Thank You for Your Prayers

First, let me say that I'm sorry for the lack of updates today. That being said, there are times when basketball takes a back seat and and today was one of those times.

Next, I am so thankful that I have such a great group of friends, family and readers. All your words of support, prayer and enouragement have meant a great deal to my family.

Lastly, the doctors confirmed today that my dad did suffer a stroke. We are still awaiting test results that will tell us the severity of the damage and what the future holds.

Thank you for your continued prayers.

I Need Your Prayers Tonight

Hey friends, I have to be selfish and ask for your prayers tonight. I just found out that my dad has suffered a stroke.

I don't have a solid update at this time but I am heading to the hospital now. Please pray for my dad and my family tonight.

Sources Believe Walter McCarty is Out in Indiana

According to the Indianapolis Star, former Kentucky star Walter McCarty will likely not be retained in Indiana if the Pacers opt to keep interim coach Frank Vogel.

Here is an excerpt:

While a source close to the situation has said interim coach Frank Vogel is likely to return on a one-year deal, it appears he'll have to make some concessions for that to occur.

According to the Indianapolis Star, Vogel was told on Wednesday that "he'll have to change his staff if he's hired" and that "assistants Jay DeFruscio, Walter McCarty and Vitaly Potapenko will not be part of Vogel's staff if he returns as head coach." A Los Angeles Times report indicated that longtime Lakers assistant Frank Hamblen is being considered as a Vogel assistant.

The Pacers were 20-18 under Vogel, the 37-year-old who took over for Jim O'Brien midseason and was praised for the way his team competed in the five-game, first-round loss to Chicago in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Should the Pacers part ways with Vogel, Adelman and Casey are reportedly candidates.

Complete Article

McCarty has been rumored to be in the mix for the head coaching job at Boston University. Rick Pitino's son, Richard, is also rumored to a candidate.

Bud Mackey Sentenced to More than 15 Years in Prison

The once promising basketball career of Scott County star Bud Mackey has come to a sad and bitter end.

Mackey, who has been unable to avoid trouble since his high school days, was sentenced to 15 1/2 years in prison this morning in a drug and theft case.

Here is an excerpt from Lex18.com:

The former basketball stand-out recently entered a guilty plea in court for trafficking in a controlled substance as well as escaping from the Scott County Sheriff's Office while being arrested on a robbery charge.

Mackey was sentenced to 15 1/2 years - 10 1/2 for robbery, theft and trafficking drugs, and five years for probation violation. The escape charge against Mackey was dismissed.

Complete Article

Simon Kenton to Host 3-on-3 Tournament Saturday

DREW KORDENBROCK MEMORIAL

3 on 3 Basketball Tournament
Simon Kenton Pioneers

All games will be played at Simon Kenton High School

Cost: Pre-Register = $80 per team of 4 (by June 9th)
Walk-ups = $100 per team of 4 (afterJune 9th)

When: Saturday, June 11th

Divisions: MIDDLE SCHOOL = 6th – 8th grade (as of 2011-2012 school yr)
HIGH SCHOOL = 9th grade thru 12th grade (2011 – 2012 school yr)
OPEN = Anyone that has graduated as of 2011 and Adults.

Entry form and fees must be received by Thursday June 9th.
Make checks payable to Simon Kenton Pioneer Club (no refunds)
1132 Madison Pike
Independence, KY 41051

CONCESSIONS, GAMES, AND PRIZES
**MANDATORY TEAM MEETING AT @ 2:00pm **
Teams must be registered between 1:00 - 1:30pm on June 11th
Games will begin as close to 2:30 pm as possible
Teams consist of 4 players only
Each team should have a light and dark jersey (t-shirt)
Players must play in their assigned division. No one can play down.
Each team is guaranteed at least 3 games
Pool Play, Each Team Moves on to Tournament
Prizes for 1st and 2nd place in each Division
For questions contact
Jeff Davis email jeff.davis@kenton.kyschools.us


Team Name: ______________________________

Circle Division your competing in: Middle School, High School or Open

Parent/Coach/Supervisor: _______________________ cell/home: _________________

Player 1 ________________________________ Phone________________

Player 2________________________________ Phone_________________

Player 3________________________________ Phone__________________

Player 4________________________________ Phone _________________

Eric Bledsoe is Learning Plenty from Robert Pack

Former Kentucky star Eric Bledsoe is gaining a wealth of knowledge from NBA veteran Robert Pack this offseason:

Ryan Taylor Says He is Still Committed to Louisville

Western High School's Ryan Taylor says he's still firmly committed to Louisville and he thinks the Cards will have a scholarship for him next season.

He plans to attend Hargrave Military Academy and then return to Louisville in 2012.

Here he is talking to Rick Bozich of the Courier-Journal:

Rodrick Rhodes Applies for Job at Harlan High School

Former University of Kentucky and USC player Rodrick Rhodes is apparently very serious about landing a head coaching job in Kentucky.

Rhodes, who made news over the weekend after expressing interest in the coaching position at Owsley County High School, has now applied for the open job at Harlan High School.

Here is an excerpt:

Harlan athletic director Kevin Ball confirmed Sunday that former Kentucky standout and NBA player Rodrick Rhodes has expressed interest in the boys coaching vacancy at Harlan High School.

Ball said he contacted the former Wildcat after learning of his interest in another coaching vacancy in the region. He added that Rhodes was receptive about the possibility of coaching at Harlan and later submitted an application.

“It is a name that people know,” Ball said. “He has obviously been around basketball all of his life, so the knowledge level should be there.”

The Dragons could have competition for Rhodes as he has also applied for the vacant boys basketball coaching position at Owsley County High School.

Complete Article

Kentucky All-Star Scrimmage Tonight at Anderson County

The Kentucky Boys' High School All-Stars will be conducting a public scrimmage at Anderson County High School on Monday, June 6 at 6:30 p.m.

The Kentucky team, led by Mr. Basketball and LSU signee Anthony Hickey of Christian County, will be scrimmaging the Kentucky Junior All-Stars in preparation for the annual summer series against Indiana.

