John Calipari has revived basketball at the University of Kentucky and brought a new sense of urgency and passion to the game. Rupp Arena is consistently sold out because of the “Kentucky Effect” and all the stars Calipari has brought into his program.
UK’s women’s coach, Matthew Mitchell, says ‘thank you’ everyday for the attention Calipari has brought to his women’s squad.
“John [Calipari] has created a lot of excitement at Kentucky,” Mitchell began. “He has been so generous with his time and he’s gone out of his way to try to recognize our program.”
Why not take the chances that are presented with Calipari’s brand?
“You’re really missing a great opportunity if you don’t tap in to anybody that is bringing positive energy. He bounces into our office every day and has an encouraging word, and so I think it is really important for us to feed off that energy.”
Most programs (if not all) lack the energy that Kentucky has, referring to basketball. It would be crazy not to utilize the energy surrounding the UK program.
“There’s not many brand names in college basketball like Kentucky. We feel like the men’s basketball program is a tremendous opportunity for us to gain in the area of positive energy.”
Apparently other coaches around the SEC have been taking notice of Mitchell’s quick turnaround and popularity at Kentucky. Georgia’s Andy Landers is definitely a big fan.
After concluding his own interview time, Lander proceeded to even ask Mitchell a few questions regarding his team at Kentucky this season. Like any sneaky coach, Mitchell opted to not give Landers or any other rivals tips heading into the 2011-12 season. Either way, Landers is aware of UK women’s basketball.
“You guys are stacked,” Landers exclaimed as he exited the media room, filled with laughs and chatter from many media members.
According to Mitchell, conference expansion will only make his program stronger, as defending champion Texas A&M will enter the SEC in 2012.
“Texas A&M just enhances the competition in the SEC. As a person that grew up in the middle of SEC-country and is an SEC die-hard, I consider it an honor to coach in the conference, and Texas A&M will continue to make us better.”
“I have complete confidence in Mike Slive (SEC commissioner) and what he plans to do with all the expansion talk. He has done well so far.”
