Hire A New Coach

[kdown]

You are now UK's athletic director. Go ahead hire a new coach and tell us why

[spike91]

Bring Billy Ball to kentucky has the same insticts of pitino and can recruit the best talent

[Flame]

I say Billy (if he'll come) because he knows the rich Kentucky basketball tradition and he can recruit top players.

[dpolley]

Billy Donovan - simply because he's a better coach than anyone else on the list, other that Calipari, who is my second choice.

[spike91]

ESPN.com has on its cover page that jon calipari may be next coach he would be a great coach too ,if that billy donovan isnt available

[Flame]

I am serious when I ask this so don't anyone think I'm being fescious. Other than money what might lure Billy Donavon to KY. He has gotten a great team where he is. NCAA championship last year and this year's tournament isn't looking too shaby either. Is there anything other than money to get him here. We haven't heard of any names in the hat or any coaches the AD has asked permission to talk to. Of course, I'm sure he wouldn't even ask to talk to any coaches with teams still playing. I hope any possible recruits will wait and see who we hire before making decisions.

[kdown]

John Pelfrey played 1 year for Eddie Sutton and 3 years for Rick Pitino. He was an assistant at OK State for 1 year; an Assistant for 1 year at Marshall, 9 years at Florida for Donavan. He has been a head coach for 4 years. He's 38 years old.

How much more seasoning does he need ?

[dpolley]

John Pelfrey played 1 year for Eddie Sutton and 3 years for Rick Pitino. He was an assistant at OK State for 1 year; an Assistant for 1 year at Marshall, 9 years at Florida for Donavan. He has been a head coach for 4 years. He's 38 years old.

How much more seasoning does he need ?


Good point Ken. Could be that a lot of "fans" would consider John, as well as Travis too green for the job at this point. I don't know, maybe those same fans still think of those two guys as kids. Just a thought.

[dpolley]

I am serious when I ask this so don't anyone think I'm being fescious. Other than money what might lure Billy Donavon to KY. He has gotten a great team where he is. NCAA championship last year and this year's tournament isn't looking too shaby either. Is there anything other than money to get him here. We haven't heard of any names in the hat or any coaches the AD has asked permission to talk to. Of course, I'm sure he wouldn't even ask to talk to any coaches with teams still playing. I hope any possible recruits will wait and see who we hire before making decisions.

The chance to turn things around? Maybe the fact that Florida is a football school and the support isn't what it would be in Lexington? Maybe he is thinking that he needs a new challenge? He built Florida into a national power, but he could very well lose a lot of those players to the NBA this year. He may be thinking that instead of building Florida back to where they are now, why not rebuild Kentucky (I hate to use "rebuild" in the same sentence as KY Wildcat Basketball).

[kdown]

dpolley. Another point. John is just 7 years younger than Tubby was when he took the job and he's been schooled by Sutton, Pitino and Donavan for 15 years plus 4 as a head coach. Heck he could go recruiting and take along the KY/Duke film from 92.
Course maybe he should delete the end......LOL

[Flame]

dpolley. Another point. John is just 7 years younger than Tubby was when he took the job and he's been schooled by Sutton, Pitino and Donavan for 15 years plus 4 as a head coach. Heck he could go recruiting and take along the KY/Duke film from 92.
Course maybe he should delete the end......LOL

John is 38 Tubby is 55. In my calculations that is 17 years.

The chance to turn things around? Maybe the fact that Florida is a football school and the support isn't what it would be in Lexington? Maybe he is thinking that he needs a new challenge? He built Florida into a national power, but he could very well lose a lot of those players to the NBA this year. He may be thinking that instead of building Florida back to where they are now, why not rebuild Kentucky (I hate to use "rebuild" in the same sentence as KY Wildcat Basketball).

Yeah I know rebuild and KY basketball is almost an oxymoran. Or should be. I thought about the "I've brought the Gators to at least one NCAA championship(this one isn't over) and I want a challange" The basketball support is here in the bluegrass.

[kdown]

Flame. Read it again. John is 7 years younger than Tubby was 10 years ago when he took the job.
Tubby was 45

[Flame]

Flame. Read it again. John is 7 years younger than Tubby was 10 years ago when he took the job.
Tubby was 45

Sorry Kdown, I thought you couldn't subtract and it is really I can't read. Guess I can read just don't read all the words. Sorry.

[Wildcat Fans]

donovan comes here i will burn my blue

[littlelee]

donovan comes here i will burn my blue

I'm right there with ya! And the same with Pitino.

[preacherman]

why would you burn your blue if the best young coach in America came to UK? Billy Donavan would bring true basketball back to the bluegrass state

[Flame]

I'm right there with ya! And the same with Pitino.

Littlelee you posted on another forum that the people that "ran off" Tubby are so-called fan's(not exact words). Then you said you bleed blue and always have. If you burn your blue you are a so-called fan.

Yeah I cheer for Chris and want the Vols to win every game except the KY ones but even in those I want to see Chris have a good game. But I'm still True Blue. But the last 3 or so years it hasn't been exciting to watch and I want that back and I don't care if they bring in Mickey Mouse to coach if he can get that excitement back to KY basketball.

