority. By definition, there are already enough people to do that.
by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 31, 2009 3:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
WKYT
Do they know something or are they just making news? http://www.wkyt.com/home/headlines/42119847.html
by mark12kentucky on Mar 31, 2009 11:00 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Calipari making plans for an announcement?
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 11:00 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That was last updated 3 hours ago (according to the link), so I'm not sure it's news
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 11:02 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This is Coach Cal's dream job and
he was ticked off two years ago when we didn’t offer it to him. I just WANT to think that he will not pass it up now that it is his to take. Any thoughts?
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 11:05 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I thought
we did but he had Derrick Rose commited so he didn’t come
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:09 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I read somewhere (and don't remember where)
that we went after Billy Donovan and then Rick Barnes. After two “No’s” we went after Gillispie. Not true?
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 11:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I heard Gillispie was our 3rd choice on ESPN Saturday
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Exactly. Donovan, Barnes, then Gillispie
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 11:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If they ever ask Donovan again....
….I will PUKE…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 31, 2009 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
any news?
any new news other then the fans in memphis threatening his family ??? longer the wait the less likely hes coing to lexington
by kentuckybasketballandbbqgrippos on Mar 31, 2009 11:10 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
newspaper in memphis
a poster 1st broke it on here so i went to the commercialappeal and was pretty surprised to see some of the comments on there about myspace comments about his kids and family…..considering i thought WE UK fans were the craziest i cant remember the last time we were that bad
by kentuckybasketballandbbqgrippos on Mar 31, 2009 11:13 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
4pm News Conference in Lexington
“from the door cam live feed”
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 11:15 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That's probably a good sign, if true
The King is dead! Who is the King?
by NYCCats on Mar 31, 2009 11:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think the guy is named LES from the door cam.
http://www.myfoxmemphis.com/generic/video/streaming_1/Live_Stream_1
The entire reason for the door cam is (WAS) because Cal’s car was parked there. His car is gone, but so many people are demanding the door cam, that they sent a crew back!
Just crazy
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 11:17 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
up to 625 people on the chat on Door Cam
by CATFAN85 on Mar 31, 2009 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
when the feed goes to something else...
The number of people plummets!
60 and therabouts.
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 11:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The comments
are insane on that site. Very strange.
by olddoc on Mar 31, 2009 11:22 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
very very strange
I guess staying up all night will do that to the folks in Memphis
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Please don't eat pistachios
Saw that on WLEX website. I don’t want anyone to get sick from Salmonella
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:21 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Just ate a bag full Sunday
I still feel fine
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:23 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Anyone know what to do for
cramps from NEVER leaving a rolling desk chair for days???…..lol….I think I have been here since Sunday and I dont know if I can move again!!
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:24 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
any official news???
I have checked WKYT, WLEX, UK Atheletics, and ESPN website. Still no news about a press conference
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:24 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Anyone in front of a TV? Someone here told me that ESPN is reporting
that Cal is staying in Memphis? TRUE OR NOT?
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 11:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
One year ago today
We lost Mr Bill Keightley. We miss you Mr. Wildcat!! We love you!
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
sobering. puts stuff into perspective.
RIP
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 11:29 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
RIP MR.WILDCAT!!!
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
oh man! Thank you for reminding us. I miss you Mr. Wildcat!
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
just checked........NOTHING
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ESPN News still reporting UK and Cal close to deal
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:30 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Thanks for checking, I about had a heart attack!
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 11:31 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Big news on ESPN
Gary Sheffield has been released by the Detriot Tigers.
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did he ask for his release so he could follow Cal to UK?