The Kentucky team will feature 10 players who have already signed with Division I schools. In addition to Hickey, fans can meet players such as Louisville Eastern's Remy Abell (Indiana) and Kameron Woods (Butler), Warren Central's George Fant (Western Kentucky) and Jeffersontown's Zach Price (Louisville).

The team is coached by Anderson County's Glen Drury, who has won more than 400 games, two regional titles and numerous Coach of the Year awards during his career. He is also a member of the Kentucky Association of Basketball Coaches' Court of Honor.

The team will participate in a dunk contest and a 3-point shooting contest at 6 p.m. and will be available for autographs and pictures after the game.

Fans can see two scrimmages, beginning at 4:30 p.m. Perennial powers Eastern and Mason County will square off along with Anderson County and Lexington Sayre. Sayre boasts one of the state's top juniors-to-be in point guard Mike Smith.

Tickets are $4 at the door and are good for all events of the evening. Any high school, middle school or youth basketball coach, boys' or girls, bringing 10 or more guests can get tickets at half price. Coaches should call Jennifer Drury at 502-600-2523 for more information.

Kentucky boasts one of its strongest teams in many years, but will be taking on an Indiana team led by Kentucky signee Marquis Teague and Indiana recruit Cody Zeller, both of whom are listed in the top 15 players in the nation. The teams will play at Bellarmine College in Louisville on June 10 and at Conseco Fieldhouse in Indianapolis the following night.

**In addition, any former Kentucky All-Star player or coach who attends the June 6 scrimmage will be admitted free and recognized during the contest. Former players and coaches should contact John Herndon at jpherndon@theandersonnews.com for more information.

Kentucky Junior All-Stars (East Division) Expected at Anderson County:

Matt Day - Buckhorn
Wes Kimball - Henry Clay
Percy Blade - Eastern
Tyrell Corlew - Eastern
Tyler Black - Mason County
Lemon Gregory - Muhlenberg County
DJ Townsend - Rowan County
Adam Wing - Rowan County
Isaiah Ivey - Scott County
Tameron Manning - Scott County
Jay Johnson - Woodford County
Kerry Smith - Oldham County
Tyler Wesley - Oldham County

Matt McMahon Joins Murray State Basketball Staff

Murray State University has hired Matt Mcmahon from UNC-Wilmington as an assistant coach on Steve Prohm's staff.

Here is the release from MSU:

Murray, Ky. --- Murray State Men's Basketball Head Coach Steve Prohm announced the hiring of Matt McMahon, who joins the Racers' program from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

“I’m very excited to be able to have Matt join the Racer Basketball family,” Prohm said. “He has been part of championship teams as a player and coach and those experiences will help keep us at a championship level.”

“I am thrilled with the opportunity to join Steve Prohm’s coaching staff,” McMahon said. “His energy, passion, and overall vision for Murray State basketball are very impressive, and I am excited to be a part of it.”

McMahon comes to Murray State after spending the 2010-11 season with Coach Buzz Peterson at UNCW. McMahon served 10 seasons as an assistant coach at Appalachian State before moving to UNCW in 2010. He was ranked sixth on the list of best assistant coaches by FoxSports.com and received similar acclaim by CollegeInsider.com

Complete Release

Muhammad, Drummond Stand Out at Pangos Camp

FiveStarBasketball.com lists Kentucky recruits Shabazz Muhammad and Andre Drummond as two of the best players in Sunday's action at the Pangos All-American Camp.

Here is an excerpt:

Shabbazz Muhammad: has been more than a player this weekend, he has been a buzz-word. “Where's Shabbazz at? Which court is he playing at?” Phrases like those were tossed around more than the Powerade cups on the sidelines. Muhammad spent his Top 25 game going for every dunk he could find a lane for. He didn't connect on all of them, but the ones that went through were clean, absurdly high in the air and rough on the rim. At the end of the camp, Muhammad was awarded the MVP of the Camp award, joining past winners like James Harden, Brandon Jennings, John Wall and Harrison Barnes.

Andre Drummond: continued his highlight reel at Pangos with some hidden gems that he saved for the Top 25 game. Drummond enjoyed his time on Sunday, showcasing his deft handle with the rock, despite his size, crossing over his defender a few times in isolation to get the crowd hyped up. He also knew when to go back to his bread and butter, throwing down several board-rattling dunks. Overall, Drummond was a monster on the floor, making his fellow campers shake their heads in disgust at the way he treated the rims at Cal-State Dominguez Hills. He shared the game’s co-MVP award with Anthony Bennett.

Complete Article

Deng Leek Will Not Qualify at Western Kentucky

Western Kentucky recruit Deng Leek will not qualify academically out of high school to play for the Hilltoppers in 2011-12.

Here is an excerpt from the Bowling Green Daily News:

Western Kentucky senior associate athletic director Todd Stewart confirmed to the Daily News on Sunday what McDonald told visitors of a Toppers on Tour stop Saturday in Lexington that 2011 center signee Deng Leek will not qualify academically out of high school to play at WKU next season.

Leek, a 6-foot-11-inch Sudanese prospect by way of Veritas Academy in Greensboro, N.C., signed with the Hilltoppers last fall as a Rivals.com three-star prospect.

Complete Article

Photo: Rivals.com

DeAndre Liggins Talks NBA Draft and More

Here is Kentucky's DeAndre Liggins talking to Scott Anderson of NationofBlue.com:

Faried in Portland, Mack in New York for Workouts

Former Morehead State University star Kenneth Faried is in Portland today for a work out for the TrailBlazers.

Faried posted on Twitter last night:

KennethFaried Just landed in Portland workout w/ them tm I'm out here #Grinding wat u doing with your life

Meanwhile, former Butler guard Shelvin Mack is in New York City to work out for the Knicks:

BUmack1 Head a great weekend with @MsCandyceB in Chicago #funtimes.....headed to the airport, back at it again NYC next stop......