[littlelee]

Littlelee you posted on another forum that the people that "ran off" Tubby are so-called fan's(not exact words). Then you said you bleed blue and always have. If you burn your blue you are a so-called fan.

Yeah I cheer for Chris and want the Vols to win every game except the KY ones but even in those I want to see Chris have a good game. But I'm still True Blue. But the last 3 or so years it hasn't been exciting to watch and I want that back and I don't care if they bring in Mickey Mouse to coach if he can get that excitement back to KY basketball.

A true Kentucky fan isn't just a fan if the game has to be "exciting" to watch. They're a fan....period. They also stand behind their team & coach, win or lose, which I have done without fail.

My point is that I do not like Billy Donovan and if he comes here I will have a very difficult time wanting to continue rooting for my home team. I don't like his attitude or the attitude of the boys he recruits.

I am also against Pitino returning, even though I really liked him while he was here, because I don't think he can be trusted. He has proven that he can't be trusted.

[TheMan]

Don't matter who they hire.. "True Blue" will never be satisfied.

[F_Farkell]

Don't matter who they hire.. "True Blue" will never be satisfied.

AMEN :drum:

[Flame]

A true Kentucky fan isn't just a fan if the game has to be "exciting" to watch. They're a fan....period. They also stand behind their team & coach, win or lose, which I have done without fail.

My point is that I do not like Billy Donovan and if he comes here I will have a very difficult time wanting to continue rooting for my home team. I don't like his attitude or the attitude of the boys he recruits.

I am also against Pitino returning, even though I really liked him while he was here, because I don't think he can be trusted. He has proven that he can't be trusted.

We will have to agree to disagree since they rejected my response.

[Wildcat Fans]

the new coach will have a rough way to go no matter who it is but one thing the way it looks it will be fresh start

[kdown]

Fresh Starts

Joe B. Hall = 1972
Eddie Sutton = 1985
Rick Pitino = 1989
Tubby Smith = 1997

3 National titles in 35 years

[outtadodge]

Read through the thread before I threw my towel in.
I don't envy ANYBODY who wades into the fishbowl of UK basketball.
Consider... Would ya rather WIN than have a clean program?
Whoever gets the job has a long row to hoe, sorry.

[kdown]

Read through the thread before I threw my towel in.
I don't envy ANYBODY who wades into the fishbowl of UK basketball.
Consider... Would ya rather WIN than have a clean program?
Whoever gets the job has a long row to hoe, sorry.

No argument here. Could be the toughest college coaching job in America. Running a " clean program " is awfully tough when the coach can't control the " well healed " boosters. We been THERE before.

In case someone has forgotten

Kentucky again was put on probation in the late 1980's. Chief among the violations cited were paying money to Chris Mills (a Los Angeles prep phenom now playing with the New York Knicks) and the cheating of Eric Manuel on his ACT test .The NCAA came down very hard on Kentucky despite an ineffectual investigation. The resulting probation stripped Kentucky of the heart of its future team. Players such as Chris Mills, LeRon Ellis, Eric Manuel, Sean Sutton, Rex Chapman and Shawn Kemp all left the program over a two-year stretch for various reasons. The team had its scholarships reduced and was banned from television appearances or post season play. Head coach Eddie Sutton resigned, along with his coaching staff which included Dwane Casey who was implicated in the Mills situation. The situation was a mess but was turned in the right direction by the hiring of former UK player and experienced SEC coach C.M. Newton as athletic director. Newton soon hired Rick Pitino to resurrect the program with the priority being on keeping the Kentucky program clean.

Recruiting Rumors

Fiery MSU coach has caught UK's eye By Mike Fowler

Sources have told Scout.com that the University of Kentucky is interested in Michigan State head basketball coach Tom Izzo and may contact the school asking for permission to speak to Izzo formally.

DETROIT - Sources have told Scout.com and GoSpartans.net that the University of Kentucky is interested in Michigan State head basketball coach Tom Izzo and may contact the school asking for permission to speak to Izzo formally.
The Wildcats have compiled a list of the who's who of coaching candidates. According to more than a few published reports that list includes Izzo, Gonzaga head coach Mark Few, Florida coach Billy Donovan, Marquette's Tom Crean, Memphis' John Calipari and Notre Dame's Mark Brey.

Requests for comment from Michigan State's Sports Information department were not immediately returned.

Of those candidates, most observers believe that Few, Crean, Calipari and Brey would jump at the chance to coach in the basketball crazed hotbed.

Duke involved with Miller

Add Duke to the list of suitors for Mason County junior Darius Miller, who is getting calls from many major NCAA Division I schools.

Mason County coach Chris O'Hearn said Duke assistant coach Steve Wojciechowski has been in contact, and the Blue Devils are now among the schools that Miller is seriously considering.

O'Hearn said the 6-6 Miller is undecided, and other major players appear to be Kentucky, Louisville, Florida, Tennessee, Illinois and Cincinnati.

Miller led the Royals in scoring (19.0), rebounding (7.7), assists (3.5), steals (2.3) and blocked shots (2.1) this season.

Sounds like Rick " Its Not About The Money " Pitino won't be returning to Lexington


LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) -Kentucky's search for its next basketball coach won't include Rick Pitino.

Pitino said Monday that while he enjoyed his eight years with the Wildcats, he's happy coaching Louisville and wouldn't consider returning to the school he led to the national championship in 1996.

