Wednesday, February 29, 2012
Shabazz Muhammad Eligibility Update
The NCAA has given a notice of warning to each school recruiting big time high school star Shabazz Muhammad. There is some doubt on the eligibility of Muhammad to classify him as an amateur. The issue rests on Muhammad's relationship with Benjamin Lincoln and Ken Kavanagh.
Lincoln admitted to CBS Sports that he funded two of Shabazz's unofficial visits. Kavanagh wants to one day represent Muhammad as his agent. The problem is that he has already donated money to Muhammad's summer league team. Kavanagh also admitted to CBS Sports that he regularly attends Shabazz's games.
In light of all this, I have a bad feeling about the chances of Shabazz ending up in a Kentucky uniform. As a matter of fact, I'm not sure he will ever wear any college uniform.
Ol' Bob
Robert Montogomery Knight is no longer the coach of the Indiana Who-siers, but he still finds ways to poke at Kentucky on mourning talk shows. In Gregg Doyel's latest blog about Knight on Mike&Mike, you can vividly see the hatred Knight still holds for his friends down South. It's not that we care what he has to say.. Ok, maybe a little. But, with his latest tirades, maybe ESPN should look into another analyst. What does he bring to the table anyway besides saying players who dunk the ball with a little authority should be taken out or if all 5 players don't touch the ball on one possession, there goes their scholarships. Your time has come and gone Knight, go enjoy your coffee.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
Nerlens Noel Recruitment
The race for recently reclassified Nerlens Noel has came down to two teams. Coincidentally, it is between Kentucky and Syrcacuse. Don't expect Calipari to lose out on this race. Not only is he an amazing recruiter, Kentucky seems to be the front-runner for the 6'10-11" 208lb stud and his classic 90's flattop.
Only One-And-Done?
John Calipari |
http://www.coachcal.com/11471/2012/02/the-great-myth-of-our-program/
Recruiting Update; Amile Jefferson and Tony Parker Latest.
Tony Parker, on the other hand has taken Kentucky off of his list. The 6'9 center from Georgia has decided to make his college choice at this year's Mcdonald's All American game on March 28th. Parker is down to Kansas, UCLA, Duke, Ohio State, Memphis, and Georgia. Parker cut Kentucky and Uconn from his list.
Recruiting is about to go in a frenzy. After the final four, and into early May, players will make their college decision. Be sure to check in and find out who will be sporting the Kentucky blue for next year.
Kentucky is King
The latest SEC Rankings are out and according to ESPN's Andy Katz, "Kentucky is king, and there doesn't appear to be another team capable of getting to the Final Four."
Of course, Kentucky has won yet another regular season conference championship and no one else is even close. The Cats have taken down the second ranked team twice this season with only a home game against Georgia and a trip to Gainesville in the way of a perfect resume in conference play. Out of these top 5 teams listed above, only 4 have a realistic shot of making the dance. Sadly, Tennessee will not be there. (Ha!) As always Florida will have something to say come time of the SEC tournament in New Orleans but it's not like we'll listen.
P.S. All of you traveling down there, get in nice with someone at your hotel. I have a feeling you'll see them again. C-A-T-S!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Is The Match-Up Really That Close?
It is undeniable that they're is only two dominate teams in college basketball, Syracuse and Kentucky. Both teams post only 1 loss on the season and are ranked 1 and 3 in the RPI respectively. The only question remaining, how do they match-up with one another?
The styles are so different that it isn't even funny. Playing a primary defense of a 2-3 zone, old school coach Jim Boeheim isn't afraid to let teams shoot against his Orangemen. And, why wouldn't he? This defense has held their opponents to a 39% field goal percentage. Most teams prepare season long for a man-to-man scheme so when they face Syracuse, the quickness can absolutely be frustrating. Rebounding is key when playing a zone, it can make or break the fact of a fast break. To their demise however, Syracuse isn't a great rebounding squad.
