Merged: UK Basketball

[dabvu2498]

Saw this article today from Jerry Tipton: http://www.kentucky.com/818/story/724533.html This is why Gillispie will not be back next year. Gillispie goes on to say that it's his job to win games. Granted. However, he apparently fails to grasp what it means to be the head of a program so rich in tradition. Someone said earlier that Gillispie's downfall will be the stuff that doesn't happen between tip-off and the final buzzer and I agree. Barnhart should have known this would be an issue 2 years ago.

[BRM]

Barnhart should have known this would be an issue 2 years ago.

I just read a Courier-Journal article that stated that very thing. This is Billy Gillispie, like him or not. He hasn't changed nor will he.

[BRM]

Here it is. It's from Eric Crawford.



All Gillispie wants to change is UK's record

The Kentucky players had left the locker room after yesterday's 71-58 win over Mississippi in the first game of the SEC Tournament.

The lone remaining Wildcat was coach Billy Gillispie, who was surrounded by a small group of reporters. He held a plastic cup of soft drink and never stopped fidgeting with it as talk turned to his future at UK.

Here's the main thing you need to know about Gillispie's approach when it comes to the recent speculation concerning his job.

"I didn't come here to be a celebrity," Gillispie said. "I came here to coach basketball."

You might or might not like Gillispie, the job he has done as coach, his demeanor with the public and the media or his sometimes maddening stubbornness in matters ranging from substitutions to strategy. But yesterday Gillispie made one thing clear: Like him or not, you're not going to change him.

Last week, UK athletic director Mitch Barnhart told ESPN.com that he would sit down with the coach at the end of the season. He talked about the need for "adjustments," and spoke about the public role of the UK basketball coach.

Asked to respond, Gillispie said, "You need to talk to Mitch, I guess. I don't know. I don't have any response to anything. It doesn't matter to me. You're talking to the wrong guy."

This is who Gillispie is. He wants to coach. He wants to recruit. He doesn't want to entertain you. And here's the problem, if Barnhart is dissatisfied with this. It's who Gillispie always has been. It's who he was at Texas A&M. It's who he was last season.

When Gillispie arrived, he was viewed as a breath of small-town Texas fresh air. He was no-nonsense and serious about winning. He had no life outside of basketball. Nothing Gillispie has done here, with the exception of going 8-8 in the Southeastern Conference, has been different from the coach who was advertised. This is who Barnhart chose. And this is who he got.

The problem -- and Gillispie said this yesterday -- isn't his public persona. It's his win-loss record. If Gillispie were winning the SEC, he could bring Jeannine Edwards flowers and call her honey, and his fan base would smile and wink.

But you mess with their string of NCAA Tournaments, and the charm wears off faster than the dew on a Texas summer morning. Gillispie insisted yesterday that the public requirements of the UK job are just like any other coaching job.

When pressed with the notion that UK's coach has more of a public role than most, Gillispie quipped, "Well, that wasn't on the job description. … You can be as public as you want to be and not win enough games and it makes no difference. We have to win games."

"I think, like I've said many times before, our No. 1 thing is to coach the team and our No. 2 thing is to recruit, and those are very, very, very close," he said moments before. "And those are the main things that we need to do to get this program back where it needs to be. Celebrity, whatever, makes me no difference."

As he spoke, Gillispie glanced over at an SEC official who was counting down until the mandatory interview period would be ended. "Two minutes," he shouted out at one point.

UK basketball, I've said in this space before, has enjoyed its greatest heights with coaches who were iconic. Adolph Rupp. Rick Pitino. Men who commanded attention and were masters with the media. Barnhart is no more going to move Gillispie in that direction than he is going to get him to try a zone defense. In fact, Barnhart might have more luck on the zone thing.

Gillispie is wrong if he thinks the public role of the UK coach isn't greater than that of most coaches. But on this he is right: Winning is the ultimate personality enhancer.

[dabvu2498]

Here it is. It's from Eric Crawford. Let me ask you this -- how would IU fans have reacted if Overrated Crean had made this type of comment?