"I would never ever leave (Louisville) to go to another college because they're my family," Pitino said.

Though Pitino said he was "shocked" by Tubby Smith's sudden departure last week, he sees too much potential in the Cardinals to consider leaving. Louisville went 24-10 this season and finished second in the Big East before falling to Texas A&M in the second round of the NCAA tournament.

While Pitino acknowledged leaving Kentucky following the 1997 season was a "mistake," he joked that at age 54 he's "too old to leave" Louisville, but understands why there's so much speculation about his interest in the job.


"It's a great job. I had eight years of Camelot, I've said that," he said. "It's the Roman Empire of college basketball."

[wmjsmallwood]

hey ,we gotta have a coach ,and you can't please all the people all the time ,so burn it ,some one esle will put on new !

[spike91]

catpause.com is reporting billy donavon may be ready to sign with UK after the final 4 is done

[TheMan]

Out of all of em.. Donavon is my first choice... the Calipari... They seem up to the challenge...

[kdown]

Let the BIDDING begin $$$$$$$

Machen: 'We're not going to lose Billy'
By Pat Dooley
Sun sports writer
March 26. 2007 9:19AM

University of Florida president Bernie Machen (above) is getting used to the winning. But as he stood on the floor of the Edward Jones Dome on Sunday afternoon watching the Gator basketball team cut down another set of nets, he was asked more questions about the future than the present.

More specifically, Billy Donovan's future.

The Florida coach is expected to be Kentucky's No. 1 candidate to replace Tubby Smith, and Donovan's non-committal response on Friday only fueled speculation.

“He owes it to himself to listen to Kentucky about the job if they offer,” Machen said. “But we're not going to lose Billy to anybody.”

Machen was also asked if Florida's success in this NCAA Tournament might affect any offers that might be coming Donovan's way.

“We have ways of making our own offer,” he said. “We want what's best for Billy.”

[Stella]

Too bad this didn't happen last year. Maybe we could have had Bob Huggins!What a great coach he is. I think he got a raw deal at UC. I see where their program has gone.

[kdown]

NO COMMENT on Huggins

[Flame]

Too bad this didn't happen last year. Maybe we could have had Bob Huggins!What a great coach he is. I think he got a raw deal at UC. I see where their program has gone.

I will have to agree that Huggins got a raw deal on his firing. If they were going to do it they could have approached it differently. But as far as him coming to KY, na he can stay in Texas.

[kdown]

Hey Flame. Huggins is at Kansas State. Out where the corn grows as high as an elephant's eye

[Flame]

Hey Flame. Huggins is at Kansas State. Out where the corn grows as high as an elephant's eye

Actually, I knew that because I just told my aunt when KY played Kansas that was not the school Huggins was at but he was in Kansas. So I have no explaination why I put in Texas. I was listening to sports center so maybe they mentioned Texas and i just typed it. I dunno, I'm off work today and not required to use much of my brain.

[kdown]

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -Iowa might try to lure back former assistant and current Tennessee coach Bruce Pearl to replace the departed Steve Alford.

Tennessee athletic director Mike Hamilton told The Associated Press on Tuesday that he has given Iowa athletic director Gary Barta permission to contact Pearl.

"I just granted permission. Gary Barta and I have been longtime friends, and I knew if there was a time when he was interested in talking we would talk. So he called and we talked and he asked for permission to contact Bruce and talk to him," Hamilton said.

Alford left Iowa after eight seasons to be coach at New Mexico.

[jdshep15]

catspause says it almost a done deal. billy d 3.7 mill a year for 7 years with a 3.7 loyalty bonus if he stays 7. also rumor has it that mrs d was in lex house shopping yesterday:Banane44: :Banane43: :biggrin: ;)

[dpolley]

Did anyone read (or see) the report on Lex18 news concerning an article in The Cats Pause regarding a deal being struck between Billy Donovan's agent and UK? I know that it's probably a rumor ($3.5 mil per year for 7 years with a $3.5 million loyalty bonus if he stays for the length of the contract) but it sure has made for some interesting speculation here.

[dpolley]

catspause says it almost a done deal. billy d 3.7 mill a year for 7 years with a 3.7 loyalty bonus if he stays 7. also rumor has it that mrs d was in lex house shopping yesterday:Banane44: :Banane43: :biggrin: ;)

Ooops! You beat me to the punch!

[TheMan]

Awesome.. I hope it's true...

[Flame]

Did anyone read (or see) the report on Lex18 news concerning an article in The Cats Pause regarding a deal being struck between Billy Donovan's agent and UK? I know that it's probably a rumor ($3.5 mil per year for 7 years with a $3.5 million loyalty bonus if he stays for the length of the contract) but it sure has made for some interesting speculation here.

It is now on Lex18.com that this comment on CatsPause is rumor only. The AD at UK says the process is in the early stages not the later in finding a coach. I don't believe much will come out that is truth until after next Monday night.

[Flame]

Calipari signed a contract extension with Memphis. Guess that takes his name out of the running. Says he wants to stay at Memphis.

[whodey9]

I truly believe Billy Donovan will be at Kentucky next season with a package deal including star recruits Patrick Patterson, Jai Lucus, and Mason County's Darius Miller.

