Memphis Commercial-Appeal Reports: John Calipari Accepts Kentucky Head Coaching Position
by Glenn Logan on Mar 31, 2009 6:33 PM EDT
Email
PrintWhen the Commercial-Appeal reports it, I am calling it official.
John Calipari is officially the 21st Head Men's Basketball Coach at the University of Kentucky.
This has been one heck of a day. Half of the Commonwealth has been following this story, and there was all kinds of drama -- from white doors to gates to helicopters to airplanes ... You know the drill.
But barring a Dana Altman, John Calipari has made up his mind and will take on the challenge of guiding the most storied college basketball program in America from it's current irrelevance back to national respectability.
These last three weeks have been a wild ride. At this point in time, I have no interest whatever in rehashing the events of the past, because the future looks so promising at this particular moment. John Calipari will be embraced by the Big Blue Nation, and he is one of the few coaches in America with the automatic stature, credibility and ego to take on this iconic position. There will be no learning curve, and if you think expectations were high before, welcome to the quantum leap.
I will have much more on this tomorrow, but for now, I just want to welcome Coach Calipari and his family to the Kentucky family. We are glad to have you, and confident that the Big Blue Nation and the legacy of Adolph Rupp, Joe B. Hall, Rick Pitino and Tubby Smith are now in capable hands.
So I hope you will all join me in welcoming the new Head Wildcat. May his reign be long, prosperous and filled with lots and lots of shiny hardware.
706 comments
|
0 recs |
Do you like this story?
Comments
wklawdog is not Matt Jones
wklawdog however is a lawyer, in Western Kentucky
JXClaytor on the 360
by JoshuaClaytor on Mar 31, 2009 7:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Wow, I can sleep tonight knowing that we have a coach.
Unless there is bird turbulance or some other such thing.
Parrish also says it's done
Parrish reports here.
Gregg Doyel weighs in too. Upshot – it’s basically over for every college program not named Kentucky.
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
Doyel also thought BCG would win huge at UK
I certainly think things are looking much better for us this time around, but I wouldn’t start assuming annual dominance like everyone stereotypes UK fans as demanding.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 6:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, Calipari is a known commodity whereas Gillispie wasn't
So I think there is good reason to believe that dominance will follow – maybe not as soon as next year, but soon.
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
Yes, I think Cal is very likely to return UK to the highest elite level
But that doesn’t mean EVERYONE else is going to be mere peons. Too much parity these days for that to happen.
Remember when Duke made 7 Final Fours in 9 seasons? I don’t think anyone’s ever going to have that level of success again.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 6:43 PM EDT up reply actions
I started to forward that Doyel link to my non-UK friends
Then I read it
Then I came to my senses
I sent it anyway!
"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
Doyel Is Hyperbolic
Greg Doyel tends to speak in superlatives. One of his quotes was to the effect: If I had to win one game the coach for that game would be Billy Gillispie. I took it to the bank at the time, turns out my deposit was not insured by FDIC, it seems.
by Wild Weasel on Mar 31, 2009 11:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Is it too early to speculate...
An Elite 8 team next year?
Or is that too high for expectations?
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 6:39 PM EDT up reply actions
according to Doyel you are thinking too low!!!
he said favorite to get to final four (with a little help from some recruits mind you)
Depends who comes in with him
If both Patterson and Meeks stay, Orton sticks with UK, AND Cal somehow brings Wall and Cousins with him, then no, those expectations are not too high. That team would be a legit Final Four contender.
But there are other scenarios where those expectations will be way too high.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 6:41 PM EDT up reply actions
The way he gets players .....
there could be 5-6 first round draft picks on next year’s team.
Too high
still a relatively young team, new coach, new style
though we have the talent to make a deep ncaa run, I think we should expect to make the tournament and a top 8 seed – anything else is a bonus
Big Difference
Smith inherited a team that was in the habit of winning and was in the championship frame of mind; Calipari does not have that luxury.
Interviews on ESPN...
He wanted the UK job but didn’t want to leave…but decided at the end of the day, he wanted the opportunity.
Nothing is friendly in Memphis, per the Commercial Appeal reporter on ESPN.
Reporting, Memphis is pissed that Calapari is taking his recruits.
Andy Kennedy from SEC and Anderson are talked about as possible Memphis coaches. They will move fast to replace him.
Any trash talk of Cal and Ricky P?
Can you imagine the early season mayhem next year?
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 6:41 PM EDT up reply actions
those will be some interesting games
the one coach who could eff up Calipari’s plans was Anderson! :)
good rivalry and good for the SEC!
Being in Gator country ...
I hope Calathes is drafted. Billy D might be looking at perennial 4th or 5th in the SEC East. Of course they were happy to win one more this year than last, even though they didn’t advance as far in the NIT.
Cal gave em a shot though...
I’m a little surprised by the anger. Maybe just over the recruits issue?
I Take It As A Positive
that he took so long to commit. It shows that he really cared about the area and the people involved. I hope he finds that there will be as much love in Lexington and maybe more.
Sportscenter right now
Reporting that Dan Wolken of Commercial-Appeal says it’s a done deal…so nothing really different from the link Tru posted above.
I will say it now - offically
IT IS ON LIKE DONKEY KONG!!
will be interesting to see how long it takes Cal to use that expression himself.
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 6:39 PM EDT reply actions
Thank you God!
Hallelujah! Praise Jesus! haha
I am so unbelievably happy right now! (along with everyone else in the BBN)
I had a HORRIBLE day at work and this totally wipes the shittyness of today out!
Welcome to Kentucky John Calipari!
I did not realize UK has had 21 coaches (including Cal)
must havehad a bunch before Rupp
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
Don't Think He'd Go
He is a quality coach, has a little problem with ethnic cab drivers but, he has some good players coming back along with freshman of the year (I think). Two of his best players went down early in the season and he still did well. CUSA compared to SEC. I don’t think so.
I Sent Him An E-Mail
I don’t know him that well but maybe.
I know a K-St guy better. He’ll know.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 9:58 PM EDT up reply actions
the players said, but didn't
that the school would find them another coach, and you couldn’t be mad at Calipari for chasing his dreams
Kentucky is stacked next year...
And BCG’s career is over.
You heard it here first.
He’s media trash now….and his stock is trading in the dirt.