Just askin’. ;)
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:39 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
MITCH BS PLANE?
by kentuckybasketballandbbqgrippos on Mar 31, 2009 11:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
we arent really
going to track things in the sky are we???….I mean…c’mon…..its not like the guy is Santa Claus…
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Most amazing thing today is that KSR hasn't crashed
by btcoop71 on Mar 31, 2009 11:31 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Two reasons
They either bought more bandwidth or people realized they don’t know any more than anyone else.
http://anythingbutgatorade.blogspot.com - yet another SEC sports blog
by Anything but Gatorade on Mar 31, 2009 11:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Marc Maggard
knows everything… he just changes his mind over and over until he’s right. Must be nice. Sounds like…..every girl I’ve ever dated.
by Byron on Mar 31, 2009 11:34 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
KSR said they called their service
provider and asked for help with their problems….Im glad they got it worked out lawdog has been on here from time to time though
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:34 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
UK website
does it have anything
by briangwildcatfan on Mar 31, 2009 11:37 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
nothing that wasnt said yesterday
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Any more info out there about a 4pm News Conference?
I haven’t heard a thing.
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 11:37 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Was there ever a "source" for that...
…beyond one overheard snippet from DoorCam?
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:38 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There was so much information yesterday...
Can’t we just get a nugget for today????
by ukcat2169 on Mar 31, 2009 11:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
John Calipari told friends at a Memphis donut shop this morning he would make his decision about the Kentucky job "this afternoon."
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/mar/31/tigers-coach-john-calipari-said-be-making-decision/
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 11:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
We need Donut Shop cam!
Actually that link makes some amusing comments about that already (relying on sources at a donut shop).
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
for what its worth
Gibson’s has the best donuts in memphis so at least Cal knows his donuts
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 12:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Smart thing
Would be to let this drag on until Friday, make Kentucky the hottest topic of the entire week.
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Switch to tabbed browsing, if you haven't already
Makes life easier for your computer!
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:42 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Whoops
To be clear, that was in response to champcat24 just above.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotcha
I’ve also got multiple tabs all tracking this stuff simultaneously. ;)
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am glad I have the day off
I would go crazy at work trying to track all this. I would probably end up getting fired.
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Izzo
Talking about the job on ESPN Radio
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 11:43 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
and?
"Learned to love the Cats at a young age, via tape delay."
by ukpastor on Mar 31, 2009 11:44 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh well
Just says Kentucky is very special and is the Notre Dame of basketball, in a good way.
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
did he actually say "in a good way?"
I hope so, I don’t want to be the Notre Dame of anything. We are the UK of college hoops, plain and simple.
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 11:47 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I like to think that
Notre Dame is the Kentucky of football. ;-)
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
on a lighter note
has anyone seen this guitar hero commercial?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8LWhV-Wr-RM&feature=player_embedded
by kentuckywildcat on Mar 31, 2009 11:43 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
yeah.....it was just too cool
might keep Knight out of coaching if this celebrity thing takes off….and he used to gripe about the media….lol
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:45 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Scholarship Ethics
I hear people saying UK must honor all LOI committments. Generally, I think that is true.
Is the LOI a binding contract? If Orton wants out of his LOI because Gillispie left, should UK enforce the contract and force him to come anyway? If Xavier Henry wants out of his LOI because Calipari leaves, should Memphis force him to enroll there?
It seems to me that most people believe the LOI is binding only when the coach stays. Turning this around the other way, if players have the right to break the LOI contract when the coach leaves, why should the university have to honor the LOI if the coach leaves? Should UK honor its LOI to GJV? It would be nice if they did. But if GJV has the right to break his LOI with UK, then why doesn’t UK also have the right to break its LOI with recruits that the new coach believes will not fit in or get playing time? Isn’t it disadvantageous to the recruit to sit on the bench for four years when he could be receiving more playing time under a different coach and a different system?
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 11:47 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ESPN is reporting if Cal goes to UK that
several Memphis players want transfer. Where are these scholarship going to come from?
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Memphis would have to let them and did they say transfer to UK or just transfer?
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sallie and Witherspoon want to follow Cal wherever he goes
Just a note: Billy G recruited both of these guys
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Do Transfer Scholarships count toward the 13?
Did Pilgrim use up one of the 13 scholarships this past year?
Or would these two sit out one year and be eligible in 2010 — and not count toward the 13 we use next year? We would have more scholarships available in 2010 (Meeks, Harris, Stevenson, Galloway are seniors; Patterson likely to go pro).
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If an agreement can be reached by
both sides to their satisfaction, not perfectly but agreeable….ANY agreement should be able to be breached….thats what makes it a legal document. And its also why the NCAA needs a SERIOUS overhaul on their guidelines, standards and ethics
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Any letter of intent ...
