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Parsing Mitch Barnhart

Today, Larry Vaught has this column in the Danville Advocate-Messenger, ostensibly a puff-piece about Billy Gillispie which includes a bunch of quotes from Mitch Barnhart, and a few of them were ... interesting.  I'll start with this one, about the status of Billy Gillispie's contract:

"We have the memorandum of understanding and it is not a real big deal to us," said Barnhart, who was here to watch UK play in the NCAA Tournament. "He (Gillispie) is OK with where we are. If he wants to revisit it, that's fine. We are very comfortable in the relationship."
Now, I understand the politics of being an athletic director, and Barhart is a skilled politician when it comes to using a lot of words to say essentially nothing.  But this is somewhat surprising to me.  Nobody with any understanding of big-money contracts can actually believe that Barnhart means this.  Contracts are there for a very good reason, both for the interests of the university and the coach.  If something should go wrong in an area which is not addressed by the MOU, it could be very bad for both parties.

Some would say that is a worry for the lawyers on both sides and not the principles, but in reality, it is a problem that will only escalate with time.  The, "Ah, don't worry, be happy" talk will placate the media and the administration people who really do care about this for a while, but not forever.  And sooner or later, it will have a negative impact on Gillispie's ability to recruit as other coaches learn how to use this fact to create uncertainty combined with the inevitable media questions that will arise in the off season.  Gillispie does not want recruit's parents to be asking, "Exactly why is it you don't have contract after 18 months, Coach?" for much longer.

So let me help everyone out and translate Barnhart's quote for the benefit of those unfamiliar with politico-administrative speak:
"Yeah, it's a problem.  It's something we really do need to get done before it becomes the elephant in the room.  I think we're fine now, but the University of Kentucky does not and cannot operate this way.  Informality is fine early in a relationship, but this is a little bit like living in sin -- both sides need to come together and get this finalized for the good of all involved."
Then, there is this, when asked if he thought this would be a "peaceful off-season" vis-a-vis the possibility of yet another coaching change:

"I hope so. I don't think there is any reason for him to want to go anywhere but Kentucky," Barnhart said. "I think he is in love with what he is doing and we love how hard he works at it. The intensity and passion he brings to the program are what our fans want.

"I don't sense there is any need to be worried about any of that. It is a special place for a special coach and a special opportunity to do some neat things here for Billy and I think he knows that."

Heh.  Well, I don't know about you, but that didn't exactly seem like a confident statement to me.  "Weasel words" like, "I hope so" and, "I don't sense ..." are not exactly categorical statements of certainty.  I am puzzled as to why Barnhart leaves so much wiggle room in these statements.  Of course, it could be that he is just a very careful man, but I would feel much more comfortable with something a bit less ambiguous and a bit more definitive.

Given what we have seen this year, I don't see Gillispie pulling up stakes and setting sail, and I don't see UK giving him the heave-ho.  He did a good job in a difficult situation and won a co-COY in the SEC.  But this contract issue and the careful wording of Barnhart do make me a bit less sanguine than I like to be. 

How do I translate this one?  I admit, I can't.  I don't know what he is trying to tell us here, other than, "It will all be OK -- maybe."  Well, I can live with that, I suppose, but it doesn't exactly give me that warm, fuzzy feeling I was hoping for.

Perhaps the departure of Smith really caught Barnhart by surprise and he is just unwilling to be made a fool of in the media.  I don't really know and I'm not really concerned -- yet.  But this has raised my antennae, and I will be carefully watching Barnhart in the off-season.  On thing I do know -- this contract issue needs to be a focus in the off season, because getting that put to bed would make everyone more comfortable.

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That contract
Does anyone have any idea why it hasn't been signed? Are there sticking points that the parties haven't worked through?

by bluegrassgal on Mar 23, 2008 8:55 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Mitch Is NOT A Very Good AD
He is really poor at saying the wrong thing in the wrong way publicly.

Case in point, his fumbled attempts at Tubby's status headed into postseason play last March. It didn't help AT ALL what he said then.

He should say Billy Gillispie Is My Coach and I'm Really Pleased To Have Him etc, etc, etc.

Mitch just isn't very good at the public aspect of the AD job at a school like Kentucky.

(Full disclosure, I'm aware of some difficulties MB had at Oregon State that you may not be regarding the Women's basketball program there)

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 9:09 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Differing View on Mitch
You offer a defensible opinion with your assertion that Barnhart "fumbled" his two statements regarding Tubby a year ago. I think though, that he knew exactly what he was doing. He knew it was time for Tubby to make staff changes or leave. He didn't offer a more firm and substantial affirmation of Coach Smith because he knew what was coming down the road towards him... like a freight train. (A coaching change at UK is not a small deal, it's huge, and with the wrong move Barnhart could easily have lost his job. He knows this.) The UK fan base was fractured to a frightening extent. A negative cloud of doom hung over UK for the better part of two years. Tubby didn't seem happy.

In my opinion, his statements were designed to compel Tubby to consider other employment options.

Your statement that Barnhart "is not a very good AD" is a bit off-base in my view. Regardless of his public statements, the man has put together a rather impressive list of hires, and has overseen the construction of the absolute best practice facility in the history of college basketball. On top of the fact that he stuck with Rich Brooks when everyone and their grandmothers, and their grandmothers sportswriters, were calling for his head.

He's hired Brooks, Gillispie, DeMoss, Cohen, and Brian Craig, all who have experienced great success. I think his hiring of Matthew Mitchell was a solid hire. He hired a softball coach who had the best year in recent memory last year, and the women's golf coach will do a great job.

The importance of him sticking with Brooks cannot be overstated. It allowed for a bit of continuity, and paid huge dividends on the field, and in the coverage of the national press. This fact alone is reason to admire, and respect his decision-making. Plus, he loves to stick it to Jurich and UL. This alone makes his an adored figure in my household :)

The handling of the Joker Phillips as Head Coach in Waiting was perfection. Phillips should, and thankfully will, be the next football coach at UK. Another great call.

I thought Barnhart's quotes in the Vaught piece were extraordinary. He obviously loves the job Gillispie has done, and at times, he seemed to be talking directly to his Head Coach. I think he wants Gillispie to sign the contract, and this may be a ploy to encourage Gillispie to "revisit" the issue.

Whatever is going on, it needs to be resolved. I am on record on this site as writing that I wasn't concerned about the contract not being signed, but that was back in December. At this point, nearly a year after Clyde took the job, it's time to put this issue to bed.

It will be used by competing head coaches against Gillispie, actually, it has more than likely already been used, and will continue to be used against UK in recruiting wars.

The lifeblood of any program is recruiting. Not having a signed contract is equivalent to wading in very dangerous waters. Some coaches will lie, cheat, and steal to sign a recruit. Does anyone think those coaches wouldn't tell a recruit, "hey, Gillispie doesn't even have a contract, he could leave tomorrow with no recriminations. Do you really think he's going to be there for 4 more years"? Now, I don't think a coach can use that tactic with every recruit and his parents, but these coaches know who will, and won't respond to negative recruiting.