Shabazz Muhammad with the Pangos Play of the Day

Check out Kentucky recruit Shabazz Muhammad with the impressive driving dunk at day 2 of the Pangos All-American camp:

Kene Anyigbo Spends Time with Pro Basketball Trainer

Western Kentucky's Kene Anyigbo has been working out with professional basketball trainer Chris Gaston.

Here is some footage:

Buzz on Kentucky Basketball: Give Rodrick Rhodes a Job Edition

Sunday's Top 5:

- Duke is showing "great interest" in Kentucky 2012 recruit Perry Ellis.

- There will be several Kentucky recruits at the NBPA Top 100 camp later this month.

- Dreams of a John Wall/Enes Kanter duo in Washington have faded; Kanter will apparently not work out for the Wizards.

- Former Kentucky star DeAndre Liggins has joined the world of Twitter.

- Let me repeat, Time Warner Cable is terrible and their customer service skills are worse.

On Monday, Get Ready For:

- NBA workouts: DeAndre Liggins and Demonte Harper will work out for the Pacers; Kenneth Faried will be in Portland; Shelvin Mack will be in New York

- Talk about Tony Woods; he will be announcing a transfer destination soon and UK appears to be the front-runner.

Recruiting News:

- Fairdale's Josh Stroud has signed with Southeast (Neb.) Junior College

- Kentucky recruit Archie Goodwin suffered a dislocated wrist on Sunday; he'll likely be out of action of six weeks or so.

- According to Indystar.com, D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera is currently considering Kansas State, Georgetown, Louisville, Texas, UCLA and Xavier; Tennessee is also showing more interest.

- NKU has officially announced the addition of James Madison transfer Chad Jackson.

- Brandon Herman has signed with Robert Morris University; he turned down offers from UT-Chattanooga, UNC-Wilmington and Eastern Kentucky

- Southern State Community College has signed 6-6 center Max Graham of Clay High School in Portsmouth, Ohio.

The Buzz:

- Apparently, Rodrick Rhodes is serious about becoming a high school coach in Kentucky; he has inquired about jobs at Owsley County and Harlan.

- There is some buzz that Richard Pitino will be in the mix for the Boston University job.

- The Miami Heat took a 2-1 lead over Dallas in the NBA finals with an 88-86 win on Sunday.

Video of the Day (Interview with Shabazz Muhammad):

Former Pikeville Big Man to Participate in Jamaican Camp

Former Pikeville College (now University of Pikeville) big man Ewan Linton will be in Jamaica in July for the NIKE Star Search Camp.

Here is an excerpt of the press release:

MIAMI, FL – The 11th annual NIKE/Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) Star Search Basketball & Life Skills Development Camp is set for July 24-29, 2011 at the G.C. Foster College of Physical Education & Sports in St. Catherine, Jamaica. Registration begins on Sunday, July 24, 2011 at a time to be announced. Since its inception, over 110 male and female student/athletes have secured full basketball scholarships to United States high schools, colleges, and universities, among them, Jerome Jordan (Florida Air Academy/University of Tulsa/New York Knicks), Samadro Samuels (St. Benedict’s Prep/University of Louisville/Cleveland Cavaliers), Damion Staple (Southeastern Illinois College/Iowa State University/), Mugabe Thomas (Cedarville University), Ricardo Allliman (Florida Prep Academy/Cedarville University), Michael Rogers (Redemption Christian Academy/Valparaiso University), and Adrian Forbes (Notre Dame Prep/Trinity Valley Community College/Auburn University).

The camp is a joint effort between the Jamaica Basketball Development (JBD) Inc, and the Jamaica Amateur Basketball Association (JABA), while longtime supporter G.C. Foster will once again host the student/athletes in its dormitories for the duration of the camp. Grace College (Winona Lake, IN) returns for the second consecutive year to participate in camp activities, while many former scholarship awardees will be in the island and plan to participate in the life skills sessions. They include Courtney Walters (Northwood College), Ewan Linton (Pikeville College), and Rodney James (Cumberland University).

Complete Release

Linton in action:

UK Recruits at Pangos All-American Camp

Here is a mix from day one of the Pangos All-American camp which includes Kentucky recruits Shabazz Muhammad, Andre Drummond, Archie Goodwin and others:

Transylvania Signs Talented Point Guard from Florida

Transylvania University has signed 5-9 point guard Tom Sirkin from West Boca, Florida.

Here is the release from Transy:

LEXINGTON, Ky. - West Boca, Fla., point guard Tom Sirkin has decided to continue his basketball career at Transylvania, Pioneers' head coach Brian Lane said Monday.

The 5-9 senior was an All-Palm Beach County selection during the 2010-11 season and chose the Pioneers over Clark University and McDaniel College.

"(Transy) was beautiful and I just felt comfortable there," said Sirkin. "The coaches welcomed me as a player and treated me very well. The city and the school had everything I was looking for, great academics, great coaching, and most importantly, a winning program that has a chance to win championships."

Skirkin is a speedy, tough guard with a high basketball IQ who understands the challenges at the next level, said Lane.

“Tommy has played a tremendous amount of competitive basketball in South Florida and we are thrilled he has chosen Transy," Lane added. "With his West Boca High School schedule and his extensive summer AAU experience, he has been challenged by some of the top players in the country. That experience should help with his adjustment to collegiate basketball."

Complete Release

Duke Showing Great Interest in 2012 Recruit Perry Ellis

It appears that 2012 Kentucky recruit Perry Ellis is heavily considering recent interest from Duke.

Here is an excerpt:

“Duke is showing great interest right now,” Fonda Ellis said. “If Duke keeps showing interest they will [be added to his list].” Fonda added, “Perry really likes Capel a lot [because] they have been close for three years. [As for] head coach Mike Krzyzewski, Perry thinks [he] is cool and thinks it is an honor to have him call him and just talk.”