But, in the game of basketball, it comes down to the guys on the court. A coach can only do so much before the weight becomes rested on the shoulders of his players. Boeheim has no shortage of those either. 10 of his guys average at least 10 mintues per game which is an outstanding number, and the points are spread throughout with Kris Joseph being the leader.
Now that you have heard Syracuse's argument let's look at the Cats'.
John Calipari is in his 3rd season in Lexington and without question has his best shot at cutting down the nets. With 7 future NBA players, these Wildcats are something else.
Anthony Davis is currently in a heated race with Kansas' Thomas Robinson for National Player of the Year. The cast includes several potential All-Americans, 5-star athletes, 2011 SEC POY, and 2011 SEC tournament MVP. 4 freshman, 2 sophomores, and 1 senior, they have the perfect blend of youth and experience that you need to contend.
Kentucky is ranked 11th in the nation in field goal percentage and 1st in field goal percentage defense. Unless you've been sleeping under a rock you also know they lead the country in blocks per game. Unfortunately for everyone else, you can't score against them nor stop them from scoring.
To sum it up, you couldn't have two more opposing teams at 1 and 2 in the nation. Syracuse brings to the floor an old fashioned James Naismith type game while Kentucky is the future of basketball at an uptempo, dribble drive pace.
You be the judge.
Fab Melo |
Anthony Davis |
But, in the game of basketball, it comes down to the guys on the court. A coach can only do so much before the weight becomes rested on the shoulders of his players. Boeheim has no shortage of those either. 10 of his guys average at least 10 mintues per game which is an outstanding number, and the points are spread throughout with Kris Joseph being the leader.
Now that you have heard Syracuse's argument let's look at the Cats'.
John Calipari is in his 3rd season in Lexington and without question has his best shot at cutting down the nets. With 7 future NBA players, these Wildcats are something else.
Anthony Davis is currently in a heated race with Kansas' Thomas Robinson for National Player of the Year. The cast includes several potential All-Americans, 5-star athletes, 2011 SEC POY, and 2011 SEC tournament MVP. 4 freshman, 2 sophomores, and 1 senior, they have the perfect blend of youth and experience that you need to contend.
Kentucky is ranked 11th in the nation in field goal percentage and 1st in field goal percentage defense. Unless you've been sleeping under a rock you also know they lead the country in blocks per game. Unfortunately for everyone else, you can't score against them nor stop them from scoring.
To sum it up, you couldn't have two more opposing teams at 1 and 2 in the nation. Syracuse brings to the floor an old fashioned James Naismith type game while Kentucky is the future of basketball at an uptempo, dribble drive pace.
You be the judge.
Joe Lunardi's latest bracketology. Where does Kentucky stand?
As we wait until Thursday's game versus Georgia, which is Senior night for Darius Miller and Eloy Vargas. Let's take a look at Joe Lunardi's latest bracketology.
North Carolina as a 2 seed, that's fine. They'll make it 3 wins in a row. Louisville as a 4 seed. What a road to the final four. The bracket shows Kentucky playing in Louisville and then advancing on to Atlanta aka Cat-lanta for the regional semi finals, and finals. Final four in New Orleans which is the home place of the SEC tournament. Let the madness begin!
Guest Article - Possibly Gr8?
Since the beginning of the 2011-2012 basketball season, many knew this young but “experienced” group of Wildcats could contend for a national title, (Kentucky’s eighth) but did we really think they would be this dominate?
Only 4 opponents have played Kentucky to within 6 points (3 being ranked in the top 15 at one time) and their one loss came at Indiana in a hyped environment on a last second game winner. If it weren’t for Christian Watford this team could be chasing history, not that they aren’t already.
Anthony Davis is playing like a man among boys. The 6’10″ freshman stud is averaging roughly 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 blocks per game. Numbers we haven’t seen from a freshman since Shaquille O’Neal was terrorizing the game in Baton Rouge. Now, I’m not trying to forecast the future but numbers never lie.