If he don’t get a job in 2 days, he’s done.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions
I certainly don't agree, regarding BCG
I think plenty of schools will want him, and that he’ll do just fine at a place with less pressure and attention than UK.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 6:44 PM EDT up reply actions
Stop trashing Gillispie ...
I won’t warn you again.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
This guy has posted something along those lines on EVERY thread over the past few days. It's not only annoying at this point,
it’s just wrong.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
Don't Agree
Gillispie will do fine at another venue. One where he not under the microscope on a daily basis.
VERY Good Coach
Square peg in round hole at UK.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 9:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Cal is probably thinking "It's good to be the king"
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 6:49 PM EDT up reply actions
enbrace the hate, embrace the love......
we are big enough for everyone…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions
ESPN---CBS---SI---AP
..All are reporting, DONE DEAL..!!!!!
UK will not announce until contract is signed…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
Check out this little piece of Doyel's article on CBS!!
"At UMass, a nothing school on the college basketball landscape, John Calipari won like he was at Kentucky. At Memphis, a bigger basketball school than UMass but still nothing much to look at when he got there in 2000, Calipari won again like he was at Kentucky.
So what happens now that John Calipari is coaching Kentucky?
I’ll tell you what happens. Kentucky will win like it’s the Boston Celtics.
College basketball as you know it? It’s over. That sport doesn’t exist anymore, because that sport had a semblance of parity. One year North Carolina is the dominant program. One year it’s UConn. One year it’s Duke or UCLA or Florida. Maybe those teams don’t win the national title the year they’re dominant, or maybe they do. Either way, every year there is a team that, on paper, is the dominant program in college basketball. And every year it’s a different team.
Until now. Until John Calipari merges with Kentucky."
Now tell me that doesn’t put a smile on your face. :) GO CATS!!!
B. Mc
Too much to expect
I don’t think any program, ever, is going to be absolutely dominant absolutely every year.
I’m sure Cal will do great things at UK and will have us contending consistently. That’s plenty good to hope for.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 6:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Obviously to think that we would utterly dominate year in and year out is unrealistic
The point is, we are going to be relevant again, instantly, and we will be in a position every year to make a run.
B. Mc
Right
But Doyel actually IS saying we’ll dominate every single year. I know he likes to talk big; just keeping things a bit real.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree
Maybe Doyel did get a little carried away with it.
B. Mc
read the article carefully
he was carried away and then some other things too
He got carried away for sure
But he wasn’t hyping the fanbase. Doyel doesn’t care about any fanbase, coach, administration, anything.
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
he does from a job perspective
those billion hits he can use to tell his boss that he is writing stuff that LOTS OF PEOPLE ARE READING so his boss should keep him in this tightening economy especially. :)
personally, i know he doesn’t give a rat’s ass about UK.
My point was he doesn't need to play-up any coach, fanbase, etc
He writes what he writes and it’s going to get tons of hits. If he had written a more negative column focused on the shady Cal rumors and connecting that to previous UK scandals he would get just as many (perhaps more) hits from the UK fanbase.
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
That's my count ...
…from http://www.bigbluehistory.net/bb/Statistics/coaches.html
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Ok ...
… everybody reload. I added a bunch of stuff.
I just wanted to get another thread up fast. :-)
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Dick Vitale on ESPN right now.
Calipari.
Vitale says it’s official. “it’s a Grand Slam from UK” “Calipari is Rick Patino all over again.”
“Unbelievable facilities” “They were part of the real elite big time programs. He’s going to be dynamite (at the elite program in the country).”
Memphis will get a quality coach, per Vitale. He has a problem with the players going with the coach to UK, unless there is a release signed. They shouldn’t be able to go immediately."
More developing.
OH HAPPY DAY!
I was beginning to think this moment would never come!!
Ricky P - - Surrender Now
We wont humiliate you more than you have already been
just got done
confirming again on ESPNEWS. I had heard that it was all over Memphis tv today as I was riding through Lexington listening to the radio. Its as solid as it gets now guys. Lets go get us some banners! Whaddaya say?
GO BIG BLUE!
I'm just glad
that I don’t have to fear losing my job or the Commonwealth’s economy completely collapsing due to a complete lack of production at any jobplace in the state.
B. Mc
scooped
wow! i knew H-L’s site was terrible, but today confirmed it. they got scooped by everyone on the confirmation. kentucky.com still doesn’t have this story! crazy!
First NYCCat takes his pants off, now this
Where will it end?
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
Please
Stay away from the door or the gate
:O
Welcome Calipari!
Make SURE you speak to the Rotary club! ;)
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 6:58 PM EDT reply actions
I think it was great .....
that Coach Cal called the former Cat coaches. If he can build a relationship with them and former players he will be well on his way to understanding UK basketball. I loved Doyel’s "He’ll get Kentucky rolling, too. Heaven help anyone who gets in the way. "
Welcome Coach Calipari!
I’m hyped!!!!!!!!!!!!! What an emotional roller-coaster we’ve been on!
Fox Sports
Ranks UK as the #2 hardest job in sports behind Yankees Manager but ahead of Alabama and Dallas
http://msn.foxsports.com/cbk/pgStory?contentId=9399090#sport=COLLEGE%20BASKETBALL&photo=9399124
Did anyone see Pitino today when he got asked about Calipari?
During an interview about the final four… He was asked how he thought Cal would do at UK. He said “I think he’ll do a good job”, when a 2nd question was asked he said “Look, (sigh, literally he sighed), everyone knows I have a deep affection for Kentucky but this is about Louisville”. lol
B. Mc
LOL
Only now, at the end, does he understand the full power of the Dark Side of the Force
Perfect. Now RP make it a common practice to stay out of Kentucky's business with the media:
RP opened the door to mixing the two schools interests when he allowed his opinions to be printed in the newspaper about the Kentucky hire this past weekend.
He definately knew what he was doing
He wanted someone in there that he thought he would always overpower. Sorry ’bout ya luck there Ricky P.
B. Mc
Oh and...
congratulations fellow Cat fans! it’s a great new day!
Wonderful news! And, my boss will be so happy that I might get something done
And to think UK could be playing Notre Dame tonight.....
I never ever root for UK to lose but Calipari to UK is better
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
Sweet
This is the sweetest news. I feel like one lucky dog. Even my Bloodhounds are smilin’. Line up the shooters. I’m ready to celebrate.
