2024 Coaching Carousel

[Section 200]

Because he’s won everywhere he’s been and plays a very exciting brand of basketball offensively and with in your face d. Now he’s going to get the resources in order to get the players he needs to get to that next level and as I said with an appealing brand of bb that the elite players love.

Yeah he’s not been at a big time program and that makes some people crumble, he doesn’t strike me as the type that will.

I just assumed Louisville would get someone who has already succeeded. Mack had them in the Top 5 ever after all the drama - they should have found a way to keep him!

[GoMuskies]

I'm not sure about hanging banners, but he'll get them back to being a competent program that doesn't regularly embarrass the city.

[XUBison]

After watching that press conference I was ready to run thru a wall. Should have hired him after Mack, hiring Steele over that guy is the dumbest thing Christopher has ever done, and he’s done a lot of stupid with coaching decisions.

Of course I’m thrilled we got miller but man I think Kelsey is going to be putting up banners in the yum center.

No argument here, but this board was about 99-1 in favor of hiring Steele. I remember, because I was in that one percent. My contention was that he had never coached before; nothing more insightful than that. I wasn’t for or against Kelsey, although I probably would have been underwhelmed at the time, but I do recall that anyone who put his name out there was chased off by all the pro-Steele pitchforks. I don’t know what my point is… maybe Kelsey wasn’t the answer then either, but it was Christopher’s job to cut through our bullshit, and he didn’t. Oh well, I guess.

[Xuperman]

How do we get Coach Miller if any of that goes differently?

[MHettel]

No argument here, but this board was about 99-1 in favor of hiring Steele. I remember, because I was in that one percent. My contention was that he had never coached before; nothing more insightful than that. I wasn’t for or against Kelsey, although I probably would have been underwhelmed at the time, but I do recall that anyone who put his name out there was chased off by all the pro-Steele pitchforks. I don’t know what my point is… maybe Kelsey wasn’t the answer then either, but it was Christopher’s job to cut through our bullshit, and he didn’t. Oh well, I guess.

I was in favor of Steele. But not because he was the best candidate, but because he gave us the best chance at keeping the “core 4” on the roster and not losing any recruits. I was actually prioritizing roster continuity. If I only knew….

[Xville]

How do we get Coach Miller if any of that goes differently?

We probably don’t because Kelsey wouldn’t have missed the tourney that many times in a row.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Never a good idea to hire a coach just to keep players who will only be there so long anyway. As we saw. Although I hope that isn't why Christopher hired him.

[MHettel]

Never a good idea to hire a coach just to keep players who will only be there so long anyway. As we saw. Although I hope that isn't why Christopher hired him.

Yeah, the roster was fine those first couple years, but Steele just had a horrible system and lousy X&Os.

Most coaches could have had multiple tourney appearances

[Xuperman]

We probably don’t because Kelsey wouldn’t have missed the tourney that many times in a row.

So, that definitely is a complex series of possibilities to noodle. Do we get Free, Jones, Nunge, Hankins, Claude with Kelsey?

[X-band '01]

James Madison hired Preston Spradlin out of Morehead State - didn't take them long to find a replacement after Mark Byington left to Vandy. I like that hire for them - Spradlin turned the Sean Woods train wreck into a team that had a couple of NCAA appearances and quite a few diamonds in the rough (Johni Broome, Mark Freeman, Drew Thelwell to name a few).

FAU still in their hiring process as far as mid-majors go.

[Xville]

James Madison hired Preston Spradlin out of Morehead State - didn't take them long to find a replacement after Mark Byington left to Vandy. I like that hire for them - Spradlin turned the Sean Woods train wreck into a team that had a couple of NCAA appearances and quite a few diamonds in the rough (Johni Broome, Mark Freeman, Drew Thelwell to name a few).

FAU still in their hiring process as far as mid-majors go.

Brings up a point---which job is better, JMU or Vandy? I know the conference argument but Vandy? Yikes.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Danny Sprinkle the new head coach of Washington is now the head coach of his 3rd team since he left Montana State at the end of 2023 season. Didn't realize that. Weird, would have though Hett would be shouting from the rooftops about how awful that is for college basketball.

[GoMuskies]

Maybe Mack will end up at FAU. He's already in Florida, so why not.

[MHettel]

Danny Sprinkle the new head coach of Washington is now the head coach of his 3rd team since he left Montana State at the end of 2023 season. Didn't realize that. Weird, would have though Hett would be shouting from the rooftops about how awful that is for college basketball.

Damn, this rent free living is sweet!

[noteggs]

Pretty cool reaction from Pat Kelsey seeing his new office for the first time.

https://x.com/brauf33/status/1773767862701658157?s=42&t=U5TyKr_wshJKowj_nNzfHg

[X-band '01]

Brings up a point---which job is better, JMU or Vandy? I know the conference argument but Vandy? Yikes.

I'll just say that Bryce Drew is enjoying Grand Canyon a lot more than Vandy. Take from that what you will.

[Xville]

Mack to Charleston?? lol you can’t write that script. Wow. Good spot but kinda insane

[XUGRAD80]

Mack to Charleston?? lol you can’t write that script. Wow. Good spot but kinda insane

The fishing is good around Charleston and it’s one of my favorite cities for history and food. I think he will love it there. Best of luck to him!

[UCGRAD4X]

The fishing is good around Charleston and it’s one of my favorite cities for history and food. I think he will love it there. Best of luck to him!

Spent my brief honeymoon there, and I'm still married, whatever that's worth.

[joe titan]

Mark Montgomery to Detroit; former Northern Il head coach and most recent Izzo assistant at Michigan St. He will be starting from ground zero.

[Xville]

If the rumors are true the muss bus is headed to Compton. Sounds like the rumors of nil not being a good situation are true.

[muskiefan82]

Mark Montgomery to Detroit; former Northern Il head coach and most recent Izzo assistant at Michigan St. He will be starting from ground zero.

Wow. They are Xavier women's team level bad

[XUBison]

Wow. They are Xavier women's team level bad

And there it is… the ladies have become a cliche, synonymous with suck. Ouch.

[Xavgrad08]

Being reported Calipari is talking with Arkansas. Will be interesting if this happens. Makes sense for Calipari to want a fresh start. Especially if he wants to keep coaching another 3-5 years.

[MHettel]

Being reported Calipari is talking with Arkansas. Will be interesting if this happens. Makes sense for Calipari to want a fresh start. Especially if he wants to keep coaching another 3-5 years.

Uh. Who takes UK?

Then the dominoes REALLY start to fall.

Cal is a poor X & O guy. He can recruit (obviously). How do you do it at Ark? Mega donor Walmart money coming to the arena near you?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Being reported Calipari is talking with Arkansas. Will be interesting if this happens. Makes sense for Calipari to want a fresh start. Especially if he wants to keep coaching another 3-5 years.

Seems like a done deal. Unreal.

UK AD, amongst a lot of criticism, publicly backs Cal and says he will be back and Cal turns around and heads out a week later. Crazy. Cal had no buyout but now UK is off the hook for 33 million. Probably a good situation for both sides to part ways.

Now, who the heck does UK go get and what dominoes fall after that? Does that slow any portal decisions as well? Interesting stuff.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If the rumors are true the muss bus is headed to Compton. Sounds like the rumors of nil not being a good situation are true.

Apparently Arkansas guaranteed Cal 15 million per year in combined salary and NIL money. Salary is reportedly around 8 mil per so 7 mil per in NIL.

Tyson chicken family are big donors apparently.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Mega donor Walmart money coming to the arena near you?

Tyson Chicken money.

[X-band '01]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V-Tspdoouns

We know you really mean Tyler Chicken.

[MHettel]

I’m mean really?

Can we fire up discussion about how the portal and NIL are gonna make this game unrecognizable?