The Kelvin Sampsons and Bruce Pearls of the world will stop at nothing.....

by Ken Howlett on Mar 24, 2008 1:56 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

What a wonderful ...
dissent.

If anyone out there is looking for the perfect ASoB model of how to disagree with another member, print this out and frame it.

This is the model, the archetype.  This is what makes this blog a good place to talk about Kentucky basketball.

Well done, Ken.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 24, 2008 6:44 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agree
Few state their opinions better than Ken H.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 6:49 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks guys...
...I have the occasional moment of levity :)

by Ken Howlett on Mar 24, 2008 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

My dissent
Oh yeah???  I think Barnhart roxxors my soxxzors and 40yearcat fan is just an old man who has a man-love-affair with Tubby!

;-)

Oh wait... are we not on catspause????

by chirop1 on Mar 24, 2008 9:29 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I Have Different POV On That
If that were MB's intention, a better approach would have been to Shut Up and Say Nothing. Why would anyone do that just as UK was approaching postseason play? Poor timing to say the least.

I have a childhood friend who does business with MB. Trust me, I know MB fumbles A LOT of things. I'll share specifics privately but not here. My friend does business with lots of UKAA and Who's Who In KY folks. A cancelled business transaction in October 2006 was my first clue Tubby was gone.

I am also aware (knowing the party involved thru Natalie) of some fumbled AD business at Oregon St that wound up costing OSU some $ in a lawsuit settlement. Just 2 specific examples of many.

Rival coaches used those tactics against UK in the past few years. They work sometimes. But UK recruited the #1 class in 2004, the #1 JuCo player in 2005, Top 15 class in 2006, Top 10 class in 2007, and 2 solid recruits in 2008 anyway.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 6:58 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Barnhart
Yu may very well be right when you write that Barnhart should have not said anything at all, considering the timing.

by Ken Howlett on Mar 24, 2008 2:52 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Barnhardt knew
about Tubby and if you remember, Mitch made public comments during the last two months of Tubby's last year that made everyone feel that Mitch wanted a change.....NOBODY is saying that this Memo of Understanding is a problem...NOBODY.  If it was, then the press would continually bring it up....

All is well right now.....my thoughts is that something will happen over the summer....the passion that this coach has shown for his players and for UK tells me that the MEMO is the contract and we should just move on and watch the recruiting season....

Mitch is doing a fantastic job as AD....the only sport I see that still needs fixing is the Women's Basketball team.....get that done and Mitch will go down as one of the best.....he probably already is when you compare him to the crooks of yesteryear...

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 9:29 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Not Accurate
Mitch B knew nothing about Tubby until March 22, 2007 when Minnesota asked permission to speak with him. That's a fact.

You missed the point. Mitch's fumbled public comments in early March 2007 HURT the Wildcats, not helped them.

Mitch is not a very good AD when it comes to the public aspect of the UK athletic program.

CM Newton hired 2 coaches who won NCAA titles. He's the best AD ever at UK.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 9:40 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

You are correct..........
Newtown hired Pitino and he took Pitino's advice and hired Tubby....he also hired Mumme which pretty much trumps at least one basketball hire since it ended up literally killing our already terrible football program at the time.  He has also hired a fantastic baseball coach and has hired a pretty darn good football coach that has had more success than we have all seen in YEARS........

That being said, Mitch has done a really good job....yes, your are correct....he did not "know" about Tubby's deal with Minnesota, but I am positive he knew that Tubby was going to have to make some internal staff changes (changes Tubby would not like) if he was going to stay at UK.  That was very clear.  

Look, Mitch is doing a great job....why does everything have to be a conspiracy?  That contract is a private business situation and it will get worked out.....

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:55 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not True > Pitino Recommended RALPH WILLARD
Newton ignored him and hired Tubby Smith. Some players wanted Billy Donovan then. Pitino recommended neither one.

That Pitino-Recommended-Tubby story is flat out FALSE.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 12:29 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Well..
...someone knew in the AD department. It may seem old school and back woods but I knew Tubby was going 3 days before the news broke from my father who is a barber in one of Lex's biggest shops. At the time it seemed WAY insane so I didn't even give it a second thought. My point, nothing is ever as locked down as you may think.

I have direct experience and see him as confident, calculating and in perfect step with the cycles of today's media. I do not agree 100% with him on everything and would not work well under him I would guess but I don't have to.

I think he is using the media in this case just as he did with Tubby. To get his way. That said, in this arena, he has had easy pickings with Tubby and Billy. A Pitino would be able to spin back at him effectively. Heck, it was neat to watch Brooks hit the cameras and papers to get his side out a few years ago. MB looked (sounded) out matched in the run up to Billy D.

As for CM, I would not say best ever. Good? Absolutely! ONE of the best? Yep. Did he clean up a big mess? Yes! Did he also preside over the payment of 3 football coaches at one time? Yes. Did one of those leave us as big of a hole to fix than he took on at the start? Yes. Did he somehow manage a killer deal to continue to get paid "consulting" bucks by UK long after he left? Yes and It may still be going on I don't know.

I did like CM. And I like MB. I think I would rather hang out CM than MB. I just wouldn't say best ever that's all. But then again, who is he up against. Crooks, swindlers and MB.

I say 5 rounds, no gloves. I would SOO pick MB.

by wilson452 on Mar 24, 2008 9:52 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I Knew He Was Gone (Somewhere) In October 2006
I have a childhood friend who was hired to build a swimming pool for Tubby and Donna but she called him in October 2006 to cancel it, saying "We're moving" as the reason.

Didn't know where or when but knew he was gone 6 months earlier. Doubt that was public knowledge.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 7:43 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

But Chuck, ...
it is a problem.  Not a big problem, not yet at least.  But it is a problem.  That is my point.

It can't be made "Not a problem" by saying so, or ignoring it.  And just because the press is not hyping it now, they will be if it doesn't get solved soon.  There is a limit to how long this can go on without getting media attention.  I don't know what it is, but if Gillispie starts next season without a formal contract, it will be a very big issue.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

For Me
as a Kentucky fan its a huge problem.  I am a teacher(well stay at home mom now) when you sign up at a school you must sign a contract.  You aren't even allowed to work without one.  It is not good business to work without a contract.  Something is allowing this thing to linger.  He has been here almost a full year and there IS NO talk about it.  That is very concerning and if you arent' worried about it then you are hiding your head in the sand.  I am not saying we should be freaking out but its very conerning.

by tenken on Mar 24, 2008 12:19 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

MOU Is A Contract
The terms & conditions of Gillispie's employment by UK are spelled out in MOU and it is legally binding on both parties.

