Well, this will help things

[warrior-cat]

When you are trying to coach young kids and make them buy into what you're teaching you had better not pay attention to wins and losses.
There's not one person on this message board that would have the balls to buy in and have faith as a coach and do that

False and totally oblivious to the problem. Closing your eyes and ears to a problem only makes the problem bigger until it is beyond repair. This is how losers live.

 

[morgousky]

False and totally oblivious to the problem. Closing your eyes and ears to a problem only makes the problem bigger until it is beyond repair. This is how losers live.

I believe Cats#1again is the guy that didn't think Towns would be any good because of his walk.

I just, yea. These aren't the types of thinkers that promote inspirational takes.

 

[thepip]

I think its a non-issue. Why would he care? He coaches his team and does what he and the staff think is right. The fans reactions to those results are totally irrelevant to him and his staff and should be. I didn't say he and the staff didn't care. I said they should care less about your (fans) opinions on him, the team, a player, a play or a result.

Ignorance going to seed and taking root!

 

[thepip]

John Clay
@johnclayiv

Calipari: "Losing games in a row here is like a national disaster. I don't buy it. I'm not buying it. Whether we win or lose, I don't pay attention to it." #BBN #ukbasketball

The biggest problem is a weak AD

 

[warrior-cat]

Actually, Calipari was the last coach who did it (2018). Now he's done it twice. Did BCG even lose 4 in a row twice?? Has any UK coach lost 4 in a row twice (either in the same season, or during their time at UK)? Before Calipari, BCG lost 4 in a row in 2008-2009. I think it also happened in the mid-80s - probably end of Joe B's days before Sutton came on in 1985-86. Would be hard not to imagine Sutton having not lost 4 in a row during his short, scandal-ridden stint before Pitino came in.

It is likely it will be 6 in a row in the next 2 weeks.

 

[TankedCat]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current approach.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

 

[thepip]

It wasn't great, but there were signs of life. Better passing, there was hunger that I don't think I've seen yet. Only 4 turnovers. 4-10 made 3s. I think they learned today the value of getting Sarr touches. I don't know why it's taken 5 games. I thought it was obvious. It should have been to him. He's not totally wrong about the 1st half. Boston, and he did a little in the 2nd half as well, but he was searching for his. I would never say it was 1 player's fault, but maybe Cal feels Boston can take it and raise his game. I don't know. My hope is we will see carry over to the next game. I've said in the past, maybe not to you, but Im giving this team 10 games to become a more cohesive unit. They need time to play together. Unlike other seasons the talent and length and athleticism just aren't enough to overcome all the deficiencies at the beginning of the season especially the experience void.

And after the 10 games--care to elaborate?

 

[know1]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

This might be the best post I've ever read on here. It should be pinned to the top.

 

[STL_Cat]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

Whatever the message board equivalent is of a standing ovation ... you’re getting it from me now. Well said, all of it.

 

[TankedCat]

someone will ask - would you have posted that long winded diatribe if we were 4-1 right now instead of 1-4

and honestly I don't know, probably not, but what I posted wasn't about wins and losses.

What Cal has done is stripped away everything from the program in regards to fan connection to where its just about wins and losses. The only meaningful connection we have is to see this program win, and even with that, many fans have rationalized the only meaningful wins are in March.

I don't know the players, I don't care about watching UK play Stony Brook at Rupp (especially now that its a real possibility we actually lose to them) , I don't like watching supposedly 5 star accomplished players still trying to grasp fundamentals in mid December AFTER they've had a pro day for the NBA and I don't like being reminded regularly year after year that the Kentucky program serves a higher purpose than winning basketball games for an ego driven coach - and its the multi millionaire coach telling me that.

so the answer is no, I wouldn't have posted that if we were 4-1, I just wouldn't care enough to put in the effort. SSDD

 

[Old Blue Fart]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

Really good post. Some will find fault but everything you wrote is spot on.
I posted a few times about taking my granddaughter to a game a few years back with her asking me why I did not like Coach Cal. I explained to her I did not dislike our coach, but rather his system. I had her look up at the banners with all the players names and told her this was who we were, this was our heritage and this is fading away.
This environment of win at any cost with OAD's is not Kentucky basketball. Fans like to feel connected to their teams but with the use of a revolving door of players, fans lose interest.
People can defend Coach Call all they want, but at the end of the day, it is him who had recruited these kinds of players; players who are not here for Kentucky but rather themselves.