[whodey9]

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -Iowa might try to lure back former assistant and current Tennessee coach Bruce Pearl to replace the departed Steve Alford.

Tennessee athletic director Mike Hamilton told The Associated Press on Tuesday that he has given Iowa athletic director Gary Barta permission to contact Pearl.

"I just granted permission. Gary Barta and I have been longtime friends, and I knew if there was a time when he was interested in talking we would talk. So he called and we talked and he asked for permission to contact Bruce and talk to him," Hamilton said.

Alford left Iowa after eight seasons to be coach at New Mexico.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=2814415

[Flame]

I truly believe Billy Donovan will be at Kentucky next season with a package deal including star recruits Patrick Patterson, Jai Lucus, and Mason County's Darius Miller.

I hope you are right.

[Chuck]

It will be a record salary if it is true. I hope your right but Fl.St. has deep pockets.

[Sassie Mama]

C'mon Billy !!!!

[jdshep15]

who is fl. st.

[dpolley]

:drum: who is fl. st.

Simple mistake.... (It's Florida, Chuck, not Florida State). I'm not sure that Florida State even has a men's basketball team, or at least one worth mentioning (okay, let's see if that gets any responses).

[Chuck]

LOL, I am no sports nut by any means. Expect more mistakes from me on this topic.

(Last comment in this post was mixed up with a PM I sent)

[spike91]

anybody here the rumor of pheonix suns coach mike d' antonio is a candidate too

[rebecca212]

Well to be honest..who ever they bring couldnt be any worse then who they had..and im glad to see tubby gone...there is a god in heaven.......

[spike91]

hey has any one heard ky hired a coach from japan? his name is Whin Wun Soon...lol

[wmjsmallwood]

i agree Stella ,bob did get a bad deal ,and ky would be lucky to get him ,,i mean ,look what he did with nothing!

[dpolley]

i agree Stella ,bob did get a bad deal ,and ky would be lucky to get him ,,i mean ,look what he did with nothing!

Yeah, right! AND, none of his players would earn their degree.

[canaco]

Well I heard a rumor Chris O'Hearn got a call from UK this week.

[Flame]

Key word: RUMOR.

[kdown]

Here's a prediction. I don't know who is number 2 on Mitch Barnhart' list but he needs to keep him on a short string cause BILLY DONAVAN WILL NOT LEAVE FLORIDA.
Period !!!!!!!!

[Flame]

What makes you say he won't, period. There is always a chance. I found out long ago never say never.

[Flame]

You all will have to forgive me for being selfish. I'm am praying every day he comes to KY for two reasons. I think he'd be a great coach and great fit for our program and second he would be so nice to look at for the next several years. Look at the other names thrown out there. They would not be good to look at for years to come. Sorry.

[kdown]

Here are some facts:
Donavan's parents and in-laws have homes in Gainesville.
Donavan and his wife helped raise money to build the school where his oldest is a 9th grader, point guard on basketball team, assistant coach is his grandfather Donavan. The Donavans are extremely active in the community. Donavan's sister bought a house in Gainesville. They love the weather. It's home to the Donavan family. After tonight he will get a large increase in salary and a contract extension. Not one reason to join the insanity that is Kentucky basketball.

[Flame]

The challenge. Depending on his personality he may like challenges and he accomplished what a basketball coach can, a national championship and maybe two in a row. Can he do it at two schools? HMMMMMM. They bought houses in Gainesville and you can sell houses in Gainesville and buy new ones in Lexington. He is still the better to look at than any other names I've heard thrown out there.Please don't crush my hopes till he says no.

[jdshep15]

the main reason he may come to kentucky is one reason its KENTUCKY

[Flame]

I don't care the reason as long as he comes. He can come to KY because of the horses for all I care or the color of the grass. makes no difference to me just as long as he packs his bags and heads north.

[F_Farkell]

[ I'm am praying every day he comes to KY

I would hope you would pray for things like world peace, good health etc. etc.
Praying for a coach is your option
I just can't pray that way:fear:

Yet, to each his own.

[TheMan]

I pray for french fries...

But would love Donavan to be our next coach...

[Flame]

[ I'm am praying every day he comes to KY

I would hope you would pray for things like world peace, good health etc. etc.
Praying for a coach is your option
I just can't pray that way:fear:

Yet, to each his own.

OK it was a figure of speech I did not literally pray to God for Billy to come to Kentucky. I do have more important things to ask God for. I do want Billy to come to KY to coach but I think you took that a little too serious.

[kdown]

Rumor: One of Billy's kids told one of his friends at school, " we're moving to Kentucky."
Now, if you believe that, I've got a bridge in Brooklyn I'd like to sell you...........LOL

There hasn't been this much speculation about something since they elected the last Pope

Rumor: The Donavans have transffered a large sum of money to a Lexington Bank.....Ya and if you believe this you'd believe that the world is flat

Coaches here and coaches there
We know Mitch has got a plan
Try Enny, Menny, Minny, Mo
Cause it ain’t gonna be Don-a-van

Gosh, this is fun......LOL

[KELTYSBOY]

Unfortunately, I have to agree with kdown. Donovan will not be on the UK sidelines come October. He has two years left on his contract and you can rest assured a new one has already been drawn up.
UK has two options. First to hire someone short term and keep looking or they will probably sign Marquette's coach. That's the rumor as of this afternoon. Donovan is booked until the second week of April and won't even discuss the UK job until then. The longer UK holds out for Donovan the field of replacements becomes weaker.