7M in NIL from a chicken company?

Game. Fucking. Over.

[D-West & PO-Z]

UK will want Hurley, but probably not be able to get him. Next target per Matt Jones (KSR) should be Nate Oats.

[Xville]

Tyson Chicken money.

I dunno. I’ll believe it when I see it. Muss left, beard and tang both said no. I understand cal is perceived as a different level but sounds fishy to me.

I think both sides just desperately wanted out.

[xuphan]

Being reported Calipari is talking with Arkansas. Will be interesting if this happens. Makes sense for Calipari to want a fresh start. Especially if he wants to keep coaching another 3-5 years.

Wow! What an interesting move by Callipari. Not surprised he is leaving Kentucky but surprised it is for a same conference program. Figured he would maybe move to a program like Indiana next year when they can Woodson. Will be interesting to watch him turn Arkansas into an NBA farm team.

[UCGRAD4X]

I dunno. I’ll believe it when I see it. Muss left, beard and tang both said no. I understand cal is perceived as a different level but sounds fishy to me.

I think both sides just desperately wanted out.

So...chicken money sounds fishy...but does it still taste like chicken?

[Xville]

Only other thing I’ll say on it is that he may get that Tyson money, but unfortunately for Arkansas, he still has to coach.

[XUGRAD80]

Just when you think that nothing in college BB can surprise you any more…..wow!

Let’s start the guessing game now…….who replaces Cal?

Who would you LIKE to see go there?

How about Cronin? Would give me double the reason to dislike UK! LOL

Bob Huggins? Match made in heaven! LOL

One thing for sure, it’s NOT going to be someone without major name recognition and rep. UK Nation won’t accept anything along that line.

[GoMuskies]

How could the SEC Commissioner have let this happen?!?

[Xville]

Just when you think that nothing in college BB can surprise you any more…..wow!

Let’s start the guessing game now…….who replaces Cal?

Who would you LIKE to see go there?

How about Cronin? Would give me double the reason to dislike UK! LOL

Bob Huggins? Match made in heaven! LOL

One thing for sure, it’s NOT going to be someone without major name recognition and rep. UK Nation won’t accept anything along that line.

My guess is they will make a run at Drew, won’t get him. Will try Oates… guessing if the donors wanna pay that buy out he will be there

[XUGRAD80]

My guess is they will make a run at Drew, won’t get him. Will try Oates… guessing if the donors wanna pay that buy out he will be there

If they go for the guy the money wants, getting the money to do so won’t be a problem.

[JTG]

I think Pearl would be perfect. Wins at a good clip, can recruit, bigtime schmoozer, and is an expert at cutting any corners that need to be cut for any reason.

[Xville]

I think Pearl would be perfect. Wins at a good clip, can recruit, bigtime schmoozer, and is an expert at cutting any corners that need to be cut for any reason.

Agreed 100% I think him and Oates are perfect. I know its funny, but rumor is they are seriously going after billy the kid again. Maybe this time hes had enough of the nba? I dunno.

[xuphan]

I think Pearl would be perfect. Wins at a good clip, can recruit, bigtime schmoozer, and is an expert at cutting any corners that need to be cut for any reason.

I think Dan Hurley will be the guy or atleast the top guy on their list. Especially if he wins another national championship. He may look for a new challenge. Seems like a perfect fit for Kentucky based on his personality and coaching ability. Would be a homerun hire for the Big blue.

[Xville]

I think Dan Hurley will be the guy or atleast the top guy on their list. Especially if he wins another national championship. He may look for a new challenge. Seems like a perfect fit for Kentucky based on his personality and coaching ability. Would be a homerun hire for the Big blue.

Learned to never say never with this stuff, but I'd be surprised if Hurley leaves the East Coast willingly. UK would back up the BRINKS truck for him, but to go from one now blueblood to another would be shocking to me. It'd be a huge loss for the Big East so selfishly i wouldn't want it to happen either.

[GoMuskies]

UK hiring Pitino would bring the world back into 1990s era balance.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Agreed 100% I think him and Oates are perfect. I know its funny, but rumor is they are seriously going after billy the kid again. Maybe this time hes had enough of the nba? I dunno.

Timing probably won't match up though with NBA play in games. UK can't wait.

If I had to put money on a single guy I would say it ends up being Oats.

Some college basketball guy on twitter said he has been told Hurley would listen to an offer but I don't see that happening, especially if UConn wins tonight. But Hurley has to be UK's first call.

Luckily I have zero concerns about Miller in this instance, mostly because I think UK would go through at least 5+ options before they ever even considered Miller. UK won't have to go through that many options. UK is a top 3 job if not number 1.

[D-West & PO-Z]

UK hiring Pitino would bring the world back into 1990s era balance.

Would be hysterical.

[XUGRAD80]

UK hiring Pitino would bring the world back into 1990s era balance.


That’s too logical for it to actually happen.

[XUGRAD80]

Keatts from NC State might be a possibility. He can really work the transfer portal and he’s been at NCSt for 7 years now.

[xubrew]

The rumors I'm hearing is that it's gonna be Billy the Kid.

[GoMuskies]

Keatts from NC State might be a possibility. He can really work the transfer portal and he’s been at NCSt for 7 years now.

Keatts was getting fired 4 weeks ago. Don't think one magical run is getting him Kentucky.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The rumors I'm hearing is that it's gonna be Billy the Kid.

Just don't think they can wait for him. Plus not sure he is really interested in returning after saying no multiple times over multiple years. But UK is a special job, so who knows.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Keatts was getting fired 4 weeks ago. Don't think one magical run is getting him Kentucky.

Was about to say the same.

[Xville]

Timing probably won't match up though with NBA play in games. UK can't wait.

If I had to put money on a single guy I would say it ends up being Oats.

Some college basketball guy on twitter said he has been told Hurley would listen to an offer but I don't see that happening, especially if UConn wins tonight. But Hurley has to be UK's first call.

Luckily I have zero concerns about Miller in this instance, mostly because I think UK would go through at least 5+ options before they ever even considered Miller. UK won't have to go through that many options. UK is a top 3 job if not number 1.

Not saying it isn't in terms of college basketball, but both Stoops and Cal wanted the hell out of there this year. Maybe its that the fanbase is so effing nuts there and no one wants to deal with it no matter how much money they make

[Xville]

Just don't think they can wait for him. Plus not sure he is really interested in returning after saying no multiple times over multiple years. But UK is a special job, so who knows.

If Billy wants the job, they aren't going to have to wait. I really don't think he cares about leaving the bulls in the middle of a play-in game run when they habe zero chance of getting out of the east.

Rumor of course, but Billy didn't say no right away when Louisville reached out. Of course ultimately it was a no, but might indicate Billy is ready to return for the right job.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Not saying it isn't in terms of college basketball, but both Stoops and Cal wanted the hell out of there this year. Maybe its that the fanbase is so effing nuts there and no one wants to deal with it no matter how much money they make

I dislike UK and agree their fans are kind of nuts but Cal deserved to go and their fans deserved to be frustrated and want a change.

Didn't Stoops have an opportunity to leave? I think their bball fans are nuts but their football fans seem more realistic.

[D-West & PO-Z]

If Billy wants the job, they aren't going to have to wait. I really don't think he cares about leaving the bulls in the middle of a play-in game run when they habe zero chance of getting out of the east.

Rumor of course, but Billy didn't say no right away when Louisville reached out. Of course ultimately it was a no, but might indicate Billy is ready to return for the right job.

Yeah, maybe, but he'd probably have to leave before the conclusion on the reg season. UK needs to announce a hire by the end of the week I would think. But I guess they could wait until next Monday if Billy really did want to come.

Billy wouldn't be the top of my list if I were UK though.