[BRM]

Let me ask you this -- how would IU fans have reacted if Overrated Crean had made this type of comment?

Probably not very well. IU's situation was a tad different though. Crean replaced a guy that got the program in trouble thanks to NCAA violations. Billy replaced an underachiever. UK wanted and needed a guy to come in and start winning lots of games. IU needed someone to come in and clean up a gigantic mess.

[dabvu2498]

Probably not very well. IU's situation was a tad different though. Crean replaced a guy that got the program in trouble thanks to NCAA violations. Billy replaced an underachiever. UK wanted and needed a guy to come in and start winning lots of games. IU needed someone to come in and clean up a gigantic mess. I meant, with the comparison, that Overrated Crean has done all the right things, pr wise, and it doesn't seem to have hurt him in recruiting or getting his team prepared and playing hard. And it has smoothed the way in a rough season.

[BRM]

I meant, with the comparison, that Overrated Crean has done all the right things, pr wise, and it doesn't seem to have hurt him in recruiting or getting his team prepared and playing hard. And it has smoothed the way in a rough season.

Absolutely. He managed to completely energize a dejected fanbase. Assembly Hall was packed at the end of the season, a season where the Hoosiers went 6-25. That's pretty incredible. And I have no idea how he kept those kids playing with so much intensity even though the losses were piling up. His "PR" abilities certainly didn't hurt recruiting either. They've got a top 10 class coming in next year.

[jmac]

Changing the subject while keeping UK involved, the NIT is probably licking its chops at some of the teams it could be looking at.

Kentucky
Georgetown
Cincinnati
Notre Dame
Minnesota
to name a few possibles. Anyone smell an early round matchup of UK vs Minn ?

[WMR]

I meant, with the comparison, that Overrated Crean has done all the right things, pr wise, and it doesn't seem to have hurt him in recruiting or getting his team prepared and playing hard. And it has smoothed the way in a rough season.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKjxFJfcrcA


;)

[macro]

This may not be a popular opinion, but I don't think UK should play in the NIT. Why would they want to extend this season? It's not like they're having so much fun and don't want it to end.

As a fan, why would you want to see this team play more basketball games during the 2008-09 season?

[Blimpie]

Changing the subject while keeping UK involved, the NIT is probably licking its chops at some of the teams it could be looking at.

Kentucky
Georgetown
Cincinnati
Notre Dame
Minnesota
to name a few possibles. Anyone smell an early round matchup of UK vs Minn? Not me.

UK will probably come up short; while, I think Minnesota has played their way into the NCAA this week. Their RPI keeps getting better and better and their early season win over Louisville doesn't hurt either.

By the way, I think you need to add Arizona to your list. No way that team belongs in the field either.

[Blimpie]

This may not be a popular opinion, but I don't think UK should play in the NIT. Why would they want to extend this season? It's not like they're having so much fun and don't want it to end.

As a fan, why would you want to see this team play more basketball games during the 2008-09 season?This might sound lame to some, but I would like to see them make a run in the NIT and play in MSG. It could help UK re-capture some recruiting prowess in the Big Apple-the likes of which we have not seen since the little Italian fello roamed the sidelines of Rupp.

Also, I think it would be cool to see them play a home game next week in the (remodeled) Memorial Coliseum. With the high school-like seating capacity, pulling a ticket would be next to impossible...but I would like to give it a shot.

I have an original piece of the floor from Memorial that was salvaged a year or so ago during the remodel. The nostaligic side of me would love to say that I saw them play an actual meaningful game in that gym.

[WVRed]

This might sound lame to some, but I would like to see them make a run in the NIT and play in MSG. It could help UK re-capture some recruiting prowess in the Big Apple-the likes of which we have not seen since the little Italian fello roamed the sidelines of Rupp.

Also, I think it would be cool to see them play a home game next week in the (remodeled) Memorial Coliseum. With the high school-like seating capacity, pulling a ticket would be next to impossible...but I would like to give it a shot.