… can be dissolved by mutual agreement by both parties.
The other alternative is for the player to breach the LOI, which means he forfeits a year of eligibility.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Personally
I don’t think the university has to honor a LOI. But if a scholarship was offered or given then it needs to be honored. A LOI basically tells other caoches that a kid has decided but it isn’t legal yet.
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The university ...
… must always honor an LOI, unless the recruit and the university agree mutually to dissolve it. The recruit must also honor it or lose a year of eligibility, unless the school releases him or her.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Tru
Did you catch up with the newby who was harassing lst night?
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Maybe ...
… not sure.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He shut down the
last thread and came to this one. Drunk as a skunk!
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think he is ... persona non grata.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've heard you say
I’m not here 24/7. But you still run a tight ship!
by oldcat70 on Mar 31, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The LOI must always be honored by both parties ...
… unless they mutually agree to release each other, or unless the LOI contains language that allows the recruit to opt out on a coaching change.
There is never such language on the University side.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If The Recruit Fails To Meet Academic Requirements
The NLOI is voided.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Good point, Forty.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was wondering...
…Just when Pitino was gonna’ call Cal and say, “DO NOT take that job, you’ll hate it… They need Ford or Phelphry” …
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 31, 2009 11:49 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Still have love
for Ricky P,but i wish he would keep his damn mouth shut on the UK job.
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 11:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He's called him twice so far
Cal told him to STFU
by bluecrip on Mar 31, 2009 11:51 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
memphis fans
keep saying …crying about coach cal taking players with him BUT he cant make any kid so anything they dont want……….uk bball is the mecca of college bball period,,,,,memphis is still the mecca of bbq some say
by kentuckybasketballandbbqgrippos on Mar 31, 2009 11:51 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Memphis does have great BBQ
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 11:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We got some good BBQ here is the western end of the state
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:53 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OH YEAH WE DO
"Learned to love the Cats at a young age, via tape delay."
by ukpastor on Mar 31, 2009 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I'm in louisville
and its hard to find quality BBQ,yeah there’s the national chains,but nothing phenomenal,except shack in the back in fairdale and it is really hard to get a table….always packed
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just come down to Paducah and the lakes
We got some darn good BBQ
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
thats a 4 hour trip!
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It is worth it.
Me and the family had a pork shoulder this weekend! AWESOME!
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
MMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 11:58 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Its from a little place called Knoth's BBQ
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Try
Leigh’s BBQ, West Paducah. The owner, Monk, is a hoot.
When the going gets weird, the weird turn pro...Hunter S. Thompson
by UK72CatFan on Mar 31, 2009 1:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Take the 2 hour trip to Owensboro and Moonlite BBQ then
JXClaytor on the 360
by JoshuaClaytor on Mar 31, 2009 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bootleg BBQ
Out Bardstown Rd past Snider
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 12:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
their really good
Other end of town and shack in the back is better…..think i’ll have the wife stop there on her way home..all this bbq talk is making me hungry
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What about that place on Frankfort Ave.?
It’s a hole in the wall, but some friends like to go there when I’m in town. It’s been decent every time I’ve had it.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 1:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What is the name of the place in Fairdale, I always stop in Shelbyville at KenTex, exit 35 off I-64
by middleman_99_98 on Mar 31, 2009 1:40 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Name
What is the name of the place in Fairdale?
by middleman_99_98 on Mar 31, 2009 1:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
but how many times a week can u eat bbq,
I would rather have BLUEGRASS EVERYDAY!!!! haha
by UKfan79 on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I have a question
I’m in Lexington and the grass is green… Where can I find actual bluegrass field?
by khlim2 on Mar 31, 2009 11:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Boise ID.
Their Football team plays games there!
Actually I think the Bluegrass is an optical allusion.