Along with Davis comes other touted freshman like Michael Kidd-Gilchrist who can absolutely fill up a stat sheet across the board and Marquis Teague, who as of late is being the floor general that we thought he would be. 5-star recruit Kyle Wiltjer is coming off the bench with productive minutes and 6 points. Terrence Jones is back to to becoming himself and Doron Lamb is shooting almost 50% from 3-poing range.
Being a senior on a John Calipari squad is almost unheard of but Darius Miller is making the most of it. Playing the role of the Wildcats’ 6th man, Miller is averaging 10 points with 26 minutes played per game. Accompany that with 1 and half turnovers and you have one of the smartest players in the nation. He is very underrated at 6’8″ with a smooth game and his inside approach is unstoppable.
After all that being said, is this really the team? Is this the team that gets the Big Blue Nation it’s 8th and possibly the most desired title ever?
My vote is yes. This team has all the tools to get it done in New Orleans. Unlike the 2009-10 team, they do have a couple of guys that can knockdown the outside shot. Unlike the Final Four team of last year they can go 7 deep. It is set up for these Cats like no team since 1996 has had it. It is up to them to grasp the moment and bring back the hardware to it’s beloved state.
-Justin Dewight Sumpter
Only 4 opponents have played Kentucky to within 6 points (3 being ranked in the top 15 at one time) and their one loss came at Indiana in a hyped environment on a last second game winner. If it weren’t for Christian Watford this team could be chasing history, not that they aren’t already.
Anthony Davis is playing like a man among boys. The 6’10″ freshman stud is averaging roughly 14 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 blocks per game. Numbers we haven’t seen from a freshman since Shaquille O’Neal was terrorizing the game in Baton Rouge. Now, I’m not trying to forecast the future but numbers never lie.
Along with Davis comes other touted freshman like Michael Kidd-Gilchrist who can absolutely fill up a stat sheet across the board and Marquis Teague, who as of late is being the floor general that we thought he would be. 5-star recruit Kyle Wiltjer is coming off the bench with productive minutes and 6 points. Terrence Jones is back to to becoming himself and Doron Lamb is shooting almost 50% from 3-poing range.
Being a senior on a John Calipari squad is almost unheard of but Darius Miller is making the most of it. Playing the role of the Wildcats’ 6th man, Miller is averaging 10 points with 26 minutes played per game. Accompany that with 1 and half turnovers and you have one of the smartest players in the nation. He is very underrated at 6’8″ with a smooth game and his inside approach is unstoppable.
After all that being said, is this really the team? Is this the team that gets the Big Blue Nation it’s 8th and possibly the most desired title ever?
My vote is yes. This team has all the tools to get it done in New Orleans. Unlike the 2009-10 team, they do have a couple of guys that can knockdown the outside shot. Unlike the Final Four team of last year they can go 7 deep. It is set up for these Cats like no team since 1996 has had it. It is up to them to grasp the moment and bring back the hardware to it’s beloved state.
-Justin Dewight Sumpter
The Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Debate - Is he Staying or Is He Going?
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist has sparked much debate with his comments after the Vanderbilt game on Saturday. Reporters quickly hit the internet(including myself) with headlines that MKG announced a decision to come back to Kentucky for at least another season. We all had to quickly pull back from those headlines after Kidd-Gilchrist tweeted " I'm going to do what's best for me" , just hours after his initial comments. Then CBS's Jeff Goodman made a comment that World Wide Wes would making all the decision for MKG.
Jeff Goodman's claim did not sit well with many people. One of which was MKG's very own mother. Goodman's comments pushed her into making a twitter reply :
What has happened next could only be described as a blogosphere frenzy. Does this mean he is staying? Does it mean he is leaving? What's going on? My answer? I don't really care right now. The one thing that MKG does not need is a distraction. There is way too much basketball left for everyone to start worrying about whether he is going or staying. For goodness sake, there is a national championship at stake here.