So a lawyer told me.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 12:31 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Great Point 40Y
It is just that. True it is only one page but here is where it favors UK:

The termination. It is so open that if he "were" to be leaning to the dark side of his private life as the rumors say then we can cut him loose and tell him to bring it to court. The polls of fans say the payments to fired coaches is out of control. Would a jury reward him?

The MOU spells out also that if he up and quits, he owes us millions. The dude NEEDS an agent!

The person who has the interestt to really get this done is BCG. He needs to get some detail in there or 1) it will be used against him on the recruiting trail and 2) he could loose his rep and finacial but.

by wilson452 on Mar 24, 2008 10:00 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

One year
is all its good for yall.  Its coming up very soon.

by tenken on Mar 24, 2008 11:33 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not sure on that
the MOU points out 7 years as the agreemnt and also spells out a four year "vesting" plan where Uk puts 250k in every year and if he is here that long he gets it.

It also spells out a buyout for BCG that is stepped for 3 years down from him paying UK 3 million if he left now.

So, the legal agreement states 3 dates from 7 down to 3 that have Course Performance actions tied to them.

I am only worried in the dreaded "perception" war. Legally, I still say he should have had is lawyer there on the call that late night. It really does favor UK as it sits. At least IMO.

by wilson452 on Mar 24, 2008 12:26 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

What I meant above......
NOBODY means nobody who is close to the situation.  Obviously, fans and others see an issue, but not the parties involved.

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 9:30 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Recruits
What about Tru's point on recruits?  Personally, it doesn't worry me, I think it will work out.  But there is the legitimate issue of the core disagreement (ethics clause) that prevents there from being a contract.  What is going to happen when it's time to renew?

Let's hope they work on it during the off-season.

by EEWildcat on Mar 23, 2008 10:31 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Matters Not To Recruits
Recruits don't think (or care) about whether he signed MOU or contract. Gillispie is the UK coach for 6 more years.

THAT matters more to recruits.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 10:33 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

But recruits parents ...
do care.  No question about it.  And that matters.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 2:45 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Who/what are your sources about this?.......
My sources say that something will work out this summer...what are yours saying?  I have also heard that the players signed and the players that we are in deep with on the recruiting trail are also not concerned.....you obviously have conviction here....I am just saying that it is not an issue right now and it will probably be taken care of this summer........both sides seem to be fine with the arrangement....believe me, if this IS hurting recruiting, it would have already been done by now.  

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:12 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

My sources ...
are my own common sense.  Look, if I were a parent with a star recruit and I knew the coach had been without a formal contract with his school for 12 months, I would want clarification of why that might be.

If it had been 18 months, I would ask hard questions.

Longer, I would consider it a problem.

I agree it isn't an issue right now, as I have said in the post and elsewhere, and if it is worked out over the summer, everything will be fine.  But the sooner, the better.  That's all I'm saying.

But my question is ultimately why Barnhart is suggesting that it isn't a problem.  I think it is, albeit a little one right now.  Your mileage may vary.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Exactly
and we are hitting high signing period.  It doesnt' make sense that he is not signed.  What also worries me is that the coaching carosel is about to start turning.  Cause we all know Indiana will get some big name coach.  WHo will leave and then it starts.  

by tenken on Mar 24, 2008 12:22 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Unease
It seems unthinkable that both parties are unable to get a contract in place, which makes me wonder.... is there an even bigger elephant in the room when Mitch B and BCG are in the same room together that the rest of us are unaware of?  It would almost be easier if there was a point of contention that everyone could point to when explaining the MOU, such as a disagreement over term or other benefits.   What if either Mitch or BCG discovered he despised the other once they started working together?

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 10:15 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Coaches And AD's Often Don't Like Each Other
Egos clash. Happens a lot. UK and elsewhere.

Gillispie is a rising star in coaching.

Mitch is not.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 10:31 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

All Contingencies Need to Be Covered
An attorney once told me that the best business contracts result from two parties who totally despise and distrust each other; the worst contracts are between friends.  Friends don't think through all the things that could go wrong, but enemies do.  And enemies make sure every contingency is covered, which minimizes lawsuits and bitter misunderstandings when things go wrong -- as they inevitably do.  

Whether they are friends now or whether they are wary of each other, Billy and Barney need to come to a detailed written agreement.  In particular, the university needs to protect itself by clearly spelling out grounds for termination and the amount of compensation due.  If it doesn't the divorce could really get messy.  

Good businessmen don't enter into multi-million dollar deals without a solid contract.  The  uncertainty has to grate on Lee Todd.  

by Fortunatus on Mar 23, 2008 11:47 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

What I have heard
Yeah so I have heard all kinds of rumors this season.  supposedly there is a disagreement because Barnhart wants to put a moral clause in the contract.  This would give Kentucky the freedom to can BCG if he screwed up.  Also supposedly BCG is not getting along with the athletic department and the powers that be dont like him.  I have heard all kinds of crazy stuff. Like BCG getting kicked out of bars, to him jumping into a pool necked, to him doing cheerlearders.  I have also heard that he might leave for OSU or Texas if that coach leaves for Indiana because he doesnt like it at Kentucky.  I have also heard that he banged Alex Legions girlfriend and thats why he left.  so who are my sources.  They are close to the program.  One is Dermonti Dawson who is on the board of directors and the other is Bobby Perry.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 1:06 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

so is this kind of stuff valid?
I can't wait to see comments on this. I am 800 miles from Lexington and have no sources. And I am really disappointed that this type of stuff keeps coming out...I want CBC to be "the right fit" for UK basketball and in so many ways he seems to be, abut yet, there are the rumors.....

by cat woman on Mar 23, 2008 1:29 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

This is ridiculous
We don't need this crazy rumor-mongering and mudslinging on ASOB.

by EEWildcat on Mar 23, 2008 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed
We get enough of this from forwarded emails and second-tier UK blogs. ASOB is a cut above.

by The Lexpatriate on Mar 23, 2008 2:56 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

This is all ...
just not true.  In my opinion, these rumors were the product of a portion of fans and others within shouting distance of the program who had a vested interest in creating fear, uncertainty and doubt around Gillispie.

There are a good number of people in Lexington who are still angry and feel that the last administration was run off or mistreated, and my feeling is that a number of these misguided souls are behind much of these sensational rumors.

I am convinced that the fact we don't have a contract in place now is the product of a disagreement in the terms, and I doubt seriously if the inclusion of a morals clause is the issue.  Most likely, it is the wording of several clauses combined with some uncertainty between the two camps as to the other's ultimate intentions.

It is in the interest of both parties to resolve this uncertainty, and I believe they will.  As much as anything, I think the fact that Gillispie wanted to get started fast and the whirlwind of a season that saw him have to put a lot of things in place in a short time are the biggest contributor to the delay. The unfounded rumors of moral turpitude are exactly that, and the absence of a contract is the only tangible thing that gives the rumormongers something to point at in support of their nonsense.  

