There has been a lot of speculation about the status of 4-star SF Stacey Poole this year. After what seemed like a spectacular exhibition season (Calipari said at one time that Poole and Kanter were both [URL=”http://www.wildcatrecruits.com/originalNews.php?story=9″]more skilled with the ball[/URL] than he anticipated), he has seen very little time on the floor. In fact, initial walk-on Jarrod Polson has seen more playing time than Poole this year. This has led several outlets (including NationOfBlue) to wonder if Poole will transfer out after this year.
Almost in response to the speculation, Poole recently told the Florida Times-Union that he intends to [URL=”http://jacksonville.com/opinion/blog/400617/gene-frenette/2011-03-17/poole-forced-ride-kentucky-bench”]stick it out in Lexington[/URL] rather than go elsewhere – and I think that will suit Kentucky fans just fine for several reasons.
First, Poole is a talented individual. He was ranked number 33 overall in his class by Rivals. Coach Calipari was not only impressed enough with his talent to offer him a scholarship, but to give the quote above after seeing him in a Kentucky uniform.
Second, Poole has a great attitude. He is always smiling, he is always the first to cheer when another Cat makes a play, and he is willing to play a backup role at Kentucky rather than be a star somewhere else. In an age of overconfident players – that’s very refreshing.
Third, Poole will be a multi-year player. In an age where so many Cats are one-and-done, experienced players are hard to come by. People may dismiss players like Jon Hood and Stacey Poole right now, but when they are juniors and seniors, they will be the leaders and consistency of this team.
