Rick Pitino Extortion Plot: Just the Facts
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 2:36 AM EDT
in News
157 comments
It was reported Saturday evening by the Louisville Courier-Journal that U of L head basketball coach Rick Pitino has been the victim of an apparent extortion scheme.
Here's what we know: Pitino issued a statement, via the U of L Athletic Department, claiming to be the victim of an extortion plot --
"My family and I were recently threatened as part of a criminal scheme to extort money. Upon receiving these threats, we reported this extortion attempt to the FBI. While I did not want to make this matter public, I recently learned that the individual behind this extortion attempt has already gone to the media with false, defamatory and outrageous allegations in an attempt to pressure me to cave in to this scheme. I intend to vigorously defend my reputation and the character of my family against any criminal scheme to extort money."
U of L President Jim Ramsey and Athletic Director Tom Jurich both issued statements in a show of support for Pitino.
Louisville attorney Thomas Clay then contacted the Courier-Journal, and made the following statement:
"There is a federal investigation going on, and there may be criminal charges placed against her as a result of what coach Pitino has brought to the attention of the FBI."
The "her" in that statement refers to Karen Sypher, wife of U of L equipment manager, Tim Sypher.
Clay, when told that Louisville television station WDRB 41 had made the woman's name public, and that her name was Karen Sypher, responded that he didn't "take issue" with that statement.
It has also been reported that WDRB conducted an interview with Karen Sypher, but as of yet, has not made that Q & A public.
David Boyer, FBI spokesman said that coach Pitino informed the FBI last month that he "was the victim of an apparent extortion and we have an ongoing investigation into the matter."
Tim Sypher has worked for Pitino for over 10 years. First as a personal assistant to Pitino when he was with the Celtics (3.5 years), and for the last seven years as equipment manager at U of L. He's also a former investigator for the state of Massachusetts (for 10 years).
[UPDATE 04/19/2009 7:30 AM by Truzenzuzex] Mike Rutherford at the Card Chronicle has more on this story. Unfortunately (or fortunately, I suppose, depending upon your perspective on marital infidelity) for Rick Pitino's reputation, Mrs. Sypher is quite attractive, and no matter what happened here, most people will assume the worst of both parties. No amount of FBI investigation or revealed facts are likely to change that. As Mike suggests, this situation seems destined to get uglier with time.
[UPDATE 04/19/2009 4:30 PM] Tim Sypher, husband of the accused (soon to be ex-husband), has issued a statement. HAT TIP kykat51
[UPDATE 40/19/2009 6:15 PM by Truzenzuzex] WHO-TV is reporting that WDRB in Louisville did not air the allegations because, "[they] don't feel comfortable airing something that [they] can't prove yet."
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Good Morning Ken
You never know what you will find when you turn on your computer. Been following on other post. I guess I’ll run the gamut of other sites and see what’s HOT! Good Morning
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 3:06 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You never know...
Certainly seems salacious.
The only fact I know… is this NEVER would’ve happened with Mr. Wildcat as his equipment manager. :-)
by Filmcat on Apr 19, 2009 3:16 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Good Morning Filmcat
Welcome to ASoB. I see you just joined so I’ll be the first to say so.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 3:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I thought something similar, myself.
Let me also welcome you to A Sea of Blue.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 5:40 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Never thought I'd
see anybody on at this hour. Its the latelate shift for me tonight
by BleedinUKBlue on Apr 19, 2009 4:56 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Guilty but very funny
I mean come on. Its Rick. Of course he diddled her. Why else would she and her husband be trying to extort money.
by Dini-D-Alum on Apr 19, 2009 5:39 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Well, her husband hasn't been named in any allegations and it's been reported that ...
… they are now divorced.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 5:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alright Ken....
has anyone else confessed to anything since I went to bed??
I was really hoping this was not about an affair….but I would much rather see that then all the point-shaving and recruiting violation nonsense thats floating around the web…..KSR even kicked off members last night for what they were posting it was so bad
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 7:53 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I am out of the loop..
on Pitino since he left. is he still married ?
by 59Bennett on Apr 19, 2009 8:01 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Ken,
you were right to wait for this to come out before addressing it. I also want to thank everyone last night for not turning this into what I witnessed at “another” site. It was like watching sharks feeding. I am glad we stay above that.
By the way….I see Tru has not weighed in on this yet. Is he away?