Even with all that said, we all are still just humans. As such, curiosity almost always gets the best of us. So, even though I just said I didn't care, I'm going to give my opinion on the subject anyway. Here is the bottom line, MKG has to do what is best for him and his family. I would love to keep him for 4 years. If he were to stay all four years then he most likely would turn out to be the most loved Wildcat in history. The pure thought of it makes me shake with excitement a little.
I love the thought but I have to be real. If Kidd-Gilchrist continues to be projected a high lottery pick, there is no way I think he is going to stay. If someone told you that you could make 3 millions dollars next year, what would you do?
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Update - Not So Fast
After a media frenzy on Saturday following Michael Kidd-Gilchrist's comments that suggested he may stick around more than 1 year, MKG released the above statement via twitter. It looks that he has quickly pulled back from his post Vandy comments.
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist says he will return to Kentucky
After the Vanderbilt game today, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist told reporters that he would be staying all four years at Kentucky. Michael said "No, it’s not any extra emotion. I am staying all four years as of now" . He followed it up with , "I am going to graduate here. I am not going anywhere. I am staying at Kentucky".
John Wall with a highlight reel dunk!
It's an hour away before tip off at Rupp but in case you missed this last night. Here's John Wall stealing the show!
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Michael Kidd-Gilchrist - The Difference Maker
During the first half of today's match up between Kentucky and Mississippi St, Dee Bost scored 16 huge points. He had a really heroic performance that propelled his team to a 13 point halftime lead. Then, enter Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.
The biggest adjustment that Coach Cal made during the half was the decision to move MKG over and guard the then on fire point guard of Mississippi St. Cal told Kidd-Gilchrist that he would have Bost's number. Bost would only score 5 points during the second half.
With Bost being hounded by MKG, State's offense sputtered during the latter part of the game. Kentucky held them to only 23 points in the second session. Then, it was MKG who would not be denied and gave Kentucky their first lead late in the game with a strong put back and foul. UK controlled the game from that point, winning 73-64.
Comeback Cats!--Cats win 73, Miss State, 64
Don't call it a comeback, the cats been here for years! Team just showed again why they are the best team in the country. Being down by as many 13 points, and seeming to never get over the hump and take the lead....but they did. Going into Starksville, the cats knew they were going to be in a battle and they were. Dee Bost had the first half of his life with 16 points, but the bost stopper, Kidd-Gilchrist held him into check holding him to 5 points in the 2nd half. Miller hit big shot after big shot down the stretch to keep the cats in the game and eventually get the win. Davis recorded a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds, a very quiet double-double I might add. Jones posted 11 points, and grabbed 6 boards. Lamb came up big playing point with Teague in foul trouble in the 2nd half. Teague in the first half received a technical and got some cheap fouls and had to sit most of the 2nd half. Like I said, Lamb came up big with 11 points and only had 1 turnover. The cats just keep proving their toughness and will to win. They got Vandy back at rupp on Saturday at 12. Highlights and post game interviews will be posted later on throughout the night, and tomorrow.
LifeSavers Candy - A Story about Bias Against the Kentucky Wildcats
Take a look at a pack of LifeSavers candy. What do you see? I'm sure you see a great tasting candy filled with different colors and different flavors. You probably have a favorite. Now, let me tell you what I see. I see a bias against the Kentucky Wildcats. There are no blue LifeSavers. Louisville is represented with the red. Tennessee has the orange included. Michigan St. somehow got their green in the pack. Where is the Kentucky blue? I scoured the net to find a blue LifeSaver. There are none anywhere(I don't count the blue Sonic the Hedgehog ones). Undoubtedly, LifeSavers holds some kind of grudge with the Kentucky Wildcats.
I know my above presentation is a little silly. I don't really think there is a conspiracy from LifeSavers to keep blue out of the pack because of Kentucky(though it is odd). My point is this. We Kentucky fans sometimes jump to this conclusion whenever the Wildcats don't get their fair share in the media. Often times, the main target of our frustration and anger goes to ESPN. The same ESPN that snubbed their nose at the Darius Miller dunk only a few days ago by not placing it on Sportscenter's Top Ten Plays.