I expect that to change now that Gillispie has a season under his belt and has time to attend to these matters.  The contract needs attending to if for no other reason than to stop the rampant speculation that some kind of unsavory behavior is the reason behind the delay.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 2:44 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

dude
there is some level of truth to this.  there is always grain of truth to every rumor.  Hell, I even know the nickname that BCG gave Crawford at the beginning of the season.  He called him the "Cancer".  can you believe that?  but i love BCG style.  its tough love.  And it forces players to either get tough or go somewhere else.  thats probably why Legion left

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 5:04 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

No.
That is sophistry.  Rumors do not always contain a grain of truth.  Most of the time, they are just plain false.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 5:11 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Rumors slowed....
Soon after we beat Vandy in Rupp and then they completely went away until now (in this unfortunate thread).

People wanted him gone...people who just don't know any better.....unfortunate when you have such a huge fan base.....fringe groups.....

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:21 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I Think I Know Where The Rumors Originate
A small group of UK boosters and UKAA insiders really wanted John Pelphrey to become UK coach.

They still do. The rumors come (ultimately) from them.

Not only did I talk to Patterson's parents (He Will Stay At UK 4 Years per them) but a few others, too.

Including one friend high up in UKAA. The rumors are 99% baloney (per my friend, whom I cannot identify).

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 8:24 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

well then-
the better the source, the better the information.

FYCF, you just one-upped everyone else's take on the rumors in my opinion.

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 8:40 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Trust me, Forty ...
there are many Smith supporters involved.  I know this only by remote and unverifiable means, but I believe it is so.

Don't get me wrong -- you will find no stronger Tubby Smith supporter anywhere than me.  I have mad respect for him and his entire family, and I was not happy when he left.  

There are many Smith supporters who feel he was mistreated (with justification) by some of our fan base and even some at the school.  Some of them are happily "helping" by passing along every little negative thing they hear as fact, because they feel that they are somehow helping Smith's legacy, when in reality they are just hurting everyone.

And if Smith knew any of these people were carrying the torch for him this way, I have no doubt he would strongly rebuke them and ask them to desist.  But he does not, and cannot.

We must be honest about this.  There are many more aggrieved Smith supporters here than Pelphrey supporters.  That is just reality.  I hope they will get over it, and stop.  Smith does not need help with his legacy, he is a great coach and great coaches can more than stand on their own.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 9:27 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I Don't Agree With That
I don't know anyone who is / was FOT that isn't deliriously happy for him. Who wouldn't be?

$13 million / 7 year contract. Working with his son. Great university. Chance to rebuild basketball tradition there. (Yes, they have one) Fabulous AD there. Joel Maturi is Top Shelf.

There are very few FOT in Lexington, UKAA, or UK boosters. Those who are, would not do what you say.

I saw him last August. Big smile. This February. Bigger smile. This month. Huge smile. I've never seen Tubby or Donna happier in the 8 years I've known them.

He's (finally) happy. So are we who are FOT.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 12:43 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Heh ...
OK, well, we'll just agree to disagree on that one.

But I am happy for him as well.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 24, 2008 6:46 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Are you Jerry Tipton?
Good lord.  I've heard JFK was shot by....  I'm just hoping you are a kid getting some kicks (use of the word "necked").  Anyhow, I know Dermonti and have yet to hear anything like this.  

by funkadelic on Mar 23, 2008 2:46 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

My understanding
Hey i love UK basketball more than anyone out there and i love this site but I only say this because I am worried.  The reason i posted this is because i want answers.  Why do i hear this stuff?  And please don't quote me because I am hopefully wrong and I dont want it to come back to me.  My opinion is that Barnharts job should be linked with BCG's.  If he goes than they should get rid of Barnhart.  I just want some Freaking stability.  

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 4:51 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Also
It seems to me If this is all true, that barnhart strategy is to let BCG make up his mind rather than force the issue on to BCG.  just like with Tubby, he doesnt want to let it reflect bad on the program.  But I think hes very wrong.  It will reflect bad on the program.  just look at what we have had to deal with the past five years. if we have to deal with another five years of this, I dunno know what we are going to do.  Especially with louisiville, Tennessee, and Florida nipping at our heels.  The real problem is with the old guard at Kentucky.  they are so quick to judge.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 4:59 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

We are stable......
What makes you think we are not stable?  We sign one more good player and we have a top 20 recruiting class.......the fan base is buying in now and if you have been paying attention, the players are buying in....what answers do you need?

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:22 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Top 20 Recruiting Classes
UK signed Top 20 classes in 1990, 1992, 1994, and 1995. (Not 1991, 1993, 1996, or 1997)

The UK fanbase was deliriously happy.

UK signed Top 20 classes in 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2006. (Not 2005)

The UK fanbase was very unhappy.

UK signed Top 20 class in 2007 and maybe 2008.

The UK fanbase is happy again.

It wasn't recruiting.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 12:37 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Same Thing In 1980's
UK signed topnotch recruits in 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1987, and 1988. (Not 1981, 1985, or 1989)

UK fanbase was miserably UNHAPPY. Worst decade in 50 years for UK. Still the only decade where UK did not play in NCAA title game at least once.

Not recruiting then, either.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 12:50 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

rumors
I have heard some of the rumors listed above as well, but I cannot claim to have an inside source - rather I heard them from someone who said he knows someone high up in the Ath. Dept.  I didn't want to specify the rumors I heard by posting them here at ASOB b/c I do think this blog is generally above that sort of thing, but seeing as they have already been brought up, I will say I have heard many of the same rumblings.  Whether they are true or not is, of course, another issue.  Regardless of the rumors validity though, just having them swirling cannot be beneficial in anyway.  I agree with Tru that the media's attention will heighten after the tournament, and that they only way to quell this would be for UK and BCG to agree on a contract.  Not to mention, I would sleep better without the tiny fear that BCG might bolt back to the Big 12.

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 5:02 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Zero Chance Of Okla St
(1) Sean Sutton will stay on.

(2) Gillispie won't go there (per 1st hand words of Okla St AD on February 27, 2008 at Okla St women's game in Stillwater OK, I attended it) under any circumstances.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 8:21 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can't believe........
that someone of Dermonti Dawson's character would tell someone anything like this even if it is true...let alone someone who would spew it on a blog site as if it meant nothing....so, I choose not to believe your post.....unless you are joking...and if you are, it isn't funny.  

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:15 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

My apologies.....
I meant to reply to another post...not the one just above it...sorry.