JXClaytor on the 360
by JoshuaClaytor on Mar 31, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
sad
story…….my friend graduated from there. She said that they get alot of dead ducks on that field. She said that they dive in thinking its a lake and get killed or badly inujred.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 12:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Best darn ribs ever
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Whether we
believe it or not Johnny C is still a man. I’m sure moving his family from a place they’ve been along time is still a huge deal no matter how much money is on the table. To break ties with friends, family, support is always big. I’m glad he’s taking his time and thinking it through. No matter how good a coach you are if your home life is a wreck it would make you miserable.
Also, I’m glad he’s weighing the options. It shows me that when he comes he will come thinking it’s the right thing to do and this isn’t just a whimsical deal to him like it was our former coach.
I’m glad it’s taking a little while, it shows he’s a serious and smart man. If he does come, it makes me feel much better about the situation knowing he’s mulled it over. Just my $.02
"Learned to love the Cats at a young age, via tape delay."
by ukpastor on Mar 31, 2009 11:52 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
moving your family....
shouldn’t be a question really. He did become a basketball coach, and sooner or later you are gonna get fired or move on. I doubt that decision would have a lot to do with him coming. Maybe if he has a kid graduating from high school or a similar position. IMO
by UKfan79 on Mar 31, 2009 11:54 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
respectfully
I say if he is a good man then his family plays a very important role in this decision. This coming from a former ministers wife
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 11:57 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can tell you all one thing....
…I’ll be damn if I watch a frigging door all day long today..!!!!
(I may check in from time to time though)…shhhhh
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm shocked
but somewhat impressed that some of you did that yesterday. Wow. : )
by BigSkyCat on Mar 31, 2009 11:56 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
OK, $5 million per year equals to....
$416,666 per month, $13,698 per day….
I think I could wake up each day knowing I just made $13,698
I know money is not the only issue, but just having a little fun…..
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
just think how many
donuts and bbq you could buy with that…
by kentuckywildcat on Mar 31, 2009 1:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
memphis dont have...........
HOT BROWNS AND GRIPPO CHIPS!!!!!!!!!!
by kentuckybasketballandbbqgrippos on Mar 31, 2009 11:55 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
MEMPHIS
HAS THE FEDEX WALLET WHO IS GOING TO PONY UP $ 7 MILL A YEAR
by kentuckybasketballandbbqgrippos on Mar 31, 2009 11:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I like this Les guy
wonder if they would throw him in with the package??
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is that the same reporter from the youtube reporter clip???
by UKfan79 on Mar 31, 2009 12:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Do Transfer Scholarships count toward the 13?
Did Pilgrim use up one of the 13 scholarships this past year?
If Witherspoon & Sallie wanted to transfer from Memphis, would these two sit out one year and be eligible in 2010 — and not count toward the 13 we use next year? We would have more scholarships available in 2010 (Meeks, Harris, Stevenson, Galloway are seniors; Patterson likely to go pro).
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 12:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I dont know how that works. Redshirts don't count, I think
Good Question
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:02 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Redshirt scholarships count.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes, it does.
Transfer scholarships count against the 13.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Mar 31, 2009 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
then was donald williams a walk on this year?
I thought Billy G gave him a scholy
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He gave him the scholarship...
this year with the understanding he would not have one next season. At least that is the info I got.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 1:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am
actually watching this on my tv..
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 12:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
they said that he already turned down
Arizona…..but we AINT zona….
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:03 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
How many championships does Zona have?
Only the one in ’97?
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 12:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
he knew the UK job would open...
…And that’s where he wants to be…!
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Mar 31, 2009 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But it's not about money, otherwise he would have gone to Arizona
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 12:07 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
If it were just about money
Decision would have already been made & announced in my opinion.
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 12:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
auction
true,,,,,,,uk as sad as it is cant compete with fred smith thats just a FACT! its a sad day when memphis can pay more then kentucky BUT more importantly that would say alot of things,,,not just about the $$$ but if your committed to winning you will PONY UP
by kentuckybasketballandbbqgrippos on Mar 31, 2009 12:09 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Hopefully Coach Cal wants to move up from a junior conference and prove himself
I don’t think its the money. He is the man in Memphis. If he comes to Kentucky and leads us back to the promised land, then he is a hero and something in Lexington will be named after him. However, if he comes to UK and flops, he is toast. After his NBA career, there is no danger of him going back to the pros. This is something that Coach Cal needs to look at very closely.