Are we being fair to ESPN? Is there really a conspiracy to hold UK back and keep us down? On the other hand, are we being like my LifeSavers story above and placing blame on ESPN in the wrong? I think the answer is yes to both. I know I should just pick a side, but I think this is a tough question to come to a fair conclusion. Let me explain myself in the next couple of paragraphs.
I do not believe that ESPN as a corporation has any bias against the Kentucky Wildcats. There I said it. There is just too many facts to sway my opinion any other way. First, Kentucky is one of the most loved basketball brands in all the nation. This fact alone makes ESPN love UK because they know the Wildcats are where the money is. Think I'm wrong? What other school has ESPN aired an open practice during the season? Also, go count how many times Kentucky has been the 9 PM game on Super Tuesday. I imagine you would be hard pressed to find more than a hand full of teams. The fact is that being bias against Kentucky would be bad business for ESPN. To any company, it's all about the money.
On the other side of the isle, I do believe that some of the reporters for ESPN hold a bias against the Cats. The latest proof comes from Digger Phelps and his scolding rant he gave to UK fans at Vanderbilt during game day. Bob Knight, also, makes no bones about the fact that he dislikes our favorite team from the Bluegrass. Knight has often times publicly ranted against Kentucky and our coaching staff. Doug Gottlieb continues to make negative comments about the team, particularly Marquis Teague, during this current season despite UK's success. Truly, I could go on on on.
In conclusion, ESPN does not hold a grudge or a bias against the Kentucky Wildcats. Some of the employees, however, do show a negative bias against UK. I don't think anyone who has watched the Cats and their relationship with ESPN over the years could argue with that. The real question now is, why is there no blue LifeSaver?
Monday, February 20, 2012
Kentucky Recruiting Update - Shabazz Muhammad and Nerlens Noel
Paul Biancardi, who is the recruiting directer at ESPN, says that UK is the heavy favorite for both Shabazz Muhammad and Nerlens Noel. Noel is currently ranked # 1 overall in the class but is closely followed by Shabazz who sits at # 2 overall. If Kentucky were to land both these recruits, they would join Archie Goodwin and Alex Poythress in discussion of best class all time. They would have some tough shoes to fill following the current class, but the potential would be there.
Rex Chapman Feeling some Heat after Racially Charged Joke on Twitter
Former Kentucky Wildcats star Rex Chapman let his mouth get him in hot water this morning. Chapman made a racially charge joked via twitter involving the New York Knicks JR Smith and Jeremy Lin. I have been following Chapman on twitter for quit sometime and have always thought his comments were, at times, "out there" . What is worse, when asked about the insensitive nature of the joke toward people of the Asian culture, Chapman replied , "I'll let you know when I give a ****" A complete twitter fight has followed, with Chapman going back and forth with his followers with very sarcastic remarks. Not his brightest hour....
Sunday, February 19, 2012
Win a Kentucky Jersey from Everything Kentucky Online
To help promote our new Official Facebook Page, Everything Kentucky Online is holding a contest that will give away 1 Michael Kidd-Gilchrist Replica Nike # 14 Kentucky jersey to 1 lucky follower. In order to be eligible to win, all you have to do is 1.)Have a Facebook account, and 2.) Be a subscriber to the Official Fan Page by clicking the like button at http://www.facebook.com/everythingkentuckyonline .
I want to thank everyone who participates in advance and wish everyone good luck ! The drawing will be held on March 1st, so you better hurry and sign up. Only everyone in the lower 48 states is eligible as long as you subscribe to the Official Fan Page by March 1st, 2012. Go Big Blue!
If you can't wait until March 1st to see if you win the jersey, you can always head over to Amazon.com and pick up a jersey. They also have Anthony Davis jersey's available.