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:16 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Just so you know........
.....The stuff i heard was mentioned months ago and I wont say that one person is the source of what i've heard. rather ive heard numerous things from multiple sources, even some that I have not mentioned.  It might have all been resolved by now.  i find it hard to believe that being s busy as BCG is that he has the time for this stuff.  Its more likely it occurred during the summer.  But the longer this contract stuff goes, the more i have my reservations.  I understand that this is a blog and maybe it isnt appropriate for me to say this but I need the BBnation perpective or maybe someone could tell me if its true or not.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 8:29 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

you lost your credibility
when you said you heard this from Dermonti, who I told you I know (I'm sure you've seen the gold D in marble in the entrance), now you have some more "sources" you won't name.  If you did know Dermonti, you would not spew his name as a "source" on a blog because a.) he is a CLASS ACT, and b.)he would sit on you.

by funkadelic on Mar 23, 2008 8:45 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I can't believe........
that someone of Dermonti Dawson's character would tell someone anything like this even if it is true...let alone someone who would spew it on a blog site as if it meant nothing....so, I choose not to believe your post.....unless you are joking...and if you are, it isn't funny.  

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:17 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Also......
.....me and Dermonti don't correspond, rather he told someone close to him, who told me.  But I do know Dermonti and I know Bobby.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 8:32 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I am sure........
that Dermonti and Bobby appreciate you naming them as sources on something that is very slanderous if not true.....what a guy you are.  

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:46 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

why......
....are u being an ass?

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 9:46 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I'd rather be....
an ass than a flat out liar....

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 9:57 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

You......
....make up your own mind, but attacking my credibility doesn't change the fact that these rumors are out there.  My pupose was to only get some feedback not to be called names.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 10:01 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

ok......
......everything is hunkydory, la ti da.  Oh hum.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 10:03 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Hogwash
Gillispie is far from perfect but those stories are 99% BS.

In the era of cameras on EVERY cellphone, wouldn't there be pictures on the Internet if true?

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 1:47 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

well,
A quick skinny dip (presumably in the dark) does sound like BS - but if it occurred I doubt many cell phone cams have a good flash to take the pic.  Moreover, people tend to do something like skinny dipping away from the eyes of others.
Drinking too much and getting thrown out of bars - a picture would have a difficult time confirming this.  A picture of him holding a drink or two, or even looking a little sloshed, could not be held as real evidence of him being kicked out or being obnoxious in a bar.
And hopefully when BCG is dancing on the mattress, with whomever it may be (including an ex-players girlfriend), BCG is not snapping photos so he can show them off to a friend or post them on a web.  
Nor could a picture show that he and Barnhardt don't like each other, or that BCG doesn't like Lexington.
Yes some stupid college athletes get caught in pitcures of them binge drinking in silly outfits, but I assume that BCG would be conducting his partying more descretely if he is indeed partying like a college kid.

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 5:15 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

another one...
i have alsoheard that he came it to practice with the smell of alcohol in his breath.  and that crawford told him that if he ever did it again then the players would quit.  i mean are these actions really excusable if true of course?  Maybe UK hired BCG to quickly.   once again Barnharts fault.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 5:24 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Gillispie Likes To Drink, Yes
No doubt about that.

But 99% of the rumors are BS.

Nothing more, nothing less.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 8:16 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

for the record
I dont believe most or any of the rumors.  I was just saying we don't really know either way, or at least that most people don't.

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 8:52 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

UKAA Does Know
99% of the stories are untrue. Gillsipie is not perfect.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 12:34 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Tru, let me help translate
"We have the memorandum of understanding and it is not a real big deal to us," said Barnhart, who was here to watch UK play in the NCAA Tournament. "He (Gillispie) is OK with where we are. If he wants to revisit it, that's fine. We are very comfortable in the relationship."

are you that bored that you have to make this stuff up?

by BeatUL on Mar 23, 2008 2:45 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I made nothing up ...
I really don't care whatsoever if you don't like my take, but when I know political BS when I see it.

Maybe you don't agree.  I could not possibly care less.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 2:48 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Yes you did..
your "interpretation" was made up and that is the true BS, not the AD's comment.  I realize UK's season is over, but to use this to cry out for attention is pretty sad.

by BeatUL on Mar 23, 2008 6:08 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Agreed
It's Tipton's job to spread fear and uncertainty around UK Basketball.  Leave it to the best.

by funkadelic on Mar 23, 2008 2:50 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I am doing neither ...
but it is time for this contract issue to be dealt with, and to say "It's no problem" is absurd.  It is a problem, and everyone with more than two brain cells to rub together knows it is.

So why beat around the bush, Barnhart?  Why not just say, "We're working on it, and we'll get it done in due course?"  To dismiss it like that is not a serious response, and makes people wonder what the hell is going on here.

Major universities should not operate under these types of agreements.  They are not good for either party.  They are unprofessional and will eventually become a much bigger issue.  The first 15 months or so, it is not really a problem, but as I said, if we head into next season with this unresolved, it will be a huge issue.  I would like to see it resolved soon, so that nobody has anything to think about except next season's basketball team.

I do not bury my head in the sand and pretend all is well when there is something like this out there.  It isn't big, but it will become big, and I am all about seeing these things nipped in the bud.  I want Gillispie here and I want him signed, sealed and delivered.  I think he should be comfortable with that, and the Athletic Administration as well.  Let's get it done.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 3:02 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

What is absurd
is for you to think you know how to do the AD's job.  Get over it..   hell, talk about Uk's baseball team.

by BeatUL on Mar 23, 2008 6:11 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I have two brain cells..........
It is disappointing that this thread has turned into a written fist fight amongst everyone.....you think the contract situation is a problem and this is your site and you definitely entitled to  the opinion.....some of us just happen to think that it is not a problem.  I think that is fair enough and we move on....

If not, I will just have to spend my computer time somewhere else.....I hate it because I check this site every day and enjoy the back and forth.  

Tru, it is not you...it is some of the responses to this thread.....these are responses I see at some of the other sites......just jumping with both feet back into this rumor garbage that pretty much faded away until today.......Geez

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:30 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Chuck ...
I appreciate your opinion, but I wrote what I wrote and I stand by it.  I have not done anything that you accuse me of.  Others have raised rumors, I have not.  In fact, I have rejected them in every case.

But I will not hide from anything.  Never.  I will argue my case with logic and, I hope, intelligence, with malice toward none.  But I will not sacrifice reality on the altar of convenience.  That's how I have run this site since I have been blessed to own it, and I don't see any reason to change.

If this discussion makes you uncomfortable, I regret your discomfort, but I believe in what I am doing.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 9:34 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Fair enough....
but I guess I just feel that UK has some pretty smart, well-paid people working on this very seriously, and UK would get backlash from fans and media like it has never seen if they goofed a contract issue with the head Bball coach.  So, I understand your position, but this issue is fairly low on my list of concerns (like finding a really tall guy that weighs more than 199)

by funkadelic on Mar 23, 2008 3:11 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

And ...
that too, is very fair.  I don't expect everyone to agree with me, and your point is well made.

I agree that it is likely getting attention, but I would hate for this to be the next big issue, and it annoys me that Barnhart left everybody with the impression that he would be fine if there never was a contract.  That just isn't professional, in my view.  I feel sure that isn't the impression he intended to leave, but that's just what he did.