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 8:01 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No.
I updated it above. I actually hadn’t heard anything about it until I read Ken’s article. I blog lightly most weekends.
To me, it is a personal matter. Pitino has been subjected to endless rumors about love affairs, both when he was at UK and since he has been at Louisville. I dismiss them all as the nonsense they are 99.9999% of the time.
But this isn’t a rumor, it is a crime if Pitino’s allegations are accurate. Unfortunately for him, his reputation will suffer because of the necessary nexus between the lady and him that would create the opportunity for blackmail and/or extortion. People will ask the question, “If he did nothing, how can she try to extort money from him?” Certainly, she could just make up a love affair that did not actually occur out of whole cloth, but most people won’t believe that.
If he did nothing, I pray he can find a way to make her admit her lie. But even if he does, many people will still believe the worst. Sad, but a fact of life. And if he really did have something to be concerned about, I think few people would be surprised. Either way, his main concern will be with his family. I can’t see right now how this would affect his career unless he winds up in some kind of messy, public divorce over it.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Apr 19, 2009 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am glad to
hear that part….like I said before last night….I don’t want to see anyone suffer from something like this no matter who is at fault. Other sites are taking what has been reported and not only running with it, they are making it out to be some unbelieveably sordid tale of epic proportions. It’s not a news item for them, it is a bad b-movie.
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We even have one on here
thats making ugly noise….
http://www.aseaofblue.com/2009/4/19/844468/italian-stallion
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:02 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
that link has been removed....thx Tru
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 8:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
sheesh
Ew, she’s not attractive at ALL (IMO). Pitino may not have even been involved in an affair, it may just be a ploy by her to insinuate they had an affair. She may have said “give me x number of dollars, or I will say we did have an affair” when in fact there wasn’t.
I hope all this isn’t true and she just looks like a typical gold digger who wanted money.
by uk1982 on Apr 19, 2009 10:45 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Innocent Until Proven Guilty
Unfortunately, society is turning away from this principal. Personally, I will need proof before I believe any of this. It is sad how one allegation can turn your life on end. I send my best wishes for the Pitino family to endure this.
by LyricSmith on Apr 19, 2009 11:08 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I'm not sure society has ever believed in "innocent until proven guilty".
The courts operate that way; societies do not.
Maybe we did before my time (I’m 26 years old).
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No ...
… it has pretty much always been the same. People have always been tried in the court of public opinion, and the presumption of innocence is a legal principle, not a societal one. Unfortunately.
A Sea of Blue -- Kentucky Sports for the Discerning Fan
by Truzenzuzex on Apr 19, 2009 3:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This will not turn out positive for anyone; I read this link and comment on another website:
“The article is the same as the others on the subject but I found the comments and replies from the UofL, IU, and Memphis fans interesting:”
by lccat on Apr 19, 2009 11:28 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
But you guys have to admit...
the potential for a very ugly scene is taking shape.
I can think of about a million ways in which this can destory careers and lives depending on the timeline of the alleged improprieties.
This, however, is not speculation – much has been made of Jurich’s stranglehold on the Louisville media. Regardless of the outcome of an investigation, it appears at first glance that a media outlet deferred to Pitino rather than air an interview it had in hand with the alleged accuser. Good journalistic standards require that you get both sides of the story before running with it, but that is not what happened in this case. It is already clear that WDRB held their interview, which gave Pitino and the university a chance to get out their side ahead of the allegations. They have been allowed to paint this woman as a criminal before her side of the story ever sees the light of day.
I agree that judgement should be withheld on the actual accusations until all the evidence is in. But IMO there is already ample evidence that monkey business is afoot as it pertains to the athletic department and the Louisville media.
by jbt36 on Apr 19, 2009 11:29 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
BTW, this would never happen in Lexington.
For better or worse, Tipton, Clay and Co. would have been all over this from the beginning. And where is Billy Reed? He had absolutely no qualms about printing rumors and nasty innuendo concerning our former coach. To paraphrase Doc Holiday – their “hypocrisy knows no bounds”.
by jbt36 on Apr 19, 2009 11:34 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Tim Sypher issues statement
Link
http://www.courier-journal.com/blogs/crawford/blog.html
Seems she has made “bizarre allegations” against both he and Pitino.
by kykat51 on Apr 19, 2009 1:06 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
This...
doesn’t sound like an affair at all.
