2010 Kentucky Wildcats Men's Basketball - 5th edition

[WMR]

Let's get this new thread started off right today. :D

[dabvu2498]

Regarding something you said on the other thread, Pearl has not been afraid to run guys off. Duke Crews, Ramar Smith, and Wayne Chism come to mind.

[WMR]

Regarding something you said on the other thread, Pearl has not been afraid to run guys off. Duke Crews, Ramar Smith, and Wayne Chism come to mind.

I know that and I agree. Like I said, I'll be watching with some interest what is done with Tyler Smith.

With UT, however, the problem seems to be endemic to the athletic department.

[Scrap Irony]

Pearl has done a great job kicking players off the team after screwing up. (Moreso, I'd guess, than any coach in America, in fact.) The question is why do his players continually screw up? Is it that he eschews character when recruiting? And does character really matter?

[WVRed]

Six fouls in the first 45 seconds, and an unsportsmanlike technical on Cousins (already 2) for an elbow that he should have been kicked out for. Unreal.

[joshnky]

Ugly game. UofL can't buy a basket in the half court and UK is having similar struggles on their end. I thought this game was going to be especially memorable (in a bad way) at the beginning with Cousins showing his immaturity but they've all calmed down. And I don't get all of the commentary about throwing him out of the game. I've never seen a player thrown out of a game for something like that.

[WMR]

The end of that first half could be huge for Louisville.

[Reds4Life]

17% shooting for Louisville? Good lord that's bad.

[WMR]

John Wall is an unstoppable force of nature.

[WMR]

Now looks like Wall is suffering from muscle cramps.

[WMR]

Wall back in.

[WMR]

18 points and 18 rebounds for DeMarcus Cousins.

[TeamSelig]

If you check out the other angle, Cuz doesn't hit him with an elbow.

[WVRed]

Ugly game. UofL can't buy a basket in the half court and UK is having similar struggles on their end. I thought this game was going to be especially memorable (in a bad way) at the beginning with Cousins showing his immaturity but they've all calmed down. And I don't get all of the commentary about throwing him out of the game. I've never seen a player thrown out of a game for something like that.

CBS is the only ones throwing a fit over it. I turned it on SportsCenter after the game and it was shown but barely mentioned.

What I am more interested in is what happened with Eric Bledsoe and Reginald Delk eight seconds into the game. Bledsoe is the opposite of Cousins and is a lot more mild mannered. Don't really know what was said that Cal had to pull him out that quick.

As for Cousins, and I can say this given we had Slick Rick before you guys, that was Pitino's gameplan going in was to try to get Cousins to lose his temper and get him to go off and get tossed. It almost worked, but Cousins tore Louisville up something fierce. Had Cousins been tossed, I would venture to say Kentucky likely would have lost.

[WMR]

Very satisfying victory. Louisville took UK out of their comfort zone a number of times, but UK was still able to ultimately prevail. This is a great lesson game for Kentucky.

[joshnky]

As for Cousins, and I can say this given we had Slick Rick before you guys, that was Pitino's gameplan going in was to try to get Cousins to lose his temper and get him to go off and get tossed. It almost worked, but Cousins tore Louisville up something fierce. Had Cousins been tossed, I would venture to say Kentucky likely would have lost.

This is going to be the game plan for every coach facing UK this year. Cousins is one of the best big men in the country but he is also the most immature and volatile.

Kentucky played a great game and, as much as Wall gets the hype, the trio of Cousins, Patterson, and Orton will be the ones to deliver a memorable season for the Cats. UofL is very solid and deep at those positions but they still struggled to hold all three down.

On a UofL note, if the Cards can learn from that second half and play that way in the Big East they'll quickly make fans forget the early losses.

[Joseph]

Its a shame UK wasn't hitting on all cylinders in this game. With UL playing out of sorts like that this game could have been one of those blowouts that would have been so nice for UK to get at this stage of the season prior to going into SEC play.

[Boston Red]

As for Cousins, and I can say this given we had Slick Rick before you guys, that was Pitino's gameplan going in was to try to get Cousins to lose his temper and get him to go off and get tossed.

In 45 seconds? Pitino must be a damned strategic genius.

[WMR]

Its a shame UK wasn't hitting on all cylinders in this game. With UL playing out of sorts like that this game could have been one of those blowouts that would have been so nice for UK to get at this stage of the season prior to going into SEC play.

What a difference a year makes.

[TeamSelig]

Cousins plays with a lot of emotion, but I'm not sure how you can say he is the most immature and volatile?

I agree he has some growing up to do, but I don't think he is THAT bad, or one of the worst guys in college.

[Scrap Irony]

I think Cousins plays with a chip on his shoulder and is extremely immature. Those two combined makes him an easy target for opposing teams. Pitino knew that and his team took a couple shots at the guy to see if he lost his temper. He did. If I were UofL's coach, I'd have immediately put Buckles in and cheap shotted him some more to get him out of the game permanently.

His own actions and reactions (Hands up, eyes wide, half smile and incredulous look) make him perhaps the most likely in college basketball to get T'd up (and deserve it).

[dabvu2498]

In 45 seconds? Pitino must be a damned strategic genius. Nah, Cousins is that mental. Physically, he may be as good a pro prospect as Wall. Mentally, he is on par with the 6th graders I watched this morning.

[jmac]

In 45 seconds? Pitino must be a damned strategic genius.

From reports, this all started ( both teams jawing ) in the tunnel and continued in warm-ups so it went deeper than the first 45 seconds.

[Joseph]

What a difference a year makes.

Amen to that brother man.

[WVRed]

I bring the video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8Dc8SwQExI

[BRM]

Nah, Cousins is that mental. Physically, he may be as good a pro prospect as Wall. Mentally, he is on par with the 6th graders I watched this morning.

That's pretty much how I see him too. Guy is an amazing talent but he's very immature. If I were a UK fan, I wouldn't worry much about it though. The guy is going to be a force inside in SEC play.

[Scrap Irony]

In that video, Cousins deserved the T for the forearm to the face, but it didn't look as bad as the one on CBS, where it seemed as if he elbowed Swopshire right upside the head.

My guess is Cousins will get kicked out of at least one SEC game this year for taking a swing/ cheap shot at an opponent. At least one. I would have bet UGA, but Felton is no longer there and they may not be as focused on being tough as before. (UT at Thompson is one, as could be Vandy at the Opera House.)

[Joseph]

Off the subject of the game, can someone explain to me NCAA regulations regarding early entry players? I know, its like explaining nuclear science [to an idiot at that] but maybe someone can give me some general guidelines on it.

If Wall and Cousins leave early [both of which I expect] will UK be short two scholarships for their remaining 3 years of eligibility...ie until they should have graduated? Or is it just that they are gone so there are two scholarships open?

[Scrap Irony]

Those two scholarships would then be open and available to any Calipari deems worthy of a free education.

[Blimpie]

I bring the video.I would have to say...that clip personifies the word 'Rivalry' quite nicely.

I need to make friends with whoever filmed that clip. Did you see those seats?

Holy Cow.

[Razor Shines]

I would have to say...that clip personifies the word 'Rivalry' quite nicely.

I need to make friends with whoever filmed that clip. Did you see those seats?

Holy Cow.

Yeah, that's what I was thinking. It's a completely different experience sitting down there in a game like that.

[joshnky]

I would have to say...that clip personifies the word 'Rivalry' quite nicely.

It's nice to have a little extra heat to the rivalry. I've followed both teams since the 90s and this is the first time I can remember where the enmity between the teams matched the hatred between the fans. It certainly helps that the coaches are very similar to one another and, for whatever reason, feel a cordial dislike toward each other. It also helps that Kentucky has a great team and the Louisville players feel they have something to prove. From all reports the jawing and discord started shortly after the teams put on their jerseys, continued in the tunnel and during the anthem, and boiled over one minute into the game. You know its tense when Swopshire and Delk, two of the meekest players on the team, both pick up quick technicals.

Anyway, while it wasn't a well-played game it was certainly a terrific rivalry game.

[George Foster]

In that video, Cousins deserved the T for the forearm to the face, but it didn't look as bad as the one on CBS, where it seemed as if he elbowed Swopshire right upside the head.

My guess is Cousins will get kicked out of at least one SEC game this year for taking a swing/ cheap shot at an opponent. At least one. I would have bet UGA, but Felton is no longer there and they may not be as focused on being tough as before. (UT at Thompson is one, as could be Vandy at the Opera House.)

At the 16-17 sec. mark on the youtube clip Cousins takes a knee to the left cheek....I would have delivered a forearm as well.

[Hoosier Red]

Now looks like Wall is suffering from muscle cramps.

Jason Melon "It's probably menstrual"

[WVRed]

It's nice to have a little extra heat to the rivalry. I've followed both teams since the 90s and this is the first time I can remember where the enmity between the teams matched the hatred between the fans. It certainly helps that the coaches are very similar to one another and, for whatever reason, feel a cordial dislike toward each other. It also helps that Kentucky has a great team and the Louisville players feel they have something to prove. From all reports the jawing and discord started shortly after the teams put on their jerseys, continued in the tunnel and during the anthem, and boiled over one minute into the game. You know its tense when Swopshire and Delk, two of the meekest players on the team, both pick up quick technicals.

Anyway, while it wasn't a well-played game it was certainly a terrific rivalry game.

Same goes for Eric Bledsoe of Kentucky.

I've learned to never call predictions on rivalry games, unless one team is just completely overmatched. A lot of people on KSR were predicting Kentucky would win by at least 20. I'm sure a lot of Louisville fans thought the same thing last season when it took a three by Sosa to win it.

[TeamSelig]

MM posted that U of L players refused to give handshakes before the game. Then Smith intentionally came across court and bumped into Cuz, on two occasions. If you watch the clip where Bledsoe/Delk get into it when Bledsoe is called for the foul... read Cal's lips. He yells something at Delk, to the effect of you are messing w/ the wrong guy.

[joshnky]

MM posted that U of L players refused to give handshakes before the game. Then Smith intentionally came across court and bumped into Cuz, on two occasions. If you watch the clip where Bledsoe/Delk get into it when Bledsoe is called for the foul... read Cal's lips. He yells something at Delk, to the effect of you are messing w/ the wrong guy.

Hmmm, I wonder if Maggard might have a bias. Both teams came out on edge and both were at fault. UofL certainly had a bigger hand in starting this (although UK certainly poked a finger in their eye when they were disrespectful at Freedom Hall) but UK was running their mouths as well. Honestly, you've watched Cousins play all year. Do you think he is completely innocent in all this?

BTW, Calipari yelling at Delk was pretty childish. This stuff happens all the time and the coaches need to focus on their players not those on the other team.

[Blimpie]

Apparently, one of the local sports anchors (Mary Jo Perino) was in the tunnel before the game and Tweeted that the Louisville players were dropping some really nasty chants on the UK players.

Something to the effect of "We are bad M-Fers..."

When you start the game 1-19 in FG, how could you argue with their claims?

[Boston Red]

Did Bledsoe kick Delk's ass after the game?

[Scrap Irony]

He tried. But Calipari beat him to it. Of course, at the same time, Pitino was seen across town with Coach Cal's daughter and wife, so who's to say that wasn't planned, eh?

Can we please get back to basketball?

[TeamSelig]

Hmmm, I wonder if Maggard might have a bias. Both teams came out on edge and both were at fault. UofL certainly had a bigger hand in starting this (although UK certainly poked a finger in their eye when they were disrespectful at Freedom Hall) but UK was running their mouths as well. Honestly, you've watched Cousins play all year. Do you think he is completely innocent in all this?

BTW, Calipari yelling at Delk was pretty childish. This stuff happens all the time and the coaches need to focus on their players not those on the other team.

Dunno. I have a few adjectives for MM but none for Redszone. I read TBK for a few insider stuff that is given free... and for recruiting news/updates. He really drives me nuts.

I don't think what UofL players did (if they did what was reported) is really THAT bad, although it helps the game make a little more sense. I don't see any teams being that intense just due to rivalry (most of the rivalry is b/t the fans anyways) without a little pre-game jawing.

[cumberlandreds]

Did Bledsoe kick Delk's ass after the game?

No, but Uncle Tony did. :)

[WVRed]

As for Tennessee, check this out at the 54 second mark. Bruce Pearl stuck his foot in his mouth.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pms752sjlNI&feature=player_embedded

[WMR]

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/rr182/rowdyfan01/TheGreatWall.jpg

[Razor Shines]

As for Tennessee, check this out at the 54 second mark. Bruce Pearl stuck his foot in his mouth.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pms752sjlNI&feature=player_embedded

:laugh::laugh: That is great. "We've got weapons, we still have got weapons..." LOL.

[cumberlandreds]

:laugh::laugh: That is great. "We've got weapons, we still have got weapons..." LOL.

That was classic! :lol:

[cumberlandreds]

Here's the article that goes with the cover.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/vault/article/magazine/MAG1164564/1/index.htm


http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/rr182/rowdyfan01/TheGreatWall.jpg

[macro]

http://i482.photobucket.com/albums/rr182/rowdyfan01/TheGreatWall.jpg

I noticed in the article that they also had this cover depicted:

http://i.cdn.turner.com/sivault/si_online/covers/images/2010/0111_thumb.jpg

Notice that the Wall story is featured on the blue triangle in the lower right corner of the cover.