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
exactly.
Right now he’s a congressman, everyone in Memphis knows him and if he’s lucky he might make it to governor where everyone in TN. knows him.
At UK he could become the PoTUS. Where everyone in America would know him. If that’s what he’s after then he said it himself, you can count the number of schools that offer that on one hand.
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Is anyone keeping an eye over at Tac air on his arrival?
by PapsBlue on Mar 31, 2009 12:11 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Here is a few lines from the recent article on commercialappeal.com
He loves Memphis but is drawn to the history and prestige of Kentucky. Calipari said it’s one of five programs — along with North Carolina, Duke, UCLA and Kansas — any coach would have to consider.
Nobody actually came out and asked Calipari if he was leaving, but he said he hadn’t made up his mind. He was going to drive around Memphis today and decide this afternoon.
If you’re into reading tea leaves — or coffee grounds, if you prefer — Calipari did say two things that should have Memphis fans worried.
“Things will be OK here,” he said.
And also: “Taking the job is the easy part of the decision. Leaving here is the hard part.”
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 12:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
“drive around memphis” – having lived in memphis 11+ years, I can safely say that this will sway his decision to move to Lexington. No offense to any Memphians on the board, we know its true.
by jgard75 on Mar 31, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I wonder if anyone...
is beating on his car windows when he stops at a light?
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 1:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This thread has almost reached the 500 post mark/limit for a thread.
Unfortunately we are absolutely no closer to knowing anything than we were last night.
WOE IS ME!
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 12:13 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I wonder...
Some people (myself included) have been asking why UK would fire a coach right before a season where we have the talent to make it to a Sweet Sixteen and possible Elite 8. With Calipari’s comments about how much he likes our current roster w/ Orton coming in and possibly a few of his recruits, I’m wondering if maybe MB and LT thought that this would be a more attractive job this year rather than a year or two down the line? It might help explain why they fired Billy G now.
by ben-p on Mar 31, 2009 12:15 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, maybe true but Coach G needed to go unfortunately due to a number of other things
like the reports on how he treated the players, would not attend Alumni meetings, and would not attend Rotary Club meetings. Not who we needed unfortunately.
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There seemed to be quite a few reasons to fire Billy G.
I just didn’t know any of them until recently.
I was very against it, but now realize it was best thing for UK.
Now, I am hell-bent for Coach Cal. Last week I wouldn’t have entertained the thought.
Crazy world of UK Basketball fanaticism
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 12:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I think that's part of it
Also, since BCG clearly underachieved on the floor with this year’s roster (not a national title contender, but at least should have won SEC East and been a mid-single-digit NCAA seed) and was quite possibly going to lose multiple players to an exodus, his odds of turning things around were starting to look slim.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 12:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
since i took vacation
because my 10 year old is on 2 week spring break,i told the wife i would do the dishes and laundry….boy is she gonna be pissed!
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:18 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
nice!!!!!
so is my boss, (did I say that out loud????)
by UKfan79 on Mar 31, 2009 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
would rather piss
my boss of than my wife…wink wink if ya catch my drift
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Sleeping arrangement
Hopefully your boss never asks you to sleep on the couch :-O
by Thestache on Mar 31, 2009 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We all have to understand
the implications for Memphis. If Cal leaves and takes some players with him………then its rebuilding time for Memphis which will not be as easy has it will be for us. So you guys have to understand why Memphis is trying to hold on right. Plus their guy Mike Anderson is going to Georgia. Cal knows this and I am sure he loves Memphis and doesn’t want to put them in a bad position.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 12:21 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Mizzous
anderson to uga?
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that is what
I heard on here earlier
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
by tenken on Mar 31, 2009 12:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why is Mizzou considered a bad job?
I see Mizzou to Georgia a laterial move at best
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Cal is in the SEC it is again a very tough conference top to bottom. I’m not ready to say best in the country but it would be in consideration. Add Anderson at UGA and that argument gets stronger, we’re talking some very exciting ball the second half of the season.
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Mike Anderson for sure going to Georgia?
I just haven’t heard.