And I still don't get the "I hope everything is OK" statement.  What is that all about?  I would expect that he is in a position to know, if anyone is, and surely something a bit less tentative would be nice to see.

And like you, I would like to see us get a little inside help for next year.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

my spidey senses
are beginning to tingle as well, Tru!

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 5:05 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Need a contract
This is the most heated discussion I've seen on this site since I started visitng, and it is unfair to Tru. As a civil defense attorney who has done some employment work, I can speak first hand to the variety of awful situations that come up when the terms of employment are not clear.

Some people seem to be of the understanding that because the job at issue is that of the head coach of the most storied college basketball program in history, the law surrounding contracts and employement don't apply, or apply differently. That simply is not the case.

If the relationship between employer (UK) and employee (Gillispie) goes sour, the lack of a comprehensive employment contract between the parties could be devasting for all involved, including the basketball program itself. It is in the best interests of Gillispie and the University to get a contract in place.

I agree that UK and Gillispie probably have an army of competent attorneys working on this issue, but the fact that he has coached for an entire season operating only under a "memo of understanding" is of concern, and Tru is correct to point it out. He's not harping on rumors of Gillispie's exra-curricular activities - he's stating facts, and facts that fans should be concerned with. There likely is some legally binding operation to the "memo," but things could still get VERY messy if the parties don't get this worked out, with clear terms. Yes, we're in Kentucky, but a handshake and a signature on a napkin (overstating, I know) is simply NOT good business sense, and not legally adviseable.

That being said, I'd be happy to do the contract drafting!

by blbskue on Mar 23, 2008 5:07 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Correction:
Paragraph 2, first sentence: "employement" should read "employment."

by blbskue on Mar 23, 2008 5:09 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Thanks ...
for doing a great job of making my own points better than I did.

And you are absolutely right about another thing -- I never once mentioned rumors of any kind in my original post.  Never.  Rumors are irrelevant -- what is relevant is that the contract needs to be agreed to.  What is relevant is that Barnhart should not be promoting the idea that the contract is unimportant -- it is important, and will become more so as time goes on.

Barnhart is supposed to be looking out for the interests of the University of Kentucky insofar as the contract (or lack thereof) is concerned.  Dismissing it as unimportant seems wrong to me.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 5:17 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

another persective
Its also important to understand that if the rumors are true that we really shouldn't be surprised.  I mean look at the New york governor.  these people in these positions of power have huge egos.  Hell I've heard similiar stuff about Pitino minus the drinking but with the girls.  that being said I believe that BCg wants to make it work based on the quotes i read in the paper when he talks about the future.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 5:19 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

So let me get this straight ...
because Spitzer was a whoremonger and other people in high places have been guilty of moral turpitude, that somehow means Gillispie is likely to be also?

With due respect, this is a blatant logical fallacy.  

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 6:00 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

perhaps
I understand what you are saying.  But it is important to keep an open mind about the possibility.  Truth is we may never know because all of this goes on behind closed doors.  But if you think I am lying about my sources or that i am one of those crazy board people you are wrong.  Dont you think Bobby Perry is a reliable source?  The guy hangs out with chuck hayes, and bradley, and crawford regualarly.  I dunno.  There is so much we can speculate on.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 6:09 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

When Bobby Perry Agrees To Be Quoted Publicly
Yes, he becomes a reliable source.

I also have read where he said (don't know if he really did or not) that his former UK coach hasn't talked to him in a year.

That is utterly 100% untrue and I know that factually because I know his former coach and have spoken with him several times in the past year.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 8:19 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

How about the 2008 seniors?
FYCF,

This is offtopic, but something I've been wondering.  Since you are a buddy of Smith's, I thought I might ask you.

Do you know if Smith spoke to Bradley or Crawford (or any of the players) at all from when he quit to the time Gillispie took the reigns?  Several players were quoted in saying that they hadn't heard anything from him since he took the Minnesota job.  This seemed kind of out of character for Smith, so I had a hard time believing it.  Is it possible that it was some kind of NCAA violation to talk to players of another team?

by EEWildcat on Mar 23, 2008 8:42 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

He Cannot Speak To Current UK Players
He went to see Woo play a pro game (NBDL, I think) earlier this winter.

Gillispie could not / did not speak to TAMU players or recruits, either.

NCAA rule involving tampering.

Tubby's cell phone # was available to lots of people from the UK circumstances. Those who wanted to contact him, easily did so.

I'm a very distant acquaintance, and I've seen him 3 times (talked to him, too). It's not hard.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

That makes sense
That makes a lot more sense.  Thanks for the answer.  I wish that would have been included in the reporting of Smith's non-contact with the current players.

by EEWildcat on Mar 23, 2008 9:26 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I never ...
ever suggested anyone was lying about anything.  Never.  Ever.

I do not operate that way.  I question what I hear and what I see.  I disbelieve "sources", but in no way am I questioning your personal veracity.  I don't do that.  Ever.

As far as Perry is concerned, I have not heard him say anything to anyone, so I can draw no conclusion about his veracity, and absent context, how could anyone?

Besides, we all have to recognize that every word out of the mouth of young men is subject to some skepticism.  Bobby, Joe, Ramel, Chuck -- they all have a potential conflict of interest, that being the idea that Gillispie is a better coach for UK than Smith.  It is likely that they would defend Smith, even to the extent of suggesting something less than flattering about his successor.  I have been in that situation before, and I know what loyalty will do.  It will make you rationalize.

Bottom line -- I will wait for a more reliable source before drawing any conclusions at all.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 9:04 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

sorry
i am sorry if i pissed anyone off by posting this stuff.  I know i am not a regular

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 6:00 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

You don't have to ...
be a regular.  

The main thing we want here is conversation that is respectful of others.  You are welcome, even if I don't agree with much of what you have said.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 6:02 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Billy Clyde
We all want our coaches to be respectful of the mantle that UK basketball represents. Billy Clyde knows and respects UK basketball. That is why he left Texas A&M high and dry to come to Lexington. However, Billy Clyde is a true basketball junkie. He absolutely lives the game and accepts nothing less than being a total winner. He is a conflicted person who places every emphasis on winning basketball. That can be a lonely life. Hence his presense (real and imagined) at the Merrick Inn, Oscars et al. Yes, he enjoys drinking and being with people. That plays great in El Paso and College Station. That doesn't play well in Lexington. Dissing personal appearences at the beginning of the season wasn't good PR. Rumors surrounding alleged drinking episodes, DUIs and approaching young women are all rumors out of control. I didn't say they were untrue, just out of control and became urban legends.

The point is this coach needs to come to terms with this university, his contractual obligations and become part of the community. We have no place for cowboys in Lexington. There are enought cowboys loose in Texas for most of the population hers.