I have an original piece of the floor from Memorial that was salvaged a year or so ago during the remodel. The nostaligic side of me would love to say that I saw them play an actual meaningful game in that gym.

I could see Gillispie pulling something to this effect:

"You don't deserve to play in Rupp Arena. We are playing this game at Memorial Coliseum"

[WVRed]

Saw this article today from Jerry Tipton:

http://www.kentucky.com/818/story/724533.html


You do realize getting your information from Tipton is the equivalent of getting it from the horses behind, right?:)

Honestly, I could care less how Gillispie comes off with the media. The fact of the matter is, Kentucky fans (and I am one) have been spoiled with coaches who are all things to all people.

Rick Pitino relished in the role. Tubby was able to handle it as well. Every coach here since Rupp has been somewhat cordial with the media. The only thing I care about is wins and making it to the NCAA tournament. That didn't happen, but we are still going through a transition with a young coach.

[dabvu2498]

I could see Gillispie pulling something to this effect: "You don't deserve to play in Rupp Arena. We are playing this game at Memorial Coliseum" He wouldn't have any choice. Sweet 16 is at Rupp next week.

[WVRed]

He wouldn't have any choice. Sweet 16 is at Rupp next week.

True. It should speak volumes though. I'm sure they could move the tournament to Memorial or even Freedom Hall if they wanted. I am hoping Gillispie takes a page from Billy Donovan to send a message.

BTW, what was the comment from Larry Conley about how Darius Miller may not be back next season? That was the first I had heard anything.

[Boston Red]

Move the Sweet Sixteen for the NIT?!?! Are you nuts?

I remember Louisville having to play an NIT game in Broadbent Arena one year because Freedom Hall was unavailable. Now THAT's an unappealing location for a game!

[WVRed]

Move the Sweet Sixteen for the NIT?!?! Are you nuts?

I remember Louisville having to play an NIT game in Broadbent Arena one year because Freedom Hall was unavailable. Now THAT's an unappealing location for a game!

I'm sure it could be done, but IMO I would rather see UK play the games at Memorial.

Even then, here is the real question.

Which do you think would provide the bigger draw? The Sweet Sixteen at Rupp or Kentucky playing in a second rate tournament? Like it or not, UK would still likely draw a bigger crowd, even with the high school tourney going on.

PS: If Kentucky draws Minnesota, they likely would have to play at Rupp.;)

[dabvu2498]

True. It should speak volumes though. I'm sure they could move the tournament to Memorial or even Freedom Hall if they wanted. I am hoping Gillispie takes a page from Billy Donovan to send a message. BTW, what was the comment from Larry Conley about how Darius Miller may not be back next season? That was the first I had heard anything. Not a chance. I already have my Sweet 16 tix in hand and hotel reservations made. There would be hell to pay if they tried to move it. From me and several thousand others who already have our tix.

[dabvu2498]

I'm sure it could be done, but IMO I would rather see UK play the games at Memorial. Even then, here is the real question. Which do you think would provide the bigger draw? The Sweet Sixteen at Rupp or Kentucky playing in a second rate tournament? Like it or not, UK would still likely draw a bigger crowd, even with the high school tourney going on. PS: If Kentucky draws Minnesota, they likely would have to play at Rupp.;) They won't draw the Fightin' Tubbies in the 1st round. Uk in the Not Invited Tourney may outdraw the Sweet 16 this year. No Uk recruits, no Scott County and no real compelling stories other than Elliot Cty.

[WVRed]

They won't draw the Fightin' Tubbies in the 1st round. Uk in the Not Invited Tourney may outdraw the Sweet 16 this year. No Uk recruits, no Scott County and no real compelling stories other than Elliot Cty.

Granted, Tubby did leave on better terms than Pitino.

Every time I have ever went to the Sweet 16, it has always been easier to get better seats than going to a game at Rupp. To my knowledge, Rupp doesn't sell out during the Sweet 16. That being said, the NIT likely wouldn't be much of a draw.