The more people I meet, the more I like my Bloodhound.
by Blue Bloodhound on Mar 31, 2009 7:04 PM EDT reply actions
Ther is now another flight plan filed from Mem to LEX in a King Air...
…so I don’t know which one he will be on….unless they had to add one for more people
Confirmation
Tru said it:
But barring a Dana Altman, John Calipari has made up his mind and will take on the challenge of guiding the most storied college basketball program in America from it’s current irrelevance back to national respectability.
(Empahsis mine)
And it’s been said numerous times by numerous commentators: UK for years has been relegated to the irrelevant, now after one failed attempt it appears those dark days are behind us. I’m hopeful though not ecstatic, I’ve learned the ephemeral nature of the enraptured.
UK Was Very Relevant 1998-2005
Slipped a bit in 2006 and 2007.
Fell off the cliff in 2008 (injuries) and 2009 (who knows why).
Thankfully Mitch listened to adult professionals this time.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 10:00 PM EDT up reply actions
WHAS 11 said
plane was leaving Memphis at 6 : 15 EST
eyes everywhere.....
it’s a beutiful thing. take a shot for teambeam when the plane is airbore everybody
in other good news
There were no violent crimes in Memphis today.
Well, I infer that from the fact that the entire Memphis media was camped out in parking lots and street corners. One station had a crew at the athletic dept, a crew at coach’s house, and two crews at the airport all at the same time.
Press Conference
Commonwealth Stadium
with live feed to Rupp for overflow?
Calipari
Welcome aboard sir, I REALLY look forward to watching a new era of UK basketball.
true or false
True or False
UK has never hired a coach with this much success
SO???
Does anybody think Pitino will take the heat? He’s been coach at UL for sometime and has a history of leaving most of his jobs after about this long. I heard speculation that he might be bailing for Arizona. What do you guys think?
I think RP may be wanting more bucks ...$$
Since now he’s only the second highest paid coach in Kentucky … don’t think he’ll leave though because if I remember it was his wife’s love of horses what brought him back to the bluegrass state <:)
More than that ...
I thnk he is really NOT looking forward to UK/Louisville game this year … even though their recruiting calss is no slouch …
GO CATS!!
does UK have
scholarships available if some of the recruits decide to follow coach
After all these days of drama....
There’s something very reassuring about seeing it on the ESPN bottomline
About A Week Ago
Someone posted, and I can’t remember who, stated a profundity:
It’s Always Darkest Right Before the Dawn.
Dawn has broken over the Nation Of Big Blueness!!!!!!!
Woo hoo!!!! Lets go Cats!!!!
I knew as soon as I would leave work something would happen. I hadn’t been gone 5 minutes and heard the news on ESPN radio. This is huge!!!!!!
So what ever happened to ‘door man’???? hahahaha
I should warn you guys...
Expect UK basketball to have a lot of ones-and-dones in the not too distant future.
Who cares???
If we are competing for national championships then I don’t care.
I think they will find a happy median between the two.
because surely this was or will be talked about between Cal and the program.
Wanted
to let yall know…….Cal is meeting with players as I type….has not left Memphis yet….per WMCTV
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
2 years ago Calipari was my first choice and couldn't get hardly anyone to agree with me....
glad to see everyone is on board
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
Two years ago Cal
hadn’t just made it to the NC game and did not have the #1 recruiting class in his back pocket.
the REAL fake Mr. Bob Dobalina
Formerly known as "senowen"
And most of the people now celebrating this hire were screaming he was dirty, evil, and our program shouldn’t attempt to hire such a shady character… And those same people will be screaming that same thing after the first loss. ;)
thats the only thing
that bothers me, we don’t need another " Kentuckys Shame "
lord in heaven
please don’t let it happen. i’m sure with all the pressure and inspection, especially in this day and age of technology, he’ll have to run a TIGHT ship. hopefully that doesn’t affect his recruiting.
I have been concerned...
about Coach Calipari’s past and have said as much. But the decision has been made to hire the man and I am on board with it. After the past 10 years, it is high time that, sink or swim, we do it together.
My favorite part of this hire is...
the fact that we can simply trust this guy to go out and bring in the best players and organize a successful team year-in and year-out. No more questioning what is wrong. The guy has won everywhere and I feel we are lucky to have everything work out so well. As much as the national media tries to deny it, TRADITION MATTERS.
The money didn’t hurt either.
I think most of the national media understands that tradition matters
With a few exceptions, most have been acknowledging that the UK job is a cut above everyone else, save for the other four or five historically great bball schools.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 7:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Memphis
is just devastated. People are in tears. WOW! They just lost their Rupp
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Did anyone else hear Dick Vitale's comments????
I heard an interview with him on ESPN radio, the one thing he said that caught my attention was that he didn’t think it was right for players who had committed to a program be allowed to follow a coach (if the coach left) and play that year. He thinks they should sit out a year.
My thoughts were this would not be even brought up if:
a) it wasn’t UK
b) if Cal didn’t have 3 of the top 5 recruits interested
it makes sense to me
stop looking for UK bias where none exists. The NCAA has long tried to remind players that they sign with schools, not coaches. Even if it is a naive sentiment.
yes, but one of Cal's signees had a specific clause
saying he could leave if Cal left.
by Gobe Igbloo on Mar 31, 2009 10:46 PM EDT up reply actions
He has mentioned those same ideas
before on TV when talking about similar situations.
this is just the perfect opportunity to force his opinions on us.
Maybe he just got caught up in the moment
But I don’t think many people are going to argue that verbal-only commits shouldn’t be free to go elsewhere without sitting out.
I think that was a quadruple negative
Not sure even I understand what I was trying to say…LOL.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 7:27 PM EDT up reply actions
WMCTV
had a story about Mark Story’s piece. OUCH
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
The NCAA just announced that they
are looking into the LOI program and seeing what modifications need to be made so that college players are not allowed to leave schools willy nilly.
Their exact words.
Really?
I hadn’t heard that. Got any links?
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 7:26 PM EDT up reply actions
Ah, gotcha
You “sounded” so serious…LOL.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 7:29 PM EDT up reply actions
funny -
i was already going to call in the UK rule until i realized you were kidding….