Fonda also went on to talk about how Duke sees Perry fitting into their system. “Coach K told Perry that when he watches his video highlights it reminded him of [former Duke star] Grant Hill… I think Perry would fit great.” Capel was also said to have spoken with Perry several times since he arrived at Duke and that Ellis has been in contact with Krzyzewski twice in addition to Capel e-mailing the entire Ellis family often throughout the past month.

Complete Article

Kentucky Recruits Selected for NBPA Top 100 Camp

Several University of Kentucky recruits have been selected for the prestigious National Basketball Players Association Top 100 High School Basketball Camp, which will run June 15-18 at the University of Virginia.

Kentucky 2012 recruits selected for the camp include Andre Drummond, Shabazz Muhammad, Kaleb Tarczewski and Ricardo Ledo.

Some recruits from the 2013 class include Jabari Parker, Julius Randle and Nerlens Noel.

The complete list of invitees will be announced soon.

Source

Enes Kanter Will Not Work Out in Washington

Former University of Kentucky big man Enes Kanter will not work out for the Washington Wizards, according to Michael Lee of The Washington Post.

The Wizards have the sixth pick in the draft and likely don't expect Kanter to be around at that point.

Here is an excerpt:

Although he has expressed a desire to play in Washington, Enes Kanter appears to be more interested in going high in the draft. Kanter does not have a workout scheduled for the Wizards, who hold the sixth pick in the NBA draft, but the team remains hopeful that something could come together in the next few weeks – either in Chicago, where Kanter is training at Attack Athletics, or possibly in Washington.

Kanter, the 6-foot-11 Turkish center who missed all of last season at Kentucky because of NCAA eligibility violations, completed his first individual workout with Utah last Friday. He is scheduled to work out for Toronto in Chicago on Monday and will head to Cleveland on Tuesday. He has an individual workout set for Minnesota next week. Kanter spoke with the Wizards three weeks ago and worked out with other draft prospects for NBA executives and scouts at the NBA combine in Chicago. But scheduling a workout with Kanter might require a little creativity.

Complete Article

NKU Officially Announces Addition of Chad Jackson

Northern Kentucky University has officially announced the addition of James Madison transfer Chad Jackson.

Here is the release:

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, Ky. – Former Scott County High School standout Chad Jackson will play for Northern Kentucky University in 2011-12 after transferring from James Madison, Norse head coach Dave Bezold announced.

Jackson, a 6-foot-4 guard, earned all-state honors as a senior at Scott County two years ago after averaging 16.6 points and 6.2 rebounds per game. He led the Cardinals to a 30-7 record and the semifinals of the state tournament that season.

He played his first two years at Rose Hill Christian School and was named co-most valuable player of the 16th Region's All-A Classic as a sophomore.

Jackson signed with James Madison and played for the Dukes last season, averaging 2.8 points and 2.6 rebounds per contest in 33 games. He scored a career-high nine points against Virginia Commonwealth and helped James Madison post a 21-12 record.

Complete Release

2012 Recruit Archie Goodwin Suffers Serious Injury

Archie Goodwin, a Kentucky recruit in the 2012 class, suffered a serious injury at a camp this weekend.

According to Dave Telep of ESPN, Goodwin was undercut and dislocated his non-shooting wrist.

DaveTelep Archie Goodwin got undercut and dislocated his non shooting wrist. He's going to be on the shelf a while.

DeAndre Liggins Joins the World of Twitter

Former University of Kentucky star DeAndre Liggins has officially joined the world of Twitter.

Follow Him Here

Here is one of Liggins' first Tweets:

DLiggs34 Need my fans 2 help @boogiecousins and me help the Special Olympics, buy a ticket 2 the Dream Home Raffle, http://www.soky.org/dreamhome.htm

Video: Kentucky Recruit Nerlens Noel

Check out 2013 Kentucky recruit Nerlens Noel in action:

Time Warner Cables Sucks It Up Again

My apologies for the lack of updates today fans, but Time Warner Cable managed to lack the ability to overcome an almost 10-hour outage in my area.

From the chats I had with them on the phone, I'm not really convinced that they knew what the problem was or that they even cared.

Let me say that Time Warner Cable is terrible and if you have another option, explore it.

Now that my rant is over, I have some catching up to do. Buckle in...

DeMarcus Cousins Needs Your Help

Former UK star DeMarcus Cousins needs your help with the Special Olympics of Kentucky.

Here is an excerpt:

With additional Early Bird Drawings on June 15 and July 15, you could be the next big winner. The June drawing will be for $1,500 and the July drawing for $2,500.

The Grand Prize Drawing will be held on Sept. 30 and you could be the winner of a new home or $150,000 in cash.

This year's house is a beautiful, upgraded two story that recently listed for $309,000, located at 533 Southpoint Drive in Lexington's desirable Pinnacle subdivision. The drawing winner also has the choice of taking $150,000 cash instead of the house.

Tickets for the 2011 Dream Home Raffle are just $50 each this time around and can be purchased on-line by clicking the Buy a Ticket button. This year, 8,200 tickets must be sold for the grand prize to be awarded. If fewer than 8,200 tickets are sold, the drawing becomes a split-the-pot raffle between the winner and Special Olympics Kentucky (amount determined after raffle expenses).

Read More

Kentucky Fans Knew This Was Coming

University of Kentucky basketball fans had to know this was coming...

NorthJersey.com lists John Calipari as a "possible candidate" to replace Donnie Walsh in the New York Knicks organization.

The site claims that Calipari "wants to return to the NBA and would leave Kentucky".

Here is an excerpt:

John Calipari: The former Nets coach wants to return to the NBA and would leave Kentucky, especially for a coach-GM combo.

Source

My Thoughts: I'm not buying this for a second but I certainly knew this type of report was coming.

Gerald Fitch Will Remain with Unicaja Malaga in Spain

Former University of Kentucky star Gerald Fitch will remain with Unicaja Malaga in Spain's top-level ACB League.

The team re-signed Fitch following a successful transfer from Turkey's Aliaga Petkim.

In 18 ACB games, Fitch averaged 15.0 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.3 assists. In Euroleague action, he put in 8.7 points, 4.0 rebounds and 2.0 assists.