[dabvu2498]

Granted, Tubby did leave on better terms than Pitino. Every time I have ever went to the Sweet 16, it has always been easier to get better seats than going to a game at Rupp. To my knowledge, Rupp doesn't sell out during the Sweet 16. That being said, the NIT likely wouldn't be much of a draw. When Farmer was at Clay County they got pretty close to selling out. They generally draw 14-16k depending on who is playing. I would guess they would get 20k or so for a NIT 1st round game as some folks would see it as a chance to see them live when they might otherwise not get to. 9k seats at Memorial will go fast. If for nothing else than the novelty.

[Boston Red]

It's all academic, though. UK has already said that any first round NIT game would be at Memorial.

[jmac]

You do realize getting your information from Tipton is the equivalent of getting it from the horses behind, right?:)

Honestly, I could care less how Gillispie comes off with the media. The fact of the matter is, Kentucky fans (and I am one) have been spoiled with coaches who are all things to all people.

Rick Pitino relished in the role. Tubby was able to handle it as well. Every coach here since Rupp has been somewhat cordial with the media. The only thing I care about is wins and making it to the NCAA tournament. That didn't happen, but we are still going through a transition with a young coach.

As you stated "Every coach here since Rupp has been somewhat cordial with the media".
Even Hall and Sutton. Of course KY has always been one of THE teams in basketball and winning helped the coaches to an extent. But with the UK program, comes call in shows, tv shows, endorsements, pre and post game radio as well as lots of other interviews for networks etc.
I am sure he wouldnt admit it but Leach probably doesnt relish the job of interviewing BG very much. ;)
As far as it mattering. I told a guy this week if we were winning, it may not stand out as much yet as a fan, it does embarrass me when he looks like a jerk on National TV. Now everyone has their moments, so once or twice doesnt bother me but I just hope he doesnt develope this type of persona as the rule rather than the exception.

[Matt700wlw]

So, does Minnesota make the dance?

[Blimpie]

So, does Minnesota make the dance?
I can't see how they miss the NCAA at this point.

BTW, for those that inquired earlier, the Sweet 16 had an iron-clad contract with the Lexington Center and had no desire to move venues for the NIT.

The early round games of the Sweet 16 do not normally sellout because they are afternoon affairs. However, depending upon the teams, I have seen those games close to capacity, as well. This year, Lexington Catholic is really the real draw from Central KY.

[BRM]

Not a chance. I already have my Sweet 16 tix in hand and hotel reservations made. There would be hell to pay if they tried to move it. From me and several thousand others who already have our tix.

Pfft. It's not like you can't catch a cab from Lexington to Louisville to see your precious Sweet Sixteen. ;)

[George Foster]

So, does Minnesota make the dance?

If Miss St. beats Tenn. tomorrow, I think they take Minnesota's spot. I think Baylor makes it as well. Minnesota is really on the bubble.

[George Foster]

When Farmer was at Clay County they got pretty close to selling out. They generally draw 14-16k depending on who is playing. I would guess they would get 20k or so for a NIT 1st round game as some folks would see it as a chance to see them live when they might otherwise not get to. 9k seats at Memorial will go fast. If for nothing else than the novelty.

I been to every sweet-sixteen for the last 22 years. Not every game but several each year. The 1987 game when Farmer was a junior was close to selling out for the final game.

Farmers senior year in 1988, they made it to the final game at Freedom Hall against Allen Houston and Louisville Ballard. Could be the best championship game ever. Farmer had 51, but lost a close one to Ballard.

[George Foster]

I honestly feel Mitch Barnhart with permission from Pres. Todd, is trying to force Billy out. New quotes are coming out daily from Barnhart about how if "we" ask our players to make adjustments then "we" should be able to make adjustments as well. Barnhart was quoted saying yesturday that the coach at UK is an "ambassador" for the University. Meaning that he does not think Billy has been a very good one.

I think they know they can't fire him but they can make him as uncomfortable as heck.

[paintmered]

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