I want to thank everyone who participates in advance and wish everyone good luck ! The drawing will be held on March 1st, so you better hurry and sign up. Only everyone in the lower 48 states is eligible as long as you subscribe to the Official Fan Page by March 1st, 2012. Go Big Blue!
If you can't wait until March 1st to see if you win the jersey, you can always head over to Amazon.com and pick up a jersey. They also have Anthony Davis jersey's available.
Saturday, February 18, 2012
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
Video : ESPN's Digger Phelps Scolds UK Fans at Vanderbilt Game
Wow. Digger Phelps comes across as all kinds of a PUNK during the Pre-Gameday showcase. I always knew that Digger did not have any respect for Kentucky as a basketball team. I just never realized he disliked the people of Kentucky that much.
Watch Kentucky Live Open Practice 2/15
Coach John Calipari announced today that Kentucky will be having an open practice at Memorial, Wednesday February 15th at 3 PM. It will be televised on WKYT.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Find Out Where to Buy an Anthony Davis Jersey
Product Features
- 100% polyester
- Sleeveless jersey
- Screenprinted NCAA® school name and number on front; number on back Jock tag at left hem
- Replica of game-day uniform V-neckline Officially licensed
#1 Kentucky Defeats #7 Florida, 78-58!
Wow, an unbelievable performance by the Kentucky Wildcats. Three goggles were everywhere, Davis showed everyone why he's the best player in the nation, Kidd-Gilchrist continues to be one of the if not the hardest working players in all of college basketball, and Teague proved that he can handle the pressure. Lamb led all scorers with 18 points, by going 6 for 8 and 4 for 5 from the three point line. Davis had 16 points, with 14 points coming from dunks, and 2 from a nice little jumper in the lane. Kidd-Gilchrist with 13 points, and 13 boards...coming through like his name is Mike Gillie! Teague finished with a double double, 12 points and 10 assists, first time that a player has recorded a double double through points and assists since John Wall two seasons ago. Miller, and Wiltjer chipped in with 9 and 6 points and knocked down a few treys. Jones had a off night, partly from foul trouble but still managed to record 7 rebounds in 19 minutes, and caught himself a lob. He was being aggressive, that's what counts. Kentucky has another challenge this Saturday as they go to Nashville and play Vanderbilt. John Jenkins look out...MKG is coming for you!
Is that...Yeah It Is...Bruce Pearl!?
Monday, February 6, 2012
Anthony Davis Poster to be Given at Florida Game
If your lucky enough to attend the Florida at Kentucky game on Super Tuesday, then you will also be lucky enough to come home with this limited edition poster of Anthony Davis. UK has released info that everyone in attendance will be coming away with the free poster.
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Sunday, February 5, 2012
Shabazz Muhammad Update
According to sources, Shabazz Muhammad will be making his college choice in April. His father tells reporters that there is no leader at this point and he is not leaning in any direction. Shabazz Muhammad is ranked # 2 overall in the class, behind Nerlens Noel who is also a Kentucky target.
For a chance to win a free Michael Kidd-Gilchrist jersey, go to http://www.facebook.com/everythingkentuckyonline
For a chance to win a free Michael Kidd-Gilchrist jersey, go to http://www.facebook.com/everythingkentuckyonline
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Kentucky defeats South Carolina 86-52
Jimmy Dykes says that South Carolina was "stuck on stupid" as Kentucky crushed the Gamecocks today 86-52. It was total domination by the Wildcats. As usual, the Cats were led by phenom Anthony Davis. Davis ended the game with 22 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 blocks. His eighth block moved him ahead of Shaquille O'neal for the freshman season block leader in the SEC. With Kentucky continuing to have performance like tonight, it will be tough for any team in the country to handle them.
Complete Box Score
Buy an Anthony Davis Jersey from Amazon.com
Complete Box Score
Buy an Anthony Davis Jersey from Amazon.com
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