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 12:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
But he hasn't accepted the UGA job right?
by ukcory on Mar 31, 2009 12:25 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
that article was written only 1 hour ago.
BUT! that’s a LONG time in these times of instant access….
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 12:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
lexington herald leader
The Memphis Commercial is reporting that John Calipari plans to decide whether to accept Kentucky’s offer to become its basketball coach sometime Tuesday afternoon.
Calipari is weighing a multi-million-dollar offer from UK. Meanwhile, Memphis has made a strong counter-proposal that would make him set for his working life and into retirement.
Calipari is believed to be indecisive and torn about the decision he must make.
Meanwhile, Kentucky remains hopeful. While waiting for Calipari’s decision, UK has a tentative plan in mind: announce Calipari’s acceptance, stage another pep rally in Memorial Coliseum on Wednesday and then have a Wednesday news conference to introduce the new coach.
One problem: Calipari has not yet accepted.
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
UK's multi-million dollar offer would also allow him to be "set for life"
At this point, if Cal stays at Memphis, isn’t he going to have a very hard time explaining that it wasn’t just about the money? I’m not sure he wants to put himself in that position. Not that Memphis isn’t a great job for him, but it isn’t UK, and he seems to understand that pretty clearly.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Memphis
threw in some kinda retirement package
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Prolly
some sort of advisor or token administrative role to keep him on the payroll
by DTharp on Mar 31, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Seriously, making...
the kind of money he’s making, do you need a retirement package? I wouldn’t think that would be such a big deal. Maybe agree to some sort of annuity or something.
by jbt36 on Mar 31, 2009 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Note: Memphis is in central time zone
I just want my eastern time zone friends not to stroke out if the news conference seems later that anticipated
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
starting to lean that way myself.
Feeling Nauseous!
by eeluk on Mar 31, 2009 12:28 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am no longer hungry
I guess i am biased but the UK Memphis choice is an easy one for me
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:30 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If
He doesnt want to come, you dont want him. If there is any doubt, he isnt the right guy and will bomb here. Better he not come than go through another Gillispie.
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 12:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree
We want someone that wants to be here for the RIGHT reasons: tradition, honor, loyality. NOT money But if he turns us down, i want to hear his reasoning before I pass judgement
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We must believe......
and pray….and make massive sacrifices to the BBall gods…..lol…..and if that dont work then we all have a nervous breakdown
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
EAP
Already contacted my companies Eamployee Assistance Program…they do not consider this job related stress :)
by Thestache on Mar 31, 2009 12:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The devil its not....
I cant work when I am stressed like this….lol….funny thing is these have been the two busiest days in weeks for me while I am trying to keep up with this…!!!
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Memphis will become UNLV of 1992
Hello, NIT! Goodbye top recruiting classes. When Louisville, Cincy, & Marquette left CUSA for the Big East, Memphis should have left CUSA too. They stayed in a mid-major conference for too long, and that was fine while Cal was there. But as soon as he leaves, the program will collapse like UNLV. Memphis should try to join the Big 12 or SEC. I’m not sure they would get in, but they need it to attract coaches. If Mike Anderson were to leave Missouri for Memphis and the program declines so that Tulsa becomes the CUSA champs, Anderson would not be able to get any other BCS jobs. Getting fired or leaving UK is tough — but there’s always NC State, Minnesota, or Oklahoma State. Getting fired at Memphis in CUSA would most likely lead to coaching a school which has never been to the Sweet 16.
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 12:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Maybe Anderson going to Georgia
is giving Calipari 2nd thoughts. He might not want to deal with the ghost of UAB coming back to haunt him. Anderson beat his 4 and 5 star recruits with some 2 and 3 star recruits……hmmmmmmmm
by bluecrip on Mar 31, 2009 12:39 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
It Took Pitino 2 Months To Say YES In 1989
And he said NO twice before he did (say YES).
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 12:40 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Commercial Appeal - Calipari to decide this afternoon
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2009/mar/31/tigers-coach-john-calipari-said-be-making-decision/
As the article says it has come to tracking donut shop conversations.
by mark12kentucky on Mar 31, 2009 12:40 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Some guy just came out of
the Memphis Bldg in a bad mood according tto the news people there…..maybe???