[Xville]

I dislike UK and agree their fans are kind of nuts but Cal deserved to go and their fans deserved to be frustrated and want a change.

Didn't Stoops have an opportunity to leave? I think their bball fans are nuts but their football fans seem more realistic.

Certainly fair regarding Cal's track record lately. I think he’s been there just too damn long for anyone’s sanity. I guess my point is, is it THE top job if you have to deal with that level of psycho? Are Kansas, Duke, unc fans as bad as uk’s? Maybe it’s just because I’m close to it that I hear more about uk.

As far as Stoops---again all rumor so who knows but what I have heard is that Stoops was offered the A&M job, took it and was ready to tell everyone and then A&M rescinded the offer when fans freaked the hell out.

Heres the story on it

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/ncaafb/texas-aandampm-stoops-to-new-low-by-unhiring-mark-stoops-amid-fan-revolt/ar-AA1kyJFh

[murray87]

UK probably thinks they can lure Jay Wright out of retirement

[xubrew]

Just don't think they can wait for him. Plus not sure he is really interested in returning after saying no multiple times over multiple years. But UK is a special job, so who knows.

You might be right. I'm just repeating what I heard. There are some programs where I feel I know exactly what they are going to do and can completely believe what I hear and who I hear it from. UK is not one of those programs. The rumor made some sense, but I wouldn't bet on it. I'm far from certain that's who it will be.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Certainly fair regarding Cal's track record lately. I think he’s been there just too damn long for anyone’s sanity. I guess my point is, is it THE top job if you have to deal with that level of psycho? Are Kansas, Duke, unc fans as bad as uk’s? Maybe it’s just because I’m close to it that I hear more about uk.

As far as Stoops---again all rumor so who knows but what I have heard is that Stoops was offered the A&M job, took it and was ready to tell everyone and then A&M rescinded the offer when fans freaked the hell out.

Heres the story on it

https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/ncaafb/texas-aandampm-stoops-to-new-low-by-unhiring-mark-stoops-amid-fan-revolt/ar-AA1kyJFh

Ah, yes, I remember that about Stoops now, thanks.

[XUMIOH12]

Keatts from NC State might be a possibility. He can really work the transfer portal and he’s been at NCSt for 7 years now.

WTF how could this have even crossed your mind hahaha. Funniest comment i've seen in a while!

[XUMIOH12]

They are going after Drew and Donovan first.

[D-West & PO-Z]

They are going after Drew and Donovan first.

I think Hurley will be their 1st contact but might be a quick no.

[GoMuskies]

Hurley distracted? Bet Purdue tonight?

[Xville]

Hurley distracted? Bet Purdue tonight?

I bet UCONN to win it at the beginning of the tourney, so yeah if I were you, I'd take Purdue lol

[paulxu]

Cal has had the #1 or #2 recruiting class four out of the last five years. (the other one was 5th)
And yet, hasn't made it out of the first weekend in any of those 5 years.

Given the Arkansas mascot, you'd assume they are familiar with the phrase "pig in a poke."

[XUGRAD80]

WTF how could this have even crossed your mind hahaha. Funniest comment i've seen in a while!


I only said that because of him working the portal so well. One of the biggest complaint that I’ve heard from my UK friends and family is that Cal needed to work it, and wouldn’t. Cal wanted to rely on freshman and the general consensus among those UK people is that they need a change there. Keatts just made the F4 with a basically whole team of transfers. I can imagine some UK people are asking why they can’t just go out and buy the best players from other schools? Well if that’s what you want, Keatts might be just the man to make it happen. I’m not saying that he would be a slam dunk, I’m only saying that he might be a possibility. I doubt he’d be the 1st choice, but was Cal the 1st person that Ark. was talking with? Kentucky isn’t what they were 10 years ago, let alone what they were 20-30 years ago. But the fan base still thinks that it’s their God given right to be the top program in the SEC and the country. How many coaches are going to be willing to put up with that level of expectations and demands from the fan base? I expect them to swing and miss on some candidates because of that.

[Xville]

I only said that because of him working the portal so well. One of the biggest complaint that I’ve heard from my UK friends and family is that Cal needed to work it, and wouldn’t. Cal wanted to rely on freshman and the general consensus among those UK people is that they need a change there. Keatts just made the F4 with a basically whole team of transfers. I can imagine some UK people are asking why they can’t just go out and buy the best players from other schools? Well if that’s what you want, Keatts might be just the man to make it happen. I’m not saying that he would be a slam dunk, I’m only saying that he might be a possibility. I doubt he’d be the 1st choice, but was Cal the 1st person that Ark. was talking with? Kentucky isn’t what they were 10 years ago, let alone what they were 20-30 years ago. But the fan base still thinks that it’s their God given right to be the top program in the SEC and the country. How many coaches are going to be willing to put up with that level of expectations and demands from the fan base? I expect them to swing and miss on some candidates because of that.

Not sure where this narrative came from, but I have seen it in multiple places and think its just recency bias because of this year. It's simply not true overall though:

This year:

Tre Mitchell
Antonio Reeves

2022-2023 roster:

Reeves
Wheeler
Toppin
Tshiewbe
Fredrick

2021-2022

Tshiebwe
Grady
Wheeler
Mintz
Toppin

[XUGRAD80]

Not sure where this narrative came from but I have seen it in multiple places. It's simply not true.

This year:

Tre Mitchell
Antonio Reeves

2022-2023 roster:

Reeves
Wheeler
Toppin
Tshiewbe
Fredrick

2021-2022

Tshiebwe
Grady
Wheeler
Mintz
Toppin

Sometimes perception means more than truth.

[xubrew]

BREAKING NEWS!!!

Kentucky plans to announce Dan Hurley as its next head coach at halftime of tonight's game!!

[xubrew]

So, how long before Kentucky fans realize that any player they have that's worth a damn is almost assuredly going with him???

[XUMIOH12]

I only said that because of him working the portal so well. One of the biggest complaint that I’ve heard from my UK friends and family is that Cal needed to work it, and wouldn’t. Cal wanted to rely on freshman and the general consensus among those UK people is that they need a change there. Keatts just made the F4 with a basically whole team of transfers. I can imagine some UK people are asking why they can’t just go out and buy the best players from other schools? Well if that’s what you want, Keatts might be just the man to make it happen. I’m not saying that he would be a slam dunk, I’m only saying that he might be a possibility. I doubt he’d be the 1st choice, but was Cal the 1st person that Ark. was talking with? Kentucky isn’t what they were 10 years ago, let alone what they were 20-30 years ago. But the fan base still thinks that it’s their God given right to be the top program in the SEC and the country. How many coaches are going to be willing to put up with that level of expectations and demands from the fan base? I expect them to swing and miss on some candidates because of that.

I'm sorry, you can think what you want, it is just such a bizarre comment. Keatts wouldn't even be a top 50 candidate at kentucky, maybe not even top 100 lol.

[GoMuskies]

So, how long before Kentucky fans realize that any player they have that's worth a damn is almost assuredly going with him???

If the team didn't kind of blow last year, and if they didn't basically turn over the whole roster every year for a decade anyway, this realization might hit them a bit harder.

[D-West & PO-Z]

So, how long before Kentucky fans realize that any player they have that's worth a damn is almost assuredly going with him???

They know. Had to rip the band aid off sometime and no better time than now in the history of college basketball to do so.

[MHettel]

Not sure where this narrative came from, but I have seen it in multiple places and think its just recency bias because of this year. It's simply not true overall though:

This year:

Tre Mitchell
Antonio Reeves

2022-2023 roster:

Reeves
Wheeler
Toppin
Tshiewbe
Fredrick

2021-2022

Tshiebwe
Grady
Wheeler
Mintz
Toppin

What narrative, exactly? Was there a narrative that Kentucky ONLY plays freshmen? Or is the narrative that Kentucky is relying too much on Freshmen?