Fitch has enjoyed a successful professional career that has taken him around the globe, including flirtation with the NBA before landing overseas.

Source: EuroBasket.com

John Calipari Gives State of the Program, Part 2

University of Kentucky head coach John Calipari has given the second part of his annual state of the program.

In the latest edition, he discusses his four NBA draft hopefuls.

Here is an excerpt:

Josh Harrellson

Josh has continued to impress teams with his skill level and understanding of the game. His workouts have been going well and I could definitely see a late-round team like Miami (where Josh worked out on Wednesday) grabbing him. Josh brings a great mentality with him to his next team – he’s been both a reserve and starter and he goes about his job with a blue collar attitude that championship organizations love. Every team is looking for a big man who can rebound and make open shots.

Enes Kanter

This one is so hard for me because as more and more people see what we saw all year at the Joe Craft Center with Enes, I can’t help but think how much more special last season could have been if our big teenager had been able to join us for our Final Four run! He just turned 19 a few weeks ago. There is a strong possibility that Enes could be the No. 1 overall pick. If it were my decision, Enes is who I would pick at No. 1. Here’s why: he can truly be a dominating kind of player; he can be a Karl Malone-type big man. As the league gets smaller (size-wise) his ability to dominate his position will grow. He’s got a position and a true size. If he doesn’t go No. 1 he will go shortly thereafter and the teams that passed on him will look back and wince at that decision. I’m biased because I love him, but I’m also talking in pragmatic terms.

Brandon Knight

Brandon’s work ethic has never been in doubt but teams have now been able to see just how high his skill level is when they get him in for workouts. They said at the Sacramento workout (here on YouTube), he looked like a machine. He’s bigger, faster and more skilled than any of these teams thought. And the kicker in all this becomes the one-on-one meetings teams have had with Brandon. One team even said it was the best meeting they’ve ever had with a prospect. Without knowing particulars, I imagine his psychological tests will be off the charts also. He will be drafted within the first 25 minutes of the draft. I’ve made one comment to all the teams, whatever you think his upside is within three or four years, he will become that because of his work ethic.

DeAndre Liggins

DeAndre Liggins – Tony Allen. DeAndre Liggins – Tony Allen. DeAndre Liggins – Tony Allen. get the point? What DeAndre will add to a team, physically, defensively and in terms of toughness is excatly what happened with the Memphis Grizzlies and Tony Allen this year. What everybody was surprised about was his ability to make an open NBA 3-pointer. What they are seeing is that he can guard the 1, 2 or 3; will scrap like crazy and if he’s open, he’s making that 3 – just like he did vs. UNC. His workouts have gone well and if he doesn’t get picked in the latter part of the 1st round, he will be gone by the middle of the 2nd round.

Complete Article

Juwan Staten will Transfer to West Virginia

Former Dayton guard Juwan Staten announced on Twitter today that he will continue his college career at West Virginia University:

JuwanStaten3 After this long wait I have finally decided where I will finish out my collegiate basketball career...West Virginia University!

Staten had also considered the University of Louisville.

Rodrick Rhodes Interested in High School Coaching Job

Former University of Kentucky player Rodrick Rhodes has applied for the head coaching job at Owsley County High School.

Rhodes told Alan Cutler of Lex18.com that he would find it an honor and privilege to coach in Kentucky.

Here is an excerpt:

"I would absolutely love, and find it an honor to coach in the state of Kentucky," says Rhodes.

"I would actually find it an honor and privilege to coach in the rich state of Kentucky."

Complete Article

Rhodes played for Kentucky from 1992-1995. He scored 1,209 career points before transferring to USC after his junior season.

He has various coaching experience, including jobs at Seton Hall and UMass.

Liggins, Harper to Work Out for the Indiana Pacers

Former University of Kentucky forward DeAndre Liggins and Morehead State guard Demonte Harper will work out for the Indiana Pacers on Monday.

Liggins and Harper will be joined by Iman Shumpert (Georgia Tech), Brad Wanamaker (Pittsburgh), Jake Kelly (Indiana State) and Malcolm Lee (UCLA).

Note:

Liggins will be at Urban Nation in the Fayette Mall in Lexington tomorrow from 12:00-2:00 p.m.

He will then appear in Florence, Kentucky from 3:30-5:30 p.m. at The Kentucky Shop. The Kentucky Shop is located just off Mall Road.

More Information

DeAndre Liggins Works Out for the Charlotte Bobcats

Former University of Kentucky forward DeAndre Liggins worked out for the Charlotte Bobcats today.

You can watch some footage of Liggins working out here.

Liggins also spoke to the media following the workout. In the interview, he confirmed that he will work out for the Indiana Pacers on Monday.

The former Wildcat recently showed his stuff to the San Antonio Spurs.

Kentucky Showing Interest in 2013 PG Shane Rector

According to Jon Rothstein, Kentucky and several other schools have been showing interest in 2013 point guard Shane Rector.

Rothstein posted on Twitter:

JonRothstein Absolutely love Oliver Antigua's jr PG to be Shane Rector. Stanford, Kentucky, Pitt, Rutgers, Arizona, + Villanova have all shown interest.

Rivals.com lists Rector as a 6-1 shooting guard and rates him as a three-star recruit.

If nothing else, he will be a name to keep an eye on for the future.

Video: Kentucky Signee Michael Gilchrist in Action

University of Kentucky basketball fans should be excited for the 2011-12 season.

Here is one of the reasons for excitement - check out the latest video of Kentucky signee Micheal Gilchrist:

Rodney Purvis Dominates the Competition in Spring 2011

Check out this new mixtape of 2012 Louisville and Kentucky recruit Rodney Purvis:

Utah Jazz Keeping Quiet About Meeting with Kanter

The Utah Jazz visited Enes Kanter in Chicago this afternoon but both sides are remaining quiet following the meeting.

Here is an excerpt from The Hoops Report:

Enes Kanter met and worked out with the Utah Jazz today in Chicago at ATTACK Athletics.