Does SI now have more than one cover per issue? I know some publications have regional covers for their preseason predictions editions, but I didn't know SI was doing it for a regular issue. If this is the case, it certainly takes something away from making the cover of SI.

[cumberlandreds]

I noticed in the article that they also had this cover depicted:

http://i.cdn.turner.com/sivault/si_online/covers/images/2010/0111_thumb.jpg

Notice that the Wall story is featured on the blue triangle in the lower right corner of the cover.

Does SI now have more than one cover per issue? I know some publications have regional covers for their preseason predictions editions, but I didn't know SI was doing it for a regular issue. If this is the case, it certainly takes something away from making the cover of SI.

I read elsewhere that the Wall cover will be in the Southeast and the Cowboy cover the rest of the nation. Which sucks for me since I live in DC and any UK fan not living in the south.
I would say regional covers are an attempt to increase sales.

[WVRed]

And Tennessee just lost their biggest weapon.*

Tyler Smith kicked off the team.

*Apologies for anyone offended.

[Scrap Irony]

Has Wall now crossed the line into overhyped?

I thought his game against Georgia to be adequate at best. That's two games in a row against good defenses wherein he's struggled. Yet, to hear the announcers, Wall's been sensational.

Meanwhile, one of Kentucky's other freshman talents, Demarcus "I'll Cheapshot Anyone I Can" Cousins, has dominated.

Perhaps the national media and ESPN announcers (not to mention posters like... well, me) were a bit too hasty in annointing Wall the greatest ever?

(This post is not a slam on Wall. He's very good. I just don't think he's the best player in the nation.)

[Javy Pornstache]

Not to make excuses, but Wall was playing with a pretty gnarly flu yesterday, that had everything to do with it. It was obvious he wasn't himself if you saw the game. But I do agree that too much has been put upon him too soon from the media, especially on a team with two other legit first-team All-American candidates who get largely ignored.

On another note, great win by the Vols over Kansas, I was stunned so many people were pronouncing them dead for the season without Tyler Smith. Their best player, no doubt, but UT is a deep team.

[WVRed]

Not to make excuses, but Wall was playing with a pretty gnarly flu yesterday, that had everything to do with it. It was obvious he wasn't himself if you saw the game. But I do agree that too much has been put upon him too soon from the media, especially on a team with two other legit first-team All-American candidates who get largely ignored.

On another note, great win by the Vols over Kansas, I was stunned so many people were pronouncing them dead for the season without Tyler Smith. Their best player, no doubt, but UT is a deep team.

They've got weapons. ;)

[Javy Pornstache]

They've got weapons. ;)

Well, someone had to say it :) they certainly do have a certain.... caliber to their team.

[RedRoser]

Well, someone had to say it :) they certainly do have a certain.... caliber to their team.

and, in addition, everybody's pretty "high" on their team. :D

[Joseph]

Nice win. I thought Florida was going to make a comeback, good to see the team kick it into gear and finish them off.

[Scrap Irony]

What I found interesting was Calipari's ability (at least in this game) to find the right guy at the right time. Miller came up big and Calipari continually went to him for one-on-one moves late in a tight game, despite Miller's hesitation to play tough pretty much the entire season. Then, he took Miller out with a couple minutes left and brought in Dodson, who calmly hit the biggest basket of the game with that three from the wing after Cousins rebounded Patterson's free throw.

Liggins played lights out against Georgia, but barely gets off the bench today. Ramon Harris plays even less. And two guys Calipari has dogged all year make huge plays to basically win the game.

I don't know if it's good coaching or simply allowing his guys to play to the style they want. It does seem as if this Kentucky team has a lot of answers. Is that Calipari, Cat fans? Non-Cat fans?

Wall, BTW, had a pretty poor game tonight, IMO, despite what his stats will say. But he got absolutely mugged three times with no call on driving lay-up attempts. I mean beat down. (And there could have been two more calls that normally go to "star players" in other leagues.) I wonder if that was simply poor official positioning, or if that's going to be the modus operandi around the league. If it's the latter, Wall won't win the National POY. He may not even be the SEC's best freshman.

[macro]

After reading about the current state of affairs at Kansas (http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/news;_ylt=AuDusa7i4V5JmLwLj1_d5erevbYF?slug=jn-kotc011310&prov=yhoo&type=lgns), I'm more impressed with the job Calipari has done (so far) in managing all the talent this season.

[Topcat]

Calipari is a SNAKE, he is a known pariah in the coaching circles and when all is said and done the Wildcats sadly will end up on probation due to Calipari.

[cumberlandreds]

Nice win. I thought Florida was going to make a comeback, good to see the team kick it into gear and finish them off.

The most impressive thing about the win was when UK lost that 15 point lead they didn't panic or fold. They just went back to work and put the game away. Most teams as young as UK is would have folded after losing that lead. Especially on the road in a tough place like Gainesville. That's a good sign of maturity. Bledsoe and Orton appear to be nearly at full health now. That's some bad news for the rest of the SEC and country.

[cumberlandreds]

Calipari is a SNAKE, he is a known pariah in the coaching circles and when all is said and done the Wildcats sadly will end up on probation due to Calipari.

I detect some Big Blue envy. ;)

[WVRed]

Calipari is a SNAKE, he is a known pariah in the coaching circles and when all is said and done the Wildcats sadly will end up on probation due to Calipari.

Yeah, well, your coach enjoys fine dining at Porcini's. :)

I guess you can call it that.

[WVRed]

What I found interesting was Calipari's ability (at least in this game) to find the right guy at the right time. Miller came up big and Calipari continually went to him for one-on-one moves late in a tight game, despite Miller's hesitation to play tough pretty much the entire season. Then, he took Miller out with a couple minutes left and brought in Dodson, who calmly hit the biggest basket of the game with that three from the wing after Cousins rebounded Patterson's free throw.

Liggins played lights out against Georgia, but barely gets off the bench today. Ramon Harris plays even less. And two guys Calipari has dogged all year make huge plays to basically win the game.

I don't know if it's good coaching or simply allowing his guys to play to the style they want. It does seem as if this Kentucky team has a lot of answers. Is that Calipari, Cat fans? Non-Cat fans?

Wall, BTW, had a pretty poor game tonight, IMO, despite what his stats will say. But he got absolutely mugged three times with no call on driving lay-up attempts. I mean beat down. (And there could have been two more calls that normally go to "star players" in other leagues.) I wonder if that was simply poor official positioning, or if that's going to be the modus operandi around the league. If it's the latter, Wall won't win the National POY. He may not even be the SEC's best freshman.

Agreed on Wall. I thought Florida did an excellent job of shutting him down, but that was where Eric Bledsoe took over. You cannot collapse on just Wall, or Bledsoe is just as capable of making the plays to beat teams.

What really worries me is that this is a young team that has no killer instinct. Cal even said as much last night after the game. Once they get up by 15 or so, they start to coast and that is when teams make runs that get them back into the game. By all rights Kentucky should have won by about 20 last night.

I'm worried that every game before they play Tennessee is going to be a trap game.

[joshnky]

Calipari is a SNAKE, he is a known pariah in the coaching circles and when all is said and done the Wildcats sadly will end up on probation due to Calipari.

Could we possibly avoid having this discussion for the millionth time in this thread?

[Javy Pornstache]

Calipari is a SNAKE, he is a known pariah in the coaching circles and when all is said and done the Wildcats sadly will end up on probation due to Calipari.

nm

[Joseph]

Yes guys please lets not turn this into another Calipari sucks thread.

Discuss basketball and let things play out.

[TeamSelig]

Wall, BTW, had a pretty poor game tonight, IMO, despite what his stats will say.

I'm thinking maybe you are just tired of hearing his hype. A lot of people get like that about top recruits, prospects, etc.

[WVRed]

I'm thinking maybe you are just tired of hearing his hype. A lot of people get like that about top recruits, prospects, etc.

I agree with Scrap. Wall's stats were padded last night mostly from free throws and shots when it didn't really matter. Eric Bledsoe carried the team last night.

[Javy Pornstache]

One noticeable thing about John last night was his lack of cramping, first time this season that he's had no issues in that regard in a physical, tough game. Good to see.

[TeamSelig]

When it didn't matter? We didn't win by much.... Wall was drawing the defense in which helped his teammates. Bledsoe tore it up though, sure.

Do you think Wall played poorly.... or poorly for John Wall standards?

[cumberlandreds]

One noticeable thing about John last night was his lack of cramping, first time this season that he's had no issues in that regard in a physical, tough game. Good to see.

I read he ate 9 bananas before the game. Maybe that helped? He will at least be regular for a few days. ;)

[cumberlandreds]

Agreed on Wall. I thought Florida did an excellent job of shutting him down, but that was where Eric Bledsoe took over. You cannot collapse on just Wall, or Bledsoe is just as capable of making the plays to beat teams.

What really worries me is that this is a young team that has no killer instinct. Cal even said as much last night after the game. Once they get up by 15 or so, they start to coast and that is when teams make runs that get them back into the game. By all rights Kentucky should have won by about 20 last night.

I'm worried that every game before they play Tennessee is going to be a trap game.

I wouldn't worry too much about losing a lead on the road. I kinda expect a conference team at home to come back. Especially when they a pretty good team like Florida. I was impressed by the way they didn't panic when they lost that lead. Most very young teams, like UK, will panic on the road and just fold in that type of run UF had. But they rose up and put Florida away. I thought that showed a lot of maturity. Maturity beyond their experience too.

[TeamSelig]

I also thought Florida played pretty well in transition... very good outlet passes

[WMR]

Just how much fun are you guys having watching these kids play ball? This season, to this point, has been an absolute joy to watch and cheer on.

[Redhook]

Just how much fun are you guys having watching these kids play ball? This season, to this point, has been an absolute joy to watch and cheer on.

Amen.

They are a lot of fun to watch. The winning helps too. Even when the team was winning with Tubby they weren't much fun to watch. In fact, it was down right painful at times. It's so nice to look forward to their games again.

[cumberlandreds]

Just how much fun are you guys having watching these kids play ball? This season, to this point, has been an absolute joy to watch and cheer on.

Just like night and day from the last four years. Really more like 10 years. After Tubby's first two years his teams played ugly for the most part. Some of those years they won big so I didn't mind it so much. But it could be rather boring to watch. I'm just sitting back and enjoying this season. I've been around long enough to know these types of seasons don't come around that often. I hope all UK fans will just sit back and enjoy the ride while it lasts.

[HBP]

Don't forget the 02-03 team. They were solid in about every part of the game and fun to watch. Definitely having fun with this team though.

[cumberlandreds]

Don't forget the 02-03 team. They were solid in about every part of the game and fun to watch. Definitely having fun with this team though.

I agree his 02-03 and 03-04 teams were good to watch and the 04-05 was pretty good too. But the three in before that and his last two were just boring to watch. The last two just didn't have the talent either.

[Razor Shines]

I'd really like to see Texas and Kentucky play, maybe in the championship. Both teams are damn good and fun to watch.

[Blimpie]

Texas is definitely one team that could matchup with the inside-out combinations that UK can run at you (Wall-Patterson).

It would shape up to be a good battle.

[WMR]

Coach Cal and the Wildcats raised over one million dollars for the Haitian relief fund during their telefund today. Incredible work by those guys.

[WVRed]

There was a game yesterday. :)

I know some people might throw me under the bus for this, but I am starting to hope UK loses a game sometime this season. As nice as perfection would be, there is absolutely no "killer instinct" on this team.

I realize the last two games were on the road, but this is twice that we have seen UK build a 20 point lead and squander it. Eventually a more seasoned SEC team is going to come back, take the lead, and not give it up and pull off the upset.

I would rather they lose a game in January or February than go undefeated and then lose in March.

[cumberlandreds]

There was a game yesterday. :)

I know some people might throw me under the bus for this, but I am starting to hope UK loses a game sometime this season. As nice as perfection would be, there is absolutely no "killer instinct" on this team.

I realize the last two games were on the road, but this is twice that we have seen UK build a 20 point lead and squander it. Eventually a more seasoned SEC team is going to come back, take the lead, and not give it up and pull off the upset.

I would rather they lose a game in January or February than go undefeated and then lose in March.

I'm not hoping they lose at all. I still think anytime you lose a game it chips away at your confidence. But if they keep blowing leads like they have the last two games it will be inevitable that they lose. You can't keep doing that and expect to keep winning.
And then there was one. UK is the last undefeated team in D-1 basketball. Texas lost to Kansas State last night.

[WMR]

Going to be fun to see that little #1 next to UK's name again. Just take care of Arkansas.

[WVRed]

I'm not hoping they lose at all. I still think anytime you lose a game it chips away at your confidence. But if they keep blowing leads like they have the last two games it will be inevitable that they lose. You can't keep doing that and expect to keep winning.
And then there was one. UK is the last undefeated team in D-1 basketball. Texas lost to Kansas State last night.

If you keep losing games then I would agree. I've said that every game from here on out outside of Tennessee in Knoxville is a trap game. They are games that we should win, but could get complacent. A loss wouldn't hurt them in the seeding but I think it would serve them better come March, especially if it is somebody that they had down by 15 or so.