 

[JRS_SC]

John Clay
@johnclayiv

Calipari: "Losing games in a row here is like a national disaster. I don't buy it. I'm not buying it. Whether we win or lose, I don't pay attention to it." #BBN #ukbasketball

Hilarious that you people think Cal should pay attention to you. Cal should only care about his players, Mitch and big money boosters. That’s it.

 

[Woodrow24]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

Good post. Most people that would argue the points you make are the ones that are to young to remember the successful seasons we had before Cal got here.

 

[know1]

Good post. Most people that would argue the points you make are the ones that are to young to remember the successful seasons we had before Cal got here.

Or are somehow incapable to see past the wins and losses of the current or very recent season. It's much bigger than our record.

 

[STL_Cat]

Hilarious that you people think Cal should pay attention to you. Cal should only care about his players, Mitch and big money boosters. That’s it.

I can’t speak for Mitch, but I can almost assuredly tell you that many big money boosters aren’t too pleased right now either.

 

[gwjenning]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

Excellent post!

 

[Woodrow24]

Or are somehow incapable to see past the wins and losses of the current or very recent season. It's much bigger than our record.

Hell, look at the weak home schedule we play now to cater to this one and done system.

 

[kyjeff1]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

This needs to be pinned to the top of the board. Spot on.

 

[TankedCat]

Hell, look at the weak home schedule we play now to cater to this one and done system.

when you build a new team, what do the fans have to look at other than the wins and losses in each season? Cal has created a system where we have nothing to fall back on.

The idea of Darius Miller, Josh Harrelson, Derek Willis coming back and knowing the team will be better next year is gone at UK. Every year its this year or bust because you can't count on a kid returning to make next years team better. All you can hope for is that Cal recruits a complete team with no gaps - and then he has to coach them up for 3 months before you can even realize the potential of what we have. The premise seems absurd when you say it, yet its the system we defend and believe is our best shot to a national championship.

So when you put it in perspective, it really is about this years wins and losses, there is no continuity to the next year, there is no building for next year. Its NCAA title with this years team or bust. Then we start new again next year.

 

[kyjeff1]

Hilarious that you people think Cal should pay attention to you. Cal should only care about his players, Mitch and big money boosters. That’s it.

This can't be more wrong.
Cal better start caring about the fans. Ask Tubby and BCG how it worked out for them.

 

[Old Blue Fart]

Hilarious that you people think Cal should pay attention to you. Cal should only care about his players, Mitch and big money boosters. That’s it.

Do you think boosters are not fans? Fans lose interest, they stop going to games, watching games on TV which all hit most of the boosters in the pocket book at some point.
Don't think for one minute when fans lose interest, the money train starts to stop. When that happens, the AD will take notice.
I am not advocating for Coach Cal to leave, just as the seasons change so does society. People do not want to support something they do not feel connected to.
No support, no money. Very simple.

 

[ManitouDan_anon]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

best post in many a year . Well stated and dead on balls accurate . Laser beam couldn’t Be more accurate. I just hope Cals upcoming departure is done with as much dignity and respect as both sides can offer . But he needs to go . This year .

 

[wildcatwelder_rivals]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

This is a well thought out post that goes to the very heart of the matter with facts as the basis of the situation we currently face, kudos sir.

Those who would tell us that Cal doesn't care what the fans think/feel about the program, and himself, need to read this and realize that without the passionate fan base this program would never have reached the status as the greatest basketball program ever.

I NEVER would have dreamed our beloved program would ever be faced with an issue of it's fans becoming so disinterested in the team/program. Some of us are getting older and no longer jump out of our favorite chair screaming with joy, a bad call, etc, but it goes far beyond such a simple thing as age, it's that many of us have lost our passion with a system that gives us raw, undeveloped players with zero experience, only to see them bolt in a few short months.

The ugly play we are forced to watch for the majority of the season, coupled with embarrassing losses to inferior teams, at home no less, and a coach who tells the fan base he doesn't care how we feel about things has brought many of us to this point.

The pyramid analogy is spot on and until Cal reins in his massive ego it will only continue.

This program deserves better than what Cal has been giving us, and whether or not he cares or not will not deter those of us who see the problem as it is, and will not stop us from demanding he fix the problem HE created.

 

[fisherscatfan_rivals101526]

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

That was an excellent post. To me, this is the biggest risk we as fans face. Tell me anything about what Cal is doing is sustainable for when he is gone? He has dismantled so many facets of the UK traditions when those traditions are what created the “gold standard” he has used for his personal goals. UK may well suffer for years after he leaves.

I was 100% in Cals corner at first but when the turnover levels of the roster began escalating, I became very worried about the Program and now fear my worries are justified. Won’t be the end of my world but just another thing I enjoy will be much less enjoyable.