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 7:50 PM EDT up reply actions
sorry Uof M.............but they just took that back......they said it was possibly Strickland.....the assistant
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Henrr(brother of UofM recruit Henry) said his brother will not renig on Memphis
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
He has a signed LOI, and those guys usually don't switch schools
Wall and Cousins (verbal only/uncommitted) could be a different story.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 7:29 PM EDT up reply actions
there is a video out there where Xavier Henry said he will reopen his recruiting (in a nutshell)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
WREG
reported that those who have signed LOI have a clause that lets them out if Cal left
He was going regardless of what Cal did
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
Yes, several times
But it is worth a re-read! Love it, wish it were 100% true…but gotta love being the Dark Side again.
And on cue, ESPN starts playing up the UK-UL rivalry game.
Funny they never mentioned it until they got the rights to the game.
Just Be Careful Coach
With the animosity surrounding Coach Cal leaving don’t send any packages to recruits by FedEx, please.
Watch for
WWW to be on the plane!
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
WWW hasn't been aproblem for him yet
in fact almost all coaches talk to him regularly…it wish i had a link regarding WWW
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
I can't tell if your last statement is being ironic or not
Given the preponderance of that one link in the open threads the last few days.
I like important stuff just as much as the next guy, but please, for a little while, deliver us from meaning, baseball. That's your greatest glory, and we thank you for it very, very much. -- Craig Calcaterra
Well it mentioned Coach K, Boeheim etc talk to this guy
I think with COach Cal the relationship is alot older
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
So, any word on the Kentucky end of things?
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Ten
You have done good today!
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
Thanks for your fieldwork on the Memphis end of this story...
Looks like you have a future in sports journalism…what is your 40 time?
john clay...
has a live web chat at 8.
http://johnclay.bloginky.com/
Cal
Has the opportunity to actually eclipse and replace Rick in Kentucky lore
reality of dangerous UK is beginning to sink in
the new blue hue they must learn to preach instead of decry has them shifting quite uncomfortably.
Xavier Henry and DeMarcus Cousins video discussing Cal etc.
this was posted in another thread in case anyone missed it
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
Got the feeling
both not coming to Cats.
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
my feelings as well
maybe once calipari gets to talk to them through others they’ll reconsider UK. they both did stress wanting to play for him.
Oh
crap!!!!! I just realized something….my inlaws are Memphis grads……..huge Memphis fans……..what does this mean for me? I am getting scared :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
lol but hubby HATES memphis..........Tennessee fan :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
ESPN Says
that CoachCal has just set a new standard for top notch college coaches. The bar has been raised for others.
How long
is flight from Memphis to Lexington?
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
Don't know
but I have flown from Memphis to Nashville 45 minutes
then another day flown from Nashville to Lex 45 minutes
so 1 and a half :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
calipari my worst nightmare
After 55 yrs I have just left my beloved UK Basketball. I never thought that there would be a coach of this kind at my beloved UK. The tradition of this program will be forever changed and it will be missed . As Rupp said there is only one Kentucky and will only be one Kentucky forever.
Joe, please reconsider and see what happends
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Don't let the door hit you in the ...
UL Football Fan/UK Basketball Fan ~ Shreveport Louisiana
by The White Mandingo on Mar 31, 2009 7:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Hit Ya
Where the Good Lord split ya.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 10:01 PM EDT up reply actions
WOW
andy katz got a text message and it said “GO BIG BLUE” from Cal
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Happy Days
I hope we all get those happy days we have wished for……We will, because we are the KY Wildcats……….no other like us, never will be
As soon as I get forced by the girlfriend...
to the grocery, the news breaks! I’m ecstatic. Glad this is over and looking forward to next season now. Cal has some work to do but I’ve got no doubt he can get it done.
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
CBS Sports
Has anyone read the article by gregg doyle on the CBS Sports page? It will put cold chills on you.
Be interesting to really know if Barnhart was the key closer (besides the 35 million)
got to give credit to the powers to be for making this happen.
please tell me there will be a crowd
at bluegrass airport…..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 7:53 PM EDT reply actions
If I did not live a two hours away
I would be there!
JXClaytor on the 360
by JoshuaClaytor on Mar 31, 2009 7:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Hey
fellow west tennessean……………memphis is a wreck right now huh!
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
i feel for the city
and – as you know – cal has his warts.
but i am jumping on the bandwagon with both feet. just hope everyone’s eyes are WIDE OPEN…..
the man can recruit – we will see how he does with the nightly grind of the SEC….
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 8:00 PM EDT up reply actions
Link
http://www.cbssports.com/collegebasketball/story/11573816
Read this article
OMG J WIlliams said UK could be a preseason favorite for a NC
way to early for that but itis music to my ears
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
J Williams also says that it is reasonable to allow athletes to move with the coach
they gave their verbal commitment to.
yes - j williams
just became my favorite dukie
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 8:01 PM EDT up reply actions
Wonder if Henry & Cousins signed Memphis lol?
If so, are lol binding
Last I heard.
I thinkI Henry has but Cousins is only a verbal. Not 100% on that but I think that’s the way it is.
B. Mc
Henry
was talking about Kansas.
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
Love your
new avatar!
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
haha thanks....I changed it last nite
hoping i was gonna have to change it back
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
My wife does things
like that with the computer.
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
Andy Katz gets email from Cal...
The coach sent a text message to ESPN.com’s Andy Katz on Tuesday evening saying, “I am accepting the UK job! Go Big Blue, coach Cal.”
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
Ky Fans can
go from extreme exhaustion , from watching a door for hours and hours, and have that turn into utterly, absolutely, jumping up and down, joy, in a matter of seconds,,, Go Big Blue !!
Tom Cruise jumping on Oprah's couch
can best describe the collective emotion within the BBN at this time…..
We need some blue John Calipari flavored Kool-Aid
I’m looking for it at Conveinance stores across the Commonwealth.
B. Mc
That's a great idea. Call the Kool-Aid company and suggest they produce it - it will sell like hotcakes.
I’d buy a case.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Sure! haha Let's meet Coach Cal at the airport to greet him with a cup when he hits the ground!
It can be his first marketing gig. lol
Maybe we can send a few dollars to Memphis since we just obliterated their program. Kind of like the U.S. does after they bomb someone. lol
B. Mc
Any News
about a landing?
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
I have to work tomorrow, so if/when the press conference is announced can someone
please post a link so I can sneak and watch? Can’t be all day on line looking for it, but I’ll check this site every little bit.
After Georgia Fills Their Job..
The SEC will be LOADED! I think Anderson may end up at Georgia, Alabama has finally gotten smart with Anthony Grant. Billy and Bruce better look out.