It feels so good to be back... :)

I watched the second half of the K-State Texas game last night. Frank Martin's team did a great job shutting down Dexter Pittman and Damian James. Pittman and Avery Bradley played with foul trouble the whole second half. Texas is the only team IMO with the depth to match Kentucky.

[joshnky]

Texas is the only team IMO with the depth to match Kentucky.

This is an honest question: is Kentucky considered deep? Not that it is a problem, but it seems that Cal rides his four stars and there is a significant drop-off after them. Orton might provide defensive depth but he is very raw offensively. That being said, Louisville is considered deep but I'd trade our ten for your four any day.

[TeamSelig]

All good bench players:

Liggins
Dodson
Harris
Orton

Stevenson... seasoned big (played well with big minutes last season)

[Revering4Blue]

Coach Cal and the Wildcats raised over one million dollars for the Haitian relief fund during their telefund today. Incredible work by those guys.

Calipari, UK score with ‘Hoops for Haiti’

http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/news?slug=dw-ukhaiti012110&prov=yhoo&type=lgns

[WVRed]

VERY impressive win today.

I'm hoping today is a confidence booster for Darius Miller. I've always said he has been the most timid player and a lot of that had to do with Billy the Clyde. He showed today he could be a pretty good deep threat and led UK with 18 points.

I'm really starting to think the whole attitude flap with Cousins isn't working. He got two teeth knocked out and still kept his composure. I know teams are going to take it to him to get him to go off and get kicked out of the game, but I am starting to wonder if and when his whole "attitude" scare is going to disappear.

[WMR]

If Darius can continue shooting the ball like he has been the past couple games, the Cats can beat anybody.

Cal was right, they would've smoked anybody in the country on Saturday.

[TheBigLebowski]

I am thoroughly impressed by UK this season. Most talent in the country - by far.

Only thing that may hold them back in March is the youth.

I will pull for them to win it all - always have. SEC, baby.

BTW, gotta give a little rep to my boy Chandler Parsons - he did it again last night. From The Miracle in Raleigh to The Shot to Knock the Cocks:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3CE6x1GdfLY

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uGennCdrG4

[dabvu2498]

Who are the former UK players who have become head coaches and have taken on UK? I can only come up with 4: C. M. Newton, Pelfrey, Macy, and Sean Woods. My old man says there are 4 more, but he is not giving them up.

[WVRed]

Who are the former UK players who have become head coaches and have taken on UK? I can only come up with 4: C. M. Newton, Pelfrey, Macy, and Sean Woods. My old man says there are 4 more, but he is not giving them up.

Travis Ford is one.

[dabvu2498]

Travis Ford is one. Yeah. Duh. Dropped that one. I thought Paul MacBrayer would be one, but didn't realize UK and Eastern did not play each other for a 62 year stretch. Trying not to cheat too much. I should know a couple more.

[cumberlandreds]

Yeah. Duh. Dropped that one. I thought Paul MacBrayer would be one, but didn't realize UK and Eastern did not play each other for a 62 year stretch. Trying not to cheat too much. I should know a couple more.

Larry Steele is another. He was coach at Portland and they played UK in the last UKIT in 1989. I was there so I can remember that one. :)


Just thought of another. Winston Bennett at Kentucky State. UK played them sometime in the early 2000's when Bennett coached there.

BTW,CM Newton is the only former UK player to beat UK too.

Here is a list of notable coaches that have coached against UK. It lists former UK coaches. The one no one can probably get is Guy Strong. He played at UK around 1950 and later coached at Oklahoma State.

http://www.bigbluehistory.net/bb/Statistics/opposingcoachesnotable.html

[cumberlandreds]

VERY impressive win today.

I'm hoping today is a confidence booster for Darius Miller. I've always said he has been the most timid player and a lot of that had to do with Billy the Clyde. He showed today he could be a pretty good deep threat and led UK with 18 points.

I'm really starting to think the whole attitude flap with Cousins isn't working. He got two teeth knocked out and still kept his composure. I know teams are going to take it to him to get him to go off and get kicked out of the game, but I am starting to wonder if and when his whole "attitude" scare is going to disappear.

The killer instinct showed up Satuday too. You had to like them pushing a nearly 30 point lead at the half to about 40 in the first three minutes of the 2nd half. If they continue to have that type of killer instinct then they can be scary good for the rest of the season.
I think the biggest problem with Cousins attitude was his handling of foul calls. In the beginning of the season he seemed to whine more about that than anything else. That seems to have been toned down quite bit here lately. The only problem with another player he has had was with the UL player. Other teams have tried to rough him up inside but he's stayed out of that trap.

[dabvu2498]

Larry Steele is another. He was coach at Portland and they played UK in the last UKIT in 1989. I was there so I can remember that one. :) Just thought of another. Winston Bennett at Kentucky State. UK played them sometime in the early 2000's when Bennett coached there. BTW,CM Newton is the only former UK player to beat UK too. Here is a list of notable coaches that have coached against UK. It lists former UK coaches. The one no one can probably get is Guy Strong. He played at UK around 1950 and later coached at Oklahoma State. http://www.bigbluehistory.net/bb/Statistics/opposingcoachesnotable.html Carey Spicer is the last one. Coached at Georgetown back in the 30s. Thanks. I forgot about that site.

[Scrap Irony]

Tomorrow against South Carolina is a tough matchup. it seems as if Kentucky has had problems playing there since Pitino's days strolling the sideline. And Devan Downey might just be as quick as John Wall.

[cumberlandreds]

Tomorrow against South Carolina is a tough matchup. it seems as if Kentucky has had problems playing there since Pitino's days strolling the sideline. And Devan Downey might just be as quick as John Wall.

Except for Downey they really don't have much. They lost Dominque Archie to injury for the season early on and dismissed their big guy,Holmes a few weeks back. Downey is having to do it all. He scored 36 out of 56 points they had against Florida the other day as an example. if they can keep him in check and not run wild they should be fine.

BTW,it's official UK is number 1 in the AP polls.

[cumberlandreds]

Here's the coaches poll. UK is unaminous in both polls. Last years champion,UNC,received one whole vote.

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/mensbasketball/usatpoll.htm

[dabvu2498]

Except for Downey they really don't have much. They lost Dominque Archie to injury for the season early on and dismissed their big guy,Holmes a few weeks back. Downey is having to do it all. He scored 36 out of 56 points they had against Florida the other day as an example. if they can keep him in check and not run wild they should be fine. BTW,it's official UK is number 1 in the AP polls. I sincerely doubt Wall and Downey guard each other anyway.

[Redhook]

I'm watching the Kansas vs. Missouri game right now. Kansas is tough. They're much more impressive than Texas, who I've seen twice so far. Kentucky would have their hands full with them.

[WVRed]

The killer instinct showed up Satuday too. You had to like them pushing a nearly 30 point lead at the half to about 40 in the first three minutes of the 2nd half. If they continue to have that type of killer instinct then they can be scary good for the rest of the season.
I think the biggest problem with Cousins attitude was his handling of foul calls. In the beginning of the season he seemed to whine more about that than anything else. That seems to have been toned down quite bit here lately. The only problem with another player he has had was with the UL player. Other teams have tried to rough him up inside but he's stayed out of that trap.

I don't know so much if that was killer instinct or just tired legs from Arkansas.

Arkansas had played three games in seven days (including an emotional drain against Florida) while UK had six days off to rest and prepare. Not exactly the best scenario.

From everything I read, Pelphrey is in hot water in Fayetteville. Attendance has been down at Bud Walton Arena and the Arkansas media was asking questions to CAL to try to get him to say something about Pelphrey and he wouldn't answer it.

I just wonder if Pelphrey gets the axe after this season if Cal would be consistent with bringing in Kentucky players and possibly offer him an assistants job if we lose somebody like Orlando Antigua.

[cumberlandreds]

I don't know so much if that was killer instinct or just tired legs from Arkansas.

Arkansas had played three games in seven days (including an emotional drain against Florida) while UK had six days off to rest and prepare. Not exactly the best scenario.

From everything I read, Pelphrey is in hot water in Fayetteville. Attendance has been down at Bud Walton Arena and the Arkansas media was asking questions to CAL to try to get him to say something about Pelphrey and he wouldn't answer it.

I just wonder if Pelphrey gets the axe after this season if Cal would be consistent with bringing in Kentucky players and possibly offer him an assistants job if we lose somebody like Orlando Antigua.

You could be right. Arkansas did look uninterested for the most part. They did hang in there when they could have lost by 60 though. I hate it for Pelphrey. He's had a lot of problems down there with most of the players. He's suspended a bunch of them. Fortson a couple of times. The natives are restless down there so he may not last. When attendance declines then a coach is in a lot of trouble.
The next big test for UK is how they will handle number 1. We will start finding that out tonight in Columbia,SC.

[WMR]

Believe me, I'm not interested in making this political. No matter what side of the fence you're on, this is a nice story.

'Extremely inspiring' Obama thanks Cats for Hoops for Haiti
By Seth Emerson

COLUMBIA, S.C. — What started as an effort to raise money for Haiti earthquake relief led to the University of Kentucky basketball team being thanked via telephone by President Barack Obama on Tuesday.

And it was clear the nation's No. 1 ranking basketball fan knows the nation's top-ranked team well.

Obama and the Wildcats participated on the phone call Tuesday afternoon in Columbia, where UK is playing South Carolina on Tuesday night. The call was to thank the team for raising more than $1.3 million through its Hoops for Haiti telethon last week.

"I think this is just a great testament to each of you individually, is a great testament to your program, and is a great testament to Kentucky," Obama said. "It shows a lot of character. Some of you are going to be going on to the NBA. Some of you are going to be doing other things in your lives. I hope that spirit of doing for others continues."

The call came a little after 1:30 p.m. to a phone in the media room at the Colonial Life Arena. Coach John Calipari sat at the podium, with junior Patrick Patterson next to him, while the other players stood next to them.

The phone rang. Calipari looked around, then pushed the button.

A cheerful voice on the other end of the line said: "Hi it's Katie Duncan calling for President Obama."

Calipari hesitated a second, then smiled and said, "OK?"

The room laughed.

After about 30 seconds, a familiar voice came on the line.

"Well, men, I am honored to speak to the No. 1 team in the country, a few days after it happened," Obama said.

Calipari thanked Obama for the call, mentioning the importance of the Hoops for Haiti program. Then he told the president he had a few players who wanted to speak to him. First was Patterson.

"Hey, Patrick!" Obama said.

Patterson thanked the president "on behalf of the team for what you're doing for the whole country." He said how much the Hoops for Haiti program meant, and added how much Obama's leadership inspired them. Obama thanked Patterson in return.

At that point, Calipari jumped back in and said freshman John Wall wanted to speak.

"Hey! What's going on All-Star!" Obama said. "I've been watching you."

More laughter from the room, and a sheepish grin from Wall.

Wall then invited Obama to a game in Lexington, and "maybe a game of horse."

Obama was ready:

"I'm not gonna play horse with you. I don't want to lose, and then you'll have bragging rights for a long time. But what we might do is have a little scrimmage. And I'm gonna make sure that you're on my team. If you're on my team, and Patterson ... I'm gonna book it up so I've got a chance."

Finally, freshman DeMarcus Cousins told Obama he hoped to see him at the end of the season.

"You know, the way you guys are going, that may happen," Obama said, referring to a potential championship visit to the White House.

Then the president turned serious.

"Obviously, everybody admires the great team you have," he said. "Everybody admires the dedication on the court, the athleticism on the court. It's just fun to watch you guys. But the main reason I'm calling is for you in the middle of the season to take the time to do something like this for people that you don't know."

Then Obama put U.S. Rep. Ben Chandler on the phone, offering up similar congratulations. But Obama couldn't resist just a little more basketball talk, asking who the Wildcats played next. Calipari answered that they were on the road at South Carolina.

"All right, well I think you should be all right," he said.

Calipari winced, while there was more laughter in the room. The president went on.

"But there is that tendency once you get to be No. 1 to start to let down a little bit. And it is a tough place to play. So you guys stay focused. I expect to see you guys in the championship game at some point. And again, congratulations on the great work you guys did."

Obama said goodbye, and Calipari and the players exhaled.

A few minutes later, the team was still absorbing the moment. As he walked off stage, Calipari said he was more nervous during the call than during a timeout. Wall said he was "still nervous."

"Extremely inspiring," Patterson said. "Not only does he know us on the basketball court but obviously he knows us off the basketball court for what we did for the people of Haiti. It feels extremely good to know that he admires us and also that he respects us."

http://www.kentucky.com/latest_news/story/1111690.html

[dabvu2498]

Believe me, I'm not interested in making this political. No matter what side of the fence you're on, this is a nice story.

Very cool.

[TeamSelig]

Good story, thanks for posting that WMR.

[macro]

Disappointing loss tonight, just as any loss was going to be. But it will be good for the team in the long run.

This will probably sound like sour grapes, but the pressure of being #1 and undefeated probably would have taken an emotional toll, the longer it went. It had already become a bit much for any team, let alone one dominated by freshmen. I'm not glad they lost - the undefeated run was fun. But it's not nearly as disappointing as one in the third or fourth week of March.