 

[kybassfan]

But as a UK fan, you must be happy that 99.99% of fans completely disagree with you, because if not, we wouldn't be UK.

Actually they don’t disagree with him. The great majority are level headed individuals that see sporting events for what they are. It’s the insecure zealots that base their self image on a basketball team, comprised of KIDS, that agree with you. It’s those sad sacks that Cal doesn’t pay attention to.

 

[Backer cutter]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

I’ve read popular novels that weren’t written as well as this. Every word is 100 percent spot on.

 

[deep3]

I’ve seen people numerous times tell you that Chris Beard couldn’t win here. They put the guy down with no consideration of the difference in resources coaching at Texas Tech and here at UK. It’s totally different and it matters. One of the first things Cal said when he took this job was they he could do things here that he couldn’t at the other schools he coached at. You would think our fans wouldn’t under value the Kentucky brand like that. I don’t understand how they don’t see that at any blue blood program you have an advantage.

Beard would be very good here unfortunately I think he is Kansas’s next coach

 

[deep3]

I’ve read popular novels that weren’t written as well as this. Every word is 100 percent spot on.

Great post!

 

[cats#1again]

What a crock

You are entitled to your own opinion. Like I said, it's why nobody on this board is a successful coach and knows what it takes. He does

 

[John Henry]

we've been whistling by the graveyard for a few years now

Senior night is gone, a meaningful tradition at UK to honor a players dedication the program and all they've given.

The 3 point shot record was lost and now we have Kansas quietly trying to pass us in all time wins

Scheduling at Rupp has gone to an almost embarrassing level of non competition as the list of teams Cal will not play grows

Rupp Arena actually reduces seating and still can't fill it unless its a marquee game

OAD revolving door has created fan apathy to where an increasing number of fans don't bother to watch

To some extent we're all guilty in what the program has become. We went all in on the coach who had a revolutionary system but what we didn't realize was it was the basketball equivalent of a pyramid scheme.

and like all pyramid schemes, we can't replace what is leaving fast enough to keep the dividends paying off.

Even if Cal does turn it around this season, what we have now isn't Kentucky Basketball. The price we've paid to have Cal get his way is too great.

What is Kentucky Basketball? Its a fans connection the program. Anyone who says otherwise just completely ignores what has made Kentucky Basketball a continual force in college athletics for almost 80 years. You don't get that because you had 1 good coach, one good AD - you get that because the state, the fan base and the University prioritize its excellence year over year, and if excellence isn't being achieved , collectively those 3 entities demand change. All 3 may not agree in sync, but eventually they all come to realize the situation isn't going to improve with the current situation.

It may not be a return to having a Senior Night, it may not result in UK having a home and home series with Indiana, it may not be Rupp Arena selling out as the hottest ticket in the state, but in order for Kentucky to continue well into the future as a dominant basketball program, the fan's support has to still be its driving force.

Its why we get the best coaches, its why we have the best facilities, its why we get the best players. At the core nothing anyone does at the University of Kentucky in regards to the program being such an influential force in the state happens without fan support. We're an SEC school and one of the poorest states in the nation. You don't build a powerhouse basketball program without fans being all in.

The direction the program is going in now - beyond wins and losses - is not sustainable to keep the enthusiasm for the program to thrive. Short of a national title every 5-7 years this disconnect has already created and will continue to cause harm to what makes Kentucky Basketball a consistent top program. And even with National Titles, the fan disconnect is so great that its an empty victory. Players you don't know winning at a program you only partially pay attention to.

Passionate fans say its about the name on the front of the jersey, not the back.. Its a bit different at Kentucky. We don't *know* the name on the back of the jersey, and because of that, we're losing our connection to the name on the front.

I'm afraid the damage to our program may not be reversible.

If I were Mitch, about 90% of my time at the moment would be dedicated to devising ways to bring fans back to the program.

Bravo, pin this to the top of the page.

Calipari has taken fans out of the program and many have moved on and will not return as long as he is coach. Sad

 

[Woodrow24]

Actually they don’t disagree with him. The great majority are level headed individuals that see sporting events for what they are. It’s the insecure zealots that base their self image on a basketball team, comprised of KIDS, that agree with you. It’s those sad sacks that Cal doesn’t pay attention to.

How you and a select few cant comprehend that fans have reasons to be upset (that are completely logical reasons ) is odd. Cal will openly criticize himself and admit to mistakes but you and a select few can’t see that he’s not perfect. Their is no such thing as a perfect coach in any sport. You’re being a insecure zealot yourself but on the opposite end of the debate. I’m not trying to be mean, but when you and Baller Cal constantly go on the defensive even on fair criticisms, your in the same category.