Their rotation this year consisted of 2 seniors, 2 sophs, and 6 freshmen. Thats not a narrative.

[Xville]

What narrative, exactly? Was there a narrative that Kentucky ONLY plays freshmen? Or is the narrative that Kentucky is relying too much on Freshmen?

Their rotation this year consisted of 2 seniors, 2 sophs, and 6 freshmen. Thats not a narrative.

Read what I bolded on 80s post and my response again. You're being difficult, just to be difficult. You must be bored again.

[xubrew]

I'm sorry, you can think what you want, it is just such a bizarre comment. Keatts wouldn't even be a top 50 candidate at kentucky, maybe not even top 100 lol.

I like Kevin Keatts. I think he is an exceptionally good coach and good recruiter.

I also think his chances of getting the Kentucky job are just slightly better than what mine are. It won't be him.

[paulxu]

Maybe Mack went to Charleston too early?
Though I guess it's suppose to be Kentucky and then Louisville.

[XUBison]

How could the SEC Commissioner have let this happen?!?

Yes, it is an outrage! Any word on the emergency meeting the SEC presidents have surely scheduled? I mean, whatever perceived value Greg Sankey once had, this is beyond the pale!

[MHettel]

Read what I bolded on 80s post and my response again. You're being difficult, just to be difficult. You must be bored again.

So if I understand correctly, for the better part of 15 years, Cal relied heavily on Freshmen during almost every season aside from 2 years ago and 3 years ago. And then this most recent year he reverted back to relying heavily on Freshmen.

And then people say "Cal relies on Freshmen too much", and you call it a "narrative." I would say that characterization is pretty factual and spot on. In fact, its the Exception when Cal isnt leaning primarily on Freshmen.

[Xville]

So if I understand correctly, for the better part of 15 years, Cal relied heavily on Freshmen during almost every season aside from 2 years ago and 3 years ago. And then this most recent year he reverted back to relying heavily on Freshmen.

And then people say "Cal relies on Freshmen too much", and you call it a "narrative." I would say that characterization is pretty factual and spot on. In fact, its the Exception when Cal isnt leaning primarily on Freshmen.

Again, arguing just to argue. Read again what I bolded and my response. “ needed to work the portal and wouldn’t” “wanted to rely too much on freshman.”

He did work the portal, quite a bit actually when nil/portal really became a thing. As I stated, for this past year there is probably some recency bias because his class was ridiculous and a lot of freshmen played , but even still he relied on reeves a ton and mitchell as well.


I only went back a couple of years because to most, they get the point. But for shits and giggles here is 20-21:

Sarr- transfer
Mintz—-transfer
Brooks and toppin


Two of those starting five were senior transfers, one soph transfer and two frosh.

Year before out of the top 7 only two were freshmen.

He hasn’t relied on freshmen outside of maybe this year for quite a while (17-18). For time context, Mack was still our coach.

This past year was the aberration regarding the whole rotation since nil/portal was really a thing but even still two of the starters were senior transfers.

[MHettel]

Again, arguing just to argue. Read again what I bolded and my response. “ needed to work the portal and wouldn’t” “wanted to rely too much on freshman.”

He did work the portal, quite a bit actually when nil/portal really became a thing. As I stated, for this past year there is probably some recency bias because his class was ridiculous and a lot of freshmen played , but even still he relied on reeves a ton and mitchell as well.


I only went back a couple of years because to most, they get the point. But for shits and giggles here is 20-21:

Sarr- transfer
Mintz—-transfer
Brooks and toppin


Two of those starting five were senior transfers, one soph transfer and two frosh.

Year before out of the top 7 only two were freshmen.

He hasn’t relied on freshmen outside of maybe this year for quite a while (17-18). For time context, Mack was still our coach.

This past year was the aberration regarding the whole rotation since nil/portal was really a thing but even still two of the starters were senior transfers.

"Jeff Borzello: Once a coach gets to the point where his athletic director needs to release a statement confirming his return as coach, it's hard to regain the trust of the fan base. And Calipari reached that point. The NCAA tournament losses, one Big Dance win since 2019, refusing to embrace the transfer portal and continuing to build freshmen-focused rosters -- it all added up to a frustrated fan base. And so when another school with huge resources and a passionate fan base showed interest, Calipari jumped. Better to leave than live on the hot seat."

that damn Jeff Borzello, feeding the "narrative"

[Xville]

"Jeff Borzello: Once a coach gets to the point where his athletic director needs to release a statement confirming his return as coach, it's hard to regain the trust of the fan base. And Calipari reached that point. The NCAA tournament losses, one Big Dance win since 2019, refusing to embrace the transfer portal and continuing to build freshmen-focused rosters -- it all added up to a frustrated fan base. And so when another school with huge resources and a passionate fan base showed interest, Calipari jumped. Better to leave than live on the hot seat."

that damn Jeff Borzello, feeding the "narrative"

So, I just provided proof that cal actually did use the transfer portal and hadn’t relied heavily on freshmen outside of one of the last 6 years. you come back with a quote from a media member with a narrative and zero facts to back it up, you’re proving my point.

[XU_Lou]

Hmm, 57% of all minutes were logged by freshmen at UK this past year.

That damn narrative!

[MHettel]

So, I just provided proof that cal actually did use the transfer portal and hadn’t relied heavily on freshmen outside of one of the last 6 years. you come back with a quote from a media member with a narrative and zero facts to back it up, you’re proving my point.

yeah, probably one of your weaker arguments. Which is actually quite an accomplishment.

i think you'd argue with a fencepost.

[Xville]

Hmm, 57% of all minutes were logged by freshmen at UK this past year.

That damn narrative!

Reading comprehension is hard

[Xville]

yeah, probably one of your weaker arguments. Which is actually quite an accomplishment.

i think you'd argue with a fencepost.

Says the guy who tried to start arguments with me in three separate threads today.

[MHettel]

So, I just provided proof that cal actually did use the transfer portal and hadn’t relied heavily on freshmen outside of one of the last 6 years. you come back with a quote from a media member with a narrative and zero facts to back it up, you’re proving my point.

Roster limits are 13, right? (not counting walkons)

Since 2009-10, the number of Freshmen on Kentucky: 5, 5, 6, 4, 9, 4, 6, 7, 7, 6, 6, 8, 3, 5, 8.

SMH

[MHettel]

Says the guy who tried to start arguments with me in three separate threads today.

My grandma could start an argument with you....and she's been dead for 15 years.

(actually, I'd put my money on my grandma)

[XU_Lou]

Roster limits are 13, right? (not counting walkons)

Since 2009-10, the number of Freshmen on Kentucky: 5, 5, 6, 4, 9, 4, 6, 7, 7, 6, 6, 8, 3, 5, 8.

SMH

That damn narrative has freaking legs!

[XU_Lou]

Hmm, I wonder why JC himself would feed into the "narrative":

“We’ve been able to help so many kids and win so many games and Final Fours, national titles and all this stuff, win league championships with young guys. It’s changed on us. All of a sudden it’s gotten really old. So we’re playing teams that our average age is 19. Their average age is 24 and 25. So do I change because of that? Maybe add a couple of older guys to supplement."

But stats and quotes aren't real are they? It's all just "reading comprehension", right?

Here's JC right after Oakland whining again about how young UK was:


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=REsnM6ZcPOM

[Xville]

Oats already said no…. Who’s next?

[xuphan]

My grandma could start an argument with you....and she's been dead for 15 years.

(actually, I'd put my money on my grandma)

Haha, can’t stop laughing.

[XUGRAD80]

Oats already said no…. Who’s next?