[kdown]

Regardless of who is hired the " wackos " are gonna go crazy

[Chuck]

I don't think Donavan will be in blue next year. But I suspect his salary will be more than 3.3 million a season no matter where he coaches. It really depends on how much Florida is willing to invest in to its Basketball program.

Now take take the words "Ain't and Never", Billy don't want to hear you say that. You cause Florida to not offer him more cash. Emotion from Championships only lasts a year. The cash is for 10 years and lasts forever.

[whodey9]

Rumor: One of Billy's kids told one of his friends at school, " we're moving to Kentucky."
Now, if you believe that, I've got a bridge in Brooklyn I'd like to sell you...........LOL

There hasn't been this much speculation about something since they elected the last Pope

Rumor: The Donavans have transffered a large sum of money to a Lexington Bank.....Ya and if you believe this you'd believe that the world is flat

Coaches here and coaches there
We know Mitch has got a plan
Try Enny, Menny, Minny, Mo
Cause it ain’t gonna be Don-a-van

Gosh, this is fun......LOL

1000's of comedians out of work across this country and then I get on here and read this......

[Flame]

I say if the juniors at Florida stays Billy stays at Florida if they go he goes.

[whodey9]

Florida is 2 days removed from a National Championship, Billy probably had between 12-16 beers from Monday night thru Tuesday morning, woke up and answered questions to the media in which he basically never answered a question definite to Kentucky, and everyone is so anxious to hear if he is going to come to Kentucky or not. Folks, he is in West Virginia today, back at Florida Thursday to meet with with his AD, and then Fridays Gator celebration. Then Saturday he is off for a week long vacation trip to the Dominican with his family and then back to the states. Let me ask you people this, do you actually think he would say I am going to Kentucky when the state of Florida on Friday is going to spray him with more beer, champagne in celebration of the 2nd straight title. Seems to make more sense to me that he would leave the country for a week, say that he discussed with his family and come back and make a decision. Remember Roy Williams took a 2 week vacation after time and time again saying he is not going to UNC, only to go off to a remote site for 2 weeks, fish a little, lay back on his hammack and sip on a Long Island Tea or maybe 5, and then return and the rest is history for Roy Boy. He is a Tarheel. If Billy D is going to be a Wildcat, it won't be until he returns with a package deal for Wayne Krivisky of the REDS and a Dominican pitcher that can fill Eric Miltons 5 spot in the rototation.

[mark125]

I say if the juniors at Florida stays Billy stays at Florida if they go he goes.


Who filled you on this? Gosh sounds like a smart person. Might be the most made sense post I have read in a long time.

[whodey9]

I say if the juniors at Florida stays Billy stays at Florida if they go he goes.

If they stay another year, I could only hope a advisor at University of Florida could please enroll Jokim Noah into a public speaking class, cause obviously after hearing him on CBS post game interview, he didn't learn any speaking skills from the 1st National Title interview a year ago. If he returns for anther year, keep him out of basketball until the NCAA tournament to brush up on his speaking skills. Does this kid go to classes?

[kdown]

Basic communication skills is not a requirement in the NBA. Also I suspect that English is his second language with French being his first

[whodey9]

Basic communication skills is not a requirement in the NBA. Also I suspect that English is his second language with French being his first

I don't think you hit the nail on the head with any of those choices of language.

[Flame]

Maybe they could run him down to the local barber shop or would that take a beauty shop?

I can't blame Billy for not wanting to take some breathing room. I feel like if he is coming to KY his agent may make that announcement while he is out of the country so everyone can calm down a little before he has to come back and listen to more of what he has heard for 2 weeks.

[KELTYSBOY]

Mark125, I must admit I am the one who consutled with whodey9. Although I prefer to stay in the shadows I will come out just this once. Thanks for the compliment.

Who filled you on this? Gosh sounds like a smart person. Might be the most made sense post I have read in a long time.

whodey9, it's just Noah. This has been going on since the games begain airing on television. It's a shame really. You would think universities would have someone prep those players who's grammer is, well, not up to snuff. They embarrass themselves and their schools.
These folks are not in grade schoo. They are in college for crying out loud. You know? Uhh, you know, uhh, etc.

If they stay another year, I could only hope a advisor at University of Florida could please enroll Jokim Noah into a public speaking class, cause obviously after hearing him on CBS post game interview, he didn't learn any speaking skills from the 1st National Title interview a year ago. If he returns for anther year, keep him out of basketball until the NCAA tournament to brush up on his speaking skills. Does this kid go to classes?

[Flame]

I agree about the grammer also but it is not just Noah. I thought Randolph Morris talked with less than desirable grammer. Have you heard Gred Oden talk? Not any better.

[KELTYSBOY]

Forgive me. I meant to say it wasn't just Noah. I believe I clarified there were plenty of college players over the years who should not have been allowed to speak on TV.

I agree about the grammer also but it is not just Noah. I thought Randolph Morris talked with less than desirable grammer. Have you heard Gred Oden talk? Not any better.