I would have given anything to be a fly on the wall in Bruce’s office at UT when he found out Calipari was coming to UK….
Anderson will go to Memphis, don't you think?
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:14 PM EDT up reply actions
My brother teaches at UM in Columbia
He says that Anderson has family on the team over there and that Mizzou is redoing his contract to try and keep him. He is in the Big 12 north which is quite a bit easier than the SEC east.
He's from Birmingham, and I heard on the radio this afternoon that he would love to be back
in the South. But, I’m still thinking Memphis i/o Georgia.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:17 PM EDT up reply actions
I joined the "Bring John Calipari to UK" group on Facebook Saturday
there were 135 members when I joined…..right now there is 18,990…..wow
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
Where can I buy my new UK shirts...
K a l i p a r i
e
n
t
u
c
k
y
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
Vince, I gonna be visiting...
the fair city of Pittsburgh for a conference next week. Want me to bring you a vial of Three Rivers water or anything?
Two fans
My son lives in Dallas so I read the paper daily. This was a pleasant read…so much so I just copied it….
March 31, 2009
Calipari all the rage pregame
6:50 PM Tue, Mar 31, 2009 | Permalink | Yahoo! Buzz
Eddie Sefko E-mail News tips
Nobody was more excited that John Calipari signed on to be the University of Kentucky basketball coach than Mavericks’ basketball-communications manager Scott Tomlin.
A proud Wildcat alum from 2002, Tomlin was bouncing off the walls after news leaked out of Calipari’s signing.
Actually, there may have been one Maverick who was more excited: Dirk Nowitzki.
"We’re back baby,‘’ Nowitzki yelled in the locker room before the game against Minnesota. "Kentucky is back on the map.’’
Kentucky, of course, was where Nowitzki was going to attend college had he not bypassed college to go straight from Germany to the NBA.
Of course, the best line came from a Maverick who shall remain unnamed, who said: "Dirk was only at Kentucky long enough to pick up the envelope with the payment inside.’’
—Eddie Sefko
awesome!
i like dirk. had no idea he was a UK recruit
I Think
Anderson will choose Georgia unless Mizzou matches. There will be some wonderful games to watch in the conference in the next few years. Plus, shouldn’t be much talk about the conference being “down” or “weak” with these guys. We will be the equals of the Big East and ACC in the eyes of the media….and of the kids..
Out west somewhere or maybe NC State, but I still think Anderson has been stalling Georgia
to wait out Cal to see what he did/does?
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:20 PM EDT up reply actions
We need to read up on this and get ready...!!!
“dribble-drive motion offense”
That’s the new CATS offense my friend..!!! And Meeks will thrive in it…!
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
Most Excellent!! I want that for my avatar.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:19 PM EDT up reply actions
Love it!
Will you make that available to folks? I’d love to have a copy for my FB page!
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:19 PM EDT up reply actions
I just changed my avatar - Thank you! I'll stop using it if you want me to.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:23 PM EDT up reply actions
I copied it off facebook....it is not mine to tell ya what to do with it
doesnt bother me at all…I just love sharing these photos I find
;-)
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
I just shared it with my 2,100 friends on FB and 1300 on Twitter
Killer.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Calipari actually learned that offense
During a trip to Italy from a coach over there, as I understand it. Good to see a guy who can change and modify as times change.
Now all we need is a few players who can dribble and drive.
That is not a bash – just an observation.
BCG
Could end up at NC State, but really needs to get to a team where basketball is not a huge deal. I think he ends up somewhere in Texas. If UTEP’s coach gets the Memphis job, then I could see him returning there…
I hope he ends up at Mizzou
…After Memphis gets Anderson
by stephensmith on Mar 31, 2009 8:33 PM EDT up reply actions
UT
The “Big Orange Turd” better look out now. Anyways, they couldnt even beat Billy
Quality Program
Top recruits ….without slime…..NCAA every year, Final Fours and Elite Eights like Calamari (maybe you will get there some day). Is the SEC still a mid major or has it moved down the pecking order?
HAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!
Never heard that one before!!!!!!!!! You are so damn funny!!!!!!!!
Aikman and Bradshaw?
Please. They are in the same league as Trent Dilfer and Jim McMahon as QBs who were taken to the SB by great Defenses and great Running Games.
-DJCahill
by SarasotaRanger on Mar 31, 2009 9:40 PM EDT up reply actions
ASOB is
such a wonderful place, a place to be surrounded by people who get it, who know no other way to be, to share all the good and the bad, along with each other, and enjoy every single second of the passion that is KY Wildcats
YES
i feel like singing “My Old Kentucky Home” after reading your comments
Oh, I absolutely agree. And, when you think that lots of us aren't living in Kentucky now, but still
can stay in touch and discuss the team.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:31 PM EDT up reply actions
I have no conformation on this
but someone on john Clays live chat just said that they saw that konner Tucker has decommited
Good.
We’ve already got Landon Slone, IMHO
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I like to give everyone the benefit of the doubt.
But I really wondered what BCG was doing recruiting this guy just based on his stats. Now we will never know.
Xbox Live Gamertag: hoopchi
Theres mmy conformation:)
I’m pretty happy that he did this. I think there could have been some unnesessary drama if Calipari decided not to honor his verbal since it was given right before BCG was released.
Smoke Screen
This is all a front. Who do they keep asking his opinion? Pitino. Just wait. Pitino has a history of up and leaving suddenly in the middle of building a program. He did it here once already, then in Boston, and now Louisville will be next. Just watch and see. Pitino is coming home. He has been quote time and time again saying that the Big Blue was his favorite coaching job ever. Just wait. He’s coming home.
Also Quoted That Louisville Is His Best Job Ever
Know how to tell when Pitino is lying?
Watch for his lips to move.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 8:30 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm actually thinking...
he may bolt to Arizona since he won’t be the Big Show anymore. I have to admit a certain amount of satisfaction hearing him say “this is not about Kentucky, it’s about Louisville” during the presser today. Because, by the look on his face, he knows it’s ALL about Kentucky now.
NEWS CONFERENCE
SCHEDULED FOR NOON TOMORROW.
per WKYT (Hazard)
I guess that's noon eastern time right? I'm in the central time zone.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:38 PM EDT up reply actions
EST
Good question. Since it’s in Lex, I’m guessing EST is a safe bet.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Calipari Cat and Red Racer Rick?