Bottom line, this great coach and sometimes reckless, but good hearted person has the opportunity of a lifetime. He has an entire state behind him who hold him in higher regard than the governor. We will have to simply wait and see how he embraces us and in turn we embrace him. Winning, however, solves everything.

SanAntonioCat

by SanAntonioCat on Mar 23, 2008 8:49 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

The last thing....
Coach would do is make any public statements confirming or denying any of these "types" of rumors unless he was caught "dead to rights."  So, unfortunately for some, rumors will stay just that....

Winning changes alot of things...again, these rumors started when we were losing..they faded when we started winning...now the season is over and this thread (mostly by one specific poster) has turned into rumor central again....

Borrowing a poster's comments above...this HURTS Kentucky......It does not help. Let's talk about something else....

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I here ya ...
I don't and won't talk about rumors.  I have discussed them only to the extent necessary to dismiss them.  But the previous poster is correct to the extent that the University and the Coach must come to terms.

I can say this -- honest discussion is what we do here.  I don't believe honest discussion hurts anything, and if it does, perhaps it isn't worth protecting.  Kentucky does not need protection from honest discussion.

Mentioning a rumor does not validate it, and opens it up to scrutiny which you, me, and others have disposed of, in my view.  I don't like people bringing them up to be honest, they need to be defeated with reason.  Ignoring the fact that they exist is not the way to go, if you ask me.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 9:12 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

thank you.....
.....that is all i wanted to hear.  Finally some perspective.  All i wanted was some discussion, not to be treated as a heretic.  But I guess what can you expect from the ignorant.

by bigbluebrh222 on Mar 23, 2008 10:10 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Verification
I think another thing is, that people's versions of "offensively drunk" differ wildly.  There are plenty of high and mighty teetotalers in Lexington that think that even if you smell a glass of wine, you're a drunk, so I really take these with a grain of salt.

What am I going to do about it?  Verify.  Next time I'm in Lexington, I'm going to make a point of going to brave post-game traffic and make my way to Sal's or wherever the rumored BCG watering hole is at the time, and see what's really going on with my own eyes.  I bet I won't see any sign of him at all.

And honestly, if he wants to go enjoy a few drinks, more power to him.  Kentucky exports every variety of liquor known to man, from Gilbey's London Dry Gin to Puerto Rican Rum.  It is hypocrital of Kentuckians to deny him the enjoyment of some social drinking.

If he's a sloppy drunk getting DUI's and endangering people, that's different.  But I don't believe that.  Yes, he has some DUI's on his record, but he said he is done with that behavior, and I believe him until the police say otherwise.

And as far as the "womanizing" goes, as long as it's consensual, he can do whatever he wants.  He's the most important person in the state of Kentucky, and a bachelor.  If he wants to do some casual dating, who are we to tell him or his (alleged) ladies how to behave?  I know I'd be living the vida Bruce Pearl if I were he.

Lexingtonians need to understand that when they hire a basketball coach, that's what they're getting.  There is nothing in the contract, nor should there be, about how the coach can and can't spend his personal life.  What would you do if your employer tried to regulate how many dates you needed to have with a member of the opposite sex (and/or marriage) before having carnal relations?  I would laugh in the face of anyone who put such a document in front of me.

Lexingtonians really need to realize that they live in a municipality that services a million people and get over their small-town voyeurism and do their best to look the other way.  Just let the coach live his private life as long as he isn't hurting anyone.

Of course everyone in Lexington isn't this way, so my apologies to privacy-respecting Lexingtonians, but there's a huge contingent that really need to relax, IMHO.

by EEWildcat on Mar 23, 2008 10:27 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I agree 100%
and no need for apologies.

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 11:29 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Small correction
He's never been convicted of DUI.

by Ken Howlett on Mar 24, 2008 12:07 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Stopped Twice For Suspicion Of It
Pled to lesser charge once.

Not sure the other time.

But no DUI convictions.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 24, 2008 12:32 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Winning does solve everything.
Nor are most of the rumors likely true.  And I know some people would disagree with me here, but if he is drinking on his own time at the bar (or at home) at night I don't think it is really everyone's business to discuss it all the time.  It's probably, oh what would you call it, yeah, A Peronal Issue.

I more concerned about the effects of the circulating rumors will have on the program - not whether or not they are true.

by cdnWildcatfan on Mar 23, 2008 9:00 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Adolph Rupp
Loved to drink. Sometimes drank too much. Russell Rice columns in TCP every week have confirmed this.

But he won 82% of his games, 4 NCAA titles, 27 SEC titles, 1 NIT title, and 6 Helms Trophies.

The latter is how he is remembered.

The former is forgotten.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 9:28 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Do we believe Rumors or do we believe this.......?
http://www.amnews.com/public_html/?module=displaystory&story_id=39403&format=html

Larry Vaught is a respected local writer...I doubt he made this up....it is articles like this that make me feel comfortable with Coach and even more comfortable that he will work out the "contract" situation...IF it needs to be worked out...

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 9:07 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

I believe him ...
and I believe Gillispie.  But this tells us nothing whatever about the realities at hand.  Nothing.

My point is that there are clearly issues that must be resolved.  Gillispie is, in my opinion at least, the right man for this job.  I think he wants to be here, but I am less than convinced that the Administration and he are on the same page.  Barnhart's comments that I dealt with in my piece did nothing to dispel those concerns.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Other than the contract....
what other "issues" are there?  

by Chuck Alexinis on Mar 23, 2008 10:00 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

None.
As far as I know, none whatever.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 23, 2008 11:09 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Larry Vaught
Larry@amnews.com Ask him.

I swap E-Mails (and occasional phone calls) with him regularly. Straight shooter, THE BEST Ky media person BAR NONE.

I'm not a Barnhart fan. But the Gillispie stuff is Much Ado About Nothing at this point.

He'll be at UK for the duration of his MOU and beyond.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 23, 2008 9:25 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Well
Ok I read about all of these comments and responded to some.....here is my take if anyone at all cares.........

As far as the rumors......this is my rumor.....I have a bud that has a relative that does Billy's travel arragements at UK.  He said that Billy IS ALWAYS on the road.  How does the guy have time to go around sleeping with UK cheerleaders and other Lexington women.  He is NEVER home.  Heck he didn't even buy a house until well into the summer.  This guy is a workaholic.  He has a tremendous work ethic. ITs well documented.  But lets see here........were these rumors out when he was at UTEP or at Texas A&M?  I don't think they were.  He wouldn't have suddendly developed these habits.  Pretty sad that he comes to Kentucky and this crappy rumor stuff happens.  He is single and single people in high positions get alot of crap swirling around them.  Kentucky is somewhat in the Bible belt and people in our region do not trust single men in their forties in a postion of dealing with youth.  Its silly but its true.  

