Kentucky Sports Radio
[Moderated by Matt Jones]
[Moderated by Matt Jones]
The newest internet star is the Cutman. His take on the uproar around “the chase” was on his blog today. And as I predicted, the national blogs are taking off on this video.
It is late and it has been a long day for me. In between a trip to a reception and a surprise Birthday party, there was the fallout from my summation of the end of the Gillispie era. The article got a great deal of attention and was discussed on Fox Sports Radio nationally, was sent by an enterprising reader to most everyone who works at ESPN (and some even responded) and led to a number of calls from folks about what was said and other potential issues. I have gotten a couple of messages from people who suggest that we should keep those family disputes “in the closet” and not air the dirty laundry to the public. While I disagree with such views in general, I especially do in this circumstance. I wrote that piece to give people a general idea of part of what led to the decision to make a change. Because administrators talked about “philosophical differences” and other amorphous terms, many people are left wondering what really happened. That post was an attempt to give my understanding of a large part of the decision. I hope it was informative and it has by far, generated the most positive feedback we have ever had on this site.
Now lets switch gears. The coaching search is the new focus and rumors are of course swirling. I expect to learn a great deal more about the process tomorrow after a couple of conversations, but for now here is what is going on…..
— I am told by multiple people around the UK search that the talk that Billy Donovan is out is premature. Despite his public comments, many think Donovan will/is still considering UK and that there is no reason to cross his name off just yet. I have always believed (and still do) that Donovan is UK’s #1 unanimous choice. If he wants it, it is his.
— If Donovan however does stay true to his public statements, then I think the next tier of candidates is Calipari and Izzo. For Calipari, I have not gotten a straight answer on whether or not the internal debate about his viability as a candidate has been resolved. IF it has in his favor, then I think he is option 2….if it hasnt, then obviously he wont be considered.
— There are plans to call and speak with Tom Izzo, but those wont take place until his season is done….which could be some minor benefit to a Louisville win on Sunday.
— Now if none of those three end up being available or chosen, the list gets much broader. I have been told of four candidates who will at least get a conversation in the coming days from the search group. Jamie Dixon, Thad Matta, Sean Miller and Travis Ford will all be considered and some sort of an interview process will take place with all of them. As for who is the favorite out of that group, I have gotten no reliable take on that. IT is part of what I hope to learn more thoroughly tomorrow. I will breakdown these candidates tomorrow, but know this…..I am for the top three guys over anyone….but if the Cats get none of those guys, my push will be for Sean Miller, for reasons I will get into tomorrow.
— I have been told that rumors of Sean Miller being in town for an interview are premature at this point.
— Expect one candidate that “no one is even thinking about right now” according to a good source of mine. This individual is apparently in the group with the above four, but I was able to get nowhere on who he is. We will continue to look into it.
— I think the individual who has been talked about the most recently has been Thad Matta. I am told that most of the internet buzz on him is untrue, but that he will be strongly considered and is liked by Barnhart especially.
We hope to have much more tomorrow…..as of now the blog focus shifts solely to replacements (well that and making fun of things that happened over the past week). It should be a more upbeat week than last week and that is something I am definitely looking forward to. I will be spending the entire first part of the week in Middlesboro, working at our office down there….lets hope that the internet stays solid, at the Bell County base of KSR.
More tomorrow including a surprise Rob Gidel football fix…
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March 29th, 2009 at 1:28 am
I want Mike Anderson!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 1:30 am
That’s good news. Now I can go to bed.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:31 am
Not sure what this infatuation with Donovan is… I doubt he would screw FL up like this (i.e. letting Grant sign with Bama). I hope they move on to Cal and sign him up.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:32 am
I think we should make it a point to hire a coach who can construct a sentence other than “We got whupped”, or “We didn’t play hard enough”. I like Sean Miller.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:32 am
Calipari, let’s get it over with already.
Also, is anyone else intrigued with this Dhani Jones show being advertised on the right side of the page?
March 29th, 2009 at 1:34 am
Emilio estevez, good coach.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:37 am
Who do you think the Msyerty person is.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:37 am
If it’s not Calipari bring on Sean Miller. He will not leave us for Pitt. Eddie Munster can stay a gator. I do want the Cats to turn in to Duke light with the Munster man.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:38 am
take this with a grain of salt, but my source (who is closer to this than anyone i know that is close to anything cool - and says this is 100% legit) told me today that rick pitino is in for 4.5 a year with a guaranteed option to be AD when the time comes.
ill believe it when it goes down, but it would explain why there is no evidence of anyone on this supposed list being contacted and why after the conference yesterday, mitch and lee went home when SO much is riding on this decision for both of their futures.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:39 am
I say we all cut out the Donovan and Calipari talk for this thread, and let’s all just try to figure out who the mystery man could be.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:39 am
Could the msystery Coach be Mike Anderson.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:41 am
9- where else would they go? In 2007, Mitch locked himself in his souse for 2 straight weeks during the search. But I guess that did not work out too well did it? Hope ur right
March 29th, 2009 at 1:41 am
*house
March 29th, 2009 at 1:42 am
How about Mark Fews.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:42 am
#9 NO, Rick Pitino won’t even be at UL very much longer. I don’t want
to say why because I don’t know all the facts, not even close.
Matt Jones could you explain why Rick Pitino might not be at UL
very much longer? I don’t have a good grasp on it yet.
but there is reason to believe Rick won’t be at UL very much longer.
I have my theory why but I am sure Matt Jones has a better understanding
than I do so I’ll let him explain so I don’t confuse anyone and put
out false information.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:42 am
11- I don’t think so, he has yet to recruit anyone.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:43 am
14- I wish, but he won’t leave the west coast. His buddy is Oregon’s AD so I expect them to make a push for him
March 29th, 2009 at 1:43 am
#11 I guess it could be but I don’t think Mike Anderson would
be a name nobody is talking about. I have seen his name pop up
on people’s so called “list” everywhere
March 29th, 2009 at 1:44 am
Mystery man:
Belein? Few? Wright? Pelphrey? Hamilton? Me?
March 29th, 2009 at 1:44 am
I am guess it could be maybe the Washington State Coach or the Maryland Coach.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:45 am
15 - is he sick? I have noticed a rapid change in his appearance. I hope not
March 29th, 2009 at 1:45 am
7. My guess is Avery Johnson.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:46 am
Wrigh, JP, Few have been names thrown around already. Not a mystery.
Few will go to Arizona, that is just my guess.
Belein - huummm..Mabye? Good guess
Hamilton - LOL, I highly doubt that. Todd wants UK to be clean under his watch.
Hamilton be the last guy you would want if you want to run a clean program
March 29th, 2009 at 1:47 am
It could be a ex-NBA or College Coach.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:48 am
#21 LOL, I have my theory but I don’t want to start any more rumors,
lord knows we have enough. I’ll just say I think he wants to pull
a Bobby Knight towards the end of his career
March 29th, 2009 at 1:48 am
A top tier coach I have not heard mentioned is Ben Howland from UCLA. Any reasons why not?
March 29th, 2009 at 1:49 am
I think with Grant taking the Bama Job, Donovan is sure to remain at Florida. With Donovan out, I would have to think Calipari is the overwelming fan favorite at this point. I have no idea whether he would come, but I hope that’s who UK goes after with a vengence.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:50 am
Martelli? I HIGHLY doubt he would leave St Joes
March 29th, 2009 at 1:51 am
Ben Howland owns recruiting on the West Coast, doubt he would leave
that situation
March 29th, 2009 at 1:52 am
LARRY BIRD!!! former NBA coach of the year! haha
March 29th, 2009 at 1:53 am
CAL!!! Is the man for this job, plain and simple
March 29th, 2009 at 1:54 am
34- we know, we are trying to figure out the mystery man
March 29th, 2009 at 1:54 am
27,
Howland is another recruiter who makes his players ‘tough’ in lieu of teaching them the game of basketball. He is a step above Gillispie, but I can’t see UK hiring someone with that philosophy this time around. That is why I think Matta is an unlikely (and terrible) hire, too.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:54 am
This place needs more brian the intern.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:55 am
I know we don’t want to think about it, but what about Bruce Pearl?
March 29th, 2009 at 1:55 am
Maybe M Man is from a midmajor.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:56 am
Scott Drew? That guy can coach, no doubt there - and he hit the ground running recruiting to Baylor of all places. Who in their right mind wants to play basketball at BAYLOR?
March 29th, 2009 at 1:57 am
41- probably
March 29th, 2009 at 1:57 am
Mystery coach eh? I’ll take a couple of wild guesses, Rick Majerus, Pat Riley, Dewayne Casey.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:57 am
42- He crossed my mind, but hasn’t came close to winning yet
March 29th, 2009 at 1:57 am
#40 you are right, we don’t want to think about it
March 29th, 2009 at 1:58 am
I got a mystery coach. That guy for Wake Forest, I can’t even begin
to spell his name.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:59 am
40.
Pearl is a good coach, a pretty good recruiter, and a world class sleaze-ball. At least he’d have to stop wearing the orange blazer. We’d be doing the world a favor.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:59 am
DINO!!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:00 am
Matt, are you taking the “I’m happy here” Wright off the board, or is he not really a candidate, in your mind, among the UK administration?
Likewise with Barnes.
Also, since his name is one of the top 4 mentioned (Donovan, Cal, Izzo), how sure can you be Pitino isn’t in the conversation? Too many enemies still here, no desire to return to the microscope, or not wanting to screw over Louisville the way he sort of screwed us? Also, could that guy please stop telling coaches where to go? Especially when they’re going to be competing with him if they don’t follow his advice.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:00 am
Jim Boeheim. Drop the mic. Holla.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:00 am
43- Pearl is the ultimate example of a guy you hate, unless you have him. We would love the bastard so much if he came here
March 29th, 2009 at 2:00 am
#44 Thanks, yeah DINO! Maybe he is the mystery coach. Who knows, the
list could go on and on.
Looks like Jim Calhoun might be looking for a new job soon, LOL
March 29th, 2009 at 2:01 am
46- I would agree but Matt said he is in the second tier group
March 29th, 2009 at 2:01 am
I was extremely impressed with the way Missouri played today. I think I’d put Mike Anderson at the top of my list behind Calipari and Donovan.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:01 am
#43 very good point on that fugly yellow blazer
March 29th, 2009 at 2:01 am
50- he can’t recruit
March 29th, 2009 at 2:02 am
NO Pearl, we suckd this year and still kicked his butt twice. It wasn’t
even close
March 29th, 2009 at 2:03 am
It is possible Tom Izzo will take the Job after he talk to UK
March 29th, 2009 at 2:03 am
Bruce Weber?