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 1:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
what could the woman
have on her husband and Pitino??…it just doesnt make sense!!!!
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Someone on KSR...
…posted a somewhat tin-foil-hat scenario with BCG ending up as the UL coach (?!), but also with speculation about the alleged extortion having to do with exposing possible recruiting violations. Evidence for any of these scenarios seems non-existent as of yet, but maybe it’s a possibility.
by WildcatFanInDC on Apr 19, 2009 2:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
G Will Not Be Hired At Louisville
Simply not gonna happen.
by FortyYearCatFan on Apr 19, 2009 5:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I tend to think
Some one has got some dirt on someone.You have to have something to extort with.If “she” does not have anything,Pitino would not have gone to the FBI.
by -Zoso- on Apr 19, 2009 1:34 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
but, I'm trying to decide why he would have gone to the FBI if there was dirt. Those folks at the
FBI aren’t stupid, and they aren’t bound by anyone’s “stranglehold”. For this second, I’m leaning on the theory that she’s a nut-case with visions of grandeur. When I first saw the story (Yahoo news, last night), I thought affair also. But, when her ex-husband made a statement, that’s when I went with the “she’s nuts” scenario. We’ll see. I just wish the very best for Coach’s family as evidently they are all innocent victims in all this mess. Does Coach still have children at home? I don’t know how many children they have or their ages, but if some of them are still in school, I dread tomorrow at school for them.
by bluegrassgal on Apr 19, 2009 1:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
agree with you bggal....
only one rule in my house - uk has to be your favorite college bball team
by memphis wildcat on Apr 19, 2009 6:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I can see it either way
But if she has nothing how can someone extort you?
by -Zoso- on Apr 19, 2009 6:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I could tell a lie about you and ruin your reputation forevermore. If one is rich and
powerful, there are always the envious who want to tear them down in order to feel better about themselves. (I used so many pronouns in that sentence that I’m having trouble reading it, but hopefully you get the point.) When rumors are spread, regardless of any proof, careers, lives and reputations are ruined. Pitino has been around the block a time or two, surely, and knows how much he has to lose. All that to say that even if she had nothing, she could try and bluff if a little hush money was her motivation. However, I wouldn’t know the woman from Adam’s house cat, so I know nothing about her character or her ambitions.
I’d never believe points shaving or any of that nonsense as I don’t think he needs money so why?
by bluegrassgal on Apr 19, 2009 7:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Everything is just speculation...
at this point, but a couple of things already stand out in my mind.
First of all, you go to the FBI to try to head off the dirt being released. If you can immediately paint the one making allegations as a nutcase or a blackmailer, it automatically creates an sense of victimization in the minds of the public. From a PR standpoint, if something bad is going to break the best thing you can do is get out in front of it. Firing a premptive shot marginalizes the accuser.
The second thing is that the Louisville media seems completely happy to allow this first step to happen. It would seem that the management at WDRB has sorely mistaken their role in this whole mess. The quote about the station not being able to prove the allegations gives the idea that they are in the business of dispensing absolute truth, which they are not. They are in the business of reporting both sides of an issue or argument and allowing the issue at hand to play itself out. When the police arrest a murder suspect they don’t hold the story over until they can prove the man is actually guilty. It seems to be a double standard at work here.
Just because Pitino and turned this over to the FBI doesn’t mean he didn’t do anything immoral or unethical. All it means is he believes she was using the information at her disposal to try to blackmail him.
What confuses me about this situation is why would a blackmailer go public with information they are holding over someone’s head. If the information is aired in public, it basically loses its value to the blackmailer.
I feel sorry for the families pulled into this, but that is as far as my sympathy goes.
by jbt36 on Apr 19, 2009 8:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The Mourning Bride (Mistress)
Perhaps a 17th century commentary to a 21st century involvement:
As you’ll answer it, take heed
This Slave commit no Violence upon
Himself. I’ve been deceiv’d. The Publick Safety
Requires he should be more confin’d; and none,
No not the Princes self, permitted to
Confer with him. I’ll quit you to the King.
Vile and ingrate! too late thou shalt repent
The base Injustice thou hast done my Love:
Yes, thou shalt know, spite of thy past Distress,
And all those Ills which thou so long hast mourn’d;
Heav’n has no Rage, like Love to Hatred turn’d,
Nor Hell a Fury, like a Woman scorn’d.
by Wild Weasel on Apr 19, 2009 3:05 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
WW were you and English Major?
