Assuming the speculation/early articles are true, Cal to UK is a huge lift to the conference. Cal going to UK is potentially going to make them a national contender overnight. If he can get Patterson/Meeks to stay (tossup) and 2 or 3 or the Memphis recruits (likely), UK goes from embarrassing to damn solid overnight.
I hate UK as much as the next guy. But let's face it, a nationally contending UK is good for the conference. People care more about the SEC when UK is good - simple as that. I don't want to see any more years like this past year. Three SEC teams in the NCAA tournament is embarrassing. Cal is obviously a step in the right direction for UK, but also a benefit to all SEC parties involved. I'm looking forward to the next few years in the SEC as the youth matures, the ESPN coverage kicks in, and competitiveness heats up.
I hate UK as much as the next guy. But let's face it, a nationally contending UK is good for the conference. People care more about the SEC when UK is good - simple as that. I don't want to see any more years like this past year. Three SEC teams in the NCAA tournament is embarrassing. Cal is obviously a step in the right direction for UK, but also a benefit to all SEC parties involved. I'm looking forward to the next few years in the SEC as the youth matures, the ESPN coverage kicks in, and competitiveness heats up.