I need another drink.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions
I drink mine from a can.
You’re welcome to all you want though.
Natty the Daddy the Calipari Cattie for me.
(OK, Tru. Sorry. I quit.)
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:43 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm getting scared.
What if the Confiker worm hits tommorrow and it keeps me from watching the press conference. I swear to God, if that happens I will track the little nerd who designed it down and squeeze the life out of him with my bare hands.
April Fools.
It’s Y2K.
KInda like Ricky P actually thinking he could dictate a T Ford hire.
I don’t know.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:42 PM EDT up reply actions
If I bring into a PC at work just so I can watch the news, not only will it crash the network at the
office, I’ll be fired for my trouble……
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 8:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Here's what we do know...
The dribble drive allows players to improvise…a lot.
And with the inevitable onslaught of one-and-dones, these aren’t your grandfather’s Cats anymore.
Anyone else remember when Memphis put a smackdown on UK in Maui three years ago?
It was a clinic. Driving into the lane pretty much whenever they wanted, kicking it out for wide open 3s whenever the defense collapsed.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 8:48 PM EDT up reply actions
OMG! That's funny!
Might be another something I’ll share on FB and Twitter again! :)
That pic deserves its own FB group!
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:54 PM EDT up reply actions
Oh the sun shines bright..
on my Old Kentucky Home! :)
It was WAY past due. Learn it, Live it, Love it.
B. Mc
KSR is having a live blog tonight at 10pm est
for anyone interested and able to access ths site
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
New UK shirt will be out tomorrow...
“Envy our Past, Fear our Future. The Calipari Era Begins Now.”
Hands on Originals..!
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
This is bigger than Hillary and Obama, huh?
We’re freaks.
Love it!
Where can I pre-order?
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions
would like to preorder
but I bet fatties are told no :(
JXClaytor on the 360
by JoshuaClaytor on Mar 31, 2009 9:04 PM EDT up reply actions
Andy Katz is on ESPN about Cal and Memphis now
Talking about recruits coming vs. not coming.
Also, SNR has a live audio stream talking non-stop Cats: http://radio.sportingnews.com/
Talking about Ricky P and Cal rivalry on ESPN with Katz
Replacements at Memphis include Barbee from UTEP and Nolan Richardson is interested.
Anderson signs new contract at Mizz today.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 9:03 PM EDT up reply actions
Top Memphis player declares for NBA draft with Cal's transfer.
“He he ain’t here, I ain’t playing,” per ESPN.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 9:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Katz said Mitch told Calipari that they listened to the wrong people 2 years ago
and that is whay Calipari did not get a look…..no chit
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
BCG would.
But they won’t talk about him.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 9:04 PM EDT up reply actions
If I were BCG I'd be chasing that job right now.
If BCG can connect with GA talent, he’d have a great draw of recruits.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 9:09 PM EDT up reply actions
I think the UGA job is the easiest in the country to take from a coaches perspective.
Better recruiting base than the U of Arizona job, and less expectations than Memphis.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 9:10 PM EDT up reply actions
ITs the UK Show on ESPN
Biggest news today, interviewing everyone.
I think my grandmother is up next.
Forty hasn't been
heard from in a long time.
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
You Can't Get A Word In Edgewise
There are a 100 new posts in just a few minutes.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 9:40 PM EDT up reply actions
Agree.
I wonder if things will calm back down to the “regulars” in a week or so.
I’m sure Tru enjoys the traffic, but I just don’t know where to put something in.
A new thread pops, and it hits 500 in under an hour. Too much.
That said, welcome to the newbies/lurkers.
Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.
--O.W.
All that needs to be done to limit the number of comments...
is put up a football related post! Us UK football fans are special type.
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 31, 2009 10:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Okay, Cat fans, which coaching hire will have a bigger effect on the upcoming season?
Lane Kiffin to Tennessee, Cal to UK, Gene Chizik to Auburn, or Anthony Grant to Bama?
The reception for Coach Cal at the press conference
is going to be rediculous. Can’t wait!
B. Mc
Anyone know
how close Coach Cal is to Lexington?
B. Mc
Im guessing it is tomorrow, last private flight plan has expired for today....
…another could be filed, of course, but I’d say it will be tomorrow
Private Plane
If I had to guess I would say Mitch sent the charter jet to pick him up folks.
DEEETROIT BASKETBALLL!!!
I am watching UFC's Ultimate Knockouts
and imagining that this is what we are going to do to SEC opponents once again…lol
Slower Traffic Keep Right!
someone checkout www.flightview.com
where is the dam plane?
FlightAware
Since I’m a member of the site:
This flight took off today at 7:53PM Central Time, due to arrive 9:52PM Eastern.
FLG2210 CRJ2 Blue Grass (KLEX) Tue 19:53 CDT Tue 21:52 EDT
Other than that, I can’t find a KMEM to KLEX flight leaving after 4:18PM Central.
And that flight shows up as
a Northwest Airlines flight. Not a private plane. So I doubt Cal is on that plane.
The video on the Memphis affiliate
is that flight. Dunno. Maybe they wanted one more chance to see Cal before they left for Lexington
According to mapquest, Memphis to Lexington is about 420 miles.
That’s about a two or three hour plane flight.
Ten
said it was 45 mins.
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
i am sorry
i meant 45 min from nashville to memphis……and another 45 min from nash to lex…….so i figured 1 and a half.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
What if...
Coach Cal’s first words through the microphone happened to be him singing a line from “My Old Kentucky Home”. Talk about blowing the place up. lol
B. Mc
excellent news!
other than that I’ll have to wake up early to watch….
by man-bear-pig on Mar 31, 2009 9:20 PM EDT up reply actions
I'm on hold for Sporting News Radio
Talking BCG
It's official per Cat's Pause
Calipari has OFFICIALLY signed a 8 year contract worth 31.65 Million.
B. Mc
Orlando Antigua
He’s one of Cal’s assistants who will apparently be coming with him to UK. Anyone else remember him playing for Pitt in college? He was on the team that stomped UK in Rupp in the pre-season NIT at the beginning of the ’91-92 season.
AND…anyone else remember who the point guard of that Pitt team was?