I had enough in high school to do a lifetime. I remember “Silas Marner” and of course the Bard
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, But ...
… if I were to do it again I might. I made it a point my early adult years and since my retirement to fill in the literary hole in my knowledge though I’m not likely live long enough to occupy the entire space. FWIW I haven’t read Silas Marner since HS either but I have read other Eliot novels of which my favorite is Middlemarch which could be a commentary on today’s Wall Street.
by Wild Weasel on Apr 19, 2009 4:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
where ..
is that louisville fan at today and what does he have to say about this ?
by 59Bennett on Apr 19, 2009 3:11 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
slick rick
look like the syphers help with rick’s equipement on and off the court!
by pete6982 on Apr 19, 2009 7:26 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
This woman needs help
I don’t think her allegations are about sex. If that’s all it was, Rick could just say he messed up and apologize to everybody. That wouldn’t get him fired or have much monetary value. More likely, she is claiming knowledge of recruiting violations or something similar, something that could get him fired, banned from coaching, etc.
On the surface, it is curious as to why Pitino would go to the FBI, but then his attorney is Spence, a former US attorney, who knows the FBI in Louisville very, very well. If there’s any evidence of crimes or NCAA violations being committed by Pitino, you can bet he would not be going to the FBI.
This is a sad and tragic situation for all concerned, especially her children.
by Fortunatus on Apr 19, 2009 8:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I am just wondering also.
I read some comments on the Card Chronicle from this new member, justice where are u. Mike noted that this same poster had another name alie r. Then I read a post on the Bleacher Report from this alie reynolds that extortion by Pitino is false and that the truth will emerge from all this.
I have some ideas in my head since this person says this all happened 5 1/2 to 6 years ago, but I am not going there.
The truth will come out eventually. I just hate that the kids have to suffer in the process.
by kykat51 on Apr 19, 2009 8:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I just read it too Kat
here is the link…..
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/158741-rick-pitino-extortion-attempt-false-truth-comes-out
Now I don’t know what to make of this…..it gets even more bizarre….
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 8:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Alie R
is stating the Sypher was FORCED into doing something she did not want to do, and that she has personally spoke with the family and with Sypher’s atty. Can’t see someone going out on that limb without being able to back it up…..
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 8:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't buy ANYTHING from Bleacher Report
Bleacher Report is a blog dressed up to look like a news article. It is as reputable as a random message board post on Rupps Rafters. Read anything at Bleacher Report with EXTREME skepticism.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've been waiting for someone to write what you do. Thanks :)
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Why...
couldn’t you write it?
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 10:23 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I don't feel comfrtable slamming another site. Maybe I'm just being silly ...
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I should add ...
… that I don’t have a problem being critical of a writer on a particular site. I think below I called Mr. Lintner’s piece “drivel” — Which is being kind.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No...
I understand, but you should realize, we here at ASOB are the only people that matter. If you step on anyone else’s toes, we won’t mind. ;)
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 10:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ken, Bleacher Report is owned by CBS.
CBS created it as an attempt to create a community of bloggers. There is no single person who operates like a Matt Jones or Marc Maggard or a JL Blue at Bleacher Report.
My criticism is less pointed towards this particular author as much as it is pointed at the entire tenor of the website. See my post below.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It states right on
the site that you can write if you please!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 10:39 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Did not know that CBS owns that cite. That's where Seth Davis should be writing!
You are obviously exactly right about how Bleacher Report “presents itself” —
I’ve read a couple of posts that Lintner has written that were linked, and he’s not a bad writer, but in his post about Pitino/extortion he makes huge suppositions and he writes about things he has no idea about — Team chemistry and such.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:41 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've read some decent stuff there.
I’m sure there are a lot of good writers at Bleacher Report. I just don’t like the design of the site. I think it’s misleading. Actually, I know it’s misleading. The first couple of times I read articles there I thought it was an online newspaper until I read one that was terribly written and realized that it was a blog where anyone could write.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I take ALL internet "reports"
with a grain of salt until I know and can see for myself how reliable they are. But I also take into consideration how the statements aremade and to what end they are posted. Now, admittedly this person seems to be the only one coming out in defense of this woman, but I will give anything from there an extra layer of skepticism until I see how this plays out.