[dabvu2498]

I blame Obama. ;) Seriously though, Downey is the best player in the league. And, Patrick, the 2nd half has started.

[WVRed]

Disappointing loss tonight, just as any loss was going to be. But it will be good for the team in the long run.

This will probably sound like sour grapes, but the pressure of being #1 and undefeated probably would have taken an emotional toll, the longer it went. It had already become a bit much for any team, let alone one dominated by freshmen. I'm not glad they lost - the undefeated run was fun. But it's not nearly as disappointing as one in the third or fourth week of March.

Couldn't have put it any better if I wanted to.

This was a combination of playing a hostile road game and not bringing their best game. I would also add three other factors:


The number one ranking (obviously)

The Obama phone call today. I realize this was for the Hoops for Haiti, but to have the President of the United States call before you take the court can do nothing but stroke an already inflated ego on a young freshman team. Add in the number one ranking and this was a recipe for disaster.

The Arkansas win I think provided a false sense of security.

[WMR]

We deserved to lose tonight. Carolina absolutely killed us on the offensive glass. Patrick's 'performance' (disappearance) was particularly disconcerting. I couldn't believe the missed uncontested lay-up/dunks by Dodson and Bledsoe.

Let's see them bounce back and take care of Vandy this weekend.

[WMR]

I do want to add that the beastliness of DeMarcus Cousins truly is something to behold. Man he can straight up ball. He's going to be a great NBA player.

[cumberlandreds]

IMO,Patterson has been deferring points,rebounds and leadership to the freshmen. He needs to show his veteran leadership or this team may not live up to its potential. I just don't see the leadership being shown on the court by Patterson.
You just can't get beat on the boards like they did last night and expect to win. USC had 20 offensive rebounds. That's unacceptable. If Cousins hadn't come ready to play they may been beaten by 20 points. Cousins is turning into a great player before our eyes. He should have a long prosperous career in the NBA.
The Vandy game just became very huge. If Vandy wins tonight against UT they will be going for a two game lead in the SEC east on Saturday.

[Sea Ray]

I blame Obama. ;) Seriously though, Downey is the best player in the league. And, Patrick, the 2nd half has started.

Yeah and that fact has to make any UC fan sick to their stomach...

[PedroBourbon]

Let's see them bounce back and take care of Vandy this weekend.

I agree, Vandy is tough. It would be a nice turnaround victory.

[Sea Ray]

Disappointing loss tonight, just as any loss was going to be. But it will be good for the team in the long run.


I agree. UK has as good a chance as anyone to win it all. Enjoy the ride...

[BRM]

The Courier-Journal has an article claiming that Cousins punched a fan after the SC game. Did anyone see that? I can't imagine there is anything to it or it would be all over the major sports sites.

[cumberlandreds]

The Courier-Journal has an article claiming that Cousins punched a fan after the SC game. Did anyone see that? I can't imagine there is anything to it or it would be all over the major sports sites.

I've seen the film clip and it's so hazy I couldn't tell anything about it. I doubt anyone was punched. I really doubt anyone punched by Cousins would live to tell about it. He or someone else may have given a good hard shove to someone to get them out of the way as they headed to the locker room. Anthing other than that and it would have been headlines on ESPN and elsewhere.

[joshnky]

The Courier-Journal has an article claiming that Cousins punched a fan after the SC game. Did anyone see that? I can't imagine there is anything to it or it would be all over the major sports sites.

The story is by the UK beat writer, Brett Dawson, and is reporting on a claim made by a local radio host:


Bob Shields, who works for TV station WLTX in Columbia and hosts a radio show for WNKT-107.5 FM, said that as South Carolina fans stormed the court after the Gamecocks' 68-62 victory, one of them bumped into Cousins, who he said “popped the kid a couple of times in the cheek.”

This hasn't caught much steam so it appears to be nothing. Also, in the article, Bob Shields actually defends Cousins claiming that a fan pushed him and Cousins responded with a "light" jab. It seems to me that if Cousins had really taken a swing at him, it would have started an all-out brawl. The fact that nothing happened suggests that this has been blown out of proportion.

[BRM]

This hasn't caught much steam so it appears to be nothing. Also, in the article, Bob Shields actually defends Cousins claiming that a fan pushed him and Cousins responded with a "light" jab. It seems to me that if Cousins had really taken a swing at him, it would have started an all-out brawl. The fact that nothing happened suggests that this has been blown out of proportion.

That's what I figured. No way did he take a real swing at the kid or this would have been pretty big news.

[WMR]

I'm glad to see that it wasn't a full-blown haymaker by Cousins. However, I'm honestly surprised that this doesn't happen more often when opposing fans storm the court. You've just finished playing 40 minutes of incredibly physical basketball and all of a sudden you're getting bumped into from every direction by a horde of screaming, out of control fans.

[BRM]

I'm glad to see that it wasn't a full-blown haymaker by Cousins. However, I'm honestly surprised that this doesn't happen more often when opposing fans storm the court. You've just finished playing 40 minutes of incredibly physical basketball and all of a sudden you're getting bumped into from every direction by a horde of screaming, out of control fans.

Agreed. It's a potentially volatile situation. Surprised there aren't more encounters similar to what Cousins had.

[Razor Shines]

I'm glad to see that it wasn't a full-blown haymaker by Cousins. However, I'm honestly surprised that this doesn't happen more often when opposing fans storm the court. You've just finished playing 40 minutes of incredibly physical basketball and all of a sudden you're getting bumped into from every direction by a horde of screaming, out of control fans.

Yeah, I've said before that I don't think storming the court should be allowed. I used to think that it's gonna take a player getting injured for it to stop, but I know I saw a story a few years ago where a player did get hurt and it didn't stop anything. Unfortunately it's probably going to take a high profile player getting hurt.

[Scrap Irony]

A high profile player or a serious fracas wherein a team is surrounded and chooses to fight its way out.

[Blimpie]

I agree, Vandy is tough. It would be a nice turnaround victory.I was on the fence about Vandy until this week's win at Tennessee.

Their place atop the SEC East is completely legit.

[Blimpie]

I'm glad to see that it wasn't a full-blown haymaker by Cousins. However, I'm honestly surprised that this doesn't happen more often when opposing fans storm the court. You've just finished playing 40 minutes of incredibly physical basketball and all of a sudden you're getting bumped into from every direction by a horde of screaming, out of control fans.I have watched the video clip several times. There is a large portion of UK staff who are saying that it was not even Cousins--but Patterson who bumped into the fan.

[dabvu2498]

I have watched the video clip several times. There is a large portion of UK staff who are saying that it was not even Cousins--but Patterson who bumped into the fan. That would have been the only physical play out of Patterson all night. ;)

[joshnky]

I was on the fence about Vandy until this week's win at Tennessee.

Their place atop the SEC East is completely legit.

Is this the toughest game left on the schedule for the Cats?

[cumberlandreds]

I have watched the video clip several times. There is a large portion of UK staff who are saying that it was not even Cousins--but Patterson who bumped into the fan.

I think it was Patterson too. I still had the game on my DVR and went back to look at it last night. It did look like Patterson to me. To me it just looked like he bumped into someone and just went on his way. He did look back and about that time Antiqua came up and sort of hustled him on off the floor. Much ado about nothing. Some stupid fan wanting attention.

[cumberlandreds]

Is this the toughest game left on the schedule for the Cats?
Both Vandy games,both Tennessee games and at Miss State are about equal in difficulty,IMO. Ole Miss may be a tough one too. They have very good guard play that could give them a lot of problems.

[Blimpie]

I agree with everything you said, but I also think Florida will come into Rupp Arena on Senior Day foaming at the mouth.

They will want payback for the O'Dome loss and most likely be desperate to position themselves for a more desireable seed in the NCAA tourney.

[Blimpie]

That would have been the only physical play out of Patterson all night. ;)Well played, my friend...

:cool:

[WMR]

I agree with everything you said, but I also think Florida will come into Rupp Arena on Senior Day foaming at the mouth.

They will want payback for the O'Dome loss and most likely be desperate to position themselves for a more desireable seed in the NCAA tourney.

More favorable seed? Or will they be scrambling just to make the tourney?

[cumberlandreds]

More favorable seed? Or will they be scrambling just to make the tourney?

I agree with your last sentence. They will probably need to beat UK to be in the hunt for a bid. As long as UK shows up to play 40 minutes against Florida they should be OK.

[macro]

More favorable seed? Or will they be scrambling just to make the tourney?

Hopefully scrambling just to make the tourney. Yes, I'm still holding a grudge against Eddie Munster, although we got a better coach in the end. :devil:

[WVRed]

Kevin Stallings:

http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/kevinstallings.jpg

[dabvu2498]

This is funny:

http://content.clearchannel.com/cc-common/mlib/1120/01/1120_1264682311.jpg

[Joseph]

Thats more like it.

[dabvu2498]

70 combined FTs?

Think I'll skip that one on the DVR.

[Joseph]

70 combined FTs?

Think I'll skip that one on the DVR.

Good idea. Aside from a little testy-ness and LeBron James being shown every 5 minutes [he was in attendance and did the Y in Kentucky at halftime] the game was fairly one sided. UK jumped out early and just cruised much of the rest of the game.

[WMR]

Darius Miller - 0 points

Cousins is just nasty.

Cousins notched his 12th double-double of the season today, setting a freshman record (Chris Mills - 11).

[dabvu2498]

Good idea. Aside from a little testy-ness and LeBron James being shown every 5 minutes [he was in attendance and did the Y in Kentucky at halftime] the game was fairly one sided. UK jumped out early and just cruised much of the rest of the game. Well, I did it anyway. The only thing that game really did for me was support my own conclusion -- that Wall is not the best player in the country. This is obvious because he is not the best player on his own team. Cousins is.

[Joseph]

Wall maybe has hit a 'wall' that Cousins has not yet hit. Earlier in the season he seemed to take over the game and had an extra gear and he just has not done those things the last 6-8 games.

I agree Cousins is by far the player that opponents have to figure out how to stop and if that qualifies him as the best player, then so be it.

[Scrap Irony]

Opposing coaches have learned to send a player to "spear" Wall as he begins to speed up-court with the ball. These defenders (usually fairly slow guys with little defensive ability) get right in his path for the "charge" first. (Multiple charges on Wall have been called in this way.) If that doesn't work, the second wave of defenders hand-check and elbow bar him up the court. No one can run through that. (Though Wall is certainly trying-- hence, the turnovers.)

Too, as he drives, officials are starting to swallow their whistles (especially in the SEC) even as he gets bodied or slapped. (The USC game in particular was brutal in that regard.) Wall then gets frustrated and compounds apparent poor shot with truly bad shot or turnover.

It's too bad this happens in the SEC. In other conferences (the Big East, the ACC, the Pac 10, even the Big Ten), they protect their stud players. In the SEC, guards can't afford to go among the trees too often, for fear of being decapitated. This makes for some really cool blocks and fun defense, but it also really hurts guard play.

[Blimpie]

Darius Miller - 0 points

Cousins is just nasty.

Cousins notched his 12th double-double of the season today, setting a freshman record (Chris Mills - 11).Isn't he also leading the entire SEC in that category?

[dabvu2498]

Wall maybe has hit a 'wall' that Cousins has not yet hit. Earlier in the season he seemed to take over the game and had an extra gear and he just has not done those things the last 6-8 games. I agree Cousins is by far the player that opponents have to figure out how to stop and if that qualifies him as the best player, then so be it. The type of player Cousins is, a true honest-to-goodness back to the basket post man, makes him a rare, yet underappreciated player. Everyone has quick, skilled guards. Maybe not as quick as a Wall, but there are tons of quick guards. How many post guys out there can dominate a game offensively? A handful, and most of them are getting paid. Cousins is the best I have seen in a long time at establishing position and being efficient.

[WVRed]

Does this concern anybody?

http://www.lex18.com/news/john-wall-is-frustrated/


John Wall doesn't look like he's smiling as much as he was earlier in the season.

When I asked him if that was true, he agreed.

Wall was called out by Cal after the Cats lost to South Carolina. Cal was trying to defend Patrick Patterson who was taking some heat for his play, and in the process, he was strong about Wall.

"I don't know. He said I played awful," says John Wall.

"I didn't think I played that bad. I don't know what to expect. He's probably going to say I played bad today too so. I don't know. I just try not to listen to him and go out and play basketball and try and help my team win."

You could hear it in Walls voice that he was down. Cal's comments bothered him.

"Yeah, I think it's going to bother any player when he tells you that."

Wall is searching for answers. He's not sure why he's so unhappy.

"To be honest, I really haven't been having fun for the last two weeks. It's just being frustrated and things like that so, I just got to figure it out before we go further in league play."

Frustrated with how your playing, the team is playing, what is going on, is it just a lull in the season ?

"'Frustrated with everything. I don't know, one through twenty. Any ideas it is."

The Cats had just beaten Vandy to go to 20-1. But Wall looked like the Cats had just lost two in a row.

[Joseph]

The type of player Cousins is, a true honest-to-goodness back to the basket post man, makes him a rare, yet underappreciated player. Everyone has quick, skilled guards. Maybe not as quick as a Wall, but there are tons of quick guards. How many post guys out there can dominate a game offensively? A handful, and most of them are getting paid. Cousins is the best I have seen in a long time at establishing position and being efficient.