No...LOL
BUT, it WAS someone who has been prominently mentioned in this current UK coaching search.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 9:25 PM EDT up reply actions
Almost a Wildcat, Too
He nearly picked UK but Pitino chose someone else.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 9:41 PM EDT up reply actions
Kentucky vs. Louisville: The Madness
Can anyone even BEGIN to imagine what Rupp will be like?
Lord have mercy!
Calipari commercials on Kentucky tv/radio!!
I keep thinking of all these great things!
“Hi, this is Kentucky head coach John Calipari reminding all Kentuckians to buckle up……click it or ticket”
Remember the PItino Golden Flake commercials? I can see a bag of those things without thinking about him….
And just a decade ago,
He was coaching UMass against UK in the 1996 Final Four.
i agree
ther was NOOOO way cal was going to beat us like he did the second game of the season
Got uncomfortably close late in that game
But The Untouchables sealed the deal.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions
For all you plane watchers
Per Cat’s Pause..
Apparently Cal boarded a plane around 9PM en route to Lexington.
B. Mc
I expect him to arrive around midnight.
Bringing up the metaphor for a brand new day and age.
I just got back from work
I’m super excited about all of this… i wish i would have been here when it happened
another Dick Vitale interview on ESPN News.....
He said he would pay to be court side for the UK/ UL game next year. He said I will actually donate all the money I would make at that game to the V Foundation.
My, how opinions change so quickly with the “outsiders”
Maybe Cal wants to live in that 12,000 square foot mansion of Billy's
he could get a great deal
heard WBUL
would be broadcasting live from a recently "vacated " home in Jessamine Co, $1.500,000 price
Matt Jones live-blogging now on KSR
Started off with some roster possibilities for next year, in terms who on the current UK team might leave or not,
i apologize if this was already posted but...
did you see the post on ESPN about UK fans and the infamous door
http://sportsnation.espn.go.com/fans/SeraphoenixRising/blog/posts/82809
You can go ahead and log on over there, I think
I got on with no problem. He says he’ll be off for a few minutes doing a radio interview.
Whoops
Intended for Wildcatt above re: KSR live blog.
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 9:38 PM EDT up reply actions
Is this a surprise?
Isn’t he supposed to come to Lexington at some point in order to act as coach?
Aikman and Bradshaw?
Please. They are in the same league as Trent Dilfer and Jim McMahon as QBs who were taken to the SB by great Defenses and great Running Games.
-DJCahill
by SarasotaRanger on Mar 31, 2009 9:42 PM EDT up reply actions
Well after people watched a door and gate ad nausem,
for the past two days, some action is nice.
by Thomas Hunt Morgan on Mar 31, 2009 9:44 PM EDT up reply actions
SarasotaRanger must be tired after this long two days - that's why he's being snippy.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 9:46 PM EDT up reply actions
No, I don't really care.
I just can’t fathom the need to follow the airport cam when the local/national media gives an update every time Calipari has a bowel movement.
Aikman and Bradshaw?
Please. They are in the same league as Trent Dilfer and Jim McMahon as QBs who were taken to the SB by great Defenses and great Running Games.
-DJCahill
by SarasotaRanger on Mar 31, 2009 9:55 PM EDT up reply actions
I heard
Kentucky fans were watching an athletic department door and/or calipari’s front gate to try to get some kind of “sign” as to what he was doing. Just wanted confirmation for my own amusement. G’nite.
Cannons... fire them.
www.BucEm.com - SBNation's home for discussion of all things regarding the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
ok
Didn’t realize the watch had been on like that. I just watched the news reports.
Aikman and Bradshaw?
Please. They are in the same league as Trent Dilfer and Jim McMahon as QBs who were taken to the SB by great Defenses and great Running Games.
-DJCahill
by SarasotaRanger on Mar 31, 2009 9:46 PM EDT up reply actions
I think I noticed somewhere earlier something about a press conference tomorrow....
John Clay’s facebook says “UK just announced a 9:30 a.m. press conference for Wednesday”
Is it safe to say ?
That Miych hit a home run and we like him a little bit better now?
"You are what you are and you ain't what you ain't"
Eh.. a bit.
-Alan
http://www.overthepylon.blogspot.com
by OverThePylon on Mar 31, 2009 9:45 PM EDT up reply actions
Dick Vitale...
called it a Grand Slam.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 9:45 PM EDT up reply actions
trade
jay to niners for alex smith
It's outta my head but stuck in my mind, in time I find my spine is crooked in design.
by UrthWyrmJim on Mar 31, 2009 10:11 PM EDT up reply actions
We'd love him here in Nashville. Should have drafted him to begin with.
"You are what you are and you ain't what you ain't"
Yeah.
You think he’s watched/heard any media today?
Normally, it would be impossible to miss.
But we ARE talking about BCG here.
by thefakebillyG on Mar 31, 2009 9:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Billy will be just fine.
Wait and see.
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 10:31 PM EDT up reply actions
Some difference of opinion
about planes leaving Memphis fo Lexington tonight at all>
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
I saw
live footage of Cal’s plane being boarded, someone loaded a white door in the baggage compartment! j/k
by The Fake Calipari on Mar 31, 2009 9:50 PM EDT reply actions
I don't care how he gets here as lon gas he does
but the Cats Pause said he faxed a signed contract to the UK Brass just before 9PM then boarded a plan en route for Lexington.
Driving, flying. Doesn’t matter to me. Just get here.
B. Mc
That's what I was about to say. I'll run over there, pick him up and carry him to Lex. He can
sleep the whole way and be fresh as a daisy for the press conference.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 10:03 PM EDT up reply actions
On the "One and Done" players..
The answer is not to avoid recruiting TOO GOOD of a player. Pitino was always clear to All America recruits that he would not stand in their way and would HELP them turn pro. That’s one of the recruiting advantages of an ex NBA coach. They know the league and what they look for. The answer is rather for the NCAA to ban the one and done.
by chrisgettlefinger on Mar 31, 2009 10:04 PM EDT reply actions
They just showed his plane leaving Memphis on WREG.
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
well
I saw a plane flying with him in it and it was going up in the air :)
I don't care who is coach as long as Kentucky is Kentucky!
Someone Asked About Nowitski
I can’t find it.
1998. He liked UK but would not have been able to play NCAA basketball. He would not have been considered an amateur because of German pro teams where he played.
by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 31, 2009 10:05 PM EDT reply actions
I just saw an interview with Preston Laird, a freshman guard at Memphis
very good interview with the kid, hope someone can get a video shot of it.