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:26 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, I take a skeptical approach to everything as well.
The reason I am emphasizing extreme skepticism in the face of Bleacher Reports is because of how it presents itself. It is made to look like news article to be taken as seriously as something you would read at ESPN.com or Sports Illustrated or the LHL. That’s what I hate about that site. A lot of people link to them and talk about them as if they are real, hard-hitting journalism because they appear to be, but anyone can sign up for bleacher reports and write an “article”.
I don’t like how it presents itself as a real journalistic entity. It’s not.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I actually wrote one article on that site a long time ago.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
And that's fine.
Like I said above, it’s not the individual authors at the website that I have a problem with. They’re just bloggers looking for a place to write. My problem is with how the website is presented. Some people don’t realize that it’s a blog, not a news organization, and it seems to be designed that way.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:37 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No it wasn't fine :)
It wasn’t a very good article, and I wish I could purge it from the Internet.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:43 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
s'ok Ken....
I have a brother I would like to do the same thing to….lol….we all have regrets in life….
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
It just wasn't very well written.
The content doesn’t bother me, it’s the prose that is not very good.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ken
You ever here of this Johathan Litner?
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 10:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've read a couple of his articles from BR, but other than that no.
Should I?
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I was just wondering if He
was well known or know in Lville
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 10:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He writes like
He is in the know. He says He has talked to the attorneys. Talks a good game!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 10:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He may have, I certainly don't know
As I stated earlier, my problem with his post is the suppositions he makes, as well as the dogmatic style he employs.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
BBallSophist
Anyone ever tell you that you look a little like the guy from The Mummy.
I cannot think of his name to save my life. He was great in Encino Man.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Brendan Frasier(sp?)
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 10:49 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I seem to be one of those guys that looks like everyone.
I always get told I look like someone famous, and it’s never the same person. I’ve been told I look like:
Brendan Frasier (by you)
Eddie Izzard
The Bachelor (season 3)
and others I can’t remember right now.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:50 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Izzard, the guy from The Riches? (Love that show)
If so, you do look a little like him, but you’re quite a bit younger, and younger looking, than he is.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Actually, that's what the guy said.
He said “You look like a younger Eddie Izzard.”
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I figured it out
Karen Sypher was sexually taken advantage of and forced into doing something she did not want to do.
She didn’t like the Hot Carl…..
Envy our past......Fear our future
by btcoop71 on Apr 20, 2009 8:37 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
This...
is crazy. 5 years ago? She is stupid if she is just now bringing this to attention, but, to be honest, I believe it. The first thing that came to most people’s minds when this came out was that Pitino and Sypher had an affair, but then her husband, or ex, came out with his statement. After the husband came out with his statement, it was hard to even guess what was going on. Now I’m hearing this and it actually makes sense.
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 9:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Now another source a Johnathan Litner
is making some real interesting statements…..
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/158694-internal-problems-ahead-for-rick-pitino-and-louisville
If this is for real, the implications will be staggering for Louisville and Pitino. No one walks away from something like this unscathed. If this has been covered up for 5-6 years then why did she stay with her husband? What kind of sexual encounter would she be forced into and then stick around for that long? I won’t say that I believe all of this yet….but the smoke is building and I don’t see a fire truck anywhere around….
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 9:01 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Again, and I really have to emphasize this:
Bleacher Report looks like a news article written by a journalist. It is designed that way, but it is NOT a real journalistic enterprise. It’s a blog designed to look like a newspaper article. Any yahoo can sign on and write a bleacher report. They are no more reputable than someone who writes a comment in a blog or a post on a message board.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 10:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I agree Bball
but to make the 1st hand statements this person is making seems highly unlikely….claiming to have spoken to the atty personally….that’s easily confirmed ….either way. And one would think that the family will have to make a statement at some point…and that if something is said that they would not support, then they could just as easily deny that too. I don’t want to give credibility where it is not warranted….but these do not seem to be the statements of someone who’s just out to post.
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:19 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We need Hoze
And his Chicago fire department on the scene :-)
by kykat51 on Apr 19, 2009 9:04 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Chicago FD Is On Spring Break This Week
And they took all their Hoze with them.
by FortyYearCatFan on Apr 19, 2009 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hoze will
sit this one out!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 9:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Oh he will be here
When he has a defensible argument for Pitino and his Cards program.
by kykat51 on Apr 19, 2009 9:15 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
By the way gang
someone just tried to hack my computer after I visited the Bleacher Report sites on all of this….be careful…my firewall caught it….make sure you have yours on….just in case this is all to try to start a hack on UK fan computers
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 9:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Same thing happened to me!