On this coaching contract issue.........yall it needs to be signed.  We ARE KENTUCKY!!!!!  This isn't some no name basketball program.  We are supposed to be above the rest.  Be the leader and example.  Not good business to have a coach without a contract signed.  THink North Carolina would allow that to happen.  THink Indiana would.  How about Duke?  Don't think so.  

by tenken on Mar 24, 2008 12:39 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Rumors in today's technology age
My grandmother has a cell phone with a camera now... are you honestly going to tell me that in a town the size of Lexington, Gillispie is able to get away with all his philandering without a single person taking a snapshot of it???

When I see a grainy picture of BCG with his hand down the shorts of a co-ed (a al Larry Eustachy) I'll believe it.

by chirop1 on Mar 24, 2008 9:33 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

MOU vs Contract
Sports contracts aren't worth the used toilet paper they're written on these days.  (Just ask West Virginia.)

If Roy Williams (for example) were to use the MOU vs Contract angle for recruiting purposes, my response would basically be "Yeah... ask the kids who played at Kansas about Roy's contract."

by chirop1 on Mar 24, 2008 9:31 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

What's wrong with this picture?
First off, let me start by saying this is not an indictment of Tru or a slap at his post in any way, shape, or form.  It's a fair question to ask why no contract has been signed and everyone is entitled to there opinion as to whether or not it should be considered an issue at this point.

From where I sit though, there is one HUGE problem.  Why the hell is it, that once again whenever there is the slightest hint of "juicy gossip" or a chance to post negative B*llSH*T, these posts get the most comments/responses?  

Does anyone else think its a bit odd that a March 18th post that took a pretty cool look back on this season got a total of 15 comments.  Or how about a March 19th post recognizing the fact that ASoB got its 1,000,000th hit getting only a grand total of 17 comments congratulating Tru, JL Blue, and TFGM on a job well done.  Yet here we are again, just like when FGM asked a question  about OTS getting any credit for this years success, a post when people have a chance to spout negativity or pass on the latest and greatest "hey, guess what I heard," people come out of the woodwork and there are over 100 comments.  

What a crook of shit, especially on the heels of the great turnaround this team had.

by wldcatsfreak on Mar 24, 2008 10:27 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

People like conflict...
...that's why many columnists write controversial pieces.(Especially sports columnists)

It sells papers.

by Ken Howlett on Mar 24, 2008 11:25 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I should have written....
....people like conflict when it doesn't involve them.

by Ken Howlett on Mar 24, 2008 11:27 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

What it is ...
is a hangover from the frustrations of the last several years.

I have written about this before, and may do so again:  The Big Blue Nation has not healed from the days of the Tubby Smith wars.

What we have are a certain group of Wildcat fans willing to go to extremes to defend Gillispie against any hint of criticism.  Then, you have another, smaller group, including (but not limited to) many former Smith supporters, who tend to gobble up anything that could be seen as criticism of Gillispie, and reinforce it.  

Why?  I don't really know.  I think as much as anything, it is hard feelings remaining from all the combat prior to Smith's departure.  There are still message boards out there who spend as much time bashing Smith as praising Gillispie.

I have said this before, and I will say it again -- this rift in the fan base has not gone away, and will not go away until Gillispie has significant success.  As much as I loved the results of his effort this year, you cannot point to that in the context of Kentucky's tradition and call last season a successful one.  That is just reality.

Now, some may come in and say, "But wait, he's only had one year!"  They would be right, but since when did logic and reason trump emotion and hurt feelings?  Never.  And it won't happen in this case, either.

Don't let it get you down.  This is all part of the healing experience and is the dark side of being a Kentucky fan.  No fan base is without its warts, and this is but one of ours.

by Truzenzuzex on Mar 25, 2008 7:10 AM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I respectfully disagree
Tru, this was a successful season IMO.  I really think it has brought the fanbase together.  Yea there are some detractors but oh well.  I don't think you bringing up the contract thing is unreasonable.  I think it warrents concern.  You guys need to name me one Division 1 team that has an unsigned coach.  I don't know of one.  

On the issue of so many post.  You get responses when people want to debate something.  We all know Tru and his gang have done a good job so there is no debating that.  When you get a subject that debatable such as a contract then you will get more post.  Its not a bad reflection on UK just the way it is.  

by tenken on Mar 25, 2008 5:06 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

What I found on Huggins
This is the quote:
University plus some additional, but the desire to return home won out with Huggins. The WVU contract has been reported as being valued at five million over five years with an $800,000 base salary in the first year. He has been quoted as saying

by tenken on Mar 25, 2008 8:36 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Must Be Recently Signed
Tubby just signed his Minnesota contract a month or so back.

I'm sure there are others.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 25, 2008 9:37 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I asked for
one unsigned coach that today is unsigned.....not recently but today.

by tenken on Mar 25, 2008 10:51 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

Not Gillispie
He signed MOU that is legally binding for 7 years. Signed it last summer or fall, I think.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 25, 2008 11:24 PM EDT up reply actions   0 recs

I LOVE BILLY G!!!!!!!!!!!
The thought of him leaving makes me sick to my stomach.  That can NOT happen.

by kentuckygirl0724 on Mar 25, 2008 11:16 AM EDT reply actions   0 recs

From Seth Davis
Just saw this following quote from Seth Davis at SI.com

* On another Kansas-related note, I am still hearing that Oklahoma State athletic director Mike Holder is considering jettisoning Sean Sutton so he can make a run at Bill Self, an OSU alum. And if Holder can't get Self, word is he's deeply interested in Kentucky's Billy Gillispie. Why would Holder think he could pry away coaches from two of the most storied programs in college basketball history? Because he has Boone Pickens, the billionaire alumnus who donated $165 million to the Oklahoma State athletic department two years ago. I've heard some crazy contract figures being tossed around -- anywhere from 10 years, $30 million to five years, $20 million, which is tip money for Pickens -- but at the end of the day I have a hard time envisioning either Self or Gillispie leaving their current gigs. It would be a shame if Oklahoma State fired Sutton, who did a very respectable job this season under trying circumstances, all in a careless effort to buy a big-name coach who ends up turning them down.

by tenken on Mar 25, 2008 11:18 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Bravo Seth...
...did I just write that?

Davis has been paying attention. Which is more than I could say for him on a number of occasions this past year.

I think he nailed this one.

OSU may have Boone Pickens, but most other major universities with a high profile basketball program, are capable of raising big money for any number of reasons, in the blink of an eye.

I do root for OSU to do well. I know that is  very unpopular to say 'round these parts, but ever since Leonard Hamilton coached the Cowboys I have pulled for them to win. They are true basketball fans stuck in the middle of football country, plus I despise Kansas, although less so now that Roy Williams is gone.

by Ken Howlett on Mar 25, 2008 11:28 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

Gallagher-Iba Arena
Neat atmosphere. Really neat, LOUD fans.

by FortyYearCatFan on Mar 25, 2008 11:59 PM EDT reply actions   0 recs

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