No disagreements here. He is a beast indeed. Most centers are simply big bodies who occupy space and or can just bully their way to baskets. Cousins seems to have a legitimate skill set that leads to both his offense and his rebounding. I'll miss him next season when he's in the NBA.

[joshnky]

Does this concern anybody?

http://www.lex18.com/news/john-wall-is-frustrated/

Sounds like a kid who has been unstoppable and consistently praised throughout his career but lately has drawn some criticism. Calipari has dealt with lots of superstar personalities successfully over the years so I'm sure they'll get this straightened out.

I'll add that he sounds like Edgar Sosa except that Sosa says stuff like this as a senior and without any remarkable measure of skill.

[dabvu2498]

I'll add that he sounds like Edgar Sosa except that Sosa says stuff like this as a senior and without any remarkable measure of skill.

Gotta be frustrating to watch that kid every game.

It frustrates me and I hate U of L.

[cumberlandreds]

Does this concern anybody?

http://www.lex18.com/news/john-wall-is-frustrated/

Wall is just frustrated. He's going through an adjustment period that he has never had to go through before. All players great or not have to learn to adjust their games almost constantly to excel. If there is one coach who can handle a star players frustrations it's John Calipari.

[WVRed]

Wall is just frustrated. He's going through an adjustment period that he has never had to go through before. All players great or not have to learn to adjust their games almost constantly to excel. If there is one coach who can handle a star players frustrations it's John Calipari.

I guess the quote that concerns me is "I didn't think I played that bad. I don't know what to expect. He's probably going to say I played bad today too so. I don't know. I just try not to listen to him and go out and play basketball and try and help my team win."

I'm sure it will all be handled closed door, but after seeing some of what I saw with OJ Mayo in high school if this is more of an entourage thing. Brian Clifton come to mind?

[Javy Pornstache]

Young kids say stuff, especially in the heat of the moment when you're surrounded by the likes of Jerry Tipton and Alan Cutler in your face right after the game. I wouldn't put too much behind every single word Wall or any of these kids say immediately after the game. This quote from Coach Calipari earlier regarding Wall:

“He comes in like a puppy dog and says, ‘Coach I need to talk to you, I am frustrated.’ I told him, ‘just play and enjoy yourself. When you play bad, its ok to play bad. You act like you cant play bad. Yes you can. He came over and said ‘I love you” and hugged me and left.”

[WVRed]

There is a podcast on Kentucky Sports Radio of an interview between Matt Jones and Michael Porter that I would consider a "Must listen-to". Michael Porter is writing a book about last season and from the sounds of it I will definitely be purchasing it.

Contrasts playing for Tubby vs playing for Billy Clyde and how miserable it was even when winning toward the end of last season. Commented on how his father would always get onto him the hardest during practice (his father was the HS coach in Modesto), yet Gillispie always seemed to demoralize the players.

[WMR]

Nice win tonight. The Cats didn't play their best but still handled Ole Miss with relative ease.

I agree with Dykes that Kentucky has a higher ceiling of any team remaining. Will they reach it?

[HBP]

Bledsoe almost had a triple-double:
8 pts
8 assists
7 TO's:eek:

[Blimpie]

Good win against a solid SEC opponent. In fact, I think Ole Miss might be the best team in the West. Nice to see Patterson be more aggressive last night.

With just four home games remaining this year, I would like to see more from the UK crowds. I know that they will have 20,000+ rabid fans on display at ESPN Gameday on Feb 13. However, those people are not the ones who will be sitting in those seats come game time against Tennessee.

There were 25 pro scouts in attendance for the game last night. UK fans need to realize that this level of talent is not going to be around every season and learn to appreciate that while it lasts.

[Blimpie]

I agree with Dykes that Kentucky has a higher ceiling of any team remaining. Will they reach it?Not to avoid your question...

But since early last year, the Brad Nessler / Jimmy Dykes broadcast duo has surged to the top of my power rankings.

I have always loved Nessler as a PBP guy for college basketball. I think that the chemistry with Dykes is fantastic.

[cumberlandreds]

Not to avoid your question...

But since early last year, the Brad Nessler / Jimmy Dykes broadcast duo has surged to the top of my power rankings.

I have always loved Nessler as a PBP guy for college basketball. I think that he chemistry with Dykes is fantastic.

I agree. They are very good. Nessler has been around for a long time and has always done a good job. He and Dykes seem to get along very well and that is key element for a broadcasting duo.

Very good win. I never felt they were in any danger of losing even when Ole Miss cut it to three. The Rebs are pretty solid. If they had a better inside game they would be top 15 good. Cousins is really getting better and better every game. Dykes may be right in that UK could have the top 2 picks in the NBA draft this year. If Cousins keeps improving and maturing at the current rate I can't see how anyone could pass him up.

[dabvu2498]

I agree with Dykes that Kentucky has a higher ceiling of any team remaining. Will they reach it?

Dykes is a total goob.

For example, this quote from WilyMo. I ahve no doubt that WilyMo is not paraphrashing, because it sounds exactly like something Dykes would say.

Why is it goob-ish? Every team is still "remaining."

Stuff like that annoys the crap out of me, and Dykes is good for 5-6 of those a game.

[Javy Pornstache]

I do like Nessler and Dykes as well, but I especially enjoy Dykes for sheer comedy, such as last night's "box diagram" he was so proud of that was shown a thousand times, last year's "acceptable turnover zone" in the UK-UT game, Saturday's game where Vandy was "playing with house money", and of course, the most legendary, Jodie Meeks and his VIOLENT CUTS!!!! JD is the man.

[WVRed]

Dykes is a total goob.

For example, this quote from WilyMo. I ahve no doubt that WilyMo is not paraphrashing, because it sounds exactly like something Dykes would say.

Why is it goob-ish? Every team is still "remaining."

Stuff like that annoys the crap out of me, and Dykes is good for 5-6 of those a game.

I somewhat agree, although for another reason.

Dykes speculated yesterday that Wall and Cousins could be the first two picks in the NBA draft. I honestly believe Cousins has improved his draft stock significantly and if he doesn't have any blowups and can keep his temper in check, he could easily be a top 10 pick. Top 2 though?

Does any UK fans think he has made THAT MUCH of an improvement?

[dabvu2498]

I somewhat agree, although for another reason.

Dykes speculated yesterday that Wall and Cousins could be the first two picks in the NBA draft. I honestly believe Cousins has improved his draft stock significantly and if he doesn't have any blowups and can keep his temper in check, he could easily be a top 10 pick. Top 2 though?

Does any UK fans think he has made THAT MUCH of an improvement?

Thing is, as discussed earlier, his skill set is much more rare than most guys coming out of college.

Most teams in the NBA don't have as good a back-to-the-basket guy as Cousins is right now.

[TeamSelig]

I just love how Dykes absolutely LOVES UK.... lol I could see how he could be very annoying to opposing fans

[Blimpie]

I somewhat agree, although for another reason.

Dykes speculated yesterday that Wall and Cousins could be the first two picks in the NBA draft. I honestly believe Cousins has improved his draft stock significantly and if he doesn't have any blowups and can keep his temper in check, he could easily be a top 10 pick. Top 2 though?

Does any UK fans think he has made THAT MUCH of an improvement?To be fair, Dykes' reference to UK having the most upside "of any team remaining" came after he had just identified a series of 3-4 teams that he thought were among the favorites to win an NCAA Championship.

Regarding Cousins, I absolutely think he could end up going as high as #2 overall. If you look at the NBA prospects next year, no frontcourt college player--regardless of their class--has the skillset that he possesses at this stage of his development.

Cousins is only 19 years old--but his low post moves and agility remind me of a young Kevin McHale or Hakeem Olajuwon. Unbelievable hands and body control for someone who will most likely be playing around 290lbs in the NBA.

Although he is a consistent scorer down low, he has not settled for easy buckets. Just look at what he has done to improve his free throw shooting since November.

[Blimpie]

This pretty much sums up my feelings about Cousins:

http://collegehoopsnet.com/demarcus-cousins-big-cuz-emerging-from-walls-shadow-168118


Big Cuz Emerging From Wall's Shadow

By Jason Brubaker


Remember Greg Oden?

Of course you do. He was one the most hyped big men to enter college in the last 10 years, billed as a superstar long before he ever even made his college decision. He graced magazine covers as a sophomore in high school, and was compared to everyone from Patrick Ewing to David Robinson to Tim Duncan. In his one and only year in college, he averaged 15.9 points and 9.7 rebounds per game, and helped lead Ohio State to the national championship game before departing to the NBA, where he was the top overall pick.

Now, three years later, another dominant freshman big man has emerged. The only problem is, nobody seems to notice. You might think it's hard for a 6'11”, 260-pound big man to be overlooked, but that's exactly what's happened to Kentucky center DeMarcus Cousins for much of the season.

The hype around Lexington most of the season has centered on fellow freshman John Wall, and deservedly so. As the point guard, Wall has the ball in his hands nearly every play, and his combination of athleticism and poise has all but ensured that he will be the top pick in the 2010 NBA Draft. But is it possible that he's not even the most important player on his own team?

After all, Cousins, or “Big Cuz” to his teammates, has been a monster in the paint all year long, posting averages of 16 points and nine rebounds per game...all in only 21 minutes per game. Blessed with soft hands and brute strength, Cousins is an absolute load in the paint, and his presence under the basket opens up driving lanes for Wall, Eric Bledsoe and DeAndre Liggins. He also has allowed forward Patrick Patterson to showcase more of his perimeter game by stepping away from the basket.

With all that he does, you may wonder why he's only logging 21 minutes per game. And therein lies the biggest question mark surrounding Cousins' future. Known to be an emotional player who can sometimes lose focus, Cousins has become the target of opponents recently, as they try to neutralize him by playing overly physical and trying to get him to lose his temper. As the season has worn on, this tactic has been employed more and more, as teams realize the best way to stop Cousins is to have him stop himself.

Against Vanderbilt last weekend, the Commodores did their best to frustrate Cousins, using forward Steve Tchiengang off the bench as an agitator for most of the game. While Big Cuz did have his moments, picking up a technical while mixing it up under the basket, he also pounded the 'Dores with 21 points and 10 boards. He also continually sparked life into an occasionally restless crowd, hitting the floor at least three times for loose balls and playing with an infectious energy that seemed to inspire his teammates. In short, he showed that even the one strategy designed to stop him might not be enough.

And the scary part for opponents? He is getting better. Of his 13 double-doubles this year, nine have come in the last 11 games. In SEC play, he's averaging 18 points and 10 rebounds, all while shooting 55 percent from the floor. He also has 15 blocks through the first seven conference games, showing he can be a factor on both sides of the floor.

Now admittedly, Cousins still is a work in progress. He needs to improve his conditioning, as he tends to look winded during games, which sometimes leads to his foul trouble. He has managed to control his emotions enough to still be a force on the floor, but veteran opponents will continue to bait him, hoping to take him out of his game. His defense has improved, but he still continues to find himself in foul trouble far too often. Only three times this year has he committed fewer than three fouls in a game, and should UK find themselves matched up with a frontcourt like Syracuse or Kansas at some point in March, they'll need him on the floor as much as possible.

But it's hard not to like Cousins at this point. For all of the talk about his emotions and temper, it's often not mentioned that his effort can't ever be questioned on the floor. He plays with a passion that has endeared him to the Big Blue nation, and he's quietly making a case for SEC Player of the Year. The grimace he wears on the floor masks a great smile off of it, as he has quickly become to “go-to” interview for reporters because of his sense of humor and brutal honesty. As impossible as it may have seemed only a few weeks ago, he has emerged from the John Wall shadow and is now creeping onto the radar of fans, who realize that this giant, dancing, sometimes-grumpy-but-often-goofy big man is a pretty good player in his own right.

He may not get the recognition of Wall, or even of other recent big men like Oden or Michael Beasley, but there's no doubt that Cousins could have just as big an impact as any of them. He looks to be a lock for the lottery now, and it would be a shock if he returns to Lexington for another season, especially if the Cats are able to cut down the nets in Indianapolis.

Maybe then, people will finally start to notice Big Cuz.

[WMR]

I don't think it's a reach at all for Cousins to end up being drafted #2. He has the skill-set and size that NBA teams drool over.

[Redhook]

Cousins is a beast. He makes Patterson look like chopped liver. And I thought Patterson was very good until this year.

[TeamSelig]

If he continues to improve his conditioning, fouling out, and mental game/attitude I think he could eventually become the #2 pick. Probably won't happen, but I could see him being Top 5. If he can really hit the gym hard after the season and before the draft, it would really benefit him IMO.

[WVRed]

Cousins is a beast. He makes Patterson look like chopped liver. And I thought Patterson was very good until this year.

Patterson can be very good if he wants to be. The biggest problem though is that he tends to defer when there is somebody more talented on the team.

In Huntington, it was OJ Mayo. At UK, it's been John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins. Once a star player comes to town, Patterson disappears.

[durl]

Patterson can be very good if he wants to be. The biggest problem though is that he tends to defer when there is somebody more talented on the team.

