[WideRight05]

^ Let's remember, Tubby won the title with the team that Rick had lost with the previous year! So, yes it was Ricks team, but it can be said that Tubby did with the team what Rick couldn't!

A good point on both counts, the 98 team had actually lost quite a bit from the previous year. Derek Anderson, Anthony Epps, and Jared Prickett graduated, and Ron Mercer left early to start his NBA career. Those four players accounted for nearly 53 of the 83 points per game that the 97 team averaged. The 98 team is my all-time favorite Kentucky team because of the heart and determination they showed while being a major, major underdog. They were not nearly as talented as the 96 and 97 teams, and came back after being down double-digits in the elite 8, final four, and the championship game. That team was well-suited toward Tubby's style of play, but I'm sure Rick would have succeeded with them as well. They were not expected to achieve as much as some of the previous UK teams under Pitino, as evidenced by UK having the lowest ranking in several years to start the season.

Tubby had the unfortunate situation of being the coach to replace a legend like Pitino. I feel that he did that to the best of his abilities, and led UK successfully. Had Tubby come to UK after Sutton, the situation would be completely different. Tubby would likely be considered an inspiring legend in the state of Kentucky. He has done a great job at Minnesota, and I am happy to see such a class act achieve such an honor as getting his 500th win. Congratulations Tubby!

And on a side note, I already feel extremely sorry already for that poor guy that has to replace Calipari when he retires.