 

[cats#1again]

Guy's a complete embarrassment. His tenure here is all about disappointment relative to expectations. More NIT appearances than titles after this year. What a fall from grace.

Well if that is how u feel it tells more about you..
How in gods name can anyone with a straight face list his tenure as a disappointment??!
He's consistently had our program at the top since summer 2009. We have more final 4's than anyone. We have more elite 8's than anyone. You are obviously wanting something that is impossible to reach. Something that is gone like the days of using a VCR. It's not cals fault that you misunderstood the rankings scale on these recruiting classes and believe in your small mind that every 5 star is equal. Do you know of any coach that goes farther in 3 months with a new team every year? No.
Is it cals fault that kids can leave and go make money when they want? How can any of that be his fault? So recruit mid level players that stay 4 seasons....? Really? Look at how you are acting the first time he has a team that is below avg. Every wise guy has all the answers but it's just bogus garbage they are spewing.
Times have changed, the game has changed and it's not coming back. You adapt and move on and there's not a coach alive that has done that better than cal.
How many times have u heard his name mentioned with cheating since he got here? Never. U know why others started cheating? To keep up with him...
If the recruiting scene hadn't changed in 2015/2016 we would still be bringing in the top 2 or 3 players we went after, but guess what. Not every top 3 player is john wall and Anthony Davis.
I hate that we stink right now too but 7 out of 10 seasons we have played on elite 8 Sunday and that is pretty remarkable

 

[kyjeff1]

Beard would be very good here unfortunately I think he is Kansas’s next coach

Anyone with a personality and an offensive mind would thrive at UK.
Offense is what wins today and so does a stable roster foundation. Give me Joe Smith if he is passionate, can coach offense, and wants to see UK back at the top.
UK, the facilities, the fans and Nike, will help with the rest. If Tubby can win here, just about anyone can.

 

[Woodrow24]

Beard would be very good here unfortunately I think he is Kansas’s next coach

Good possibility. I don’t see how Self survives after the mess that he’s in with the NCAA but who knows. They may get the bs treatment that Carolina got a few years ago. We all know how unfair the NCAA is with their punishments.

 

[BourbonBalz]

Hilarious that you people think Cal should pay attention to you. Cal should only care about his players, Mitch and big money boosters. That’s it.

This is one stupid post. As I said in another thread, we are Cal’s customers. Puss off enough customers and you go out of business. ALL sports exist for one reason and one reason only the fans. Run off the fans and their $ and the sport goes bye bye. It’s a pretty simple concept.

 

[calismyhero]

Things being what they are, it’s easy to just walk away from all of it. Kentucky fans reward 1 thing over all others. If you are a true Kentucky fan, you will know exactly what this one thing is. And it’s not just the players. It’s every single person that is involved with the program. Yesterday he saw the need to call out a kid for not knowing where to position himself on defense. Somewhere on the bench is a guy getting paid half a million to a million dollars to teach this kid. If he doesn’t know then that’s on you, Coach.

He blames the schedule. Teams are changing schedules like they take a piss these days. Find some teams to come in mid week and play. Quit scheduling games at supper on Sunday.

 

[FltDoc]

Cal makes foolish statements sometimes, saying this after starting season 1-4 is certianly one of them. Can’t imagine what he would hope to gain from this kind of statement, one would think he woulde better served to concentrate on making his team better than antagonizing his fans. Cal does understand what UK is so this statement is even more mystifying to me.

agreed...

I think he's trying to take the focus off HighSchool Seniors and Juniors and putting it on him... trying to provide cover while buying a little time to gain experience / cohesion...

(am just on page 2 of 7 of this thread... !!)

 

[John Henry]

You are entitled to your own opinion. Like I said, it's why nobody on this board is a successful coach and knows what it takes. He does

Cal is setting all kinds of records since he became UK's coach. The latest is having the first team since 1927 to start a season 1-4. Let that soak in. 1927.

One win and Four losses. 1927. 1927. 1927 and now 2020. 2020. 2020.

 

[SmedMoley]

It’s pretty simple, after the title he realized he realized he could just coast.

I remember seeing on some show, maybe his 30 for 30, on the floor in New Orleans Cal told his wife he was glad he won a title now he can relax and do what he wanted. Or something to that effect.

 

[John Henry]

I remember seeing on some show, maybe his 30 for 30, on the floor in New Orleans Cal told his wife he was glad he won a title now he can relax and do what he wanted. Or something to that effect.

He probably should have retired at that point. Go out on Top like John Wooden