In Huntington, it was OJ Mayo. At UK, it's been John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins. Once a star player comes to town, Patterson disappears.

I agree. And one of Patterson's strength is that he doesn't demand the spotlight.

Patterson is a very good player, but I believe in this current lineup he's being defined by what he's NOT rather than what he is and that's OK. He's not a point guard with slashing moves like Wall, and he's not the big inside presence like Cousins. While those two are getting all the attention right now, Patterson does what his job demands of him and he does it well. The team is better because of him.

[WVRed]

For those wanting to see the possible heir apparent to John Wall, Brandon Knight's team will be playing tonight on ESPN2. His Pine Crest team will be playing another top Florida team that features 2011 top 2 recruit Austin Rivers, who is the top PG for that class.

[TeamSelig]

Patterson can be very good if he wants to be. The biggest problem though is that he tends to defer when there is somebody more talented on the team.

In Huntington, it was OJ Mayo. At UK, it's been John Wall and DeMarcus Cousins. Once a star player comes to town, Patterson disappears.

This could be a great attribute at the next level. I think he could become a great role player in the NBA.

[guttle11]

Big Cuz Emerging From Wall's Shadow

By Jason Brubaker


Remember Greg Oden?

Ha ha. In light of recent events I'll never be able to forget Greg Oden, no matter how much I'd like to.

[WVRed]

This could be a great attribute at the next level. I think he could become a great role player in the NBA.

Role player? Yes. Star player? No.

I should probably expound a little bit. It's one thing to give the team up to an equal in Mayo, but when you are the seasoned veteran on a team with three freshman starters leading the way, sometimes you have to take charge and get the game back on track.

I'm going to say something that may put me in hot water with UK fans, but while I do appreciate Patterson coming back to school and graduating early, the majority of fans will remember this team as "his team". Twenty years from now, Patrick Patterson will be the name synonymous with this team in the eyes of UK fans, and you may not find very many fans who will be able to name DeMarcus Cousins or John Wall on this team because there will be so many one and dones by then (assuming Cal coaches for a long time or the one year rule isn't abolished).

Kentucky fans remember the players who contribute the longest. Patterson could be one of the most beloved players in UK history, but it will have to be his leadership that carries this team when Wall or Cousins falter. I just don't know if he can do it.

[TeamSelig]

Just a hunch, but I think Patterson kinda runs the show behind the scenes. More of a quiet leader. A guy who leads by example, etc.

I'm not sure you can fault him for giving the reins to Wall and Cousins. They aren't ordinary freshman IMO. They are guys who would be putting up great rookie numbers in the NBA if it weren't for the 1 year rule.

[WVRed]

I have faith in Cal to get the best players for UK, but after watching this game, I am really hoping he gets Brandon Knight next season.

What really impresses me is Knight's scoring ability. Wall pretty much relies on speed and getting to the rim while Knight can get his shot from anywhere on the court. He would be a better two guard if we had a true PG such as Bledsoe or Selby starting opposite.

I just wonder if the bluehairs will be able to accept a player with dreadlocks after having to stomach arm sleeves and head bands. :p:

[WMR]

For those wanting to see the possible heir apparent to John Wall, Brandon Knight's team will be playing tonight on ESPN2. His Pine Crest team will be playing another top Florida team that features 2011 top 2 recruit Austin Rivers, who is the top PG for that class.

Austin Rivers is not better than Marquis Teague.

[WMR]

I have faith in Cal to get the best players for UK, but after watching this game, I am really hoping he gets Brandon Knight next season.

What really impresses me is Knight's scoring ability. Wall pretty much relies on speed and getting to the rim while Knight can get his shot from anywhere on the court. He would be a better two guard if we had a true PG such as Bledsoe or Selby starting opposite.

I just wonder if the bluehairs will be able to accept a player with dreadlocks after having to stomach arm sleeves and head bands. :p:

Selby isn't really a true PG. Either Knight or Selby will be a dynamite pairing with Bledsoe. Probably give the edge to Knight because of his shooting ability.

[WVRed]

Austin Rivers is not better than Marquis Teague.

Depends on your rankings. Rivals has Teague ahead of Rivers but Scout has Rivers 4th and Teague 5th. That being said we need to get Teague, but I will be happy with Gilchrist and Quincy Miller. :)


Selby isn't really a true PG. Either Knight or Selby will be a dynamite pairing with Bledsoe. Probably give the edge to Knight because of his shooting ability.

Like I posted on TBK, I think we could get both because EB could play himself into an NBA draft pick.

Knight also finished with 48 points.

[WMR]

Rivals doesn't even list Rivers as a PG. Teague is the #1 PG in the 2011 class going by the majority of the 'experts.'

[WMR]

Targeting the top three

What are the chances of Kentucky getting the top three prospects in the class of 2011?

-- Kenneth from Murray
-----

Mike Gilchrist will likely choose between Kentucky and Villanova.
Actually, the chances are pretty good. Mike Gilchrist, Marquis Teague and Quincy Miller all have strong interest in Kentucky.

The quick handicap on Gilchrist has him choosing between Kentucky and Villanova. Certainly other schools are involved, but these two are considered the favorites (Gilchrist was on hand for Kentucky's midnight madness).

Teague was expected to commit to Louisville last spring, but the Cardinals program hit some bumps in the road - and then John Calipari took the Kentucky job. Teague, the top point guard in the 2011 class, has to be interested in running Calipari's "Dribble-drive" offense. Along with Louisville and Kentucky, Indiana and Purdue are hot after their top in-state prospect.

Miller's recruitment appears to be wide open at the moment. Baylor, Duke, Illinois, Kentucky and others are pursuing Miller. Playing in the same travel team program that John Wall played in, Miller hasn't hidden his attraction to the Kentucky program. He even took an unofficial visit to Lexington for Kentucky's matchup against North Carolina.

- Jerry Meyer's mailbag

http://basketballrecruiting.rivals.com/content.asp?CID=1030015

[Javy Pornstache]

I'll be thrilled with Knight and Selby, would be nice if we could get Jones or Leslie next year as well. Lamb would be great as a shooter. Still some solid options remaining. It would be unprecedented to get the top three in a class, but UK really has a great shot in 2011. I think #1 and #3 are near locks to be at UK (Gilchrist, Miller) with Teague a good possibility.

[WMR]

I'll be thrilled with Knight and Selby, would be nice if we could get Jones or Leslie next year as well. Lamb would be great as a shooter. Still some solid options remaining. It would be unprecedented to get the top three in a class, but UK really has a great shot in 2011. I think #1 and #3 are near locks to be at UK (Gilchrist, Miller) with Teague a good possibility.

Can you imagine if we got Knight and Selby, putting them on the wings with Bledsoe running the show. Holy Moly. I like all the names you mention. Need one of the bigs.

2011 will be a sick class.

Watch out for Jon Hood to be a contributor in 2010 (next season I mean).

[WMR]

I'm totally with you, though, JP, I would definitely try to sell Knight and Selby on playing together. The minutes would be there. I wonder if that is Cal's strategy?

[Javy Pornstache]

Can you imagine if we got Knight and Selby, putting them on the wings with Bledsoe running the show. Holy Moly. I like all the names you mention. Need one of the bigs.

2011 will be a sick class.

Watch out for Jon Hood to be a contributor in 2010.

Agreed, the prevailing thought has been that Selby doesn't wanna go where Knight does, but they said the same thing about Bledsoe last year with Wall... guys will wanna have fun winning and both would certainly have the minutes like you said. And we do need to replenish the bigs if we lose Boogie and Pat, so Leslie or Jones, at least one is a must. Everything I've heard is that Leslie is nearly a lock, but he is getting some last-minute pressure to stay at home at NC State. I do think it's very likely we wind up with Knight and Leslie, a good chance on Lamb, Selby in the air. We could get a JUCO big man as well. And, agreed on Hood, he is the kind of guy people will forget about and will be an extremely strong player as a junior and senior and people will wonder where he came from... haha.

[WMR]

It's been nice to get to experience some 'old school' Kentucky beatdowns this season.

Reminds me of Ricky P's heyday.

[WVRed]

Can you imagine if we got Knight and Selby, putting them on the wings with Bledsoe running the show. Holy Moly. I like all the names you mention. Need one of the bigs.

2011 will be a sick class.

Watch out for Jon Hood to be a contributor in 2010 (next season I mean).

The only way I see us getting both Knight and Selby would be if Bledsoe goes pro. Even then, if we did have all three, it wouldn't shock me if we had a 3 PG lineup. Cal ran it in Memphis with Derrick Rose, CDR (who could couble over), and Antonio Anderson, who compares skillwise with Liggins.

[WVRed]

It's been nice to get to experience some 'old school' Kentucky beatdowns this season.

Reminds me of Ricky P's heyday.

I think it has more to do with the coach in charge.

Cal isn't the type that delights in blowing teams out. Remember when we played Memphis during Tubby's last year and we only lost by 14? We could have lost by a LOT more from watching that game.

I still remember watching that game and thinking "Wow, I love that style of offense".

[WVRed]

Couple of things:

1. KSR has pictures of the supposed new uniforms. Not much difference, just the designs within the blue and white.

http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/jersey3.jpg

http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/jersey2.jpg

2. Enes Kanter, a 5 star center prospect who had committed to Washington about a month ago, reopened and UK is supposedly hot on his trail. Could be a situation like Kliczi from WVU where he may have to sit out for half the season though.

[WVRed]

I think after 9:05, that may have been the highest rated game in the Colonial Conference history between VCU-George Mason.

[WMR]

Guess the stat line... 8 points, 7 rebounds, 1 assist, 1 block, 1 steal, and a season high 26 minutes.

Cal said he is starting to get asked questions about this kid from NBA people and that he may need to begin starting him.

[Javy Pornstache]

Liggins is the man, WMR, I've been a fan of this kid since he arrived, and I know he had a rough go of it last year but it was obvious the talent was there... glad that he's really adjusted to his role as the "live wire" off the bench, the energy certainly picks up when he hits the floor.

[Blimpie]

Cal is obviously a big fan of Liggins' makeup. Even while he was in the academic doghouse, he was still receiving praises from the coach.

Personally, I could not be happier for the kid. Not only does he always volunteer for the toughest defensive assignments, but Liggins is usually in the game at key times when the outcome may still be in doubt.

It is not who starts the game, it is who finishes the game that is most important to me.

[WVRed]

I love this picture:

http://kentuckysportsradio.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/pros-vs-cons.jpg

[WVRed]

Time to start the Rick Pitino rumors up:

Looks like this time the Nets are being mentioned. Would be interesting to see if they get John Wall with Pitino as coach.

[joshnky]

Time to start the Rick Pitino rumors up:

Looks like this time the Nets are being mentioned. Would be interesting to see if they get John Wall with Pitino as coach.

No way it happens. First, the arena he has been pushing for is set to open next season. Second, he has a monster class coming in 2011 and then I expect him to retire after taking one last shot at a championship.

And, on the other hand, why would the Nets want him? He failed miserably in Boston and is no longer a hot name in the college ranks. He's a great coach but the job he has done at Louisville hardly warrants another shot at the NBA.

[WVRed]

No way it happens. First, the arena he has been pushing for is set to open next season. Second, he has a monster class coming in 2011 and then I expect him to retire after taking one last shot at a championship.

And, on the other hand, why would the Nets want him? He failed miserably in Boston and is no longer a hot name in the college ranks. He's a great coach but the job he has done at Louisville hardly warrants another shot at the NBA.

I posted this on TBK, but Cal made a great point in Bounce Back that once you fail in the NBA, you are a pariah there. Coaches like Pitino, Cal, Mike Montgomery, Lon Kruger, and Tim Floyd (twice) failed in the NBA and once a college coach fails, they never really get a second chance.

[Joseph]

Josh, I have to agree with you, but I also have to add that as someone who once worshipped at the altar of Pitino that the man will break your heart. I believe he has some love for the state of Kentucky based on how much its population has adored him, but outside that I don't think you can really trust a word he says.

He could just as easily want to go to the Nets to try one more time. Who knows. He pushed for the arena sure but I dont think he cares, he just wanted it as a recruiting tool, its not like he views it as a legacy or anything, he just knew his name could get things done.

Ultimately I will be surprised if he returns to the NBA, however not because he loves UL or anything but because like you state he hasn't done a thing to warrant it. I also don't believe he won't try either.

[joshnky]

Ultimately I will be surprised if he returns to the NBA, however not because he loves UL or anything but because like you state he hasn't done a thing to warrant it. I also don't believe he won't try either.

And this is the key. Regardless of the whims of an egotistical coach, there isn't anyone that would want him, especially at the money he would demand.

[WVRed]

And this is the key. Regardless of the whims of an egotistical coach, there isn't anyone that would want him, especially at the money he would demand.

I think the report was that he would consider the Nets if they would sign one of the big free agent such as LBJ, Wade, or Bosh.

That being said, I think there are more qualified coaches to coach a superstar.


Josh, I have to agree with you, but I also have to add that as someone who once worshipped at the altar of Pitino that the man will break your heart. I believe he has some love for the state of Kentucky based on how much its population has adored him, but outside that I don't think you can really trust a word he says.