He kinda talked bad about UK at one point but good interview otherwise.
I don't think he was talking bad
He basically said that to him it’s Kentucky…. to Coach Cal is KENTUCKY.
Which says that Cal understands our fanbase and our history.
CHannel 5 - Memphis
Reporting UK news conference tomorrow at 8:30am central time. (sorry if already reported)
by mark12kentucky on Mar 31, 2009 10:10 PM EDT reply actions
John Wall
Anyone watching ESPN2 at halftime of ND and Penn state…talking about where John Wall… “So you think he’ll go to memphis?” “I think he’ll go to Kentucky! can you imagine that team?!”
what a great thing to hear
Let's just hope...
… he doesn’t get up there tomorrow and say, “APRIL FOOLS!” 8D
It's outta my head but stuck in my mind, in time I find my spine is crooked in design.
If this works out...
like we all believe it will, April Fools Day will be an official Big Blue day from now on.
that is being relevant
how many questions do you think there will be about the possible louisville coaching job? oh, i forgot, it will be about kentucky……
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 10:22 PM EDT up reply actions
Where will the Calipari's stay tonight in Lex? Will they have to stay at a hotel or will
they be the treasured guests of some nice horse farm owner.
Maybe they'll be at one of those hotels where everyone said they saw Donovan last week
by WildcatFanInDC on Mar 31, 2009 10:20 PM EDT up reply actions
He could probably ring in doorbell in town
for a free nights stay – and compimentary breakfast of Old Folks sausage
which one?
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 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions
Calipari
I think that this is a big get for UK for so many reasons – not the least of which I really feel like this will be a hire that will bring the fanbase back together. It has been pretty divided for some time.
As much as I loved Billy G and really really wanted him to be back, it is a nice thought that maybe this can bring all of the BBN together and get us back from one another’s throats. :)
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 10:20 PM EDT reply actions
yes, i agree
having watched cal first hand, i have not been a big fan of the hire – not against it, just more uncertain.
but i am jumping on the bandwagon with both feet…..
by the way, i saw where you asked about my drive by cal’s house. i did post on it but there were so many posts, it got lost.
i got there just as they were closing it down,the fans were gathering and the helicopter circling.
cal had to have loved it……
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 10:24 PM EDT up reply actions
Nice to see to recovering, too.
I was in the same boat – really like BCG, wouldn’t admit to myself this wasn’t the place for him. He’ll do well at his next stop.
Thanks.
I have to admit that while this is all still bittersweet for me, I am excited about the future. It will always be my opinion that Billy deserved another shot and my belief that he could have really done this, but I will get behind Coach Cal and am glad to do so.
P.S. I will continue to support Billy G and will be purchasing t-shirts for wherever he ends up. ;)
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 10:29 PM EDT up reply actions
The oddest thing will be
record books of UK with a coach on the scene for only 2 years among all of the long tenured coaches starting from Pitino through Cal (I hope).
(I let you know if I find a good BCG t-shirt)
You better!
I really want one! :)
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 10:33 PM EDT up reply actions
Girl I hear you. I was so sad to see Coach G lose ground so quickly but the situation wasn't working
for UK or for him. Under the circumstances, it’s for the best (I believe and hope) that he moves on, and I truly hope he finds a wonderful situation soon. I think from everything I’ve seen so far, Coach Calipari understands UK and the fans, etc etc and that means so much to me. Even my husband who is from Virginia and not a big bb fan especially wants to watch the press conference. That’s just huge to me that such interest is being revived.
by bluegrassgal on Mar 31, 2009 10:25 PM EDT up reply actions
TRU - what about another late night thread?
or have you headed to the airport???
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 10:22 PM EDT reply actions
I think his neighbor's buring house
must have spread over into the yard where he was having the wedding reception. ;)
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 10:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Wonder if he still has that same sense of humor? Hope so :)
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions
He is pretty funny, even if he is a Louisville guy.
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 10:35 PM EDT up reply actions
I have never had a problem with Hoze.
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 10:36 PM EDT up reply actions
Me neither
In fact, stood up for him one time and caught hell from everybody. So it goes…..
He’s just a closet UK fan anyway. Now he’ll really be jealous
Closet UK fan
TOTALLY agree! lol.
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 10:43 PM EDT up reply actions
If those comments don't flush him out- he must be in cave somewhere :)
why else would he post with so many bbn folks?
by blue oregon on Mar 31, 2009 10:47 PM EDT up reply actions
What a Day!
Going through all the emotions and things that have carried us from this morning, when we weren’t too sure what the heck was going on, until now, when we all can rest easy. It has been really cool to experience this with y’all, from the reports to the conversations to that damn m*&$&&$‘n door, this has been a great day! Funny, right after ESPN and SI announced it, I went outside and saw a red sky at sunset. I guess we’ll have to change it to “Red sky at night…BBN delight!”
and Tru
Thanks for keeping up with all this and keeping the threads going…you saved a lot of people from going insane!
Forty - anyone
another reason that the Cal hire is good – maybe it means memphis loses a conf game before they break UK’s record………..
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 10:51 PM EDT reply actions
KSR
Live blog has over 9,000 people logged on right now.
amazing b/c the damn thing hasn’t even been online all week!
Nice coup by UK
didn’t land at Blue Grass Field….plane landed at RJ Corman Runway in Jessamine…NICE!
reported the same thing here in memphis
there are actually memphis reporters in lexington
by memphis wildcat on Mar 31, 2009 11:12 PM EDT up reply actions
He's going to BCG's house
Happy Days are here again
The sky is all ways BLUE again
Happy days are here again
I'm not in Ky, so this is my lifeline to UK
Thanks for the info. Finally the local media gets the scoop on something.
Checked on Flight Aware.
No flight information….definitely “under the radar”…sorry just had to :)
OK, folks.
We have a new open thread. This one is shot.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
Anyone seen
the new Heineken commercial? Laughed out loud, spewed my beer, and woke up the wife!
by The Fake Calipari on Mar 31, 2009 11:19 PM EDT reply actions
Comments For This Post Are Closed
Secondary Sidebar
User Tools
Community Guidelines
[UPDATED 01/18/2012]
Certain photos copyright © 2012 by Associated Press or Getty Images. Any commercial use or distribution without the express written consent of Associated Press and Getty Images is strictly prohibited.