Just heard Saul Smith may become the next UK basketball coach. Anyone else heard this?

[whodey9]

Just heard Saul Smith may become the next UK basketball coach. Anyone else heard this?

I think I will go throw up on that one......

[Chuck]

Son of Tubby,,,, It's a Sequel....

It's Tubby Part II,,, He's sending his son.

On a serious note I hear he is pretty good.

[Flame]

Forgive me. I meant to say it wasn't just Noah. I believe I clarified there were plenty of college players over the years who should not have been allowed to speak on TV.

All is forgiven I see where you said UNIVERSITIES. Sorry please forgive me I sometimes don't read very well.

I think I will go throw up on that one......

Ok I'm back I did have to throw up on that one.

[KELTYSBOY]

I was just kidding on Saul. Just trying to get whodey9 to throw up!! Chuck, when you say Saul Smith is pretty good, what exactly do you mean? He's good at what? Keeping stats? Showing up on time? Pretty good son? Pretty good brother? pretty good.....?

[Chuck]

Chuck, when you say Saul Smith is pretty good, what exactly do you mean? He's good at what? Keeping stats? Showing up on time? Pretty good son? Pretty good brother? pretty good.....?

All of the above since you didn't mention BBall.

[KELTYSBOY]

Are we talking about the same Saul Smith that played for UK? Is there another Saul Smith out there somewhere? Am I missing something?

All of the above since you didn't mention BBall.

[kdown]

While we're talking about sons. How about the Suttion brothers.

[Sassie Mama]

wow 88 post and still going. heheheheehe:Banane37:

[Chuck]

Are we talking about the same Saul Smith that played for UK? Is there another Saul Smith out there somewhere? Am I missing something?

Must have Bro. You started the Smith thing as a funny. I was following along. Do go getting serious now. :biggrin:

[kdown]

My 2 favorite teams are Kentucky and who ever is playing Louisville

[whodey9]

Just learned this morning....

http://www.wkyt.com/home/headlines/6879732.html

[kdown]

Ya I read that this morning. I still don't think its gonna happen. UK needs to get going. The ranks are getting thin.
And whomever it is is gonna know they were second choice.

[whodey9]

Trust me, if not Billy, then #2 is already been notified. Its well documented that Billy is the #1 choice, but #2 is also documented.....just not been publicized. Its easier to go out of the country on vacation to think than to be in the hometown of a National Champion 3 days removed from the title to make the decision. I still think Billy comes to UK.

[fridge]

I think Travis has done an excellent job with what he had to work with. He knows the system at UK, and I feel he would be an excellent choice for UK.

[whodey9]

Got this from Dustin Dow of the Enquirer on his Blog:

Thursday, April 05, 2007
UK has gotten permission ...

... to talk to Donovan, according to a Lexington TV station, which cited unnamed sources.

Donovan, earlier in the day, offered this cryptic comment, as reported by the Courier-Journal: "I know I’m getting asked a lot of questions, and I think eventually I’m going to have to give some answers for everybody to do their job and do what they need to do. I have to come out and do something."

He also said he might need to make some decisions about his future before he departs this weekend for a family vacation in the Dominican Republic.

"I think that I may have some time to do that prior (to the vacation)," Donovan said. "I think I have to do that. I think that’s the right thing to do. But I haven’t had time. And I think if I’m in a situation at all in myself that I’m uncertain of something and I need more time, I’m going to take more time."

Could we know the outcome by Saturday then? Regardless of what it is, I think Kentucky has to know by Saturday so it can either hire him or move on to the next candidate.

I read a lot on this guys blog about everything in sports and he tends to be pretty close with what he writes.....Sounds like we might know something by Saturday, which would help in the recruits that are in limbo, i.e. Patrick Patterson-Jai Lucus package, plus with the current players on the team. As my above post said, UK has a #2 waiting.

[whodey9]

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=2826756

On to #2 guy.

[KELTYSBOY]

whodey9. Thanks for the update. Like most, I would love to see Donovan come to UK. However, according to some experts, he's going to announce tomorrow (Friday) during the trophy presenatation at Florida that he is STAYING PUT!
One of his recruits reported today that Donovan sent him a text message during the final four telling him he was looking forward to coaching him AT FLORIDA.
If I was in Vegas I would have wager that Donovan stays at the Univeristy of Florida.
Oh what a mess in the Bluegrass state.

Any idea who the #2 guy is? I'm just not sold on Rick Barnes. Texas is Texas. It's not UK. We made that mistake with Tubby. Burn me one shame on you. Burn me twice, shame on me.

http://sports.espn.go.com/ncb/news/story?id=2826756

On to #2 guy.

[kdown]

Donovan will stay put as Florida coachBy Andy Katz
ESPN.com


Billy Donovan, three days removed from leading Florida to a second consecutive national championship, will remain the Gators' coach and not make himself available to interview for the opening at SEC rival Kentucky.

Donovan told Kentucky athletics director Mitch Barnhart early Thursday morning by phone that he wasn't interested in leaving Florida. Florida athletics director Jeremy Foley told ESPN.com that he and Donovan also met Thursday.