I've always said I hate Pitino for going to Louisville, but I also love him for coming back to the state of Kentucky. I really believe he loves the people in the Bluegrass State and wanted to get back, even if it meant coaching at his former schools biggest rival. He made a mistake in leaving Kentucky for the Celtics and he knew it.

If he would leave, and he has been rumored for a lot of different jobs in both the NBA and NCAA, its to escape from Syphergate and the overall effect of his image within the state.

[WMR]

You LOVE him? For coming back to Kentucky? Love? Seriously?

Slick Rick loves Slick Rick. Period.

[TeamSelig]

I'll always have a soft spot in my heart for Slick Rick.

[Roy Tucker]

http://www.tauntr.com/sites/default/files/userfiles/ept_sports_ncaab_experts-975464372-1265909461.jpg

[WVRed]

You LOVE him? For coming back to Kentucky? Love? Seriously?

Slick Rick loves Slick Rick. Period.

To the state, that's it.

[WVRed]

http://www.tauntr.com/sites/default/files/userfiles/ept_sports_ncaab_experts-975464372-1265909461.jpg

That is the new uniforms, looks like Wall's still needs some work though. :)

[macro]

NY Daily News continuing to try to stir up trouble with nonsensical stories. First Pitino, now Calipari and K:

http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/basketball/2010/02/12/2010-02-12_coach_k_cal_linked_to_nets.html

I'd be curious to know exactly what qualifies as "linked to (Nets) coaching job"? Someone in a suit saying "it would be nice to get one of those guys"?

:rolleyes:

[WVRed]

I loved this story. Insert whatever "He gets it" comment here.

http://www.caringbridge.org/tres/images/photos/1/7/2/7/172724/l.bofQHooSWjNhYeTW.jpg

http://www.wkyt.com/blogs/tvtimeout/84201657.html


Kevin Massey loves the Kentucky Wildcats. Has all his young life. The only problem with Kevin's affinity for the the Big Blue is that he lives deep in the heart of IU country.

Kevin is a sophomore at Franklin Central High School in Indianapolis, and recently, the coach of Kevin's favorite basketball team, John Calipari, turned the tables, becoming a fan of the three-sport athlete. Not because of Kevin's ability to turn a double-play or knock down a three-point shot, but because of Kevin's will to live.

A member of the cross country team, a second baseman on the Central baseball team and a guard on the JV basketball squad, Kevin has never shied from his love for the Cats, despite what his basketball coach says is constant good-natured ribbing from friends and classmates, most of whom are Hoosier fans.

Recently, in a span of a week, the Massey family's lives were shattered. And the Kentucky coach, three hours and an entire fan base away, took notice.

According to Mark James, coach of the Franklin Central boys basketball team, Kevin began experiencing pain in his leg during a practice last Thursday. The following day, Kevin complained about a tingling sensation in his hands.

By Sunday, Kevin couldn't move his right arm or right leg. Kevin's parents, Ruth and Dwain Massey, natives of the Bluegrass state, took their son to the hospital, where a battery of tests were performed.

James says Kevin initially was treated for meningitis and stroke, but those were ruled out. By Monday, Kevin couldn't swallow. An MRI revealed Kevin Massey had an inoperable brain tumor.

In just seven days, the Franklin Central guard had gone from happy-go-lucky kid, practicing with his team, to undergoing radiation treatments for the tumor. His family is devastated.

To lessen the load and bring joy to this young Wildcat fan, James called upon a friend and one-time Calipari assistant, Ed Schilling, to gage whether Calipari might autograph a few things and send them to Indianapolis. Perhaps, the coaches figured, it would allow Kevin one day of happiness, in what had otherwise been a gloomy week.

Schilling made the call. James says Calipari was happy to fulfill the request, even promised to fly to Indianapolis and surprise Kevin, hand-delivering the items.

Cal made good on his word. According to one family member, both player and coach were moved to tears when the two met for the first time. Kevin, lying in his hospital bed, cried as the Kentucky coach entered his room. Calipari, touched by the kid's love for the Cats and his dire situation, led the family in prayer at Kevin's bedside.

"The family was pretty overwhelmed," James said via phone. "It was an unbelievable experience for that family."

Calipari brought with him the game ball from UK's win over Alabama. It was covered in autographs from Wildcat players. When coach Cal left, Kevin never let the ball out of his sight.

"It was neat, because Cal did this out of his heart," James said. "There were no TV cameras. He got no ink. This is something this kid will never forget."

Franklin Central's cross country coach, Eric Kellison, is a lifelong Hoosier fan, "but he's (Calipari) making it hard to not like Kentucky."

"You can accuse him of alot of things, but put a big check mark right up there on his side for this one," James said of Calipari. "This is stuff you only read about."

The prognosis isn't good for Kevin Massey. Already, he's had two rounds of radiation treatments, in hopes of shrinking the tumor. But for the first time in nearly a week, a smile creeped across Kevin's face as he clutched the game ball.

To see pictures of Kevin and coach Calipari, go to http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/kevinmassey

Those are the highlights... Stay tuned.

[Blimpie]

Here is a nice little piece to read leading up to tonight's matchup (courtesy of Kentucky Sports Radio):


Dear Tennessee Volunteer fan,

Take a seat, little buddy. Let’s have a talk. You see, you’re getting to the age where you think you know everything and you’re having a real problem listening to your superiors. I think if we just sit down and have a chat - and I promise I won’t yell - then we can make it through the weekend without you making yourself look stupid on a Kentucky message board or out in public. Let’s just establish a few things.

First of all, I understand how you kids get when you get ranked and have a little bit of success. I was a newbie to success once, even though it probably seems like a million years ago to you - I mean with all of the NCAA Championships, SEC Championships, All-Americans, etc. that I have. But, that’s not what matters right now. Just know that I understand that you are excited that you were ranked #1 for a few days two years ago and that you’re somehow hanging around the top 25 again this year. You should be excited…because it probably won’t happen again for a really long time. You see, that’s what happens with gimmicks. Just ask UNLV. Or Michigan. Or even your SEC brother, Arkansas. Programs stick around and gimmicks eventually fade away.

Now, as far as this whole “rivalry” thing goes, don’t go making yourself look foolish by trying to act as if we are peers. I have a major problem considering a program who has won less than 33% of its games against me a as an equal - even if you did finally break through that Sweet 16 wall last year. Oh, you didn’t? Sorry. Anyway, your arrogant behavior still isn’t becoming of your status. You should be treating me with more respect, but you don’t seem to quite understand.

It’s kind of like in elementary school when the teacher tells you, “if you start stacking pennies right now, you wouldn’t reach the moon until you were 173 years old!” and your little third grade mind is so overwhelmed by the enormity, that you actually think it’s possible. Well, it seems like that’s the problem we’re having with you these days. My successes are so great, that you’re little Vol brain can’t understand it. I mean, think about it.

You’ve won 8 SEC Championships and I’ve won 43. If you started winning them every year, Wayne Chism would be watching your Kentucky-tying title while eating off of the Denny’s senior discount menu. If I started losing every single game right now and Tennessee went undefeated from here until eternity, the Vols wouldn’t catch up to the my all-time wins until Stephen Pearl’s son was leading the SEC in Public Displays of Friction. In the time it would take UT to up their 4 SEC tournament titles to match my 25, the headband could go out and back in to style at least three times. I mean, seriously, you are enjoying the best success of your whole life and I’m just coming out of a serious illness, but yet your superstar coach still can’t get to .500 against me? That has to hurt, right?

And one more thing before we wrap this up. Let’s get real about this whole Chris Lofton thing. I’m happy for the kid, I really am. But if you give me a chance to take Rajon Rondo over him again, then I’d do it 100 times out of 100. And if you still think you’re the smartest kid in the class for snatching up Mr. Lofton, then go ahead and celebrate. High fives all around. In fact, give me a fist pound because I don’t think I ever properly celebrated Tony Delk and Ron Mercer and the championship success that they delivered to Lexington. C’mon man, blow me up. Seriously.

Look, it will be just fine this weekend if you learn to stay within your boundaries. All you have to do is just act like the also-ran that you’re destined to always be and you won’t have to worry about anyone making fun of your court being named after a woman or telling your probation officer about that baggie under the seat.

God bless and I’ll see you at tomorrow, you rotten SOBs.

Sincerely,

The Kentucky Basketball Program

[WMR]

Kentucky played pretty close to poor basketball for 30 minutes tonight and still won more or less handily in the end. Their talent is scary if they can ever put it together.

They should expect to be challenged by zones defenses for the remainder of the season.

[WMR]

DeAndre Liggins is playing like a freaking stud right now. He looked like a future pro tonight.

[WMR]

BTW, Dicky V, Darius Milller won Mr. Basketball that year, not Hopson.

[joshnky]

Josh, I have to agree with you, but I also have to add that as someone who once worshipped at the altar of Pitino that the man will break your heart. I believe he has some love for the state of Kentucky based on how much its population has adored him, but outside that I don't think you can really trust a word he says.

He could just as easily want to go to the Nets to try one more time. Who knows. He pushed for the arena sure but I dont think he cares, he just wanted it as a recruiting tool, its not like he views it as a legacy or anything, he just knew his name could get things done.

Ultimately I will be surprised if he returns to the NBA, however not because he loves UL or anything but because like you state he hasn't done a thing to warrant it. I also don't believe he won't try either.

You could repeat this same argument and trade Pitino's name for Calipari's. I don't think Cal will go to the Nets and doubt that the Nets would rehire a coach that they previously fired. However, just like Pitino, you can't trust a word he says. The lure of coaching Lebron and Wall to a championship may be too much to resist.

[WVRed]

Kentucky played pretty close to poor basketball for 30 minutes tonight and still won more or less handily in the end. Their talent is scary if they can ever put it together.

They should expect to be challenged by zones defenses for the remainder of the season.

There is one team right now if Kentucky plays in the Final Four that scares me with this team, and that is Syracuse. Any team that plays a successful zone defense has a chance, but Boeheim does it with the best of them.

[Joseph]

You could repeat this same argument and trade Pitino's name for Calipari's. I don't think Cal will go to the Nets and doubt that the Nets would rehire a coach that they previously fired. However, just like Pitino, you can't trust a word he says. The lure of coaching Lebron and Wall to a championship may be too much to resist.

Oh hey I don't disagree with that and I haven't made the argument that Cal is here to stay.

Guys like this love the spotlight and the challenge. If and when Cal has a bad recruiting class and has himself a Tubby like season of 22-10 or something then he may well be tired of the spotlight and jump out there looking for another challenge.

He is not loyal to UK. I understand that fact completely. UK is just the prettiest girl at the dance right now and someday he's gonna see a cute little redhead [the NBA? UCLA?] and go chasing after her instead.

The days of Adolph Rupp or John Wooden are gone for programs.

[Scrap Irony]

The bluepring for defeating Kentucky is fairly simple:

1) Get in Demarcus Cousins' grill, muscle him up, throw a couple cheap shots, and get in his head. (That will prove to be a simple matter in NCAA basketball, where officials often swallow whistles as games get closer, especially in regards to big men.)

2) Have a defender continually dive at John Wall in the open floor, hoping to cause turnovers, but, at worst, slowing him and the Cats down. (This has the added benefit of frustrating Wall, who also has a habit of sulking for a play or two after a particularly difficult turnover.) Too, because the brand of basketball during the NCAA is pretty hard-core, Wall's lay-ups will turn into treacherous drives through the trees. If officials swallow whistles...

3) Play an active, hands-up 3-2 or 2-3 zone. I haven't seen a box and one yet (and likely won't) nor a triangle and two (that wouldn't work either, IMO), but a simple 3-2 from UT played havoc with Kentucky's zone offense last night. Four guys stood around the perimeter and watched Cousins battle underneath with two Vol big men. No cohesion.

But it all comes down to this: despite these shortcomings, you still have to hope Kentucky has a down day both offensively and defensively. You have to hope Bledsoe can't shoot straight early, so he doesn't shoot later on. You have to hope Miller disappears once again in a big game. You have to hope Liggins goes all Gillespie and Dodson can't guard a stopwatch. You have to hope both Cousins and Orton get into foul trouble and your bigs don't. You have to hope Patterson doesn't demand the ball.

That's a lot of hoping. And it's one reason UK should be favored to win it all when the NCAA Tournament comes around. Because they're the best rebounding team in the country and one of the top three defensive teams, regardless of that hope. (No team has shot 50% on them all year.)

Because they're going to find five to ten fast-break baskets because your guys are tired and neither Wall nor Bledsoe has ever seen a defender they couldn't break down one-on-one.

Because Calipari is a good enough coach to not only push the right buttons to motivate, but he's a quality X's and O's guy during the game. (Second, over the past 40 years, only to Tubby in that regard among Cat coaches.) He'll find a couple baskets for his team.

Most talented team in the country.


On another note, that back-pick alley-oop to Wall seems to work every time Cal calls it. Were I Cal, I'd send Bledsoe or Patterson to the corner and send Wall to the hoop. If one's not open, the other will be.

[joshnky]

There is one team right now if Kentucky plays in the Final Four that scares me with this team, and that is Syracuse. Any team that plays a successful zone defense has a chance, but Boeheim does it with the best of them.