Hurley


UConn is the dominant program in the last 25 years. Up to 6 National Championships. UK has 4 since 1959, and only 1 (2012) that most high school or college players can remember.

But I think that the main thing that recruits consider is….how many players has the school sent to the NBA recently? I’d have to do some digging to get those numbers for comparison.

[Xville]

Hurley

Apparently he already said no, but maybe he sings a different tune once uk offers to double his salary. Sounds like his wife has zero interest in coming to mid America though lol.

[GoMuskies]

Apparently he already said no, but maybe he sings a different tune once uk offers to double his salary. Sounds like his wife has zero interest in coming to mid America though lol.

If Rick Pitino can convince Joanne Pitino to come to middle America, anything is possible!

I definitely hope Hurley and his wife continue to feel this way and stay far, far away, but the kind of life THEY would lead in the middle of horse country in Lexington, Ky. would be pretty magical. But please, no one tell them!

[Xville]

Personally I think its's a real possibility that UK throws everything at Hurley, Donovan and Drew....and they all say no. That opens up a different and large pool of candidates. I'd have to think Miller would be in that pool. How high or low, I dunno but it's something to keep an eye on.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

If UK was smart, they would save money and pay for Chris Beard out of Ole Miss at a discount. The guy kills it at every spot and would do well in Lexington. I would just tell him to cut the crazy ladies out of life first.

If we lost Miller, X should go after Beard. He would love a chance at a better basketball school.

[GoMuskies]

All signs are pointing to Drew at Kentucky. There were some rumors of UK floating an absolutly silly number to Hurley, but that talk seems to have cooled.

I kind of like Drew. Guess that will have to change.

[XUBison]

Personally I think its's a real possibility that UK throws everything at Hurley, Donovan and Drew....and they all say no. That opens up a different and large pool of candidates. I'd have to think Miller would be in that pool. How high or low, I dunno but it's something to keep an eye on.

I think Sean would have a slightly better chance than Kevin Keatts, and I’d give Keatts a slightly better chance than the return of Billy Gillispie. You are right, though, the search gets more interesting if the pie-in-the-sky options all balk. Some names I heard today were Shaka Smart, TJ Otzelberger, and yes, Rick Pitino.

[bobbiemcgee]

Heard on ESPN Callpari will get 5 mil nil to spread around @ Arkansas.

[Xville]

All signs are pointing to Drew at Kentucky. There were some rumors of UK floating an absolutly silly number to Hurley, but that talk seems to have cooled.

I kind of like Drew. Guess that will have to change.

I didn’t realize him and barnhardt were buds. Drew just doesn’t seem culturally and personality wise like a fit there in any shape or form but whatever. Not sure uk fans would like that hire.

[D-West & PO-Z]

All signs are pointing to Drew at Kentucky. There were some rumors of UK floating an absolutly silly number to Hurley, but that talk seems to have cooled.

I kind of like Drew. Guess that will have to change.

If it is Drew I think that is a pretty solid hire. He will do well there. Outside of Jay Wright, Brad Stevens, or Hurley, Drew would be my choice if I were UK. I'd go Drew over Billy D.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Heard on ESPN Callpari will get 5 mil nil to spread around @ Arkansas.

It keeps going down, it was 6.

[XUBison]

If it is Drew I think that is a pretty solid hire. He will do well there. Outside of Jay Wright, Brad Stevens, or Hurley, Drew would be my choice if I were UK. I'd go Drew over Billy D.

I agree. Drew would seem like a home run to me. His résumé is better than Cal’s was when he took the UK job. Why wouldn’t UK fans be happy with him? As for Donovan, he’s been at the top of everyone’s list since bolting for the NBA, but hasn’t some of the luster been lost?

[D-West & PO-Z]

I agree. Drew would seem like a home run to me. His résumé is better than Cal’s was when he took the UK job. Why wouldn’t UK fans be happy with him? As for Donovan, he’s been at the top of everyone’s list since bolting for the NBA, but hasn’t some of the luster been lost?

If I were a big time school, I would not be interested in hiring a coach with zero experience dealing with NIL/the new college landscape. Obviously they would put people in place who knew how to navigate it but whos to say a coach who has been out and comes back doesn't like it and bolts again for the NBA?

Drew is a way better hire imo than Billy D.

[Xville]

No doubt drew can coach, no argument there. My concern with him at Kentucky would be the same concern I’d have for a lot of coaches. Personality and culturally he doesn’t seem like a fit there. To me I think you gotta be a little effing crazy to handle that fanbase.

[XUGRAD80]

No doubt drew can coach, no argument there. My concern with him at Kentucky would be the same concern I’d have for a lot of coaches. Personality and culturally he doesn’t seem like a fit there. To me I think you gotta be a little effing crazy to handle that fanbase.


The expectations that UK fans have for their program are not rooted in reality. I had this conversation with some UK fans just last night. They still can’t understand that the rest of the SEC has upped their game and that UK is no longer head and shoulders above the rest. They are now saying what many outsiders have been saying for years, that UK needed to do more than just rely on one and done players and that Cal really wasn’t that good of a coach. However, they also seem to think that if they just find the right coach that UK will move right up to the top of the heap in no time at all. Like it won’t be any problem at all. If I was a coach considering taking the UK job, the unrealistic expectations by the fan base would have to be something that I take into consideration before deciding to take that job. It’s an almost no-win situation. If you merely win some of the time, you’re considered a failure. If you won several championships, you’d just be considered as doing what you were hired to do. No big deal. What about next year?

[bleedXblue]

The expectations that UK fans have for their program are not rooted in reality. I had this conversation with some UK fans just last night. They still can’t understand that the rest of the SEC has upped their game and that UK is no longer head and shoulders above the rest. They are now saying what many outsiders have been saying for years, that UK needed to do more than just rely on one and done players and that Cal really wasn’t that good of a coach. However, they also seem to think that if they just find the right coach that UK will move right up to the top of the heap in no time at all. Like it won’t be any problem at all. If I was a coach considering taking the UK job, the unrealistic expectations by the fan base would have to be something that I take into consideration before deciding to take that job. It’s an almost no-win situation. If you merely win some of the time, you’re considered a failure. If you won several championships, you’d just be considered as doing what you were hired to do. No big deal. What about next year?

You win by talking a 10mil a year......

I think UK can very easily go out and buy talent (NIL)

Its a the right mix of players and pieces that Cal couldn't figure out.

[GoMuskies]

UK's fans are unrealistic. But Cal wasn't meeting expectations by any realistic standard. They're absolutely correct to be thrilled to have him head for the exit. I think he'll probably be reinvigorated and be a nice jolt for the Arkansas program for a 3 or 4 year period (if he actually ends up taking that job).

[ArizonaXUGrad]

The win /win is Chris Beard. The guy is a winner, has won at every stop, and he is crazy himself exhibited by his love of crazy ladies.

Make fun of me all you want, but UK would be fools not to offer it to him at like 6-7M.

[Xville]

The win /win is Chris Beard. The guy is a winner, has won at every stop, and he is crazy himself exhibited by his love of crazy ladies.

Make fun of me all you want, but UK would be fools not to offer it to him at like 6-7M.

I think he's a great fit. I think he's a nutjob, and a heck of a coach. If Drew turns them down, I'd think Pearl/Beard would be the next calls. If that tier, says no (which i wouldn't think it would get that far but who knows) that's when I think Miller is in play.

[XUMIOH12]

Drew says no to kentucky

[Xville]

Drew says no to kentucky

Honestly, probably a good thing for all involved. I don't think he's a fit there. Gotta go Pearl/Beard next right? I mean both great fits imo.

[GoMuskies]

Drew says no to kentucky

Well shit, there goes my entire day. Now I have to spend the day laughing at the things Kentucky fans say on messageboards.