Norton came through!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 10:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
maybe the story
is that someone MAY have made this to get an attack virus out there against the UK fanbase……
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Hoze
He was actually here today on some older posts.
by kykat51 on Apr 19, 2009 9:17 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I am not sure
that Hoze can defend this one….and to be honest, it makes me really REALLY sad to see this….RIck Pitino is one of my heroes…..no reservations, no disclaimers, he is one of my heroes. I went back and watched the feed of Mr.Keightley’s funeral service and what Pitino had to say today….the man still considers himself a Wildcat at heart I think…he knows he has made mistakes….and he still loves the UK people and program…it really makes me sick to think this could be for real…
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 9:25 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
No one knows anything yet so it is foolish to speculate or to comment.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Apr 19, 2009 9:50 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
That's funny
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 9:54 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Not even a show of support Hoze?
I honestly expected you to come out guns blazing on this….I don’t know if it’s a tactic or strategy, but you have me wondering…..
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Well, to use an analogy ...
“… one wonders why you would want a friend walking around your house with a lighted match in one hand and gasoline in the other. Granted he may not catch the house on fire, but it would make me nervous as hell.”
Sound familiar????
Now in this case, although we may not see the match or the gasoline, there sure is a lot of smoke isn’t there.
by jeffy on Apr 19, 2009 10:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
LOL, LOL, LOL!!
The funniest thing I’ve read in a while … well done Mr. jeffy!
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 10:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
ok....I laughed so hard
my wife wants to know why……!!!!!….too good jeffy….this has to generate SOME response….
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 10:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Wrong analogy.
This would be like a crazy lady that just jumped out of a passing car and lobbing a molotov cocktail through the front window of your house and then your neighbors dancing & laughing in the front yard, blaming the owner for the fire.
Many of you would benefit by looking up the definition of extortion.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Apr 20, 2009 8:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Of course it's the wrong analogy
Because it is YOUR analogy.
Apparently it is reasonable to speculate when trashing the reputation of Calipari with no verifiable information whatsoever. But then with Pitino it is now “foolish” to speculate!
Come on. Get with the game and at least make some small effort to be consistent.
by jeffy on Apr 20, 2009 9:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Oh, I get it.
You believed that my original analogy was the Master Analogy…one that translates across all situations. I appreciate the compliment but your assumption was in error.
Next time I will try to be more clear to better your understanding.
'..when they bring a knife, you bring a gun...that's the Chicago way..'
by HozeKing on Apr 20, 2009 9:14 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Don't the people involved
know that as long as they sit on this,rumors will be worse than the truth
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 10:43 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Very true.
The longer this thing goes unresolved the more salacious the talk will get.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:01 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just a little Truth
would go a long way right now!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:03 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
One thing that is puzzling
The FBI has supposedly been investigating this for a month. Yet there has been no arrests.
I wonder what’s taking so long.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:04 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The time line
is very puzzling.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Does...
anyone know when Sypher went to WHAS for her interview?
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 11:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The only interview I know of is the one she did with WDRB
I have no idea when it actually occurred. I would GUESS that it was recently, or Pitino recently found out about it, because that was the basis of him going public with this mess.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:10 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Spork?
I’m going to bite. What two thinhs?
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
haha...
a spoon and a fork.
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 11:12 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That's Good
I knew it would be simple.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:13 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Have...
you seen the Old Spice commercials? A horse and a man, two-thingsism?
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 11:15 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
No, I don't watch
commercials. My DVR skips right through them.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:16 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Gotta love Tivo...
they’re not that funny, I just thought it applied to me.
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 11:18 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
We record everything that we watch
on a regular basis.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I...
work 2nd shift so I had to get tivo to be able to watch the UK games. It’s hard getting through a night at work without someone telling me the score. I still watch quite a bit of live tv though.
The Spork, I'm two things in one.
by the spork on Apr 19, 2009 11:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I am retired now
But worked swing for 36 years. I could not have lived that way without recording the cats and rest of the world.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:24 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
There is nothing going on here
but on some other sites it is so bad they are having to delete posts.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:05 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That doesn't surprise me, I suppose.
