Monday, October 13, 2008

Jam-Packed Weekend

This weekend was so full of festive events there's no way to cover it all in one post, so I'll be posting more when I can. One big highlight was that on Sunday afternoon KY basketball received a verbal commitment from Daniel Orton, a 5 star center ranked as one of the top players in the country. This is a huge commitment for KY. This video is of Justin and I joining in on the "Daniel Orton Chant" at Big Blue Madness on Friday night. Throughout the night, 24,000 fans we're chanting his name. He said the fans had a huge impact on his decision to sign with KY. We were glad to do our part. STORY (Scroll down for chronological recaps.)

7 comments:

Lyndsey said...

Yes. That started my morning of perfect... I will watch that video again and again.

Brodad Unkabuddy said...

The guy in front of you with the baseball cap and the long hair reminded me of Mike in his college days. His profile looked like you. Justin's enthusiastic chant was something to behold.

Brodad Unkabuddy said...

After reading the story, it seemed to me he was itching to jump to the pros. Is there concern in Lexington about that?

Mike West said...

Billy's never concerned about a guy who wants to make it to the next level. He actually likes that in a recruit and will do all he can to help them get there. He always wants the best player available and then worry about what happens after that. Tubby's problem was that he would avoid 5 star recruits because they may jump to the pros in a couple of years. So, he didn't recruit players who can win a championship. That philosophy was a part of his undoing here at KY.

Brodad Unkabuddy said...

Are graduation rates even considered anymore in a coach's job rating?

Mike West said...

Graduation rates are important if a coach strings together consecutive years of poor graduation rates. But winning a championship certainly goes a long way toward having a forgiving attitude. Fortunately, Billy has a good track record of graduating players.

J Dub said...

I'm glad you finally figured out how to do that chant. Madness was a lot of fun.