[XUGRAD80]

Next man up?

[D-West & PO-Z]

Billy D hasn't said no yet but if he does:

Probably a group of:

Pearl
Beard
Otz

After that you probably get into a group where Miller is considered along the like of Shaka, Brad Underwood, Mark Pope.

[GIMMFD]

Honestly, probably a good thing for all involved. I don't think he's a fit there. Gotta go Pearl/Beard next right? I mean both great fits imo.

Think the only reason it was heavily rumored was Drew and the AD being really good friends or something of that nature, I agree Drew wasn't a fit there. He can stay at a program he took from the ashes, continue to preach at his religiously affiliated school in practices, and they're gonna build a damn statue of him there. He gets a new arena, is getting great recruits and is the man there. UK fans were hilariously underwhelmed at the prospect of Drew as if he isn't a helluva coach. I wonder if they take a swing at Pearl, he's in his 60s now, think he's okay with the relatively tempered expectations at Auburn, would be interesting to see him at the helm of UK though. Beard's a great hire if they go that route as well in my opinion.

[murray87]

If Mack hadn't jumped ship and kept building things here, perhaps he gets the big call from UK.

[Xavgrad08]

I am not sure how connected UK blogger Matt Jones is to the decision makers. I listened to a Twitter spaces with him last night about the search. This was before Scott Drew turned the job down. Matt stated door has not officially closed on Bill D and Hurley. He also stated 5 secondary candidates have been contacted. He didn’t know priority of secondary candidates and didn’t know all 5. He did mention Shaka and Sean Miller in the list of the 5 secondary candidates. He stated Kentucky Ad has already spoken to agents or in some cases the secondary candidates themselves. Hoping Uk lands a candidate at the top of the list. I am not completely nervous, but starting to get a little uneasy.

[XU_Lou]

Maybe this is wishful thinking, but with SM being close friends with Calipari, I would have to think that Calipari has some horror stories for SM about UKs crazy fanbase, and the unrealistic expectations put on coaches. No?

After leaving X the 1st time, it seems like Sean realizes that the grass isn't always greener. He essentially said that with his return to X that we wanted to dial back the stress a little from AZ. I would have to think the stress levels at UK are far higher than AZ.

[GoMuskies]

The rumor mill says Hurley is being offered 8 years/$100 million by UK.

[Xville]

I am not sure how connected UK blogger Matt Jones is to the decision makers. I listened to a Twitter spaces with him last night about the search. This was before Scott Drew turned the job down. Matt stated door has not officially closed on Bill D and Hurley. He also stated 5 secondary candidates have been contacted. He didn’t know priority of secondary candidates and didn’t know all 5. He did mention Shaka and Sean Miller in the list of the 5 secondary candidates. He stated Kentucky Ad has already spoken to agents or in some cases the secondary candidates themselves. Hoping Uk lands a candidate at the top of the list. I am not completely nervous, but starting to get a little uneasy.

I think Kentucky Jesus is mostly full of shit. It's been fun watching Kentucky fans believe they actually had a shot with Hurley though.

Why deal with that kind of fanbase when you can make life changing money and win at a ton of other places? Their fans are stuck in the 90s way of thinking.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

The rumor mill says Hurley is being offered 8 years/$100 million by UK.

That would put him 5th highest paid coach, IN THE NBA.

[MHettel]

I would have to think the stress levels at UK are far higher than AZ.

yup. So is the NIL available.

if you REALLY want to get to a Final Four, UK with a truckload of NIL money seems to be the most logical.

[GIMMFD]

The rumor mill says Hurley is being offered 8 years/$100 million by UK.

Still feel like he'd say no, don't get me wrong, that is a SHIT TON of money, but being a complete East Coast guy, at basically a blue blood (6 championships means your a blue blood, and I don't like UCONN at all), has an outside shot of a three-peat, and has a great thing going at UCONN. Not to mention the comment of his wife being the one they should ask about that, just have a feeling he's not leaving for any amount at this particular time.


Maybe this is wishful thinking, but with SM being close friends with Calipari, I would have to think that Calipari has some horror stories for SM about UKs crazy fanbase, and the unrealistic expectations put on coaches. No?

After leaving X the 1st time, it seems like Sean realizes that the grass isn't always greener. He essentially said that with his return to X that we wanted to dial back the stress a little from AZ. I would have to think the stress levels at UK are far higher than AZ.

I'm just going to assume Miller stays until a deal with UK is signed, sealed, and delivered. It's better to have a coach on the short list than not, even if it is as a secondary candidate at least. I agree that the stress levels at UK are apocalyptic, the boosters and fan base are bat shit crazy. I'm hoping Coach Miller won't burn us twice, and everything he's stated so far seems like he's okay with trying to get X to the pinnacle, so I'm going to just stay completely naive about it lol.

[XUBison]

Chris Beard is an awesome coach, but I wonder if his, ummm, impulsive tendencies might make him a better fit in a more… subdued environment. Pearl seems like the perfect fit, as if he’s been the UK coach for the past 30 years in another universe. He’s already 64, but I thought this kind of interesting… I heard a radio interview with Tony Delk earlier today, and he said he believes the job is really set up for someone who wants to take it on for no more than five to eight years.

At this point, my money is on TJ Otzelberger. I know he’s not the sexy name fans have hoped for, but he also doesn’t have the warts that the other top remaining candidates have. He’s also a heck of a coach, and he’s done an awesome job in the portal.

[Xville]

Apparently mark pope is now a real candidate. lol. That’d be hilarious.

[xuphan]

Maybe this is wishful thinking, but with SM being close friends with Calipari, I would have to think that Calipari has some horror stories for SM about UKs crazy fanbase, and the unrealistic expectations put on coaches. No?

After leaving X the 1st time, it seems like Sean realizes that the grass isn't always greener. He essentially said that with his return to X that we wanted to dial back the stress a little from AZ. I would have to think the stress levels at UK are far higher than AZ.

Didn’t Callipari give Miller advice to leave Xavier for Arizona. Wouldn’t be surprised if Callipari put in a good word for Miller at UK and would probably encourage Miller to go to UK if Miller were to reach out to him.

[94GRAD]

Didn’t Callipari give Miller advice to leave Xavier for Arizona. Wouldn’t be surprised if Callipari put in a good word for Miller at UK and would probably encourage Miller to go to UK if Miller were to reach out to him.

As Sean's friend, you think he would encourage Sean to go to UK even though he wasn't getting along with the AD or the fanbase?

[xuphan]

As Sean's friend, you think he would encourage Sean to go to UK even though he wasn't getting along with the AD or the fanbase?

100%. College coaches are a unique bunch. It wouldn’t surprise me at all. Hopefully UK can hire someone higher on their list before it gets to Miller.

[Xville]

100%. College coaches are a unique bunch. It wouldn’t surprise me at all. Hopefully UK can hire someone higher on their list before it gets to Miller.

That makes zero sense. Do you not know what happened there? Nil dried up, fans were crazy psycho to cal at the end, and cal and the ad weren't even speaking to each other. You really think cal would say to Sean hey friend go coach at uk, it was a shit experience at the end go have fun?

[xuphan]

That makes zero sense. Do you not know what happened there? Nil dried up, fans were crazy psycho to cal at the end, and cal and the ad weren't even speaking to each other. You really think cal would say to Sean hey friend go coach at uk, it was a shit experience at the end go have fun?

NIL dried up? Seriously? Cal was bringing in Top 5 classes year in and year out. Including the 2024 class. McDonaldÂ’s All Americans wouldnÂ’t be going to Kentucky without NIL. That makes zero sense. The problem with Cal is that he canÂ’t coach. Had all the talent in the world but couldnÂ’t coach a lick to maximize the talent. ThatÂ’s why the fans turned on him. It was such a crap experience for him even though he coached there for over a decade, got paid crazy money, being able to recruit the best of the best, and having top facilities? So could I see him encouraging Miller to take the job like he did for the Arizona job. Yes!