March 29th, 2009 at 2:04 am
54- we have to talk to him first
March 29th, 2009 at 2:04 am
No offense to anyone, but I wish we could stop with the Mike Anderson and Rick Pitino rhetoric. I’ve said ad nauseum how I feel about Pitino on here, but Mike Anderson? Think. Could you have picked him out of a crowd two weeks ago? He did OK at UAB and had one gret year with Mizzou this year. We’ve been down these roads…the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over, but expecting different results.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:05 am
#55 ooohhh…Good one! Didn’t think of that. Weber and Jordan being
his assistant. Isn’t MJ looking into getting into college coaching
March 29th, 2009 at 2:05 am
I think Cal is the best pick for immediate success, but it would be tumultuous. Donovan is the safest pick, but there’s still doubt in some people’s minds (it’s either the top or the bottom with him, and he waffles). Izzo is probably the most solid hire, long-term, but his style would bore some people. Pitino would surely break one of the 7 seals, and if he wins a title with Louisville, then bails to come here, well, I don’t care how unlikely it is, it would be one of the biggest news stories in the history of college basketball.
If we can get one of those four, we can get some real excitement. I remember everyone debating whether Gillispie was a homerun or a safety or a pinch-hitter situation, and obviously it ended up being a bad hire, but it’d be nice for UK to get a no-brainer this time, like we should be. We’re freaking UK!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:06 am
58- if MJ was, and came here, I would seriously nut myself every game
March 29th, 2009 at 2:06 am
#50 - I’m not disagreeing, as I like the way Missouri played today too, but I think that kind of reasoning was how we ended up with Gillispie. “Oh, he seems interesting and coached a few games pretty well, let’s give him a holler.” Like I said, I’m not being condescending or anything, but that kinda seemed to me to be the way we landed Billy G.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:07 am
hell, the other but that i didn’t mention, per this source, is that I was told there was a meeting yesterday with the kids and they were told who the coach was going to be. they were then told to go home and talk to no one and do no interviews until the announcement is made public after the NCAAs are over. i think thats everything. again, ill believe it when its made official, but i trust this guy for info to save peoples lives everyday and and have 0 reason to not trust him here.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:07 am
Mystery man none other than Rick Majerus !!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:08 am
My source told me Calipari is a done deal.
If you count my reflection as a source
March 29th, 2009 at 2:09 am
63 his heart couldnt take it
March 29th, 2009 at 2:09 am
47) I’m not saying it couldn’t happen, but Pearl is somewhere between Pitino and Coach K on the “I hate him” list for most UK fans. Yeah, a lot of people HATE Rick, but there’s more secret jealousy than hate. Almost every UK fan hates K. Pearl is just annoying. We thought having an annoying/jerk coach would work with Gillispie…Pearl is more friendly, but he’d not help our image other than as a surprise hire.
Also, I’d only see fans accepting him if he made a big deal about UK being much better than Tennessee, and if he held a public desecration event for his orange jacket. But I don’t know that he has that kind of veneration for UK in him. Also, his teams have been choke-jobs.
58) That would be a pretty crazy story.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:09 am
Freedom of the press is one of the things that makes this country the greatest country in history.
You did the right thing Mr. Jones.
Calipari makes UK an NC contender next year if Wall comes with him. He probably develops Liggins if Wall doesn’t come since he has two of the best PGs the last two years.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:09 am
63- haha I would kill myself. didn’t his team score like 30 points in a game last year?
March 29th, 2009 at 2:09 am
Maybe the mystery coach is from womens bball. And Izzo is Michigan blood born and raised, he’s not coming IMO.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:09 am
#60 Could you imagine Bruce Weber and MJ walking into a recruits house
waving the Kentucky Flag. We could pick and choose who we wanted for each
recruiting class
March 29th, 2009 at 2:10 am
Rosey So Who is the new coach then.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:11 am
STOP SAYING BRUCE PEARL!
I don’t want underachieving teams. Heck, we sucked this year and beat
the crap out Pearl, twice.
I like defense and don’t want to see oppossing players dropping 54 on us
in Rupp.
Pear is so overrated
March 29th, 2009 at 2:11 am
60) He sucks as an owner in the NBA, though.
61) I agree. We can’t afford a “looks like a rising star” hire unless he has UK ties (like Ford). We either need a proven elite coach, or a UK son. That’s the only thing that will kindle excitement and hope and trust in this fanbase.
62) The problem with sources we trust is that you don’t know what their source is.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:12 am
Mystery man is Paul Hewitt…maybe not.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:12 am
71- he doesn’t know
March 29th, 2009 at 2:13 am
#5 Thats What Im Talking About
March 29th, 2009 at 2:13 am
70 I think MJ likes to use his influence for UNC, couldnt imagine him having enough time to even think about couching or recruiting.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:13 am
67. To piggyback, Liggins is taylor made for Calipari. Big time recuit. Lots of tools, bad attitude. Calipari gets those kids to play hard within his system and they shine. That, along with Meeks, Patterson (hopefully), Miller, and Orton would be very attractive, although we all know the class he has coming in…
I just found the possible relationship between Calipari and Liggins intriguing…
March 29th, 2009 at 2:14 am
Mystery man is Dana Altman…maybe not.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:14 am
Yeah, I see Mike Anderson can’t recruit. He sure had his team playing well this season, though.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:14 am
74- he is a top 5 recruiter but my fiancee can out coach him
March 29th, 2009 at 2:14 am
Mystery man is Craig Robinson…and Obama is going to go with is brother-in-law to the 5 star’s houses.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:14 am
#73 I agree that we can’t afford a rising star, especially if they
want to build a new arena.
But why would it be okay to get a “rising star” if they have UK ties?
Why do people keep saying when need a fun style?
We need someone with UK ties?
What we need is someone who can WIN, that is all I want. I just want
to finally start winning.
Bring in Calipari and go ahead and preorder a few banners
March 29th, 2009 at 2:15 am
#80 - Agreed. DeMarre Carroll was a good find.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:15 am
Mystery man Is Jeff Van Gundy
March 29th, 2009 at 2:16 am
According to Pat Forde: The five are.
John P.
Tom Izzo
Travis Ford
Ohio State Coach
Sean Miller
March 29th, 2009 at 2:16 am
Kyle Macy
March 29th, 2009 at 2:17 am
84- It’s Mike Anderson’s nephew
March 29th, 2009 at 2:17 am
Y’all want to hear something funny?
Who remembers the football game not long after Gillispie was hired where ESPN sent Curry to be one of their commentators? Gillispie was talking about how excited he was to be part of the program and how the fans had a right to have high expectations, and Curry was unabashedly knocking us and saying, “Oh yeah, they’re great, until you lose.”
What do you think are the odds Billy G becomes a color commentator for ESPN next year and gets sent to do our games? They could team him with Jeanine.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:17 am
85- I would be pre-ordering my season tickets if that was true
March 29th, 2009 at 2:17 am
I am guessing the Mystery Man is John P.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:17 am
#86 so your saying according to Forde Mitch and Todd kicked us in the balls
again, just this time it was while we were already on the ground
March 29th, 2009 at 2:19 am
The mystery man is…Pat Summitt
March 29th, 2009 at 2:20 am
92- they kick any more and i will be talking like janice from Friends
March 29th, 2009 at 2:20 am
#93 Pat Summitt makes Gillispie look like a push over, lol
March 29th, 2009 at 2:20 am
93- i heard he is hung like a race horse
March 29th, 2009 at 2:20 am
#94 You watch friends?
March 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am
Pat Summitt might make Perry where the boobies.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am
#88 - Then he needs to thank his brother/sister for parenting a player like that lol.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am
Sean Woods
March 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am
93 I think Pat Summitt is too much of a ladies man
March 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am
but in all seriousness, i would love to get pat summitt here
March 29th, 2009 at 2:21 am
or Josh might have wear the boobies…spelled it correctly this time…too much suds.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:22 am
Pat Summitt scares me
March 29th, 2009 at 2:22 am
#92
Are you saying that is a sucky list lol.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:23 am
There isn’t a more accomplished college coach than Summitt…it would be very interesting.
I don’t know if a recruit could turn her down…if his mom’s standing in the room.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:23 am
Larry Brown could be intriguing
March 29th, 2009 at 2:24 am
rosey already said in post #9 its Pitino for 4.5 mil
March 29th, 2009 at 2:24 am
78) If Calipari came here (and did so quickly), he could possibly bring Cousins and Wall with him (assuming players were encouraged to transfer here). The class could be Cousins, Wall, Orton, Hood and Vilarino.
In theory, UK could have a lineup next year of Patterson, Orton, Meeks, Cousins/Miller, and Wall/Vilarino. In an exciting offense. That’s why many people (including in the National Media) believe Cal could make us matyter immediately.
83) I agree that KY ties aren’t necessary if you get a home run, elite coach. But there are only 2-3 guys that qualify (Cal, Izzo, Donovan, Pitino - leaving off guys like Coach K, Howland). If you can’t get one of those, the fans will want either someone who they know understands our expectations (Ford, Pelphrey, Donovan, Pitino - guys with UK ties), or at least someone who will make the games fun (high-scoring). Ultimately, we care more about winning than high scores, but if the Coach is a sour puss, or lets recruiting slide, all of a sudden you aren’t winning as much. Also, it’s easier to recruit if you play an exciting style. Very few kids grow up dreaming of being a star on a team that averages 50 points, wins or no wins.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:25 am
#105 What I am saying is that I rather have a sneaker Eddie Sutton
than have some of the people on that list
Right now I am at the point I would almost consider it okay for UK to
cheat, win a championship in a few years, and if it meant being put back
on probation 6 or so years down the road I be okay with it.
I am not to that point yet but I am getting pretty sick of lossing.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:25 am
We have more of a chance of getting Poppovich than Pitino, I am tired of seeing his name
March 29th, 2009 at 2:25 am
It possbile Pat Forde doesnt know Crap.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:26 am
Cal could bring a class that could compete with the 96 team’s talent…it’s blasphemy but possible.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:27 am
#109 I be shocked if Calipari came here and Wall didn’t follow. I think
it is a done deal that Wall would follow Calipari.