People get a hold of something like this and there is no end to how tasteless some can become.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Ken's timeline statement got me to thinking
why would it take so long?? The only way that this benefits her now would be if she was trying to salvage something in this divorce hearing? Am I off on this…but why would the FBI lay low so long?? I know Pitino knows a lot of people…but ESPN has kept this very low-key….local stations are hitting it at each broadcast….but NO ONE of significance has touched this story yet….not to discount our own fearless leaders and their contributions to the sports news business….Jeff Goodman is talking one minute and has disappeared the next….someone is out there defending her…although we do not know who that is…and Pitino’s kid takes another job….(which may be totally unrelated), but if so…why would’nt Pitino ask him to hold off until it was over as a show of support??
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 11:20 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
ESPN
Those geniuses up in Conneticut referred to the Courier-Journal, as the “Louisville Journal-Courier” when reporting the story in the late-night SportsCenter.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Just visited Card Chronicle
I sure hope that that isn’t a UK fan over there raising hell with them.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:23 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
are you referring to justice Ken?
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Yes
Garbage like that just makes us all look bad. Besides, I like Mike Rutherford and I don’t like seeing his thread hi-jacked by some idiot.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I went in today and read a lot of Rutherford's stuff
just to get a feel for the site….seems like a reasonable guy…just happens to be on the wrong side of a great rivalry is all….lol…I cant seem to get a feel for some of their bloggers though….up one minute down the next….very erratic….
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 11:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
He doesn't like UK, just as I don't like U of L
But he’s a very good writer, and doesn’t allow his love of U of L to cause him to become an over-the-top UK hater.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I never heard of
the blog until tonight!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
They're apart of SBNation
I’m not sure how long they’ve been around.
You should visit the site. It’s a pretty good one - You know, keep your friends close, and your enemies closer :)
Seriously — It’s a quality site, and very well managed.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:51 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I went a few minutes ago
when you mentioned it. Added to favorites just for the reasons you mentioned.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
no matter what happens
he has his hands full for a while
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 11:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
What will tomorrow bring..?
This thing has the potential, (I repeat potential), to end the college coaching career of one of the greatest coaches in the past 20 years…
It will end up being a battle in the courts with he said/she said crap.
Regardless of who wins, the damage will be done and neither victim nor perpetrator will ever be the same…
It’s my opinion that we have “two” of both…
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Apr 19, 2009 11:28 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
You may very well be right
I’m very interested to see if either party has audio/video.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:32 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
That Justus
fellow has the whole site on it’s ear!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:33 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
You would think...
…that once the FBI got involved, there were wire taps at every turn…. You would think ;-)
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Apr 19, 2009 11:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Who is this Swope
lady that they keep throwing out?
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:40 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Rumor, rumor, rumor
Longstanding rumor — You can guess what I mean.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
The oldest One in history!
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
Patty Swope
Wife of Sam Swope, owner of a chain of Louisville car dealerships. Occasionally Patty will do some commercials for the business.
There’s a longstanding rumor alleging an affair between Patty and Rick. It’s never been substantiated.
by BBallSophist on Apr 19, 2009 11:47 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I've seen the
Sam Swope label on cars here around Paducah.
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:49 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
The Swope family sells tons of cars. They have two dealerships in E-Town, as well as about
100 in Louisville.
by Ken Howlett on Apr 19, 2009 11:52 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs
I will see what there is to read in th AM...going to bed
maybe I can create my own scandal…make the remote control go somewhere it doesnt want to….later ladies and gents….next week should be a doozy
Remember, we're having fun now!!!
by ALLBLUCAT on Apr 19, 2009 11:52 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Me too folfs
tomorrow will bring “THE TRUTH”?
Happy Days are here again The sky is all ways BLUE again Happy days are here again !
by oldcat70 on Apr 19, 2009 11:54 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
I GOT IT...!!!
…She was going to out Rick for driving a FORD…!
Damn her….. damn her to hell…!!!
Steelers fan 1st! UK is my 2nd love.
by vinceuk1 on Apr 19, 2009 11:55 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs
Sam Swope Honda!!!!
Where nobody walks away.
DEEETROIT BASKETBALLL!!!
by davw83 on Apr 20, 2009 9:27 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs
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