[Xville]

NIL dried up? Seriously? Cal was bringing in Top 5 classes year in and year out. Including the 2024 class. McDonaldÂ’s All Americans wouldnÂ’t be going to Kentucky without NIL. That makes zero sense. The problem with Cal is that he canÂ’t coach. Had all the talent in the world but couldnÂ’t coach a lick to maximize the talent. ThatÂ’s why the fans turned on him. It was such a crap experience for him even though he coached there for over a decade, got paid crazy money, being able to recruit the best of the best, and having top facilities? So could I see him encouraging Miller to take the job like he did for the Arizona job. Yes!

Look it’s hard to believe anything that comes out of cal’s mouth but he mentioned it in the press conference at ark. I do have buddies that are pretty well connected people at uk and money was being withheld, and he was guaranteed very little going forward. Do you think he just decided to go to ark on a whim? And btw Kentucky’s facilities are shit. You been to rupp lately or any of the practice facilities/weight rooms etc?

A friend/mentor is not going to tell his mentee to go work for the place that turned their back on him and Sean isn’t going to do that to a buddy/mentor. That’s ridiculous.

Believe whatever you want, you’re just very off on this.

[xuphan]

Look it’s hard to believe anything that comes out of cal’s mouth but he mentioned it in the press conference at ark. I do have buddies that are pretty well connected people at uk and money was being withheld, and he was guaranteed very little going forward. Do you think he just decided to go to ark on a whim? And btw Kentucky’s facilities are shit. You been to rupp lately or any of the practice facilities/weight rooms etc?

A friend/mentor is not going to tell his mentee to go work for the place that turned their back on him and Sean isn’t going to do that to a buddy/mentor. That’s ridiculous.

Believe whatever you want, you’re just very off on this.

Money being withheld yet his entire recruiting class stayed intact until he left Kentucky. Doesn’t add up. You believe what you want to though.

[Xville]

Money being withheld yet his entire recruiting class stayed intact until he left Kentucky. Doesn’t add up. You believe what you want to though.

Oh hey McDonald all American… there may not be any money for you. Wanna still come to Kentucky?

Regardless, not even the heart of the matter which is that cal is not going to tell miller to go there, it makes zero sense.

[Blue Blooded-05]

Did a little snooping on a UK fan forum today. Sean’s name came up in a bunch of threads related to the coaching search and the responses were about 90% negative. Why would anyone want to go somewhere like that when the entire fan base is against you?

[xuphan]

Oh hey McDonald all American… there may not be any money for you. Wanna still come to Kentucky?

Regardless, not even the heart of the matter which is that cal is not going to tell miller to go there, it makes zero sense.

Exactly. Why would they all have still been committed if the “money” had been withheld? Doesn’t make sense.

[xuphan]

Did a little snooping on a UK fan forum today. Sean’s name came up in a bunch of threads related to the coaching search and the responses were about 90% negative. Why would anyone want to go somewhere like that when the entire fan base is against you?

I am curious who there fan base thinks they will get that will be an upgrade to Callipari? Oats said no, Drew has said no, Hurley has indicated not to be interested.

[Xville]

Exactly. Why would they all have still been committed if the “money” had been withheld? Doesn’t make sense.

You know there have been a whole lot of smoke about guys not getting the dollars they were promised, right?

In most states, guys can’t start getting this money until they are enrolled.

[GoMuskies]

Calipari is at war with UK and definitely wouldn't tell Miller to go there, but Calipari caused the shitty situation for himself at UK. I'm sure he's in denial and feels bad for himself, so he'd tell anyone who asks not to go there.

[Xville]

Calipari is at war with UK and definitely wouldn't tell Miller to go there, but Calipari caused the shitty situation for himself at UK. I'm sure he's in denial and feels bad for himself, so he'd tell anyone who asks not to go there.

Yep true. Don’t know how true this is, but knowing her I wouldn’t doubt it. Kelly Kraft the failed governor candidate (whose family btw is one of the biggest donors to the program and nil) wanted some uk players paraded around her campaign to help out including tshewbe. Cal put his foot down, Kraft got pissed.

[XUBison]

UK is hiring Mark Pope.

[XUGRAD80]

UK is hiring Mark Pope.


That’s what’s being reported, and I think he may be a good choice. But….until the deal is signed it could still all fall apart.

[Xville]

That’s what’s being reported, and I think he may be a good choice. But….until the deal is signed it could still all fall apart.

Respectfully why would you think this is a good choice?

[muskiefan82]

UK is hiring Mark Pope.

Does this mean that UK will now be fun to watch?

[XUGRAD80]

Respectfully why would you think this is a good choice?

Good in the sense that I think he is a good coach and as he is a former UK player he will have the support of many fans. Having been a former player he will also understand what the pressures and expectations are that the job brings. I also don’t see him moving from BYU to UK as something that is going to cause ripples in the coaching pool that will be felt across the land, unlike what might have happened if Cronin (UCLA) or someone from another major program had taken the job. Have to believe that Miller at X is a pretty stable situation now.

[D-West & PO-Z]

Money being withheld yet his entire recruiting class stayed intact until he left Kentucky. Doesn’t add up. You believe what you want to though.

Cal coaches 50 players at UK who ended up in the NBA. 50.

If you don't think that is a motivating factor to some of the best high school players in line with (and maybe sometimes above) NIL money, you are kidding yourself. Cal at UK had the easiest time ever selling top high school guys to come.

Not saying they didn't get money but it was well documented Cal alienated boosters who were not opening up their checkbooks as much as they would have or had in the past.

[XUGRAD80]

Not saying they didn't get money but it was well documented Cal alienated boosters who were not opening up their checkbooks as much as they would have or had in the past.

I think I also read where Cal said that HE had to go out and solicit the NIL money himself, while at UK, and that he won’t have to do that at Arkansas. At UA they have donors that seem to be dying to donate money to the NIL fund. That’s a big change.

[JTG]

I think I also read where Cal said that HE had to go out and solicit the NIL money himself, while at UK, and that he won’t have to do that at Arkansas. At UA they have donors that seem to be dying to donate money to the NIL fund. That’s a big change.

Just remember, that now, whenever you eat chicken or set foot in a Walmart you are helping Cal's quest for a Natty.

[paulxu]

If UK hires Pope, maybe we'll see more of the Popes on TV.

[Xville]

I think I also read where Cal said that HE had to go out and solicit the NIL money himself, while at UK, and that he won’t have to do that at Arkansas. At UA they have donors that seem to be dying to donate money to the NIL fund. That’s a big change.

Yep thank you. And from what I have heard, he was being nice. It was worse than that and uk donors can be a bitter bunch. It was his own doing, but it was not a good situation at all. You don’t just leave to go to Fayetteville because you want to.

[Xville]

Good in the sense that I think he is a good coach and as he is a former UK player he will have the support of many fans. Having been a former player he will also understand what the pressures and expectations are that the job brings. I also don’t see him moving from BYU to UK as something that is going to cause ripples in the coaching pool that will be felt across the land, unlike what might have happened if Cronin (UCLA) or someone from another major program had taken the job. Have to believe that Miller at X is a pretty stable situation now.

Fair. From what I have heard though, Barnhart went rogue on this one. He just wasn’t going to hire someone with any baggage whatsoever and he’s at the end of his career so he doesn’t give an f. If it doesn’t work out, he can ride off into the sunset.

[XUGRAD80]

Just remember, that now, whenever you eat chicken or set foot in a Walmart you are helping Cal's quest for a Natty.