The Jazz and the Kanter camp are keeping everything tight-lipped for some reason. This leaves a lot of speculation out there as to why they want to keep things so quiet.

"No complaints," said Max Ergul, Kanter's agent, who didn't comment much more than that.

The Jazz are also keeping quiet about the meeting and workout with Kanter today in Chicago.

Complete Article

Video: Josh Harrellson Draft Profile

Check out this NBA draft profile of former UK star Josh Harrellson:

Complete Field Announced for 2011 Charleston Classic

The complete eight-team field has been announced for the 2011 Charleston Classic, which will be held November 17, 18 and 20 at Charleston, South Carolina.

Western Kentucky will be joined in the tournament by VCU, Georgia Tech, LSU, Northwestern, Seton Hall and Saint Joseph's.

Western Kentucky Basketball is Preparing for a "Reset"

Western Kentucky University athletics director Ross Bjork spoke to the Lexington Herald-Leader earlier this week about the decision to retain Ken McDonald as men's basketball coach, the state of the program and next season.

Bjork said the 2011-12 season will be a "reset".

Here is an excerpt:

So going against the impatient modern college sports zeitgeist, Western decided to give McDonald a second chance to get things right.

"We're calling it a reset," Bjork said.

McDonald agreed to take a pay cut of $100,000 a year to $250,000 as part of a new four-year deal. The coach also appeared with Bjork at a news conference announcing his retention and apologized for "personal and professional mistakes."

Last winter's rumor that the WKU coach had moved to Nashville drew a chuckle from Bjork. "He was dating a lady there," the Western AD said. "That explained that one."

What likely saved McDonald is an incoming recruiting class that is being hyped as one of the best in WKU history.

It includes two members of the Rivals 150, Derrick Gordon, a four-star shooting guard out of New Jersey, and forward George Fant, a hometown product from Warren Central.

"There's no question, (the incoming recruiting class) was a consideration," Bjork said. "None of them indicated to me that they wouldn't come to WKU if Ken McDonald wasn't our coach, but it was something that figured in our analysis, that we had a class we wanted to keep together."

Complete Article

Billy Gillispie Creates a Twitter Account

Former University of Kentucky head coach Billy Gillispie has joined the world of Twitter.

#GunsUp

Follow Him Here

King Rex, Artis Gilmore Headline Hall of Fame Class

Former University of Kentucky and NBA star Rex Chapman and the legendary Artis Gilmore headline the 2011 Kentucky Athletic Hall of Fame class, which will be inducted June 8.

Here are the seven newcomers:

- Rex Chapman, the former Owensboro Apollo and UK star;
- Artis Gilmore, who helped lead the Kentucky Colonels to the 1975 ABA championship;
- George Tinsley, who played in four Division II national championship games with Kentucky Wesleyan, winning three;
- Jerry May, the University of Louisville athletic trainer for three decades, who led the push for state certification for athletic trainers across the state;
- Phil Roof, the Paducah native who spent nearly 50 years in professional baseball as a player, coach and manager;
- Ed Kallay, the first television sportscaster in the state;
- Bunny Daugherty, who coached 13 state championship teams in four different sports at Sacred Heart Academy in Louisville.

Here is an excerpt from WKYT.com:

Chapman was known as “The Boy King” as he soared to the rim for two seasons with the Wildcats, but his coronation came well before that. Tickets to Apollo games were coveted items throughout his career with the Eagles. Fans packed high school gymnasiums, hoping the high-flying Chapman would do something, anything, phenomenal, and he rarely disappointed.

He appeared to be heading for Louisville until UK hired Eddie Sutton, who made signing Chapman priority one. And when King Rex cast his lot with the Wildcats, it touched off a fervor the Big Blue Nation had never encountered (but has several times since, in this day of over-hyped recruiting).

During Chapman’s sophomore season, the Wildcats appeared to be headed to the Final Four, winning both the Southeastern Conference regular season and tournament championships. But the Wildcats fell short, upset by Villanova in the NCAA regional tournament.

Complete Article

Artis Gilmore in action against Kareem Abdul Jabbar:

Former Wildcat Brandon Stockton to Hold Basketball Camp

Former University of Kentucky player Brandon Stockton will hold his Shooting Stars Basketball Camp at Glasgow Middle School in July.

Here are some details:

Shooting Stars Basketball Camp will begin July 4th - July 7th from 9am-12pm. Camp will be held at Glasgow Middle School. Camp is for boys and girls Grades 3-8 and will cost $50 per camper.

Go Here for Contact Information

Northern Kentucky Inks Three Ohio Recruits for 2011-12

Northern Kentucky University has announced the signings of three prep standouts from Ohio.

Here is an excerpt of the NKU release:

•Paul Byrd, a 6-foot-1 point guard from Roger Bacon High School, Byrd averaged 11 points and 3.4 assists last season. He was also named the 2010-11 Greater Catholic League Central Player of the Year.

•Alex McGlothin, a 6-5 guard from Walnut Hills High School. McGlothin, who sat out most of his senior season with an injury, averaged 14 points and nine rebounds two years ago. As a junior, he also earned All-Fort Ancient Valley Conference honors.

•Anthony Monaco, a 6-4 shooting guard from Dover High School. Monaco averaged 22.5 points per game as a senior for Dover. He made 42 percent of his field-goal attempts and 83 percent of his free throws. Monaco also was named All-Eastern District and to the All-Ohio third team.

Complete Release

Footage of Brandon Knight Working Out in Sacramento

Here is some actual footage of Brandon Knight's workout in Sacramento:



Pre-workout interview:

Kenneth Faried Meets Michael Jordan

Morehead State's Kenneth Faried met the one and only Michael Jordan during his workout in Charlotte (photo from Faried's Twitter):

Brandon Knight: Breaking Down His Game

Evan Daniels of Scout.com breaks down Brandon Knight's game prior to the NBA Draft:

Union College to Host Summer Basketball Camp

BARBOURVILLE, Ky. - Bulldog head coach Sean Gillispie and Lady Bulldog head coach Tim Curry are joining forces to host the 2011 Union College Bulldog Basketball Camp on June 27-29.