I'm interested to see what happens when UK matches up against a top team. I saw this quote in the paper today in reference to the relative ineptitude of the Vols:


When all is said and done, expect UK to have played exactly ONE team all season that winds up as a No. 4 seed or higher in the NCAA Tournament.


Now you can't blame UK for the schedule because UConn, UNC, and UofL should have all been quality wins and Tennessee its normal fraudulent self but it is looking likely that the team they play in the sweet sixteen could be their toughest opponent all season.

[WVRed]

I'm interested to see what happens when UK matches up against a top team. I saw this quote in the paper today in reference to the relative ineptitude of the Vols:



Now you can't blame UK for the schedule because UConn, UNC, and UofL should have all been quality wins and Tennessee its normal fraudulent self but it is looking likely that the team they play in the sweet sixteen could be their toughest opponent all season.

Ultimately I believe it could come from the draw. Usually, the Sweet Sixteen matchups could turn out to be mid-majors such as Gonzaga, Butler, Temple, or BYU. Also a team who has fallen off somewhat, such as Texas.

I'm hoping UK gets the no 1 overall seed. I don't think it will be a cakewalk, but it does help in getting a more favorable road to Indianapolis.

[Scrap Irony]

There are really only six or seven teams in the entire game that would be considered better than what Kentucky has already played.

I've got the following head and shoulders above the rest of the sport:

Kansas
Kentucky
Syracuse

Michigan State
Villanova
Georgetown

West Virginia
Duke

Who else is better than Vanderbilt or Tennessee? Those are the likely 1-2 seeds (assuming no one catches fire and no one flames out) and, really, other than the three Big East teams and Kansas, none of them are a particularly tough match-up for Kentucky.

In fact, it could be argued both UT and Vandy are tougher match-ups (with inside players who play tough both inside and out, plus quick, strong guards who can shoot and drive equally well) than anyone but the top two and Georgetown (who, IMO, is a really tough team and a favorite for a Final Four berth, depending on seeding).

[joshnky]

In fact, it could be argued both UT and Vandy are tougher match-ups

I agree on Vandy but not UT. I've seen Pearl-coached Tennessee teams get crushed far too often to consider them a tough match-up. Maybe I've just seen UK destroy them too many times combined with the memory of Louisville crushing Pearl's best shot at a championship two years ago.

And, when it comes down to it SEC basketball is just different than Big East and Big Ten basketball. UK plays much more physical than the rest of the SEC, a similar style of basketball to the other two conferences.

I'll add that a match-up of Greg Monroe and Cousins would be a sight to see.

[Scrap Irony]

Disagree about the physicality of the SEC, johnsky. Mississippi State plays as physically as most Big Ten schools (and gets away with it). So does UT (this year) and Georgia always does (though they lack talent).

The main problem with the SEC, IMO, is that officials haven't decided how they want to call games. One game, teams are allowed to beat and bang-- the next, they're calling touch fouls. It's difficult to see the flow that made early 80's SEC games fun and exciting. (Of course, it helped to have guys like Chuck Person, Charles Barkley, Sam Bowie, Dominique Wilkins, and Dale Ellis in the league at that time.)

[Blimpie]

Going into the season, Kentucky had what looked like the toughest in the land. Who expected so many big name teams would have such awful seasons.

The remaining schedule for UK is absolutely brutal. If they finish 4-2 in those games, Cat fans should be ecstatic.

[WVRed]

Going into the season, Kentucky had what looked like the toughest in the land. Who expected so many big name teams would have such awful seasons.

The remaining schedule for UK is absolutely brutal. If they finish 4-2 in those games, Cat fans should be ecstatic.

Agreed,


Mississippi State @ Starkville, where the Bulldogs have an 11 game home winning streak.

Vanderbilt @ Nashville, where UK has had some pretty bad games, but none worse than the Music City Meltdown.

South Carolina @ Home. Revenge factor coming into play, just have to stop Downey.

Tennessee @ Knoxville. Will be a lot closer than the game at Rupp.

Georgia @ Athens. Outside of South Carolina, the only other SEC team to play Kentucky tough this season, and this one was at Rupp. I'm worried about this game.

Florida @ Rupp. Senior Day, but Florida could be fighting for its NCAA life.


That all being said, the remainder of this month and the SEC tournament could ultimately determine if UK remains a no 1 seed or even slips to as low as a no 3.

[WMR]

I'm glad we have the toughest part of our schedule at the end. These kinds of tests are what they need at this point.

[WMR]

I guess Miss. St. fans found out Cousins' phone #...

his facebook update:


man dis to funny ...gotta get my number changed ..AGAIN! ....miss st. fans got my number on they message boards and on twitter ...gotta hotline right now ...so far i been called 34 n-bombs ....106 bwords ...lets see wat today brings ...lmao

[Scrap Irony]

The telephone tactic could very well backfire, as Cousins is the type of talent that could go 30-20 on a team like MSU. (Of course, he could just as easily get so jacked up that he commits two stupid ticky tack fouls early and becomes a non-factor after being T'ed up for mouthing off.)

I don't like the idea of calling an opposing team at all; what is particularly galling is the language used by those so-called fans. Were I Cousins, I'd save every phone number and call them after the game. (Assuming, of course, I had a good game and my team won.)

[WVRed]

The telephone tactic could very well backfire, as Cousins is the type of talent that could go 30-20 on a team like MSU. (Of course, he could just as easily get so jacked up that he commits two stupid ticky tack fouls early and becomes a non-factor after being T'ed up for mouthing off.)

I don't like the idea of calling an opposing team at all; what is particularly galling is the language used by those so-called fans. Were I Cousins, I'd save every phone number and call them after the game. (Assuming, of course, I had a good game and my team won.)

Outside of Tennessee, I would say that this shows just how much an impact Cousins has had. Teams have tried everything to contain him, now MSU fans are trying to get into his head.

[Scrap Irony]

Anyone watching Kansas at Texas A&M? Kansas just does not impress me at all.

Xavier Henry is okay. At best. (He's no Jodie Meeks, though. Heck, he's no Tasmin Mitchell.)
Aldrich is big and strong, but that's it. His next post move will be his first. (Anyone else get a Bryant "Big Country" Reeves from him?)
I'd take four SEC point guards before Sheron Collins. How he was even mentioned as a possible pre-season All-American? (The four SEC PGs? Devan Downey, John Wall, Courtney Fortson, and Chris Warren)

That said, the Morris boy are decent and their depth is fair. Self is a decent coach as well. Still, is this really the best team we have to offer?

[Javy Pornstache]

Anyone watching Kansas at Texas A&M? Kansas just does not impress me at all.

Xavier Henry is okay. At best. (He's no Jodie Meeks, though. Heck, he's no Tasmin Mitchell.)
Aldrich is big and strong, but that's it. His next post move will be his first. (Anyone else get a Bryant "Big Country" Reeves from him?)
I'd take four SEC point guards before Sheron Collins. How he was even mentioned as a possible pre-season All-American? (The four SEC PGs? Devan Downey, John Wall, Courtney Fortson, and Chris Warren)

That said, the Morris boy are decent and their depth is fair. Self is a decent coach as well. Still, is this really the best team we have to offer?

Agreed re Collins, and I'd personally also add VU's Jermaine Beal to that SEC PG list, Scrap. But I definitely agree. I was just talking with a buddy a few days ago about Big Country and Aldrich comparisons, I don't get AT ALL what makes him the best 5 in the country hands-down, as many pundits have said all year. I know Bob Knight sure loves the guy, it's apparent each week on "Big Monday" - even Big XII games not involving KU.

[WVRed]

Great article on Billy Clyde. It's a long read but its basically a two hour interview regarding his time at Kentucky. Really hoping he gets back on his feet sometime in the near future:

http://www.star-telegram.com/sports/story/1970319.html

[Blimpie]

Regarding the MSU game tonight, Calipari was quoted as saying "they are going to attempt about 30 three-point FGs tonight. If they make half of them, we lose the game."

Also, I was surprised to learn that MSU commits more personal fouls per game than any other team in the entire NCAA. Now would be a good time for Cousins, et al to remember that they call it the 'charity stripe' for a reason.

[WVRed]

I would absolutely LOVE this bracket. From Bracketology:


Milwaukee
(1) KENTUCKY (24-1)
(16) Opening-round Game

(8) CALIFORNIA (17-8)
(9) UTEP (19-5)

San Jose
(5) Wake Forest (18-5)
(12) Marquette (16-8)

(4) NEW MEXICO (23-3)
(13) Oklahoma St (17-7)

New Orleans
(6) BUTLER (23-4)
(11) Virginia Tech (20-4)

(3) Wisconsin (19-6)
(14) WEBER ST (15-8) / Big Sky

Oklahoma City
(7) NORTHERN IOWA (22-3)
(10) Dayton (17-7)

(2) Kansas St (19-4)
(15) BELMONT (16-10) / Atl Sun

I think Wisconsin would beat Kansas St and we have the athleticism to top New Mexico, Wake, and Wisconsin.

[Joseph]

Wow, that would be a cakewalk bracket to be in.

[joshnky]

Regarding the MSU game tonight, Calipari was quoted as saying "they are going to attempt about 30 three-point FGs tonight. If they make half of them, we lose the game."

Any team would lose if their opponent made 15 threes.

Calipari and Pitino are proving to be cut from the same cloth this season. Two days after Calipari claimed UK's finishing schedule is toughest in the nation (facing only two likely tourney teams and two bubble teams), Pitino basically made Notre Dame sound like the 96 UK team. And this is a Notre Dame team minus Harangody that just lost to St John's (not that there is anything wrong with that).

[Scrap Irony]

It will take an excellent effort to beat MSU tonight, IMO, as they are a completely different team at home. Johnson, Bost, and Vanardo are all good normally, but much better at home. (For example, Johnson can actually shoot the ball in Starkville.)

Kentucky hasn't fared well against tough opposing places to play this season. (Though, to be fair, they've only played in one difficult away gym so far.) Cousins hasn't seen a defensive player like Vanardo and MSU's physical style of defense is the type to give Wall and Patterson difficulties.

If it's a Big Ten-style, walk the ball up the court game, MSU wins. If they're able to run, Kentucky wins big.

[improbus]

What are Vanardo's numbers against other big men? Is he a weak side defender (ala Ben Wallace) or more of a straight up guy (ala Shaq). Typically, shot blockers are better help defenders than man defenders which would bode well for Cousins.

[TeamSelig]

I hope Big Cuz drops 30-20 tonight

[WMR]

Vanardo gets almost all of his block by coming to the weak side to provide help.

Cal's plan is to go at him directly with Cousins to hopefully negate that somewhat.

[WVRed]

I thought only WVU fans threw stuff onto the court. Jeanine Edwards tried to interview Cal after the game and got pelted with water bottles.

Almost wish the game would have went into a second OT though. Wall was two assists shy of a triple double.

Stat lines:

Wall: 18 pts, 10 rebs, 8 ast
Cousins: 19 pts, 14 rebs
Patterson: 19 pts, 10 rebs

[WMR]

What a satisfying victory.

[TeamSelig]

Awesome game.

[cumberlandreds]

Great game! A win that should pay huge dividends come tourney time.

[cumberlandreds]

I would absolutely LOVE this bracket. From Bracketology:



I think Wisconsin would beat Kansas St and we have the athleticism to top New Mexico, Wake, and Wisconsin.

UK will never get a bracket this easy. I guarantee you that UL will be a 8/9 seed and be paired with UK. CBS loves matchups like this and I think they play a bigger part in the pairings than most of us want to believe.

[joshnky]

UK will never get a bracket this easy. I guarantee you that UL will be a 8/9 seed and be paired with UK. CBS loves matchups like this and I think they play a bigger part in the pairings than most of us want to believe.

Don't they try to avoid rematches in the first two rounds? I think most Louisville fans would love this match up. While it would be a tough game, the chance to ruin UK's run would out-weigh Louisville's small chance of winning. However, if this does happen I would fully expect Louisville to lose in the 8/9 game.

[macro]

There were some pretty good beverages thrown onto the court last night.

[cumberlandreds]

Don't they try to avoid rematches in the first two rounds? I think most Louisville fans would love this match up. While it would be a tough game, the chance to ruin UK's run would out-weigh Louisville's small chance of winning. However, if this does happen I would fully expect Louisville to lose in the 8/9 game.

They may do that but a rematch of Calipari vs Pitino in an NCAA Tournament game would be too much to pass up.

[WVRed]

They may do that but a rematch of Calipari vs Pitino in an NCAA Tournament game would be too much to pass up.

I think you will see a Kentucky-Oklahoma State matchup in the tournament. Travis Ford and Matt Pilgrim going against the Cats.

[Blimpie]

Any team would lose if their opponent made 15 threes.I think his point was that MSU would either live or die by trying to bomb 3s on UK.

In other words, there was not going to be any gimmicks or deception about what they had in store for the Cats (e.g. the 3-2 zone that was trotted out by Tennessee last Saturday).

[Kingspoint]

Where are the Ohio State and Purdue basketball threads. I would think there would be a lot of alumni from those two schools on this board, and certainly a lot more fans of Ohio State than of Kentucky.

[WMR]

I think I found what Josh has been listening to while cruising around The Ville.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5XTYrD6Su6s&feature=player_embedded