If everyone in KY stopped shopping at Walmart and eating frozen chicken the states economy would collapse.

[GIMMFD]

Good in the sense that I think he is a good coach and as he is a former UK player he will have the support of many fans. Having been a former player he will also understand what the pressures and expectations are that the job brings. I also don’t see him moving from BYU to UK as something that is going to cause ripples in the coaching pool that will be felt across the land, unlike what might have happened if Cronin (UCLA) or someone from another major program had taken the job. Have to believe that Miller at X is a pretty stable situation now.

Honestly I feel kind of bad for Pope, imagine getting into coaching, your alma mater is your dream job where you played and won a National Championship at, and it's all becoming real but the majority of the fan base is absolutely bashing your coaching chops and are in arms about the hire. Obviously can be motivating too, and I also completely see UK fan's point of view about this but damn that's brutal.

[MHettel]

Honestly I feel kind of bad for Pope, imagine getting into coaching, your alma mater is your dream job where you played and won a National Championship at, and it's all becoming real but the majority of the fan base is absolutely bashing your coaching chops and are in arms about the hire. Obviously can be motivating too, and I also completely see UK fan's point of view about this but damn that's brutal.

The irony is that UKs fan base is the reason why all the other candidates turned them down. Aside from the fan base UK is an incredibly attractive job. But you gotta deal with the crazies.

[XUGRAD80]

Honestly I feel kind of bad for Pope, imagine getting into coaching, your alma mater is your dream job where you played and won a National Championship at, and it's all becoming real but the majority of the fan base is absolutely bashing your coaching chops and are in arms about the hire. Obviously can be motivating too, and I also completely see UK fan's point of view about this but damn that's brutal.

Yeah they are so upset that only two people have donated 4 million to the NIL fund on his 1st day there. After he puts together a roster and wins a few games the rest will come around. The UK fans are going to support their coach win or win.

[D-West & PO-Z]

The irony is that UKs fan base is the reason why all the other candidates turned them down. Aside from the fan base UK is an incredibly attractive job. But you gotta deal with the crazies.

They really only reached out to 2 guys though. They didn't want to wait on Billy D (reportedly) to finish the NBA season (not saying he would have taken it but supposedly did not say no). Surprised they moved on to Pope so quickly. There are guys with a lot more accomplishments who likely would have taken the job. No way Pearl would have said no.

[GoMuskies]

Rick Pitino was practically publicly begging for the job.

[Xville]

They really only reached out to 2 guys though. They didn't want to wait on Billy D (reportedly) to finish the NBA season (not saying he would have taken it but supposedly did not say no). Surprised they moved on to Pope so quickly. There are guys with a lot more accomplishments who likely would have taken the job. No way Pearl would have said no.

Yeah could have gotten Pearl/beard easily. Barnhart didn’t want “baggage.” It may work out for them like a Hubert Davis or scheyer or it could be a mullin, Ewing, Payne situation.

[GoMuskies]

None of Mullin, Ewing, Payne or Drexler (don't forget him) had head coaching experience. Mark Pope has already been relatively successful as a head coach of two different schools. He might not be great, but he shouldn't be a disaster like those guys.

[paulxu]

Whenever there's an article on Chris Mack, I'm just struck by how strange it is to have him be at CofC, and Kelsey at Louisville.

[GoMuskies]

Pretty amazing coaching legacy there are College of Charleston. John Kresse was fantastic. They got the end of Bobby Cremmins (and he did pretty well there). Gregg Marshall was head coach there for 5 minutes. Pat Kelsey. And now Chris Mack. An incredible group.

[xubrew]

Charleston is probably one of my favorite cities in the United States. I may not like it if I ever actually lived there for an extended period of time, but holy shit is it a great place to visit!!

[Xville]

Charleston is probably one of my favorite cities in the United States. I may not like it if I ever actually lived there for an extended period of time, but holy shit is it a great place to visit!!

Agree 100%. Vacation there with the wife and kids every October, and every time I wonder why we don't live there. What housing prices have done since Covid may have something to do with it though. It's gotten pretty insane in the areas you'd actually want to move to.

[xu82]

Charleston is probably one of my favorite cities in the United States. I may not like it if I ever actually lived there for an extended period of time, but holy shit is it a great place to visit!!

When I lived in Hilton Head my boss was in Charleston, so I spent a good bit of time there. I absolutely love that town, and I’d pay above what the bank would approve to stay at B&B’s from time to time. I haven’t been in years, but I’d love to get back.

The one thing I would warn you or anyone about is the summer heat. That whole lowcountry area can cook you to death in the summer, and fall weather does not come early. It was actually much cooler when we move to Sarasota, FL.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Ed Cooley out at G'town to Virginia with Bennett retiring. Crazy to have happened just a couple weeks before the season.

[xubrew]

Ed Cooley out at G'town to Virginia with Bennett retiring. Crazy to have happened just a couple weeks before the season.

It looks as though Simon Charles has done it again!!

Ed Cooley is NOT going to Virginia.

[ArizonaXUGrad]

It looks as though Simon Charles has done it again!!

Ed Cooley is NOT going to Virginia.

My guy here told me, whew honestly.

We were in shock at lunch when he got a text but from Saint Louis coaches.

[xubrew]

My guy here told me, whew honestly.

We were in shock at lunch when he got a text but from Saint Louis coaches.

He's had some great ones!! And he's fooled some big time people before! But, its a parody account...

https://x.com/S_CharlesNFL?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eser p%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

[xubrew]

Hilarious!!! HOW DOES HE KEEP DOING IT!!?? Fox Sports actually ran a story about how it was all just a rumor!!!

https://x.com/CBBonFOX/status/1849179910897885620

[GoMuskies]

Todd Golden is out at Florida. That might be tomorrow's headline or the next day's, but he's out.

By the way, go to the orthodontist, dude.

https://dxbhsrqyrr690.cloudfront.net/sidearm.nextgen.sites/gatorzone.com/images/2022/3/23/GoldenTodd_Men_sBasketball_Headshot_220323_7537_.j pg?width=300

[D-West & PO-Z]

Todd Golden is out at Florida. That might be tomorrow's headline or the next day's, but he's out.

By the way, go to the orthodontist, dude.

https://dxbhsrqyrr690.cloudfront.net/sidearm.nextgen.sites/gatorzone.com/images/2022/3/23/GoldenTodd_Men_sBasketball_Headshot_220323_7537_.j pg?width=300

The bad teeth kind of goes with the creeper vibe though, so has to keep em that way.

[MHettel]

Todd Golden is out at Florida. That might be tomorrow's headline or the next day's, but he's out.

By the way, go to the orthodontist, dude.

https://dxbhsrqyrr690.cloudfront.net/sidearm.nextgen.sites/gatorzone.com/images/2022/3/23/GoldenTodd_Men_sBasketball_Headshot_220323_7537_.j pg?width=300

What happened? He’s been there for a year or 2 right? Scandal of some sort?

[ArizonaXUGrad]

Sexual harassment and stalking, holy cow. Edit, allegedly.

[noteggs]

Apparently sending unsolicited pictures of his junk.

Yes allegedly

[xu82]

Todd Golden is out at Florida. That might be tomorrow's headline or the next day's, but he's out.

By the way, go to the orthodontist, dude.

https://dxbhsrqyrr690.cloudfront.net/sidearm.nextgen.sites/gatorzone.com/images/2022/3/23/GoldenTodd_Men_sBasketball_Headshot_220323_7537_.j pg?width=300

He had a beautiful smile!

He went a to an orthodontist to make it like that.

Allegedly.

[X-band '01]

Apparently sending unsolicited pictures of his junk.

Yes allegedly

Who knew that Florida would hire Florida Man to coach them.