The camp is open to boys and girls ages 6 through seniors in high school. The camp will be held in Robsion Arena each day from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Cost is $60 per camper and includes a camp T-shirt.

This is a fundamental skills camp, which will focus on all the basic aspects of basketball. There will also be camp competitions and awards with players grouped by gender, age and ability level.

For more information, contact Curry at 606.546-1682 or via email at tcurry@unionky.edu

For a registration form, click here.

Interview with 2013 Kentucky Recruit Brandon Ashley

Here is a recent interview with 2013 Kentucky recruit Brandon Ashley:

Allen Iverson's Cousin Lists Kentucky

Kuran Iverson, the younger cousins of longtime NBA star Allen Iverson, has Kentucky on his college list.

Here is an excerpt from CBSSports.com:

Also in good shape is Iverson’s game. The rising junior is an absolute matchup nightmare due to his size and skillset. He can handle the ball well and is able to knock down perimeter jumpers. Moreover, he is versatile enough to play around the rim and make passes over the defense. Iverson still seems to be growing, which could hamper his ability to run the floor. With that said, his potential might be as high as anyone in the class of 2013.

The younger cousin of former NBA star Allen Iverson will have his pick when it comes to colleges.

For now, Pittsburgh, Connecticut, Kentucky, Syracuse, Florida, Florida State, Georgia, Georgia Tech and North Carolina are in the mix.

Complete Article

Iverson is a 6-8 small forward from Northwest Catholic (Conn.) High School. He ranks No. 8 overall in the 2013 recruiting class.

Photo: Rivals.com

Buzz on Kentucky Basketball: Dallas Mavericks Comeback Edition

Picture:

UKCoachCalipari Here's my next giveaway if we reach 1.2 million followers. It's signed by all 12 SEC coaches

Thursday's Top 5:

- Brandon Knight was in Sacramento on Thursday to workout for the Kings.

- Another day, another writer took a cheap shot at UK head coach John Calipari.

- Former Western Kentucky star Orlando Mendez-Valdez has earned a spot on Mexico's national basketball team.

- It's official: the Southeastern Conference has scrapped its two-division format and will now be one, 12-team league.

- Two former Louisville players are working out for NBA teams: Edgar Sosa and Terrence Jennings.

Recruiting News:

- Berea Community's Nathan Vaughn has signed with Georgetown College. He chose the Tigers over Centre College, Union College and Lindsey Wilson College.

- There is yet another NCAA Division I transfer headed to the Mid-South Conference. More later...

- 2013 star Julius Randle says he is hearing from Kentucky.

- Despite reports earlier in the week, Shabazz Muhammad does not have a leader at this point.

- Speaking of Muhammad, Texas A&M extended an offer to the 2012 star on Thursday.

The Buzz:

- Former EKU standout Arlando Johnson has returned to Apollo High School where he will take over the girls' program.

- The Dallas Mavericks made one of the best comebacks in NBA Finals history to defeat Miami 95-93; Dallas overcame a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter.

- The Penn State coaching search is reportedly down to two: Boston University's Pat Chambers and Milwaukee's Rob Jeter.

- Former UK star Keith Bogans had surgery to relieve pain in his knee.

Video of the Day (Dallas defeats Miami):

Brandon Knight Works Out in Sacramento

Former University of Kentucky star Brandon Knight worked out for the Sacramento Kings today.

Here he is talking to the media afterwards (video via News10.net):

Texas A&M Officially Offers Shabazz Muhammad

It didn't take former Murray State head coach Billy Kennedy long to make some noise on the recruiting trail.

Kennedy hired former UK assistant (to Billy Gillispie) Glynn Cyprien and Cyprien extended and offer to Kentucky recruit Shabazz Muhammad tonight.

Here is a post on Twitter from Christian T. Popoola:

PremierBall Texas A&M Aggies Coach Glynn Cyprien just officially offered #1 2012 Shabazz Muhammad. "I feel excited and good about the offer."- Shabazz

Evan Daniels Talks About Several Kentucky Recruits

Evan Daniels of Scout.com breaks down several Kentucky recruits, including big man DaJuan Coleman and scoring machine Ricardo Ledo:

Ogi Stanivukovic Commits to Northern Kentucky University

According to Barry Hayes of Hoop Stars Canada, Northern Kentucky University has picked up a commitment from 6-5 forward Ogi Stanivukovic from Hamilton, Ontario.

Here is Hayes' post on Twitter:

hoopstarscanada 6'5" forward Ogi Stanivukovic (Hamilton, ON/Sir Allan MacNab) has committed to Northern Kentucky University (NCAA Division 2) for this fall.

Stanivukovic in action:

2011 Great Alaska Shootout Revises Schedule

The University of Alaska Anchorage has revised the men's bracket for the 2011 Carrs/Safeway Great Alaska Shootout.

Murray State will play Alaska Anchorage on November 23.

Here are more details:

Athletic director Steve Cobb says host Alaska Anchorage will play Murray State and Dartmouth will play San Francisco on Nov. 23. Other opening round games will feature Central Michigan vs. New Mexico State and UC Irvine vs. Southern Mississippi on Nov. 24.

Source

University of Pikeville to Host Three Camps in June

The University of Pikeville will be hosting a Team Basketball Camp on Monday, June 20 – Thursday, June 23, 2011.

Games will be played at the Pikeville College Gym, Pikeville High School Gym, Pike Central High School Gym, Mullins Elementary, and the Blue Goose. Other sites will be added if needed.

Games will start around 10:00 am and run until 10:00 pm each day. Each team will be guaranteed 8 games each (two per day). Changes in schedules can be worked out if you let us know in advance. We can make anything work if you give us notice!

The cost will be $400 per Varsity Team. Junior Varsity teams will be $350 and a third team will cost $350.