Foley recounted their meeting. "He said, 'This my home, Jeremy. I love the University of Florida. I love you. I had a chance to talk to [wife] Christine and I'm not going anywhere."

Even before meeting with Foley, Donovan apparently had his mind made up. Donovan told some of his close friends Wednesday night that he would not be leaving Florida, according to a source close to Donovan.

Florida will release an official statement on Donovan's decision Thursday afternoon.

[spike91]

WKYT tv is reporting Bily Donovan is staying in florida

So whos next in the UK sweepstakes...wouldnt u think the next coach would have to have the same qualities as donovan

[KELTYSBOY]

I heard Digger Phelps is contemplating a return to coaching college hoops. DCOI has reported Phelps is looking to coach in Lexington.

[kdown]

Surely you're joking

[KELTYSBOY]

Congratulations, whodey9. I don't know what you do for a living but you have a gift for getting it right. Mitch Barnhardt should register with the BBS. He could have save everyone a lot of time and engergy. Not to mention anticipation.
For the record, I believe Donovan made the wrong decision by staying. His top four players are going pro. He would have been better off coming to UK and starting from scratch. Can't wait to kick his gator tail next year.
Hope Digger can get the boys in blue back on the winning track.
Got this from Dustin Dow of the Enquirer on his Blog:

Thursday, April 05, 2007
UK has gotten permission ...

... to talk to Donovan, according to a Lexington TV station, which cited unnamed sources.

Donovan, earlier in the day, offered this cryptic comment, as reported by the Courier-Journal: "I know I’m getting asked a lot of questions, and I think eventually I’m going to have to give some answers for everybody to do their job and do what they need to do. I have to come out and do something."

He also said he might need to make some decisions about his future before he departs this weekend for a family vacation in the Dominican Republic.

"I think that I may have some time to do that prior (to the vacation)," Donovan said. "I think I have to do that. I think that’s the right thing to do. But I haven’t had time. And I think if I’m in a situation at all in myself that I’m uncertain of something and I need more time, I’m going to take more time."

Could we know the outcome by Saturday then? Regardless of what it is, I think Kentucky has to know by Saturday so it can either hire him or move on to the next candidate.

I read a lot on this guys blog about everything in sports and he tends to be pretty close with what he writes.....Sounds like we might know something by Saturday, which would help in the recruits that are in limbo, i.e. Patrick Patterson-Jai Lucus package, plus with the current players on the team. As my above post said, UK has a #2 waiting.

[whodey9]

Thanks Kelty, I am about to get a sports blog started. On another note, how about this thought:

Hire Whodey9, I will take Keltysboy, Mark125 as assistants and give us 100,000 dollars and we go coach the Cats next year. What could we possibly do wrong with a team that is no better than a NIT team next year at best. Give us the boot after one year, we make more money in one basketball season than possibly 2 years of slaving everyday, and in the meantime we give Billy the Kid another shot to come and make Mitch look like a genius???? Thoughts!

[KELTYSBOY]

Make the call. I would like to give two weeks notice to my current employer if at all possible. Here are some things we can do to take the attention away from our NIT team:

1. Ladies Night at Rupp -
2. Get Mike Denham and Charlie Borders to introduce and pass legislation to permit alcohol sales at all home games.
3. Move the student body down into the lower arena. Those who attend just to socialize will be relocated to the lower/upper sections.
4. Have Ashley Judd lead all cheers and in return we will supply all the beer she can drink.
5. Sponsor half court shot at halftime at each game. If they make it then they win a date with Ahsley. If they miss then two free tickets to the Lexington Legends.
Once we turn Rupp Arean into Fun Arena then we can go on the recruiting trail. At the end of our term folks will speak fondly of us I'm sure.
As for recruiting. Guards. Plenty of them. Fast and accurate. Push the ball for the entire game!
By the way, if we're offered the job then we need to replace the equipment manager with, hum, ... Ashley Judd!

Thanks Kelty, I am about to get a sports blog started. On another note, how about this thought:

Hire Whodey9, I will take Keltysboy, Mark125 as assistants and give us 100,000 dollars and we go coach the Cats next year. What could we possibly do wrong with a team that is no better than a NIT team next year at best. Give us the boot after one year, we make more money in one basketball season than possibly 2 years of slaving everyday, and in the meantime we give Billy the Kid another shot to come and make Mitch look like a genius???? Thoughts!

[Flame]

I'd like to take this time to offer to be your agent and get the job for you and make sure your demands with Ashley, half court shot etc....are met before signing a contract.

[littlelee]

Here's a thought. Why don't we hire Pat Summitt? Other than her being a female in a guy's locker room, she's an awesome coach.

[Flame]

She's got my vote. First, she is a great coach. Second, she's a woman.

[whodey9]

Great ideas Kelty, I love them all. Bring smoking back from the outside, maybe we can get Lexingtons Mayor to shoot the first ball, let it brick off the backboard, hit Mark125 in the head, wake him up and he could go get us all three a pregame beer to settle our nerves as first time coaches of the NIT players.

[KELTYSBOY]

That's what I'm talking about! See, we're already on the same page. That's what makes good teams great. If we can get mark125 on the same page we just may be able to pull it off. May even get a one or two year extension.
As for pregame beer, I love the idea. Plenty of our worlds problems have been settled over cocktails. Of course we must agree not to promote alcohol as being cool but rather it needs to be cooled when team managers bring it to us courtside.
Ahh, I can see it now....

