Picking Up the Pieces

I had the misfortune of going to the UK vs Georgia game last night. In what was to be a highly anticipated blow-out of a 2 SEC win team (Georgia), it turned out to be a living nightmare. I have rooted for Billy Gillispie from day one. The man has heart, determination, and a work ethic that can be rivaled by few. But can he coach? I used to think so...but game after game has led me to believe otherwise.

I think Billy G is over his head at UK. He has rescued two schools and took them to NCAA glory. Not necessarily winning the Big Dance, but at least getting these schools to the NCAA Tournament and playing well. UK did not need a rescue, they only needed a strong-willed coach who could come in and pick up the pieces left by Tubby Smith. A coach who could pick this squad up and move them deeper into the Big Dance. Two years later we may not even have a dance partner. UK barely made it into the field of 64 last year, this year we may not make it at all. Who is to blame for this fall from grace? Tubby Smith? The players? No.

Billy G.

Billy G. has proven to be bull-headed and stubborn. He will not back down on his promise to never play zone defense. He has been rude to the ESPN side-line reporter (twice) and has often sparred with radio host Tom Leech. Billy G. is determined to confuse everyone by his substitution patterns...even the players are confused! The coach has often forced the players to have a two hour practice before games and will yank players out of the game for misdemeanor act on the court. Even if it means pulling out the whole team with the game on the line. (Georgia game anyone?)

Do I think Billy G. needs to go home? No. What other coach in their right mind would accept the UK job knowing the previous coach was sacked after two seasons. Billy G. needs to have at least three to four years to harvest his recruits and lead them to glory. But the coach needs to learn to be less stubborn and make changes. Losing at Rupp Arena is NOT acceptable. Tubby Smith lost 19 home games in 10 years...Rick Pitino lost 7 home games in 8 years. Billy G. is looking to surpass those great feats in just three years. We are already hearing rumors that Patterson is looking to leave...who knows about Meeks. I am sure he is ready to go too. I don't believe that these guys are looking to go to the NBA as much as they want to leave Team Turmoil.

Shame on you Billy G. Its time to step up and be the coach we know you can be. Stop fighting the world and the fans. Lead our team to victory. I know you can do it.