2011 Team Camp Application

UPIKE will also be holding two individual youth camps:

Youth Camp Elite Application (rising 7-12 grades)

Youth Camp Application (ages 6-13)

Kentucky Recruits Shine at Nike EYBL Event

Here is an EYBL mixtape from FiveStarBasketball.com that is filled with University of Kentucky recruits:

Pat Riley Knows How to Build Champions

Former two-sport Kentucky star Pat Riley knows how to build a basketball dynasty, according to Joe Kazmar of The Record Newspapers.

Riley, who currently serves as the president of the Miami Heat, came to Kentucky and played for legendary head coach Adolph Rupp. He was named SEC Player of the Year and AP All-American in 1966.

Here is an excerpt about Riley's time at UK:

When that career ended, after Linton won just about every accolade available in the state of New York at the time, nearly every major college in the nation was after him to sign a basketball scholarship, with Adolph Rupp coming out the winner and landing Riley at the University of Kentucky.

Rupp built a pretty good dynasty of his own at Lexington, coaching the Wildcats from 1931-1972 and landing third on the all-time list of winning college coaches with 876 career victories, behind only Bobby Knight and Dean Smith.

Riley was a two-sport athlete at Kentucky playing both basketball and football. But he starred as a basketball player and as a junior on the 1966 Wildcats team that finished No. 1 in the nation, Riley was named first-team All-SEC, All-NCAA Tournament Team, NCAA Regional Player of the Year, SEC Player of the Year and AP Third Team All-American.

Riley was selected by the San Diego Rockets in the first round of the 1967 NBA draft and was also drafted as a wide receiver by the Dallas Cowboys in the 11th round of the 1967 NFL draft.

He joined the Rockets and was later selected by the Portland Trail Blazers in the 1970 NBA expansion draft, but immediately traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, where he helped them win the 1972 NBA Championship. He retired after the 1975-76 season as a member of the Western Conference champion Phoenix Suns.

Complete Article

Photo: NBA.com

Kenneth Faried Will Be An NBA Glue-Guy

Dimemag.com lists Morehead State's Kenneth Faried as one of the top 5 post-lottery picks that will become NBA glue-guys.

Here is an excerpt about Faried:

Kenneth Faried

Role: Rebounding machine
Team match: New York (17th overall)
Player comparison: Shawn Marion

Athletic and relentless, put the offensively-challenged Faried in an uptempo system and watch his career explode. The all-time NCAA rebounding leader will be a huge asset next to Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire, pulling down boards and igniting a fastbreak for Mike D’Antoni‘s offense that could be similar to the 2004-05 Phoenix Suns team of the current Knicks head coach. Worst-case scenario, he cleans up the offensive boards and throws down a few sick dunks.

Complete Article

Another Writer Takes a Shot at John Calipari

AP National Writer Paul Newberry wrote a piece titled "How about a 'death penalty' for coaches?" a couple of days ago.

Of course, he had to find a way to slide in a shot at Kentucky head coach John Calipari, who happens to have zero violations on this coaching record.

Here is an excerpt:

The first major violation is enough to earn the head coach a one-year suspension, whether or not he was directly involved in the wrongdoing. Much like international doping standards hold athletes responsible for anything that goes into their bodies, a coach should be accountable for whatever is going on in his program.

A two-strike-and-you're-out-rule would prevent someone such as Kentucky basketball coach John Calipari from skipping around the country just ahead of those pesky investigators. He had already moved on to his next gig when first UMass, then Memphis, had to forfeit any mention of their Final Four appearances because they had used ineligible players.

Likewise, Tressel would have been out before this latest bit of ugliness even had a chance to arise from the muck that is modern-day college athletics.

Source

Mendez-Valdez Earns Spot on Mexican National Team

Former Western Kentucky University star Orlando Mendez-Valdez has earned a spot on the Mexican national team.

Mendez-Valdez shared in an interview recently that his priorities have changed a bit since he married Aquila Orr, a WKU volleyball player.

Here is an excerpt from MySanAntonio.com:

Once determined to play in the NBA, Mendez-Valdez has a more pragmatic mindset when it comes to his career.

“Playing in the NBA is the dream of every kid,” Mendez-Valdez said. “But as you get older, you start realizing that there's a lot more to life than basketball.

“That's the direction my life has taken. Before, basketball was everything to me. I still have that competitiveness and drive to be the best, but I realize it's also important to be a good husband and a good father when we start having kids.”

Mendez-Valdez married Aquila Orr, a Western Kentucky volleyball player, on June 19, 2010.

Mendez-Valdez, 6-foot-1 and 185 pounds, said his goal is to continue playing basketball “as long as I can” before starting a career in coaching.

Complete Article

SEC Officially Scraps Two Division Format

The Southeastern Conference has officially scrapped its two division format and will now return to one 12-team league.

The SEC's coaches recommended the move yesterday and the league's athletics directors approved the recommendation.

Here is an excerpt from SportingNews.com:

"It's done," Florida athletics director Jeremy Foley told ESPN. "The presidents don't have to sign off on this. This is an AD decision. We will be one (12-team) league effective next year.

"The perception of the league has been that if one division was playing well, the other was getting criticized. That can't be pointed out anymore. We're hoping this will have traction for us going forward."

Commissioner Mike Slive, a former chair of the NCAA tournament's men's basketball committee, also supported the move.

"I’m pleased that we’ve come to this conclusion,"

Slive told reporters. "I think it’s better for SEC basketball."
Complete Article

University of Kentucky head coach John Calipari, who chaired the coaches committee, said the league's goal is have eight teams in the discussion for the NCAA tournament.

Edgar Sosa to Work Out for the New Orleans Hornets

Former University of Louisville point guard Edgar Sosa will work out for the New Orleans Hornets tomorrow.

Sosa played last season for Angelico Biella in Italy's top-level SerieA League. In 30 games, he averaged 14.1 points, 4.5 assists and 2.3 steals. He also shot 47-124 (37.9%) from three-point line.