Great ideas Kelty, I love them all. Bring smoking back from the outside, maybe we can get Lexingtons Mayor to shoot the first ball, let it brick off the backboard, hit Mark125 in the head, wake him up and he could go get us all three a pregame beer to settle our nerves as first time coaches of the NIT players.

Really appreciate the offer. We're going to need someone to take care of all the details so we can focus on Ashley, uh, I mean, recruiting and coaching. Of course I would have to confer with whodey9 and mark125.
If this pans out you must include in all agreements that the coaching staff will be complimented any and all items they wear, promote, endorse, etc.
Make sure the first call is to Augustus Bush III. Then you can work on down the line...No Dawhares but Joeseph Bank & Co., Nike, etc.
Make sure to include yourself. Not sure the others will share;) I'd like to take this time to offer to be your agent and get the job for you and make sure your demands with Ashley, half court shot etc....are met before signing a contract.

[Flame]

I have a very renouned seamstress working on Ashley's outfit. Mitch and I will be meeting tomorrow afternoon to discuss everyones interests in this deal and what it can mean for Kentucky basketball for years to come.

[mark125]

That's what I'm talking about! See, we're already on the same page. That's what makes good teams great. If we can get mark125 on the same page we just may be able to pull it off. May even get a one or two year extension.
As for pregame beer, I love the idea. Plenty of our worlds problems have been settled over cocktails. Of course we must agree not to promote alcohol as being cool but rather it needs to be cooled when team managers bring it to us courtside.
Ahh, I can see it now....

why do I have to go get the beer? cant we get kneightley to do it.

[Flame]

Ashley could probably go get it for you. I thought you fellows would like to see her in a cute outfit so the one I'm having made for her kinda looks like the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders outfits. Or if you'd like I could get it put in the contract to have the Hooters girls hired and instead of orange shorts and orange and white shirts we get blue and white. Let me know before I talk to Mitch in the morning.

[littlelee]

Just heard on the 11 o'clock news.....Rick Barnes has turned UK down. Course they also said UK never offered so not sure what the deal is there but just passing on what I heard.

[KELTYSBOY]

It wasn't my idea to have you fetch the beer. Kneightly won't be able because he will be asked to retire. If you're going to join me and whodey9 then you'll have to commit, no questions asked.
why do I have to go get the beer? cant we get kneightley to do it.

[KELTYSBOY]

Interesting concept. Hooter girl cheeleaders. I like it. As for Ashley, I respect her to much to exploit her assests. I'm hoping she'll assist me in our goal of rebuilding the program. She and I will need to spend a lot of time together until the game plan is complete.
Ashley could probably go get it for you. I thought you fellows would like to see her in a cute outfit so the one I'm having made for her kinda looks like the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders outfits. Or if you'd like I could get it put in the contract to have the Hooters girls hired and instead of orange shorts and orange and white shirts we get blue and white. Let me know before I talk to Mitch in the morning.

[ponto]

UK will name it's new coach today, Friday April 6, 2007.

Texas A&M athletic director Bill Byrne granted Kentucky permission to contact Gillispie about the opening late Thursday.

Any coach that can beat Rick Pitino is good enough for me.

[kdown]

Guess that means we'll have " Billy Ball " after all

[whodey9]

Press conference scheduled today at 12:15 pm to name Billy Gilespie as UK's next basketball coach.

[KELTYSBOY]

Is this the right decision for UK or a quick fix? One good season doesn't fit the criteria for taking over a program like UK. How long will they give him? Two years? Three?

[whodey9]

Is this the right decision for UK or a quick fix? One good season doesn't fit the criteria for taking over a program like UK. How long will they give him? Two years? Three?

The job should not be for more than 5 years, if a coach can't restore within that time, then its time to move on. Great hire, the guy is young and energetic and can recruit. Had a lot to do with the recruiting class at Illinois when he was the top assistant to Bill Self a few years back when Illinois was a runner up. He was a missed layup from beating Ohio State this year in the Sweet 16. He turned around a A&M team that was in the dulldrums prior to Gilespies arrival. True the Big 12 is not the SEC and never will be, but Wisconsin Milwaukee as a mid major was no where near the SEC for Bruce Pearl and look what that guy has done for that program to reenergize the fan base. I like the hire and we as fans need to give him time. Again Kelty, Mark125, we could all go down to UK and coach next year with the team that he has inherited which on paper looks at best as a NIT team.

Sidenote.....I think with Huggins going to West Virginia, Patrick Patterson might stay at home so not sure what chance we have at Patterson now. Maybe look for something stupid like OJ Mayo getting out of his committment at USC to come back home and play with Huggins. That wouldn't surprise me at all. Mark 125, I got Keightly on speed dial for our coldie drink so he will be back for yet another year.

[whodey9]

Press conference scheduled today at 12:15 pm to name Billy Gilespie as UK's next basketball coach.

Presser has been moved back a hour and is now scheduled for 1:15pm.

[kdown]

Guess its about time to put this thread to bed

[Chuck]

Yep, Poll is closed with the winner getting 1.33% of the votes "Billy Gillespie"