But you don’t get Orton and Cousins but I guess it doesn’t matter. Either
one would do
March 29th, 2009 at 2:27 am
It’s never ok to cheat, besides they would erase you championship off the books anywat
March 29th, 2009 at 2:28 am
97) Everyone watched friends. It was like a less-funny Seinfeld with hotter chicks.
100) Bring him in as an assistant at some time. But if they give him the reins, someone better check to see where he’s hiding the negatives, because he’d have to have something on someone.
107) Larry Brown just coached here for a year, either won the championship or lost 20 games, and has already moved on to a new NBA team. This time it will be…hmm, looks like he’s back to the New York. Crazy. And Starbury is going with him. Amazing.
108) Between Donovan, Cal, and Pitino…I don’t know why people believe Miller will be in town Monday. We already have 3 hires.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:28 am
Orton would stay
March 29th, 2009 at 2:28 am
111. We have a better chance of inventing a Flux Capacitor, stealing an DeLorean, going into the future, finding a way to bring back the dead, and waking up Adolph Rupp to come back. The infatuation with our fan base is the ONLY thing that drives me crazy about it. I love our unabashed fantaticism, marone, Pitino is not coming back!! I LOVE him for what he did here, but it would be really swell if we could keep his name out of our mouths.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:28 am
We should get Jerry Tipton, he seems to have a lot of recruiting contacts
March 29th, 2009 at 2:29 am
A* DeLorean…
March 29th, 2009 at 2:30 am
I want to be the first to welcome Coach Calipari to Lexington.
And I can’t wait to beat the Tards by 5 TDs in 5+ months.
Go Cats!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:31 am
Having Pitino back would be like going back to an ex wife after an ugly divorce, it would never be the same.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:31 am
116) Correction. Larry Brown will now be coaching a new team on Mars. Word is that the gravity there is wonky, so it should be interesting. Also, word is that there’s tension with his star player, Marvin.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:32 am
Maybe give you some tail the second time around.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:32 am
Does Jamal Mashburn want to get into coaching? How about him being
an assistant?
March 29th, 2009 at 2:33 am
122) Yeah, but if your ex-wife still has child-bearing hips and good DNA, you can stomach some wrinkles and the taste of bile in your mouth for a few more babies. And by babies, I of course mean championships.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:34 am
How about Reggie Theus as the mystery candidate? He was a hot commodity before he went to coach in the NBA. Now he has been to the NBA, and the good high school players seem to like that no matter how bad you are there.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:34 am
125) Completely random guess, but maybe ESPN will steal him away from NBA commentary and put him on UK games next year.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:34 am
When you are a “shock-jock,” as is the Cutman, any publicity is good publicity.
If this keeps up he will ring the register on this one.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:35 am
I say just as important has the new head coach is, is there anyway
we can get that assistant at Memphis that has all those recruiting
ties? That should be the first thing after hiring a new coach.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:35 am
I would like Reggie Theus, but if Pitino gives it the okay, then I won’t like it.
He used to work with Pitino right?
March 29th, 2009 at 2:36 am
I can see it now…years from now, UK students will have a mock-celebration of the running of Cutler and the ex-coach.
Just as in Indiana where they celebrate by tossing chairs into the center of the court, we will hand students a microphone, and then make them chase another person, trying to block them off and stop them from reaching a secure area.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:37 am
David Hobbs said he is interested in the UK job
March 29th, 2009 at 2:37 am
Yeah. He was an assistant at Louisville, which is a huge drawback. Not because Pitino is bad, but because we’d have to hear about Louisville being a feeder system for the Kentucky coaching job.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:38 am
131) New game: Things Pitino recommends, so I don’t like.
Pitino drive a hybrid? I’m going diesel.
Pitino turns off his lights for Earth Day? I’m gonna cut down a tree.
Pitino drinks Vitamin Water? I’m gonna drink Pepsi and eat cupcakes.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:39 am
121 Im already waiting
March 29th, 2009 at 2:39 am
Does anybody watch Dog Bounty Hunter? His wife’s tits are ridiculously huge
March 29th, 2009 at 2:40 am
Is there anyone out there with any sources at all, that aren’t BSing, with any input on the Calipari situation
March 29th, 2009 at 2:41 am
#138 My best friend works in the Admin and is directly involved in
the coaching search but he doesn’t tell me anything.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:42 am
Policemen chase crooks, preachers chase women, lawyers chase ambulances and reporters chase stories.
These days, were a guy can cash in instantly, reporters chase stories in hopes of becoming the story.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:42 am
139- DUDE!!!!!!!!! whoop his ass or something
March 29th, 2009 at 2:43 am
#141 He lose his job when he found out what he told me was all over
the internet within minutes. That is probably why he doesn’t tell
me anything
March 29th, 2009 at 2:43 am
138 I think for awhile all you are going to hear is bullsh!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:45 am
I’m going to take a Wildcard guesses that hasn’t been listed on here yet…Lorenzo Romar at Washington or Tim Floyd at USC
March 29th, 2009 at 2:46 am
SaveUK: forget him telling you…you tell him. Izzo - make it happen.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:46 am
142- do you tell him everyone wants cal
March 29th, 2009 at 2:46 am
tim floyd is sketchier than calipari
March 29th, 2009 at 2:49 am
What about Stansbury??
March 29th, 2009 at 2:49 am
#146 They are very aware of what people are saying, that I do know
March 29th, 2009 at 2:50 am
Just the fact you have to stop and have the discussion of whether or not Calipari is viable in itself answers the question.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:50 am
These Stansburys tastes like Stansburys!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:51 am
stansbury? c’mon
March 29th, 2009 at 2:51 am
150) After Gillispie, they better have a discussion about everyone.
If they hire Cal right now, and a year down the road, something terrible happens, guess what? People crucify Barnhart and Todd for not doing more research.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:51 am
I sadly don’t think this job is that attractive anymore. The money would only be marginally better at best. The pressure is intense. AND We just fired a guy because among other things he didn’t participate in the hundreds of obligations that come with the job. I wish somebody would explain why this job is so great anymore. You are always going to be following the legacies left before you. It is much more satisfying to the ego to create your own new legacy. Billy D will leave a legend at Florida- Cal at Memphis- Izzo at Michigan State- on and on. The only person this job is attractive to are the ones who needs the prestige of UK to put them over the hump- and unfortunately what we need right now is a coach who brings a prestige to our program. We ultimately won’t get what we want and will take another gamble. I wish it wasn’t true- somebody please convince me I’m wrong.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:52 am
139 I would save a post and not even wate my time telling that, If true it’s called going out consuming (Alcohol) shooting the sh!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:54 am
#154
The job is very attractive for many reasons, don’t worry about that.
UK has a problem that has stopped them from being good in many sports or
even better in some sports. People will start to figure it out soon enough.
I think most already are figuring out that the big problem with UK athletics
already
March 29th, 2009 at 2:55 am
156- I am guessing you mean MB
March 29th, 2009 at 2:56 am
I want to watch the paint dry!!!!!!!!!!
If that’s what it takes to be as consistently good as Tom Izzo is, I want to watch the paint dry!!!!!!!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:56 am
#154 Notice how schools like UF seem to be REALLY good at more than just
a few sports.
UF has something we don’t have
March 29th, 2009 at 2:57 am
I seem to see Sean Miller getting pimped more and more- which is suspicious to me. I remember in the last coaching search- out of nowhere lots of places popping up proclaiming Billy Gillispie to be the best choice after Donovan. I really wonder sometimes how much UK helps orchestrate a grass roots support campaign for who is most likely coming.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:57 am
#157 Yup!
March 29th, 2009 at 3:01 am
160. I agree. Miller is a nice coach, off to a great start. He shouldn’t be that serious of a candidate right now, though. I know Matt is going to outline for us tomorrowo why he thinks he should be, but unless the argument is that compelling, I can’t get behind that right now.
If he is hired, then great - I’ll get firmly behind him, just as I will for any other coach we bring in…
March 29th, 2009 at 3:02 am
I think Sean Miller is the best back-up plan after Tom Izzo.
Think about what he has done at a private school with ultra high enrollment standards. While also knowing he can’t get the 4 and 5 star recruits over high profile schools. Yet he goes out and finds 2 and 3 star guys that have been overlooked and should have probably been rated higher.
He has an eye for talent. Imagine what he could do at a high profile school were he actually could get 4 and 5 star guys.
The guy also has class!
March 29th, 2009 at 3:05 am
CALAPARI OR BUST
March 29th, 2009 at 3:06 am
161- if he is so bad, why hasn’t something been done to remove him?
March 29th, 2009 at 3:09 am
Two words - BOB HUGGINS
March 29th, 2009 at 3:09 am
166- Two words - Natti Light
March 29th, 2009 at 3:10 am
159) I know! A beach!
March 29th, 2009 at 3:11 am
#168 I was thinking Foley
March 29th, 2009 at 3:11 am
164 Most and I Conquer
March 29th, 2009 at 3:11 am
Jared Prickett
March 29th, 2009 at 3:11 am
166) Dream Team - Bob Knight, Mike Davis, Bob Huggins.
I don’t know who would hate it more, the fans or the coaches.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:11 am
#165 because Todd hired him,how does that make Todd look? See what
I mean. Todd and Mitch’s futures are tied together.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:12 am
Kige Ramsey?
March 29th, 2009 at 3:12 am
This pretty much sums things up. I got this idea from another poster who did something similar. It was fun none the less! Enjoy and share!
http://www.xtranormal.com/watch?e=20090329025904282
March 29th, 2009 at 3:14 am
Bob Huggins is a great coach but he is a cheat and everyone knows
it, it is only a matter of time. The NCAA is head by a former IU president
and they bought IU down. UConn is ESPN’s “home court” school and they
are about to go down big time.
It is only a matter of time before they drop the hammer on Huggins. Why
do you think he keeps jumping from job to job?
March 29th, 2009 at 3:17 am
wonder why my comments are awaiting moderation? Is it because I told lexslamman to slow his roll? Guess I can’t say anything bad to the site’s #1 poster in terms of volume… sheesh.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:18 am
Huggins was a joke.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:19 am
However, Kige Ramsey was not.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:19 am
mystery coach = geno auriemma. believe it.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:20 am
Steve Masiello?
March 29th, 2009 at 3:21 am
180- if they are worried cal is sketchy, geno got in trouble just last season or the year before
March 29th, 2009 at 3:32 am
Mark Few?
March 29th, 2009 at 3:33 am
183- He’ll be at Oregon IF he leaves Spokane
March 29th, 2009 at 3:34 am
If Auriemma is the mystery man, I will kick my own ass.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:37 am
he won’t be here, the people that pay his check will not allow it
March 29th, 2009 at 3:38 am
#184 Wanna bet?
March 29th, 2009 at 3:41 am
187- Yep, although he is my favorite coach in basketball, and I would love for him to come, I just don’t see it happening. His best friend is Oregon’s AD
March 29th, 2009 at 3:42 am
#188 He may end up at Oregon but don’t think he will only leave
Spokane for Oregon. I am betting he ends up at Arizona
March 29th, 2009 at 3:43 am
189- If Louisville wins this year, Pitino will be in AZ
March 29th, 2009 at 3:45 am
#190 - Nope, Pitino stays at UL until his son is ready to take over, then
he will retire. Mark it down
March 29th, 2009 at 3:47 am
187. Living out here in Oregon, I can attest to what 188 is saying.
Few is highly, highly unlikely to leave Gonzaga. His deal with them is way too sweet. Plus, his wife loves the Northwest. He’s also an Oregon native.
And most rumors out here, are as Theta says, that if he goes anywhere it will be Oregon. Kent is one the hot seat and has been for awhile. The last AD was always looking to pull the trigger, Bellotti probably won’t be as hesitant.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:48 am
191- i hope you are right about his son so we can whoop that ass every year. but few will not go to arizona.
March 29th, 2009 at 3:50 am
I don’t disagree that he loves Gonzaga and I don’t disagree he could
very well end up at Oregon.
I just know for a fact that Arizona is going to put the full court
press on him. They have marked him as their guy and they will pretty
much give him what he wants.
I don’t doubt that he could go to Oregon or stay in Gonzaga but I
can tell you they will make an offer that will make it real hard for
Few to turn down
March 29th, 2009 at 3:52 am
#193 I wouldn’t say that just yet, Pitino won’t leave until his
son is ready, he will have all of his dads recruiting connections, UL
has great facilites, and their new arena is going to be amazing.
Their new arena makes me wonder about the committment of the UK Admin
to be great again
March 29th, 2009 at 4:03 am
Did everyone bow out? Got quiet quickly.
March 29th, 2009 at 4:04 am
196- i was thinking the same thing
March 29th, 2009 at 4:04 am
I can see Miller, Billy G, or Barnes going to AZ
March 29th, 2009 at 4:07 am
Finally, I feel much better. I have been defending BCG because all I have heard have been primarily rumors, (some vicious and if true they should have been down at the police station with their evidence) and inuendo, I wasn’t that concerned that the press didn’t like him. I think the facts are that he was (is?) a great recruiter and he did some incredible jobs turning two programs around. With the talent he was left and considering the injuries the team had I was happy with what happened last year, he was voted COTY. This year things unraveled, maybe because of his relationship with the players from what Matt has reported, I didn’t know that and was pretty sure he hadn’t forgotten how to coach in one year.
I was particularly impressed with his recruiting, closing the deal with PP, finding Pilgrim, signing Liggins, Galloway, Miller, Jon, Orton, commit from Ferguson a year ahead, etc, they were all highly rated and Matts info may explain somewhat why some didn’t meet expectations (first years are tough too). I thought that when he started winning he would be an even better recruiter. The good news is that we should have very good talent next year.
Thanks for putting things in writing, Matt. You gave specific info, not rumors, and the part about how he treated the players was particularly damning to me, tough love is one thing but humiliating players should never be tolerated, especially when there isn’t much they can do about it.
I really do feel much better about our future, I thought we would have a very good team next year whoever our coach is if PP and Jodie came back. I just heard on ESPN that they are both coming back and everyone that contributed anything last year should too if they think they will get to play, we will only lose Tubby’s one senior, and while I appreciate Carter he fought through a lot of adversity and BCG never used him. We have to improve if everyone comes back, Pilgrim alone should make us much better, and if the new coach can keep our recruits they could make it a year to remember. Digger just said that we should be a very good team next year, a sweet sixteen team. That would make our new coach look very good and would help recruiting immensely.
Hopefully we will get a decent coach and go from there!!
March 29th, 2009 at 4:10 am
#194–I live in AZ and Pitino is #1 on their list and there is no one else until Pitino talks to them. C.M. is assisting the AD (his good friend) in the coaching search. It is widely known that Rick respects C.M. Also, Rick’s daughter goes to U of A. JoAnne was looking at homes a month ago and the rumors were flying. They bought a house but it is speculated that it was for their daughter and not them. Some boosters have expressed that they are willing to pony up the money to get him so that he can recruit against UCLA in the West. I think Rick would leave for around 3 million as long as they paid his asst’s top dollar as well.
Pearl has expressed his strong desire to interview for the position in Arizona but there has not been the interest in return.
Outside of Rick (or coach Cal second) it is widely expressed that it should be an Alumn if neither excepts the position.
The AZ message board was lit up today that Cal will resign on Monday and the AD is working to raise the $ and restructure his contract. He gets paid 2.35/ and there is a $1 million annuity if he stays until 2013.
Few does well recruiting in the northwest and west coast but if you threw him in a “national” recruiting seen, I question who well he would do.
March 29th, 2009 at 4:11 am
I was not saying Mark Few would come here, just wondering if he is the mystery coach they will go after.
March 29th, 2009 at 4:13 am
So much speculation, so little knowlege. Rick Pitino came back to U of L, because he LOVES this state. And he has all the money one could ask for, so I don’t think he will go to AZ. Just my perspective.
March 29th, 2009 at 4:33 am
Dick Vitale and Digger Phelps both said they would take the job on ESPN today…
March 29th, 2009 at 4:58 am
Wow 200 plus comments on a post that started at nearly 2 AM… We are truly sick people.
March 29th, 2009 at 6:34 am
Anybody out there?
March 29th, 2009 at 6:53 am
Lorenzo Romar is my complete blind guess
March 29th, 2009 at 6:55 am
Ummmm, wow, I haven’t heard that on. Not bad. But I just don’t see it.
March 29th, 2009 at 7:02 am
Okay boys & girls, stop and really think hard for a minute. Try this, it really does work. Write all the names mentioned on a piece of paper and then run them all through your head over and over and slowly mark themn off as your brian tells you NO, NOT THAT ONE ! The only name that will remain that makes you get really excited or gives you satisfaction or makes your heart skip a beat, is CALIPARI. He is THE ONLY name mentioned that can bring immediate attention, starpower, excitement, joy, recruits, high expectations and many other qualities that we, the BIG BLUE NATION expect from UK basketaball. I think his hire would also bring peace to the program and ALL of us could actually except it and be satisfied.
Now if he can not be bought, then the only other name that comes back as acceptable is believe it or not, Travis Ford. Can’t believe i said that, but he bleeds blue just like the rest of us, he knows and does understand what UK basketball is all about and what it means to a whole state. He would know that the mediocrity that has been Kentucky basketball is embarrasing and is just not acceptable. He would just know things in his heart that no one else would know, those things that we just can’t explain to other people, like why UK basketball is like no other sports team. You all know what I mean and Travis would know that also, he wouldn’t have to be taught that, he would just have it in his heart.
So try the name and paper thing and see what happens ?
March 29th, 2009 at 7:06 am
I was thinking outside the box…and Mitch went Northwest to make his football hire.
March 29th, 2009 at 7:28 am
I see where you are coming with that….But Mitch’s job is probably on the line with this one.
March 29th, 2009 at 7:34 am
I am currently ignoring the Travis Ford post. MITCH HAS TO GO BIG. All I am saying, this isn’t KY football where we could ignore stats, and go with another try, which worked beautifully. This is KENTUCKY BASKETBALL
March 29th, 2009 at 7:36 am
ISSEL — Dan Issel!
March 29th, 2009 at 7:48 am
#208, I do not Calipari will come and I believe this program will be better off in the long run with Ford as coach. Listen to Pitino, he still cares about this university and he understands what this school needs in a coach. Ford will be the choice.
March 29th, 2009 at 7:49 am
^I do not think
March 29th, 2009 at 7:51 am
Mike D’Antoni? Doubtful, but I would make the call.
March 29th, 2009 at 7:52 am
Ford would also most likely keep Hood & Orton coming here
March 29th, 2009 at 7:54 am
Ford can tell recruits what Kentucky basketball is, from the heart and from first hand experience
March 29th, 2009 at 8:05 am
Don’t get me wrong, CALIPARI is my first choice, but none of the rest seem like a good second choice except Travis.
March 29th, 2009 at 8:18 am
crap, talking to myself again
March 29th, 2009 at 8:29 am
Why would we want to hire either Calipari or Izzo? Yes, they are both proven coaches and big names; but, they are old. Hiring an old coach is a big mistake. Pitino is absolutely right, hiring a younger coach with UK ties makes a lot of sense and is a smart move.
March 29th, 2009 at 8:41 am
Pitino was 37 with 9 years head coaching experience, including 2 with the Knicks,when he accepted the job at UK. If we would consider hiring Pitino, why would we not listen to his recommendations? He supports Pelphrey and Ford because he realizes that they have the ability and desire that is needed to make the program successful. The days when coaches beg to come to UK have long been over. However, it remains a marquee program that few are willing and capable of handling. It will take a young person with strong Kentucky roots to turn this thing around. Mike Pratt realizes that and that is where Barnhart failed the last time around.
March 29th, 2009 at 8:44 am
Kentucky fans are like family, we can squabble amongst each other, but we will join together against any attack from an outsider.
March 29th, 2009 at 8:53 am
#221 You are absolutely correct. Hiring Travis Ford or JP would be a good move. Those guys can flat out recruit and they would put an excitng brand of basketball on the court. Is it risky because neither has reached the Final Four? Sure, a little… but Tubby only did it in his first year with Pitino’s team and never did it again. Pitino’s stable of coaches is amazing; no coach has ever raised up such an impressive stable of future coaches like he has. He loves the UK program and I think he is spot on about this.
Hiring Izzo or Barnes or Cal would make UKs future success more about a coach and less about the program. The more I think about it, the more I like the idea of Travis Ford.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:03 am
If you want to know what it takes to make UK successful again, watch the clip below of the comeback against LSU and Ford’s reaction at the end when he hits the free throws to seal the victory. That is passion that cannot be duplicated from someone outside of the program.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:07 am
Sorry I could not find the clip, but you know the one I am talking about.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:08 am
A name to ponder — Jim O’Brian. Currently coach of the Indiana Pacers - with Kentucky ties - assistant to Pitino. A true sleeper candidate!
March 29th, 2009 at 9:09 am
If we can’t get a big name, Pelphrey before Ford.
Reasons: John has been coaching longer.
He understands the program as well as Travis if not better.
Was an assistant for Billy D. and understands the SEC much better.
Beat out Billy, for Fortson and Clark last year.
He was able to beat Oklahoma and Texas this year.
He was able to do this with 2 freshman guards.
His team this year did struggl, but he loss 6 senior and had a young ball team.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:11 am
I don’t see UK going for Calipari. Sorry. Too shady, even though nothing has been proven. NCAA sent Arkansas a little letter this week as well, so JP’s stock may be down, coupled with his inexperience and bad haircut, means he’s out. UK will go after Izzo hard, trust me. Depends on the outcome of the game today whether we hear rumblings or not early in the week. If not Izzo, then Ford will be looked at and possibly offered. They are taking NO chances and will go absolutely safe on this one. I personally would like to get Izzo. He’s a great coach and a fabulous recruiter. Ford is the same age as Pitino, but not experienced enough. Plus, he’s a dick. We just had that.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:12 am
Mystery man??
Happy Osborne?? or maybe….
Bababooey!!
March 29th, 2009 at 9:12 am
^Same age as Pitino when he got the UK job
March 29th, 2009 at 9:14 am
Can you imagine the support and help Ford would receive from former players. We might even see Walter McCarty back on the UK sideline.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:16 am
UK will not listen to Pitino’s unsolicited advice. Nor should they. Pitino is constantly talking out of both sides of his mouth. He is a master at it. It is part of hi personality. What he says makes no difference to anybody at UK. He needs to get over himself (and some of you need to get over him).
I’m so tired of Bily Donovan - he ain’t all that. If they don’t want Calipari, I would be fine with Sean Miller. I don’t want Ford or Pelphrey; not now, maybe never.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:19 am
The administration at UK will most definitley listen to Pitino!
March 29th, 2009 at 9:21 am
From my sources- Donovan is less likely now. Calipari is on deck now. Mitch you better close him or your out.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:26 am
John Clay reported, during his live blog friday night, that Thad Matta WAS IN LEXINGTON, on Friday night. Supposedly was to meet his financial guy, but that is way too coincidental. Take this for what its worth, but THE LATEST RUMOR is that they are going to make a hard push for IZZO, and if he shoots them down, then expect an announcement on Matta. Mitch loves the guy.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:31 am
Larry Brown
March 29th, 2009 at 9:33 am
Greg Popovich
March 29th, 2009 at 9:34 am
Ronald “Popeye” Jones
March 29th, 2009 at 9:34 am
235 — I have every reason to believe that is correct. Those are BY FAR the two most likely candidates, and I think either would do great here. Izzo is more proven in terms of NCAA tournament performance, but Matta is one of the top two or three recruiters in the country.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:34 am
Thad MATTA????…THAT IS HORRIBLE CHOICE!!!..OF COURSE DUMMY BARNHADT WOULD LIKE HIM….i cannot believe they would consider matta..hahaha…thats a joke….WHAT has he done?????….if he is in the discussion to be the new coach then we should have just kept BCG….and seriosuly…if Matta becomes out next coach i dont think i will root for UK never again….that would totally break my heart to no end!!….PLEASE LORD DO NOT LET THIS HAPPEN!!!….GO BIG BLUE!!!! BARNHARDT IS GONNA RUIN EVERYTHING UK REPRESENTS!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 9:34 am
236, izzo would be great, has the personality to get people to forget his style of play. Does everyone know that this Michigan State team averages more points per game than Louisville does? 4 final fours (and now possibly 5) within 14 years with a national championship to boast about, shows that izzo is a winner regardless of his style of play. GET HIM SIGNED MITCH.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:35 am
Calipari is my top choice!
Matta and Dixon are both solid choices that I feel good about.
Sean Miller, looks to be a great coach, I would support him after Cal, Matta and Dixon.
Izzo, I really like him, but would rate him as acceptable, but not a top choice.
Lets don’t forget the guy at Oklahoma!
Donovan, I really like, but I’m not sold on him being a great coach, and would just assume he stay a Gator.
Travis Ford, I really like, but he has some personal baggage that is not well known, some of the similar issues that BCG has, sp one would have to be concern about that.
I say lets hire Calapari, if that does not work out, go hard after Matta and Dixon, with Miller at option #4.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:37 am
241 — Matta isn’t my first choice either, but probably my fourth behind Donovan, Cal, and Izzo. The man can recruit, however, and recruiting is where UK has been hurting the most. You might be pleasantly surprised.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:38 am
I wish Pitino would keep UK out of his mouth…he is such a Two-faced SLum!!! I mean seriously how does he think he can voice his opinion of who he thinks he the best fit for UK…..thats none of his business….if he doenst want to come here then i think he should worry about louisville and not even speak about us. He is such a two-faced prick!…
March 29th, 2009 at 9:39 am
MATTA IS HORRIBLE!!!!!!! READ IT AGAIN!!!..MATTA IS HORRIBLE!!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 9:40 am
also, izzo, is playing the “never say never” card to the press. that could be good or bad. good in that he might actually consider the job as a new challenge, bad as in he is trying to get a new deal out of michigan state, if he gets them to the final four. wait and see.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:44 am
To the question of why Matta…
Matta has a better resume than all of the 2nd tier of guys including Ford. He is the reason (partly) that Miller is having success at XU he built the program prior to going to tOSU. He is extremely popular in the state of Ohio and would get us in on every Cleveland kid worth talking to, and he is very well connected at Lawrence North and other big time schools in Indiana that we need to be competitive at with the upcoming resurgence of IU and UL’s success. Take a look at his 2010 class if you have doubts of his recruiting. And if you doubt his coaching remember that Sean Miller is merely duplicating what Matta did 5 years ago.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:47 am
just for the record, i would take izzo over calipari, if we can’t get donovan. hard to believe they will go after sean miller, since xavier is his only experience. I really believe its going to come down to izzo, then matta. just a gut feeling.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:47 am
CAPS LOCK IS CRUISE CONTROL FOR COOL!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 9:49 am
Caps lock means you are a loser……..
March 29th, 2009 at 9:52 am
if we want to break this down into a baseball analogy then we could say the logical HOME RUN-would be Donovan,Calipari or Izzo, The Double-Matta, Barnes, and the Single-Sean Miller, Mike Anderson. A swing and a miss-Travis Ford and I know that im in the minority here.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:53 am
#243) Todd and the group have gotten over Calipri’s background. look at my pass posts. I said on Fri. night that Donovan was not off the table, but he pretty much was last night when Matt reported he wasn’t. But, Calipari is the focus. If Barnhart does close him, he better close God or the like.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:53 am
CaPs FiGhT!
March 29th, 2009 at 9:56 am
We should go after VMI’s coach. He knows a shooter when he sees one.
March 29th, 2009 at 9:57 am
Has Jamal Mashburn ever thought about coaching?
March 29th, 2009 at 9:57 am
Another quick thought on travis ford and i will quit- Travis Ford=Mark Gotfried.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:00 am
If Jesus granted me one wish, I would ask him to preform a Lazarus-esque miracle on Rupp.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:01 am
the more i read about tom izzo, the more i like him. he sounds like the type of ambassador mitch is looking for. i think it would be extremely hard to get him out of his home state though.
there has been a lot said about the “crazy expectations” of uk fans, which i think is somewhat true. does anyone think those unrealistic expectations have come down some due to all of this?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:03 am
Fo sho, Tyson. I think Michael Jackson said it best when he said, “If you want to make UK Basketball a beeter place, take a look at the fans and make a change.”
March 29th, 2009 at 10:03 am
beeter = better
March 29th, 2009 at 10:06 am
LOL Dave Baker just threw Rick Stansbury’s name into the hat on 700WLW. The only names he mentioned were Ford, Pelphrey and Stansbury. I just heard UK will play Miami at PBS as well. I didn’t know that. I’m there.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:08 am
How long will Izzo or Matta last with their style of play. Izzo Great coach but style fits Tubby and my friends would just complain about the slow pace.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:11 am
266, I don’t think anyone will last that doesn’t unite the fanbase. I know winning will do wonders to unite it, but winning quick will be paramount with the fans. Its Calipari or bust. I mean, you might as well let Matthew Mitchell coach if its not Cal.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:13 am
265 posts and no mention of Pat Summitt. Have you all lost your minds?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:16 am
265, as long as izzo is winning and getting uk to final fours, IT WON’T MATTER what type of style he plays. Style of play works great for michigan state, how popular will izzo be if he beats Louisville and ricky p this afternoon? i have a feeling his name would shoot to the top of the list.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:18 am
Summitt has bigger balls………literally.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:18 am
This Thad Matta and Tom Izzo nonsense has got to end. BIG 10 BASKETBALL IS NOT WHAT WE WANT!! Everyone complained that Tubby played Big 10 basketball in the SEC now you want a Big 10 coach? You people have lost your minds with all the craziness that is UK basketball. You’re all settling.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:19 am
270, where in my post did I mention style of play?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:19 am
Maybe I’m the only grudge-holder out there, but I can’t forget 2004. Mike Anderson sent his old coach Nolan Richardson to watch
UK practice. Nolan then sat right behind the UAB bench and told Mike what to do. Down with the one-seed, on to the Sweet Sixteen
for UAB. Please don’t dignify that guy with a mention.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:19 am
Seam Miller is perfect for this job: young (40), solid coach, recruiter, good style of play, player/coaches son, NCAA success…
March 29th, 2009 at 10:23 am
Please do, Tater, it’s a life altering experience and I’ll never be the same.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:23 am
271, i will take izzo’s style of play and final four berths over a coach that plays run and gun with early tourney exits. winning trumps everything, so no thank you, i will back izzo.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:25 am
Thad is rad but Izzo is fo shizzo.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:26 am
277. Are you gonna call him “10 loss Tom?” Or has losing 10 or more games a year become ok at UK now that we’re becoming more irrelevant by the day?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:27 am
271 — Tubby’s problem wasn’t style of play. It was his failure to ever recruit a player who played in a final four (and he still hasn’t). UK fans will be happy with any style of play if they are winning.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Four Words:
JAN VAN BREDA KOLFF
March 29th, 2009 at 10:27 am
Why aren’t you guys at church?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:29 am
Matt:
I am glad you wrote the post, and I hope the National Media picks it up so they will end the “rabid UK fans” garbage.
Regarding Cutler, please don’t glorify his actions. He is a joke and you are better than that.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:29 am
When does everyone think an announcement will come??
March 29th, 2009 at 10:30 am
Look at izzo’s record. what would justify calling him 10 loss tom? 4 final fours in 14 years and maybe 5 if they beat louisville today. how does that point to 10 loss seasons?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:30 am
283, because God himself is clicking refresh to see who will be UK’s next coach.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:33 am
I have been out of pocket yesterday and last night, so I just go to ready Matts piece on the End Of Clyde,,,,,,,I guess lots of questions are answered now, huh? A lot makes sense when you read this and look at the performance of this team. No wonder Darius looked like he was scared to shoot all the time, he probably had a Shock Collar around his gonades. I’m just curious as to where all of the “Lack of Talent” posters are, didn’t go too far down in the commnets on that posts, so I won’t call out any names. So lastly, I’ll refernce those comments about Pat, Jodie, all the recruits and everyone else associated with the team leaving if Billy was fired,,,,,,How WRONG COULD YOU HAVE BEEN.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:33 am
Tom Izzo 13 years at MSU
1 Championship
3 Final Fours
3 First round exits
1 Second round exit
2 Sweet 16s
1 Elite 8
2 NIT’s his 1st 2 years. BCG did better than that. (by the way I don’t defend BCG after finding out what he did to those kids)
And he lost 12 or more games 7/13 years. I thought we hated that at UK?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:33 am
God wants Calipari!
March 29th, 2009 at 10:34 am
282 — Kentucky basketball is my church. Just kidding.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:34 am
280. Now that we know the “other things besides coaching and recruiting” expected for a UK basketball coach, maybe Tubby was so busy entertaining the circus known as UK basketball, he didn’t have time to recruit.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:35 am
Soup, you are one funny guy/gal,
March 29th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Wimp Sanderson, Dennis Felton, Sean Sutton, Harland Sanders, Bear Grylls
March 29th, 2009 at 10:36 am
Cutler’s circumcision scar is going to show with that haircut… what a d!ckhead. And his blog actually said “When a mic is stuck in a parents face after some terrible accident, there is no outcry of hate…” Wanna bet? Douche bag -
March 29th, 2009 at 10:37 am
DICK FICK NEEDS TO BE THE UK BASKETBALL COACH
March 29th, 2009 at 10:40 am
I once held a position that allowed me to attend UK’s press conferences and I have to say from first hand experience that, yes, Cutler is a douche, but you almost feel sorry for the guy. He’s like one of those kids in high school that tries to be cool and hang with the cool crowd but everyone just looks at him like he’s stupid.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:40 am
Dick Fick… What a legend. Hadn’t thought of him in ages. Why not Rollie Massimino then as his top assistant?
March 29th, 2009 at 10:41 am
Bruce Pearl isn’t available. Pat Summitt has him tied up in her basement wearing a Cat Woman costume.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:45 am
Um…Fick’s dead. Respect brotha’.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:49 am
Izzo plays ugly ball. No one liked it when Tubby was here, and no one will like it with Izzo here. The expectations will be ridiculous for Izzo. Something along the lines of, “If you’re going to play that kind of b-ball, you had better win 30 games and make at least the elite eigth every year”. Besides, the guy has been in Michigan his whole life and is already established. Why would he uproot his family to start over? To prove himself? Please!
The same argument can be made for Calipari, but to a lesser degree. Some of his best talent comes from his back yard, plus he’s a big city guy and Memphis is much bigger than Lexington. Perhaps he’s tired of playing in C-USA, but the SEC isn’t any better.
What off the court baggage does Ford have? This is news to me. I’m not sure he can recruit like we need at UK.
I watched Missouri’s style of b-ball, and frankly, that’s what I want. I could care less how little “proof” we have of his history. That style of play with lesser talent to a loaded UConn team to the wire. Proof enough for me. Young black coach with energy and passion could get every recruit under the sun. Who wouldn’t want to play that style, plus it would force him to play 10 guys every game which would also encourage recruits to come.
Sean Miller, I’m not sold on him. Never lives up to the seed he gets in the touney. Better known for early departures than anything else.
Thad Matta? More ugly ball? Please, no more ugly ball. Plus, the guy only wins with his recruiting ability. That can only last for so long. You need someone who can develop players. Pitino was the master of that, just look at Pelphrey, Ford, Feldhouse etc. Tubby never developed his players.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:52 am
I wish I was a kid. I’m at home watching my kids today. Didn’t realize Fick had passed. But I’d say if you even know who Fick is, you aren’t too damn young.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:53 am
I never knew Fick died. That kind of makes me sad.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:55 am
Shit, I’d better google Rollie Massimino before some of the stiffs on here get bent outta shape.
March 29th, 2009 at 10:57 am
Whew. Still alive. 74 and kickin…
March 29th, 2009 at 10:59 am
i just hope mitch and lee have this wrapped up by friday. the new “fast and furious” comes out and i cant miss that!
March 29th, 2009 at 11:00 am
Who did Stephen A Smith just say he thought was coming to UK? I missed it.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:01 am
Steven A Smith just said that Cal is “hunkered down” and he thinks he’ll take the job.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:03 am
Let’s go after Bill Belechik. He’d be great with the media.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:05 am
I’m headed to Memphis today to cheer against the Tarheels. I’ll look for Coach Cal in the FedEx suite and tell him what a dream job this is.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:06 am
Stephen A Smith just guaranteed that Calipari is next coach
March 29th, 2009 at 11:08 am
I would donate my collection of UK hoodies.
So, was Stephen A. on Sportscenter? If so, I have to laugh. That would mean they have a commentator on SC saying he thought Cal would take the job, and running a sidebar on ESPNEWS that says Cal staying put at the same damn time. this is great.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:09 am
EVERYONE ON THIS SITE NEEDS TO GO READ voiceofreason’s post #154 AND RECALIBRATE YOUR EXPECTATIONS FOR A COACH AND THE YEAR-TO-YEAR RESULTS FOR THIS PROGRAM. IF YOU DON’T AGREE, YOU’RE HEAD IS SERIOUSLY BURIED IN THE SAND.
With that said, I still think Coach Cal is a great catch and would be just arrogant enough to take it. But I’m not confident that Dr. Todd will allow it based purely on speculation of Cal’s recruiting practices. Who cares about his past? Just put in the proper institutional controls and we’ll be back in the final four in ‘10 or ‘11.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:10 am
Calipari would be the PERFECT FIT…..UK would be back to its Promise land once again is CAL. come here. I would be so excited!!!…If CAL. isnt asked to come here i would be very disappointed in Mitch and Lee tood….which im very disappointed anyways….it would just piss me off even more! CALAPARI AT UK = CHAMPIONSHIPS!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 11:12 am
I think the “mystery coach” whom no one is talking about is Herb Sendek.
Mark Liptak
March 29th, 2009 at 11:14 am
Herb Sendek is a maniac. I mean that in a good way. I’ve never met someone with more energy that that guy. He literally bounces off the walls. He makes motivational speakers look like they are on valium. Crazy guy.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:15 am
I think the mystery coach might actually be Coach Mike Kryzewski.
Rumors have swirled that he is no longer happy at Duke.
I still don’t see him coaching here, especially with the way Kentuckians hate him already, but the presence of Mike Pratt on the search committee opens up the possibilities to folks we’d never even dream of coaching in Lexington.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:17 am
316. I would love to see Herb Sendek at UK. I got the chance to spend the day with the UK coaching staff when I was 12 and Coach Sendek was fantastic. It was a little boys dream to spend the day with the UK basketball team and their staff.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:18 am
318. REDUNKULOUS
March 29th, 2009 at 11:20 am
yea that’s right, Stephen A just guaranteed that Coach Cal would be the next coach on Sportscenter, plus the sidebar thing is freaking hilarious. Has anyone thought about ESPN trying to destroy any chance that UK would get a big time coach by releasing all of these so called “sources” to the program?? When in fact, there are no “sources” at all and ESPN is just making up shit???
March 29th, 2009 at 11:21 am
Other candidates:
Billy D - frankly, I think he’s making a mistake. He knows he can handle UK and the stresses. He knows he’d be worshipped like a god. He is truly the perfect fit, but I doubt we have any chance at him. Go look at the Forida message boards. First of all, try to find a Florida basketball message board. They are almost non-existent. That shows how little the fans care. Second, those who do post aren’t sold on him. The say he has a history of early departures and got lucky to capture lightning in a bottle. There may be some truth to that since his talent level has fallen off. He does seem to develop talent, but Jai Lucas left the program.
Pitino - too old, don’t want him back.We need a young person who wants to be there and will be there for decades.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:21 am
There is no freaking way Coach “K” leaves PUKE
March 29th, 2009 at 11:23 am
Stephen Smith is saying on Sportscenter this morning — CAL! But who really knows??
March 29th, 2009 at 11:23 am
Well if you want a young person, then you don’t want coach calapari, he’s kind of old. I think that Sean Miller would be a good fit, but he will leave as soon as the Pitt job opens up
March 29th, 2009 at 11:24 am
I think the mystery candidate is none other than Mississippi State’s Richard Stansbury. Kentucky boy, excellent X and O’s coach, has did great considering the resources at MSU. Give the man the resources UK can offer and he would get it done here…not saying he is top choice or anything, just in my opinion he’s the mystery man…
March 29th, 2009 at 11:25 am
He did not guaranteed that Coach Cal would be the next coach. He thinks he will be.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:25 am
#313 My son just called me and told me he saw it on there as well. I guess they figure they’ll cover all the bases.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:25 am
During a binge of Makers Mark last night I had a vision — a portly older bald man — with championships rings on his fingers who kept repeating — patience, patience. Thanks Mr. Wildcat — I think we can do that.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:29 am
Calipari? Why would he leave? He’s a big city guy (Memphis) and has LOADS of talent right in his back yard. The SEC is worse or the same as C-USA. So he’d have to recruit harder, live in a smaller city, and face the big blue fish bowl. Maybe I am under estimating his ego and desire to be “the guy”. The fact that Stephen A. Smith guaranteed it means it’s only a 5% chance he’ll be the next coach.
greenwell, stop being such a doomsayer. Give me a break. Look at the coaches who are being tossed around as options. NONE of those names would consider UAB, Georgia, etc. The ONLY reason they are even mentioned is because of the “KENTUCKY” aspect. Get real, and stop talking about the sky falling.
IF we get the right coach, and one with a rep like Calipari, then we keep Orton, and the coach steps into a starting line up of:
Patterson
Meeks
Orton
Miller
Liggins
Yeah, NO talent there. Will take us DECADES to win with those 5 McDonald’s all americans starting. This is the same as the Pelphrey, Feldaus, Richie Farmer years, right? Give me a BREAK!
PLUS, we STILL have another top ten player committe the next year. So IF, and I am the first to admit that it’s an IF, we get a Calipari, Billy D, Izzo, then the talent wil be there and success will come MUCH sooner than the likes of you would seem to hope.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:31 am
After reading the reports on Pitino’s advice, all I have to say is stay out of our buisness and lay in the bed you made. Congrats on finally having a decent team, but nothing you say should even be considerd. Your not a UK guy anymore. While I appreciate your efforts while here, your not with us anymore. You chose to go to our mortal enemey. It is not in your best interest, for Kentucky to do well. Either to show up your legacy here, or in someone who will kick your teeth in every December. So go Coach your team that has regional interest and leave Kentucky Basketball to the Big Blue NATION.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:32 am
Maggard seems to think UK already has a home-run hire in its pocket. TTFWIW.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:32 am
I have been to Memphis — trust me Memphis — you are NO LEXINGTON!
March 29th, 2009 at 11:32 am
I think if we don’t at least inquire on Mike Anderson and Lorenzo Romar, we haven’t done due diligence. They both demonstrate coaching/recruiting ability. And the style of play isn’t bad.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:33 am
327- I think you are spot on with the mystery man. Dave Baker specifically mentioned him this morning on WLW as I mentioned earlier in this thread. Sounds like things are starting to build with Calipari to me. In putting everything together that we’ve heard from all corners of the world.
1. Maggard reporting that ppl around UK bragging about a hire and that they hit a home run with it.
2. ESPN saying he will be publically persued at the same time Memphis is reported to be trying to secure more funds for him.
3. Alan Cutler saying he believes that UK has a coach in place and that he has been confident in who it is since last Wednesday.
4. Calipari’s daughter as an “executive liason” on the “Bring Coach Calipari to UK” facebook page.
5. Stephen A. Smith saying Cal would consider.
6. Cal’s carefully spoken words in saying he’s happy at Memphis.
And there is more, but things like this have my hopes skyrocketing right now. Its the little things that got BCG fired. Right now, I’m hoping these little things that are slowly surfacing are the things that mean there is a chance Coach Calipari gets hired.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:34 am
I feel sorry for coach Pitino sometimes, you just know that thinking about what he could’ve done if he hadn’t left UK and the possibility that he could be in the greatest coach ever discussion has to haunt him.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:36 am
There were 11033 violent-crime incidents reported in Memphis in 2008 —– Lexington Violent Crimes 1712 —— duhh!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 11:38 am
Why would he NOT want out of Memphis, it’s a RAT HOLE.. I went down there for the Bowl game and the city is dirty, crime and murder is rampant, it’s a shit hole of a city, just my opinion.. I think that if MB and LT hit a homerun with their hire and the new coach will bring with him one or two recruits, then it’s a no brainer that were in the mix for an elite 8 next year with the talent that we have right now..
March 29th, 2009 at 11:42 am
A couple of things, First #318-You are making it really hard for me to try to defend you from the playground bullies with Dumba$$ed comments like this, give me some help here, huh? Second, and in response to Greenwell and post #314-There is a lot of truth to that. The landscape of College Basketball is much different than it was 10-15 years ago, when you had only a handful of elite programs and one Dynasty, which was Kentucky. There is now a great deal of parody, and money flows more freely than a A.I.G. bonus package. BUT,,,,,,,Through all of the trevail that we have seen over the last several years, being non-factors in the discussion of National Championships, a Bipolar hire that put players in “Timeout” and sent them to bed without supper. “I AM MORE OPTOMISTIC THAN EVER!” You got to hit bottom before you can Rise Up, and we are about as close to bottom as we will ever get. The reason that we will get a great hire, the next present day Savior of the Glory Days, the one who will again return us to the Feared not the fearing. I believe this because this is Kentucky Basketball, the place where legends are made. It’s coming Folks, I firmly believe this…..By the way, pay no attention to the Italian with the fake hair, he is only trying to protect his own interest. Go Big Blue!!!!!!!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 11:42 am
Out of those 11033 violent crimes, how many of them involved someone being murdered?? Memphis a big city? I really doubt that it is.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:43 am
338.
Great bar scene. Probably the best barbecue outside of Owensboro, KY.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:46 am
340, what did I say bad about Sendek? I don’t personally want him, but he is a high energy guy. I’m talking like you wouldn’t believe. He is on another level as far as that goes. He is borderline spastic.
March 29th, 2009 at 11:46 am
People who see me post on here know I have a good friend in the Admin.
You also know I don’t get anykind of inside info, never have never will.
I don’t know who it is, so don’t ask.
I did get a text from him around 7:30ct this morning and all it said
was “Its Done”
March 29th, 2009 at 11:47 am
I honestly don’t believe ANYTHING that comes out of Pitino’s mouth, why doesn’t he want Calapari or Donavin in Lexington, because just maybe, just maybe, the UK Faithful that hold onto maybe he’s coming back will MOVE ON when these guys come into the program and start whipping his ass. SO sure, he will say bring in Ford or Pelphrey because he knows that they are young and he will expect them to follow him around like a lost puppy
March 29th, 2009 at 11:48 am
I don’t know if anyone has said it yet but mystery man= Jim Calhoun?
March 29th, 2009 at 11:49 am
So, that’s a reason to stay in freaking Memphis, the bar scene and Barbecue?? As much money as we’re going to give Coach Calapari, he can hire BB King and have all the Barbecue shipped in here from Mephis
March 29th, 2009 at 11:50 am
What exactly does “it’s done” means? I think that I know and I hope I know what it means, but “it’s done” with WHOM????
March 29th, 2009 at 11:50 am
That’s the freaking 10 million dollar question on this board??
March 29th, 2009 at 11:51 am
I wonder if we could buy Gillispie’s house as part of the buyout and give it to Cal?
March 29th, 2009 at 11:52 am
by the way the calhoun thing was a JOKE…lol
March 29th, 2009 at 11:52 am
#347 Its done as they have a coach. I have no clue who it is. He doesn’t
give me that kind of information, nor would he ever. Trust me, I have
tried. So if your looking for answers then your asking the wrong person.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
Cal would love a chance to compete in the same state as Pitino. Pitino recommends Ford/Pel so he can continue to dominate UK for a few more years. Can you imagine Calipari’s recruiting prowess combined with the UK name and state of the art facilities? I hope this happens!
March 29th, 2009 at 12:00 pm
Na, I just think everyone on here is looking for answers, I would not expect someone in the administration to be giving out detailed information like that, but to simply send a Text to you saying, “it’s done” that’s kind of wagging Steak in front of a hungry man and us Kentucky fans are HUNGRY>>>>
March 29th, 2009 at 12:01 pm
Let’s take a look at Memphis —– Here’s the breakdown:
130 Murders/Non Negligent Manslaughter
002 Manslaughter by Negligence
028 Justifiable Homicides
160 Total
for the visual effect of crime there — http://www.myeyewitnessnews.com/content/crimetracker/crime-map.aspx
March 29th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
Why isn’t Tipton on the search committee with Pratt?
March 29th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
SaveUK, I have read all your posts from Thursday night and it does seem that you do have an inside source. I will continue to see what you may be able to “sneak” out of him/her. What about the wife angle??:)
March 29th, 2009 at 12:02 pm
343. If it is done this quickly, it would have to be one of the big 3, Cal, Izzo, Donovan. Nobody else would get hired this quick.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:03 pm
(331) i like your way of thinking !
March 29th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
I don’t think Cal would have to resort to suspicious tactics with the resources at UK.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:05 pm
John Cal. is the man UK is going ofter…that would be the ONLY Homerun they could get…other than Billy D. or Pitino….and i seriosuly dont them two butt buddies are coming…but thats a good thing…we dont need pricks!…GO BIG BLUE
March 29th, 2009 at 12:06 pm
357. it would not include Izzo since he is still coaching in the tourney. I do agree with you that it could be Cal/Donovan IF it is done. I believe that IF it is not done then they would wait on the tourney to finish to test Izzo. The 2nd tier coaches will not be considered until all the 1st tier coaches have been asked that are on the list.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
after…sorry
March 29th, 2009 at 12:07 pm
after…sorry
March 29th, 2009 at 12:08 pm
357
Izzo is still playing, so if that is the case it isn’t him.
I doubt that a coaching search that began 44 hours ago is over already, unless they came to some sort of instant agreement with their first choice. I don’t think it is over, personally.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:10 pm
Hey I lived in Lexington for 4 years, and have lived in Nashville for 10. No one needs to convince me that Memphis is a **** hole. I’ve known that for years, BUT there are some very nice areas (gated communities, etc.) that are there. You couldn’t pay me enough to live in Memphis. Factor in the fact that the mayor is about to hike up taxes on the “rich” to huge proportions, and you have another incentive to go. Still he does have incredible talent right in his back yard. I never said Calipari wouldn’t leave, but he does have serious reasons to stay.
The scary thing is, all the “proof” that Calipari is coming reminds me of all the “proof” we have that Billy D was coming. Remember the picture of the house he bought?
March 29th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Cal’s wife is quoted as saying she likes rural life as opposed to city life.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
Don’t expect to learn who turns UK down this time around - that information was not released last tim around, it is doubtful we’d hear anything out of UK until it really is ‘done’.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
but I still like Jim O’brian as a sleeper.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:12 pm
You know when Lee Todd said this was like the president’s job I started thinking, we need to build a WHITE HOUSE (except it would be blue of course) for our coach on campus!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
I think the admin. have been thinking about BCG replacement for a lot more than 44 hrs.I hope they are smart enough to go for the slam dunk of Calipari
March 29th, 2009 at 12:13 pm
361. Good point about Izzo. That means Cal or Donovan IF it is done. I pray it’s Cal, nothing would stick it FEBUK more than hiring him and if he could bring in Wall and keep our current commits and Pat/Jodie, UK is a legit FF team next year.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
long time reader,first time bloggee.like to ask opinion and take your answer off the air. mr. vaught is big on stansbury,and he does have better record than i realized, not the homerun,but could he be mystery man?
March 29th, 2009 at 12:14 pm
I will say that Lee Todd did make us look a little bad in the press conference. He made a reference to the fact that no one realizes how many coaches MB talked to the last time before we stop at BCG. IMO, this just solidified the fact that several coaches may have turned us down last time.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:16 pm
You gotta love that the UK job comes open and other programs scramble to figure out how they can pay their coach more money and extend their contracts. LOL!
March 29th, 2009 at 12:17 pm
funniest line of the day:
its izzo fo’ shizzo
second funniest line of the day:
coach k is being considered for the uk coaching job
March 29th, 2009 at 12:18 pm
“IF” its a slam dunk then it has to be Calipari. There isn’t another slam dunk that is available yet. Please stop the Pitino talk. We absolutely DO NOT want him back for any reason, even if he would do it for free. Pitino is all about Pitino.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:24 pm
374
yeah and everyone keeps saying how unattractive the uk head coaching job is now.
while every AD in the country is trembling and pissing their pants right now worried that uk is gonna steal their coach!
i believe that the uk job is still the best job in the country!
March 29th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I could care less if we don’t get a big name coach (billy d,pitino,coach cal or izzo) just as long as he can recruit and actually put us in position to win games because if we don’t start winning soon were gonna get passed in the all time wins column and I don’t really want that to happen. I’m also a little disappointed to not hear jay wrights name in the mix a little more he’s doing great things at nova.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
I just don’t know about Calipari. Never got comfortable with him….anywhere. What I do believe we need is someone that will be here a long time (10+ years) and is someone we will want to be here a long time. I think we have to give a long hard look at Ford and Pelphrey. If we do not hire them now….I doubt we ever see them coaching at UK. Unless we make another 2-3 year mistake, or hire someone that jumps to the NBA. I don’t want either of those things to happen.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
Pitino just can’t seem to get away from calipari, can he?
March 29th, 2009 at 12:29 pm
Getting Calipari definately returns us to competeing as a top 5 team immediately but I’m not sure he could ever get that national championship. We’ll see though
March 29th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
JAY BILAS!
March 29th, 2009 at 12:38 pm
381- People said the same thing about Pitino until UK won the NCAA in ‘96. He helped Cal get the job at UMass, so it would be very interesting to see them lock horns on a yearly basis again.
March 29th, 2009 at 12:41 pm
370- Goose- you got my mind stirring. A white house on campus… Recruiting aircraft known as N1UK. Underground recruiting bunkers scattered across the US. Now if we could just ELECT our coach…
March 29th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
To build on 335’s post….having John Calipari’s daughter (Erin) as the “executive liason” on the “Bring John Calipari to UK” facebook group seems to be a big deal. I did a google search on her and found this link:
http://www.umassmag.com/2007/Fall2007/features/walk_this.html
Seems the young lady has aspirations of going to pharmacy school. I have it on good authority that we have a top 5 in the nation college of pharmacy here with a brand new building to be opened next year (much better than the one @ UT-Memphis). I know Dean Roberts is a big UK basketball fan… makes for an interesting angle pulling John C. to Lexington.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:01 pm
justa little info i just learned this morning. a recruits dad was contacted by michigan st. yesterday and wanted to tell him who the next coach would be if izzo left for ky.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
me thinks we needs a new thread…
March 29th, 2009 at 1:22 pm
387. True dat.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
382- I would take Bilas, even if he played for Puke.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:25 pm
I’m trying to stay positive- but I just feel like I’m going to be the kid that opens the big present under the tree to find a pair of pajamas.
Your gut reaction when you hear the coach who makes you happy/ who makes your heart sink?
Happy: Donovan, Cal,
OK: Miller Izzo,
Uh Oh: Ford, Pelphrey, Matta
I really wish there was somebody we haven’t been thinking about. I have this nagging feeling we are getting Ford. The kentucky connection is very telling in my book.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:27 pm
I think Boone’s Butcher Shop needs to spring for a mega server.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:28 pm
Here is the correct Tom Izzo data;
Record 333-136 (.710)
Championships NCAA Division I Championship 1 (2000)
Final Four 4 (1999, 2000, 2001, 2005)
Accomplishments
Elite Eight 6 (1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2009)
Sweet 16 8 (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2005, 2008, 2009)
NCAA Tournament 12 (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009)
Big Ten Championship 5 (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2009)
Big Ten Tournament Championship 2 (1999, 2000)
March 29th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
the man is probably exhausted. he has been all over the place the past couple days……and he probably can’t even get on to do it since the site is down
March 29th, 2009 at 1:30 pm
391. I know it could be an outside shot but Herb Sendek could be a great fit.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:32 pm
Joined Erin Calipari’s Bring John Calipari to UK Facebook page - check
March 29th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
Cal is old, do you want an old guy coaching UK? Izzo is older…
UF hired Billy D. when he had the same track record as Ford. 2 championships and 3 Final fours later and it all seems to have worked out for UF.
There are many good choices. Matta knows what a big time sports prgram is about and he has success coaching and recruiting and he is young. He is my second choice behind Ford. Matta is not the boring coach Izzo is.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:38 pm
372..There are those who suspicion that Coach Stansbury uses less than ethical recruiting techinque.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Calipari if you are reading this please consider how much tradition is here and you are the only one that can continue our rich tradition. you will enherit the most pasionite fans in the universe and thats no lie. Our facilities here are in most peoples mind the best in the nation. Please Calipari save us from this slump, once again you are the only one that can do it!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 1:40 pm
397. Matta is from THE Ohio State University. They have a commitment to failure and choking IN THE BIG 2 SPORTS. NO WAY!!!!!!!!!!!
March 29th, 2009 at 1:43 pm
397 You’re right, we should make our hire based on what UF did because they’re a basketball school… oh wait they aren’t. Hmmm… the only problem I have with Ford is this, he’s has never sustained success at any program he’s been to. He has jumped around quickly from job to job and made it into the tournament with someone else’s players this year. I got a lot of love for the guy but I’d be interested to see what he does this year with 7 freshmen.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Im going going, back back, to Cali Cali… JOHN CALIPARI OR BUST!!! If your with me email mitch: mbarn@uky.edu Its worth a shot people. remind him that with calipari (likely means wall) we go to atleast a final four NEXT YEAR.. Be polite and say we have to have CALIPARI!!! 397) WOW, u really are an IDIOT, please dont get on this website anymore and become a WKU fan
March 29th, 2009 at 1:47 pm
Matt and his buddies must have torn one on last night because there is no NEW information or threads coming our way… Unless, they’re waiting on telling us who the new coach is going to be.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:50 pm
401. Up and coming coaches move around. Pitino did, so did Billy D.
UK should make its choice based on reasons pretaining to UK. Billy D. going to UF was an example to show everyone that there are merits and often very good results to hiring the young, up and coming coach.
I guess all of you could do worse where age is concerned.. you could be asking for John Wooden.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:52 pm
There is absolutely NO way they bring in Matta. It’s John Calipari guys, that’s why Pitino’s scared to death and asking for Ford or Pelphrey
March 29th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
I also pray that the university is offering some type of therapy for our guy’s I know the AD is aware of what they have been through from his own words
“These situations are always very difficult and individuals and their families are traumatically impacted.”
Please give our players your support to work through the hell they have been through.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
A guy with the name “bakedawg” calling me an idiot? Speaks for itself.
You want a 50+ year old guy with a sketchy past then please recommend Cal for the Georgia job and become a bulldog. I am sure they get “baked” in Athens as well.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
Hey FWIW. I been board hopping and ran across a poster that is very well respected in accuracy. He is saying thet Cali has been contacted and will accept. MB and LT are getting more UK admin to agree and then offering a contract. I think Sandy Bell will have to sign off too.Could be as soon as Tuesday or Wednesday according to the post.
March 29th, 2009 at 1:55 pm
No news is good news IMO
March 29th, 2009 at 1:59 pm
Pitino scared of Calipari? That is almost as funny as it is ignorant. Pitino is the only coach EVER to take 3 different teams to the Final Four. Pitino has produced the most impressive list of assistants to coaches ever. Pitino just won the Big East regular season and tourny in what may be the greatest conference ever. Pitino is arguably the greatest college basketball coach of our generation. I don’t think Pitino fears any coach nor does he fear any competition.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:07 pm
PAULEY- where did you read this at? Please tell i would like to see this exciting news!!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:16 pm
Please stop with the Pitino,Riley,Issel talk!Last two are too old,and as for the one west of U.K.FOCK HIM.We want the one who will kick his tards a$$!
March 29th, 2009 at 2:18 pm
407) thats not why thats my name but anyway… thought u just said cal was 50?.. so that would be just 50, minus the (+).. yes please hire travis for so that in the future when a HS coach tells one of his players that travis ford is here to watch you play, he’ll say who?!. Who does he coach for?.. I like T ford and see him being our coach down the road somewhere, but not now. And yes, pitino is scared well get Cal. As the rest of our competition is b/c he is the best recruiter in the land, period.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Bakedawg > Ford has won as many NCAA championships as Cal. If I wanted a coach for the next 2 or 3 years, then maybe I would want Cal… but I want a coach who will be with UK for 10, 15 maybe 20 years.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:32 pm
Ohhh I want Cal for 10 to 15 years.. and Ford has won one, yeah 1, NCAA tournament game.. Cal went to the final four last year and if his team makes their free throws down the stretch, they win a title.. take care now
March 29th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Great Day for Kentucky basketball if Cali is coming, love it, love it, love it.
March 29th, 2009 at 2:36 pm
GodlovesUK> we got screwed with Gillispe… do you seriously think Mitch and the whole search will make that mistake again. We want a true WINNER and some one can win right away or else you’ll be sayin crap about how he wasn’t what we needed when he gets fired. We need the HOMERUN!!!! Calipari dont listen to that retard, we want you!!!!!! GO CATS BABY!!!!!