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
now they are saying its bad juju
with people coming out of the bldg
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Top 5 Coaching Jobs
Somebody wrote that Cal believes UK, Duke, NCarolina, Kansas, & UCLA are the best places to coach. What chance will we have at any of these programs except UK? Coach K, Roy Williams, Bill Self, & Ben Howland will all be at these schools for at least 5 to 10 more years. These jobs just don’t open up that often.
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 12:41 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Les just reported that should be a written statement by UK today in general,
however no official annoucement he says will come today.
by UKfan79 on Mar 31, 2009 12:46 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Has any BCS Coach ever left to go coach a non-BCS school?
How likely is it that Memphis will be able to lure away a coach like Anderson (MO), Capel (OK), or Kennedy (MS) from a BCS league if in fact Cal leaves for UK?
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 12:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That would mean giving up annual road trips to Allen Fieldhouse & Rupp Arena for...
Marshall, East Carolina, Tulane, and Southern Miss.
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 12:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Bluegrass State Basketball is now reporting
that their source is telling them that unless JC “jumps the Shark” the deal is on course and he will be announced as the next Kentucky Basketball coach
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
He does bear a resemblance to The Fonz
Aaayyyyyyyy….but that does sound look a positive report. :)
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 12:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
cal's family
by my calculation son is 11, at least one of two daughters is at UMass
interesting article with interview with wife- clearly may play a role
by bschoen on Mar 31, 2009 12:53 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
24 Hours?
Anyone get any kind of confirmation on a 24 hour deadline by UK? I guess UK would happily grant an extension if talks were leaning UK’s way but…I’m lookin’ for some hope for an answer soon!
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 12:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
guess i better
put a motley crue cd on and do some housework before wife gets home….being on vacation can suck
GO BIG BLUE!! WE WILL BE BACK!!!
by KYCATS77 on Mar 31, 2009 12:56 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
me too
I guess I will put on Guns N Roses. The kids will be home from school soon.
by champcat24 on Mar 31, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
If Cal doesn't work out....
there’s always Kelvin Sampson! Or maybe Eddie Sutton can come back. But the best choice would be Bobby Knight. Just kidding.
by CalipariCat on Mar 31, 2009 12:57 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That's not funny
OK, maybe a little funny.
But no, not really. I can’t decide. ;)
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
you just dont want to have to change usernames
Calicat…..lol
Remember, were having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Mar 31, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The longer this goes on
The less sane I am
by btcoop71 on Mar 31, 2009 12:59 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I dont think CAL is coming:
1. If he were coming he would have already said so and would be excited.
2. Mark Story today just gave him a glimpse of what he would go through if he were UK coach. ( already getting attacked)
3. He has everything he needs at Memphis, money, players, good AD, etc……
by Old Blue Cat on Mar 31, 2009 1:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Baseless other than to create more drama
Right now, Calipari has become the biggest coaching name in the US. If he has the savviness to last here at UK, he will understand how to use this stage and milk it for all its worth.
by Dini-D-Alum on Mar 31, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I disagree
I think if he were staying he would have already said so. No way those boosters yesterday weren’t throwing the moon at him. So what would he be waiting for today?
I think he is negotiating with UK/Memphis about his recruits and next Memphis coach.
by AthKat on Mar 31, 2009 1:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Disagree
This could just as easily get spun the other way, if not more so.
If he WEREN’T coming he wouldn’t have let things get anywhere near this far along.
Mark Story article is one thing, but a bunch of big-name ESPN talking heads all hyping his possible to move to UK out the wazoo is another.
Already knows what he has at Memphis, so the UK job must be incredibly attractive to him for him to consider leaving so seriously.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 1:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The longer this goes on the worse our chances are for getting him.
by Old Blue Cat on Mar 31, 2009 1:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Cal being Cal
Calipari is just content to let the media and fans lather into a frenzy. It will all be OK. This decision is not about money, it’s about taking an entirely new path in his coaching career that can get him to the Hall of Fame.
by kyeric on Mar 31, 2009 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs