Reusse Thinks Tubby Will Bolt

[akgopher]

Anyone else hear him and Souhan this morning predict that Tubby will go south, see him at an ACC school or Arizona.

[Boondoggle]

I have heard that the only place Tubby would even consider going to would be Maryland (because of personal connections to the program and area). That said, since Maryland is 7-2 and looks to be improving game-by-game they don't appear to be in a situation where they would fire Gary Williams. They have seen quite a bit of success while having Williams as coach.

[sllygphr]

Maybe, maybe not.....and I hope NOT...but if he did I could see him going to Maryland.

[station19]

Why doesn't Reusse go south?

[Bad Gopher]

Correction - Reusse hopes Tubby will bolt. Not much for Pat to write about when things are going well.

It's fair game to speculate, of course, but this would seem highly unlikely based on how things are going. If Tubby hasn't convinced himself he can build a championship-caliber program here, he's definitely convinced us.

And if he bolts, he bolts. It would be unfortunate, but he's certainly made this a desirable job for the next guy.

[goldfan24]

Patrick can't stand to write anything positve about the U of M sports program. If the Gophers beat Kansas in 10 days you can bet he won't write anything good about Brewster or the team. He spends no time at the U talking with anybody inside the prgram so he has no insight as to what is going on with the players or the program.

Tubby will have to begin the Big Ten season 3-0 before the Fulda Flash has a positive thing to write about the hoopsters. Patrick should just write about the Wolves and Wild because those are the only teams in town that make him happy.

Tubby isn't going anywhere so Reusse needs to start this up instead of writing about the team and the players. Reusse only likes to write and talk about losers. You would think he could find plenty to write about at 600 1st Ave with McHale and the Wolves.

[Sour1729]

Is Reusse visible at games in the Barn? If so, I think a coordinated student section chant at him would be nice. As classless as possible.

[ButchNashGuy]

His one complaint on Tubby was the Non Conference schedule was so weak. I heard Reusse say it once I heard it 1000 times! Yes, it was true, now they beat a Top 10 team and he finds something to be negative about. At least he was right on how the guys Brew recruited wouldn't make it academically and are thugs. Oh wait, he was WRONG on that as well.

[tjgopher]

Yes, yesterday was a no-win for the Gophers in Reusse's world. If Tubby loses, then he's exposed as a guy coaching a fraudulent team based on a weak nonconference slate. If Tubby wins, then he obviously now must be looking to leave.

I've never seen a guy like Reusse - who so relishes when the local college team flounders and who so despises when the local college teams flourishes. He takes a negative slant on everything he can relating to the Gophers. To the point of where he literally has to invent stuff or write about stuff no one cares about. The topper was when the Gophers were 7-1 in football - and there had to be no fewer than 100 neat things to write about - and this clown ridicules the team for selecting Northwestern as the homecoming opponent (as if that was some sort of earth-shattering news). If he had left any doubt before, he left little doubt after, Reusse jumped the shark that day.

[ChemEGopher]

Is Reusse visible at games in the Barn? If so, I think a coordinated student section chant at him would be nice. As classless as possible.

I have never seen Reusse at a Gopher basketball game. I have seen Myron and Sid at multiple games this year. They sit directly across from the visitors bench in press row. I assume Reusse would sit by them if he did attend. I guess being a fat sports writer gives you the right to predict a coach leaving a program even though you have done no journalistic research on the team itself.

[The Truth]

I don't think Tubby would bolt for Maryland and I don't think Maryland, if Williams were to leave (which he shouldn't. He is Maryland basketball; more than even Lefty now. He writes his own ending), would be in the market for a coach his age. I would think they'd look younger or maybe Keith Booth is being groomed to replace Williams eventually. He's heavy connected in the Baltimore area (which is a must for a Maryland basketball coach) and has NBA experience.

[WAGopher]

If he had left any doubt before, he left little doubt after, Reusse jumped the shark that day.

If he did indeed jump the shark, that means Happy Days are ahead for Gopher fans. I hope the Strib editors and radio station managers took note - Reusse's sports commentator days are numbered.

[MRJ]

After all the absolute crap he has written over the years, its amazing the man still has a job.

This is just the latest in a never-ending cycle of irrevelancy when it comes to his views on anything Gophers.

[94Gopher]

If JohnnyGopher or another of the more informed posters on GopherHole was posting that they had heard some rumblings about Tubby leaving, I might start to worry. From what I've seen Pat isn't much of a gopher basketball fan and I have never seen any indication that he is at all connected to our program.

Tubby has made big money for several years and has a nice contract here -- he doesn't need to leave for financial reasons. We have many players that fans absolutely love, many of whom are local, and Tubby still gets the loudest cheers during introductions -- did that happen at UK? Would it be likely at Maryland? I also doubt that he feels much stress here. At this point in his career how much is adoration and low stress worth?

The only issue I see could be resolved by starting a sign-up sheet here on the 'Hole to make sure all of Tubby's shoveling is done for him. Man is it cold out there today!

[Ozzy&Ray]

He's been there, done that with Kentucky. Each of the elites are associated with a name coach. He was always being compared to Pitino at Kentucky, and at Arizona it would be Lute. Also, AZ is Lute's creation. The receuiti g base is better here. There are more quality players coming g out of MN than AZ and we're the only D1 program. With the talent he has coming in there is nowhere that will be any better unless you are talking about NC, Duke, UCLA or such. I beleive he wants to make "his program" here. He hasn't really done that anywhere.

[tubstersconnie]

That fat *&^!#*&^!#*&^!#*&^!#**** was the first journalist I read and listened to when I got to Minnesota. I hate to say it but I thought all Minnesotans knew as little about sports as him. He is useless and I stay away from anything he writes or says.

[jamiche]

You folks are the ones who don't get it. It's cold here, there is no loyalty in the business, Tubby is not the saint that everyone thinks that he is, the U can't deliver on any of the big money capital projects that he demands. This was a soft landing for him, but now he feels much better about himself. Let's enjoy this year and we'll see what happens.

Tubby's career path has nothing to do with Reusse's weight. I hope that most of the "Fat Pat" posts have been written by non students. If not, I'm frightened for the future of the U.

[jamiche]

I have never seen Reusse at a Gopher basketball game. I have seen Myron and Sid at multiple games this year. They sit directly across from the visitors bench in press row. I assume Reusse would sit by them if he did attend. I guess being a fat sports writer gives you the right to predict a coach leaving a program even though you have done no journalistic research on the team itself.

Reusse usually sits in the press row in the second deck.

[MRJ]

Jamiche,

I can't speak for anyone here, but from my perspective, I'm less worried about the fat around his waist as I am the fat between his ears, which is considerable.

His goal is always to rain on somebody's parade and as a result, he is imminently predictable. I have yet to see even an attempt at objectivity in his "coverage" of Gopher sports, whether it be football, basketball or hockey.

And even when he does credit a Minnesota team, such as when he wrote a column about Mike Hebert and the volleyball team, he still managed to take a swipe at Tubby Smith in the process by talking about how at least the volleyball team schedules some real teams. In short, he has an extreme negative bias towards the University, which is why people on here take shots at him.

Based on your previous statement, I guess we can assume that you're in the same boat as Patrick on this one? I'm just trying to clarify.

[akgopher]

Didn't anyone else listen? Souhan blasted Maturi for talking about an extension for Brewster coming off the Iowa debacle and that he should be talking to Tubby about a ten year deal. They stated that Tubby is still put-off about the lack of a practice facility.

[jamiche]

Jamiche,

I can't speak for anyone here, but from my perspective, I'm less worried about the fat around his waist as I am the fat between his ears, which is considerable.

His goal is always to rain on somebody's parade and as a result, he is imminently predictable. I have yet to see even an attempt at objectivity in his "coverage" of Gopher sports, whether it be football, basketball or hockey.

And even when he does credit a Minnesota team, such as when he wrote a column about Mike Hebert and the volleyball team, he still managed to take a swipe at Tubby Smith in the process by talking about how at least the volleyball team schedules some real teams. In short, he has an extreme negative bias towards the University, which is why people on here take shots at him.

Based on your previous statement, I guess we can assume that you're in the same boat as Patrick on this one? I'm just trying to clarify.

I sure hope he stays, but nothing in college basketball or football surprises me.

I think Reusse is a very talented columnist. I find his columns unvarnished and devoid of the usual sycophancy that the beat writers must exhibit in order to maintain their sources. I also think that he praises when praise is due (including the U). Sometimes his topics are a little obscure or dated but his writing is always substantive.

[From the Barn]

JohnnyGopher still needs to atone for the major player transferring away from the Gophers that never happened. I hope his source wasn't Myron.

[Sour1729]

I sure hope he stays, but nothing in college basketball or football surprises me.

I think Reusse is a very talented columnist. I find his columns unvarnished and devoid of the usual sycophancy that the beat writers must exhibit in order to maintain their sources. I also think that he praises when praise is due (including the U). Sometimes his topics are a little obscure or dated but his writing is always substantive.

So in your opinion, has there been NO praise due for the Gopher football or basketball program for anything in the past 6 years? That is when I first moved to Minnesota and started listening to/reading Reusse, and I can't remember an article that overwhelmingly praised either sport. There was one quasi-positive football article this year, but there were still some jabs thrown in. I can, however, remember MULTIPLE articles where he just ripped the teams. I don't think it is always deserved, and I'm actually surprised that you consider yourself to be as generally negative about Gopher teams as Reusse is. Call me an idealogue, but praise and a little homerism in a HOME TOWN MARKET doesn't always have to be attributed to sycophancy.

EDIT: Whoa, sorry for the Wren-esque capitalization.

[jamiche]

I can't say that I've archived his columns but, let's face it, there hasn't been much to praise at the U over the last six years. Mase's arrogance was increasingly inverse to the number of quality wins and Monson drove the basketball program into the ditch. There have been some nice ones along the way, but not many.

Barreiro is too harsh, Souhan is to hoakey and Reusse is about right.

[tjgopher]

Reusse usually sits in the press row in the second deck.

And, how many times has Pat been in the 2nd deck for a game in the Tubby Smith era?

[ShowinGoldyLove]

I think calling last year's Gopher basketball team a "bunch of losers" even before we'd played a game was an undeserved punch in the gut for a team that put out 100% effort on the floor that is just so typical of asinine Pat.

[tjgopher]

I think Reusse is a very talented columnist. I find his columns unvarnished and devoid of the usual sycophancy that the beat writers must exhibit in order to maintain their sources. I also think that he praises when praise is due (including the U). Sometimes his topics are a little obscure or dated but his writing is always substantive.

Reusse WAS - at one time - a talented columnist. He now has become nothing more than a guy who writes without conviction. He hammers - not because he truly believes it - but more because he wants a reaction. He wants to stir the pot simply for the sake of stirring the pot. His writings are simply too inconsistent to call it anything else. I'd prefer my writer to have strong conviction when he writes and Pat does not. He's fallen into this trap because as he's gotten older, his energy level has waned and he's become lazy. He doesn't attend games or news conferences nearly as much, relying more on his colleagues and loyalists to give him 2nd hand accounts of events.

And, I'm not sure how you can says his writing is ALWAYS substantive. I would say without a doubt that 2008 was easily the worst year of his career. He wrote more meaningless drivel this year than ever. There were columns where I literally wondered out loud how in the world he would think anyone could want to read any of it.

No, he is no longer a talented columnist. There are still some around the country, but Pat is certainly not one of them. He's become a guy who specializes in creating half-truths and straw men to win fights that are silly to even start. In doing so, he generates reactions by the minions. That is now his goal. Nothing else. And, that, is not the mark of a talented columnist.

[coolhandgopher]

You captured exactly what Reusse has evolved into. Used to be a must read for interesting articles and quality, even if I didn't agree with his P.O.V. Now I still read him, but more out of a curiosity factor, not for informative, well written prose. How will he create a way to criticize Brewster, carrying on his silly feud with the head coach? Will his column continue to be disjointed and pointless?

A couple years ago, Reusse was quite critical of Jay Mariotti and his feud with Ozzie Guillen, chiding Mariotti for criticizing without ever visiting the locker rooms. How exactly are you different Patrick? He's become irrelevant as far as providing good information to readers, and he's hardly ever entertaining anymore.

[jamiche]

And, how many times has Pat been in the 2nd deck for a game in the Tubby Smith era?

The second deck press box is about 15 seats away from me. He's been at about half of the games I've attended. Considering all of the teams that he covers, that's pretty good.

[jamiche]

I think calling last year's Gopher basketball team a "bunch of losers" even before we'd played a game was an undeserved punch in the gut for a team that put out 100% effort on the floor that is just so typical of asinine Pat.

I don't remember that column but I didn't think that last year's team put out that much more of an effort than under Monson. I suspect, though I have no inside information, that Tubby walked into a difficult locker room and was only able to change the culture marginally.

This year is a completely different story. These guys really do hustle and play defense.

[Friend Of Tubby]

Tubby and Donna love it in the Twin Cities. Tubby will retire as a Gopher.

[Bayfieldgopher]

I second that comment FOT about Tubby loving the TC's which I received from a very realiable source.

[Blizzard]

The second deck press box is about 15 seats away from me. He's been at about half of the games I've attended. Considering all of the teams that he covers, that's pretty good.

Any chance of making the student section aware of where he sits ?

Lol.

Chants, rotten fruit, signs ..

[tjgopher]

The second deck press box is about 15 seats away from me. He's been at about half of the games I've attended. Considering all of the teams that he covers, that's pretty good.

You've got a faulty memory. There is NO chance, I mean ZERO chance that he's personally attended half of the Tubby Smith era home games. None.

[Ozzy&Ray]

What team were you watching last year Jamiche? Spencer and Coleman still drove me nuts, but their effort was much more sustained than previously. Also, the effort and discipline of last years team, especially on defense, far exceeded that of any Monson coached team. If you can't see that you must have some type of bias. Finally, your reference to "Tubby isn't the saint..." sound a lot like a Reusse statement that is just thrown out there just to discredit someone.

[From the Barn]

The student section doesn't care about washed up columnists, and neither should any of you. If you get this riled up, he is obviously doing his job, and doing it well.

[Maximus]

A couple years ago, Reusse was quite critical of Jay Mariotti and his feud with Ozzie Guillen, chiding Mariotti for criticizing without ever visiting the locker rooms. How exactly are you different Patrick? He's become irrelevant as far as providing good information to readers, and he's hardly ever entertaining anymore.

Last week Reusse wrote an article about the impact Gaborik's return had and also the fan reaction to him (Reusse named him this year's turkey of the year)....postgame? Reusse spent it in the Calgary locker room. No reaction from Gaborik or what his teammates thought of his return or any of their reaction to the smattering of boos.

How brave of you Pat.

[jmag21]

Here's the problem. It shouldn't be his job to be the center of attention. At this stage in his career, Reusse obviously wants to be the story. As somebody so aptly pointed out, he stirs the pot simply to call attention to himself. So, I'd disagree that he's doing his job and doing it well if an entire city dislikes him and thinks he's a hack. The fact is that I expect a columnist to be either fair and informative or entertaining. Ruesse's neither. His bile has made him a horrible columnist. The only club left in his bag is the iconoclastic one (although, he also loves the maudlin stories about small-town sports americana, which makes him about as entertaining as Rick Reilly, which is to say, not very). Sure, he's a better writer than most of the ink-stained wretches around here, but that's because this area is cursed with a dearth of writing talent. Any town that allows Souhan to survive for more than a week as a columnist deserves all it gets, I suppose. Anyway, Reusse isn't doing his job, in my opinion. My pet peeve is when he takes runs at Don Lucia. It's not like he has interesting or novel takes. He just has become set in his ways, and finds it easiest to write columns taking uninformed jabs at popular Minnesota sports figures. Also, for what it's worth, I also sit close to the upper deck press box, and I haven't seen Pat at a game yet this year.

[From the Barn]

His job is to sell newspapers. Nothing more, nothing less. Columnists are not supposed to be fair, and considering how much people complain, and therefore must reading what he writes, he is entertaining.

[tjgopher]

His job is to sell newspapers. Nothing more, nothing less.

That is only partially true. If his only job is to sell newspapers then he would just be putting pictures of naked women in his columns. While he certainly is paid to offer his opinion, there is some responsibility he has to base some of what he writes in conviction and at a minimum - base it in some sort of factual info. But, instead, he chooses to write in half truth and innuendo to prove his point (not exactly the mark of a wordsmith).

And, as to me personally, I can honestly say I've never run out to the store to buy a Strib because Reusse writes in it. I read him only because his ink is on the pages, not because he's a must read. If he fell off the face of the earth tomorrow, my readership level would not decrease. My contentment with the newspaper would increase, however.

[jamiche]

You've got a faulty memory. There is NO chance, I mean ZERO chance that he's personally attended half of the Tubby Smith era home games. None.

I guess I've been hallucinating.

[From the Barn]

Are you people really still paying for newspapers?

[Ozzy&Ray]

Sometimes I read it on my iPhone (Pioneer Press & NY Times usually), other times my laptop, but I still like to browse throught the print edition of the Star Trib. I take the time to read snippets of articles, letters to the editor, etc that I never take the time to online.

So, quit judging others by your preference - something I've noticed as a common thread in your posts. You can learn by listening - or reading and trying to understand the point of view of another.

[tjgopher]

I guess I've been hallucinating.

Seriously, stay away from the mushrooms.

[From the Barn]

I just think its ridiculous to pay for something that is free, and then to complain about it. You just judged me bro!!

[tjgopher]

His job is to sell newspapers. Nothing more, nothing less.

Ok, if that's the case, then....


Are you people really still paying for newspapers?

Well, if his job is to sell newspapers and you insist that no one is paying for a newspaper anymore, then is he really doing his job? Yet, you write this...



he is obviously doing his job, and doing it well.

So, if you make this claim, why are you so surprised that someone might buy a newspaper? Maybe they buy it because they want the coupons, which aren't available on line. Maybe they buy it because they want the agate in the sports page which is not available on line. Maybe they buy it because they want to the inserts (Parade Magazine or USA Today Insert) which is not available on line. Maybe they buy it because they don't have internet access. Maybe they buy it because they prefer to read hard copy. Maybe they buy it because they can't take their desktop into the bathroom and read it while they're doing their morning business.

[From the Barn]

I never said no one is buying newspapers, clearly people are spending money for a product they don't like, which doesn't make a whole lot of sense.

[tjgopher]

I never said no one is buying newspapers, clearly people are spending money for a product they don't like, which doesn't make a whole lot of sense.

Just because someone doesn't like Reusse doesn't mean there aren't other areas of the paper that make it worth purchasing. Man, you need to broaden your mind a tad.

Things aren't so easy as: I hate Reusse = I shouldn't pay for the paper.

Reusse's three columns per week might make up less than 1% of the paper's entire contents.

[From the Barn]

No actually, others need to understand that if they don't read the column, they won't have a need to complain about it.

[jamiche]

No actually, others need to understand that if they don't read the column, they won't have a need to complain about it.

But that wouldn't be any fun!!

[From the Barn]

But that wouldn't be any fun!!

Exactly. Seems Reusse is entertaining after all.

[tjgopher]

No actually, others need to understand that if they don't read the column, they won't have a need to complain about it.

It is there to be read. Why not read it? Even if I don't like it or even if I think Ruesse is a has-been lazy writer, that doesn't mean I should just not read it. I read a lot of things I don't necessarily like, including many things on this forum. But, that doesn't mean I'll shut it out and ignore it.

Again, it is there to be read, so I read it. But, it is far from entertaining on most days and it is far from a must-read on any day. If I miss his column today I don't get the sense I'm out anything. Unlike if I miss a good episode of Two and A Half Men, where (for me) that is absolute, for sure, 100% guaranteed entertainment and always a must-see. I'll seek that out if I miss it. Never in a million years would I seek out a Reusse column that I've missed.

Again, not saying I'm right and you're wrong, just giving you my personal opinion on it.

[From the Barn]

So, why complain about it?

[tjgopher]

So, why complain about it?

People don't like something, they complain. Sometimes it leads to action, sometimes it doesn't. My gosh, I can click onto your blog and find no fewer than 100 things you've complained about in the last six months. Why do you complain about those things?

Heck, why are you wasting your time complaining about the fact that I've complained?

As a side note, I wouldn't complain if he simply took a justified shot at the Gophers. Certainly they are not perfect. But, his manufactured straw men and stretching of the truth to take a clear cheap shot is not good for the program. That's basically why I complain, but I've said that many times on this board already, so it won't do any good in your mind saying it again.

[Sour1729]

So, why complain about it?

Because he is influential to people who could become potential fans of our teams and his negativity has likely turned those people off to that idea.

[From the Barn]

People don't like something, they complain. Sometimes it leads to action, sometimes it doesn't. My gosh, I can click onto your blog and find no fewer than 100 things you've complained about in the last six months. Why do you complain about those things?

Heck, why are you wasting your time complaining about the fact that I've complained?

As a side note, I wouldn't complain if he simply took a justified shot at the Gophers. Certainly they are not perfect. But, his manufactured straw men and stretching of the truth to take a clear cheap shot is not good for the program. That's basically why I complain, but I've said that many times on this board already, so it won't do any good in your mind saying it again.

The thing is, I don't repeatedly seek out the the things I complain about. If I could avoid Zombie Nation by simply skipping to page C4 I would. His column is oh so easy to avoid though.

Sour's complaint at least makes sense, and is based on more than annoyance.

[tjgopher]

The thing is, I don't repeatedly seek out the the things I complain about. If I could avoid Zombie Nation by simply skipping to page C4 I would. His column is oh so easy to avoid though.

Sour's complaint at least makes sense, and is based on more than annoyance.

1) I don't ever seek out Reusse's column. If it is there, I read it. If not, great. I do choose not to ignore it, but I'm not closed-minded enough to never take in anything I don't agree with. Doesn't mean I relinquish my right to claim that the writer is still wrong (IMO).

2) I have been fairly consistent in my complaints over the years. The complaints always have been because Ruesse's negative and often times fraudulent shots at the U are not good for the program. So, Sour and I are on the exact same page.

3) To me, it wasn't always this way with Ruesse. I thought his writings in the late 80s/early90s - especially his Twins coverage - was outstanding. He was at one time a must read. Years ago, I would have sought his stuff out. Not now, though. He's faded into something much less that what he used to be.

[calminnfan]

I confess to not reading every post here, but just what does he base his belief on. Has there been any contact between Tubby and other big time schools?

I think because of Tubby's success and Ruesse's disdain for the U he is conjecturing this up. No other reason. Given the welcome Tubby has received and the support, I personally think Tubby would be crazy to leave anytime within the next 5 years. When the fans get use to winning and start expecting more then realistic, like Kentucky, then he might consider it, but not now. He is no where near the meat grinder he has been. he has top recruiting classes coming in as well and the NCAA outlook is very bright. Given a year or two, he will get his practice facility and who knows, he may even come to like the barn. Why would he want to change now?

[From the Barn]

Then you don't fall under the catagory of people I was criticizing.

[Maximus]

Then you don't fall under the catagory of people I was criticizing.

God forbid if you find yourself in that category. I couldn't imagine a worse fate.

[GopherGod]

He's been there, done that with Kentucky. Each of the elites are associated with a name coach. He was always being compared to Pitino at Kentucky, and at Arizona it would be Lute. Also, AZ is Lute's creation. The receuiti g base is better here. There are more quality players coming g out of MN than AZ and we're the only D1 program. With the talent he has coming in there is nowhere that will be any better unless you are talking about NC, Duke, UCLA or such. I beleive he wants to make "his program" here. He hasn't really done that anywhere.


I agree with you 100%. Tubby has already climbed the ladder to the big time and he knows he can do it. At this point in his life I think he is happy not living in a pressure cooker and he and Donna like living in a major city and all that is offers personally and professionally. I think he will build a winner here and enjoy all that comes with that and then ride off into the sunset to enjoy his retirement someday. I just don't see him wanting to deal with all the stress of those jobs.

[Roy Christensen]

Leaving Mn to coach at Az is certainly not the choice I would expect Tubby to make. I thought I read that Tubby is supposed to earn $3.3 million this year when all of his income sources for coaching the Gophers are added up. Winter in Minneapolis is tough but so is summer in Tucson. I sure hope this rumor is hot air.

[GortonsFisherman011]

I think the state of Minnesota loves him too much for him to leave to go elsewhere. After all, love and support from the fan base is one of the biggest things he was missing in Kentucky.

[GortonsFisherman011]

Oh, and I hope Reusse is reading this, so I can tell him to STFU because nobody cares about what he has to say :D

[JohnnyGopher]

This really has nothing to do with this thread but since From the Barn wrote it i guess I will respond here,

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"JohnnyGopher still needs to atone for the major player transferring away from the Gophers that never happened. I hope his source wasn't Myron."



What the Hell are you talking about? I have never said anything about anyone transfering. I think the last time I wrote on any transfer news was with Westbrook before Tubby was hired. Then there was the Jerry Smith to transfer in talk, but other than that

[JohnnyGopher]

As for Tubby leaving, I haven't heard a word about it other than the normal Minnesota fan paranoia. Tubby may get approaced through some back channels if some big jobs open up but all indictations are he really likes it here, likes the rabid fan base yet they leave him alone for the most part, he likes that there are other sports teams in town so his team isn't the complete focus. They like the city and most important is that he is building something pretty special and I don't think he wants to start over again. That said, in the world of college athletics, nothing really surprises me anymore so I guess it's possible.

The only real problem right now is the practice facility and the normal Minnesota Administrative additude of waiting on these things, just ask John Anderson, won't work here.
Tubby will not let this issue go and Maturi can not keep putting it off. It will have to be addressed in the next 12-15 months or things could get ugly. Maturi will have to take a hard position one way or the other and a No or not right now decision and then I think the odds of Tubby staying are pretty slim.

[From the Barn]

This really has nothing to do with this thread but since From the Barn wrote it i guess I will respond here,

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

"JohnnyGopher still needs to atone for the major player transferring away from the Gophers that never happened. I hope his source wasn't Myron."



What the Hell are you talking about? I have never said anything about anyone transfering. I think the last time I wrote on any transfer news was with Westbrook before Tubby was hired. Then there was the Jerry Smith to transfer in talk, but other than that

http://thehole84398.yuku.com/reply/630/t/Krys-Faber-favors-Minnesota.html#reply-630

What were you suggesting there?

[anticallihan]

They like the city..

If you have already had one of the top 10 jobs, if not top 5, in all of college basketball... what CITY is better than Minneapolis for a major D1 coach?

If you are loaded, can deal with the winter (that is when you are coaching anyways), this is the city to be a coach.

Our campus is not in the ghetto (Arizona, St. Johns, USC), like some other major stops nor is it isolated.

This city has it all (Culture, Lakes, Major Airport, Shopping, Golf).

I don't think I am being that bias here either. If you can win here, this is a great place to be a college coach.

[Moonlight]

And he's getting it. He's a master a figuring out what will push the buttons of a fan base. Not worth the time and energy when we could be celebrating our new ranked status.

Valid points Johnny, but the turn in the economy will impact the decisions made on money spent. There's a hiring freeze at the U and tons of $$ toward sports isn't going to fly right now.

[The Truth]

I think the state of Minnesota loves him too much for him to leave to go elsewhere. After all, love and support from the fan base is one of the biggest things he was missing in Kentucky.

I would take exception at that. Tubby will be a lot more respected and beloved by even his more hardcore detractors as time goes by. I remember some of the "things" said about Joe B Hall and he went to three Final Fours and won a national championship. Heck, I learned to cuss at the feet of adults airing their "opinion" of Joe B.'s coaching.

Now? He's the state's beloved "grandpa" who'll spin stories and everybody loves him. A lot of you have no idea what was what at Kentucky. Please don't let internet yahoo's and propagandists who only tell one side of a story color your viewpoint.

As to him leaving? We can all say what we like but, in the end, this is a business.

[JohnnyGopher]

I'm sorry to keep posting on this nonsense which has nothing to do with this thread but, From the Barn, you can not be serious. My god that post was from last Feb. and no where is there any mention what so ever about a major player transfering like you declared, the guy said Payton had no reason to consider a transfer and I disagreed with that, there we're several obvious reasons why KP would consider it and he was at that time. they we're very upfrant about his future playing time here but in the end, it was his decision to stick it out and get his degree.

I knew you we're going to have to pull something out your ass to find something to back up your crazy statement but man that was pathetic. I have no problem admitting when I was wrong, but this certainly isn't one of them since I never said what you claimed in the first place.

[Donovan]

I need some help on what new practice facility provides. I realize it would be a nice addition, but it seems to such a big deal. Don't they just need a basketball court, a weight room and a locker room?

[The Truth]

I need some help on what new practice facility provides. I realize it would be a nice addition, but it seems to such a big deal. Don't they just need a basketball court, a weight room and a locker room?


They're really, really nice and have all the bell's and whistles: Coaches offices, video rooms, players lounge with flat screens, conference rooms, two or more full courts. OTS pushed for YEARS for one at UK (under a previous administration that was *ahem* suspect and which partly led to some of his trouble) that only came to fruition his last season. It was around a 30 million dollar project and was built with primarily private funding I believe. A couple of huge donation's by one individual in fact..15 million or so.

We can talk about tradition and all that but 17, 18 year old kids really like shiny new things. Have you ever seen the stuff at Oregon? Google it. It's amazing.

[Friend Of Tubby]

I would take exception at that. Tubby will be a lot more respected and beloved by even his more hardcore detractors as time goes by. I remember some of the "things" said about Joe B Hall and he went to three Final Fours and won a national championship. Heck, I learned to cuss at the feet of adults airing their "opinion" of Joe B.'s coaching.

Now? He's the state's beloved "grandpa" who'll spin stories and everybody loves him. A lot of you have no idea what was what at Kentucky. Please don't let internet yahoo's and propagandists who only tell one side of a story color your viewpoint.

As to him leaving? We can all say what we like but, in the end, this is a business.

The AD at Kentucky tried to run Tubby off in 2001 (after 110 W in 4 years, 1 NCAA and 3 SEC titles, 3 SECT championships) so he could re-hire Rick Pitino.

UK fans' criticism of Joe Hall is proof positive what idiots many of them are. The same thing with Tubby, although some wanted him gone even in May 1997.

[TruthTeller]

As for Tubby leaving, I haven't heard a word about it other than the normal Minnesota fan paranoia. Tubby may get approaced through some back channels if some big jobs open up but all indictations are he really likes it here, likes the rabid fan base yet they leave him alone for the most part, he likes that there are other sports teams in town so his team isn't the complete focus. They like the city and most important is that he is building something pretty special and I don't think he wants to start over again. That said, in the world of college athletics, nothing really surprises me anymore so I guess it's possible.

The only real problem right now is the practice facility and the normal Minnesota Administrative additude of waiting on these things, just ask John Anderson, won't work here.
Tubby will not let this issue go and Maturi can not keep putting it off. It will have to be addressed in the next 12-15 months or things could get ugly. Maturi will have to take a hard position one way or the other and a No or not right now decision and then I think the odds of Tubby staying are pretty slim.


To spend $$ on a practice facility, in these economic times, is disturbing, imo. Williams can work for both functions. Things could get ugly, indeed. You can win without a practice facility.

[From the Barn]

If Tubby throws a fit over a practice facility, I think we will know why he came here. Legacy maintenance.

[rrjackIII]

I heard Tubby on a show last night where he talked a lot more about teaching than about facilities. In fact facilities were not mentioned except maybe in terms of the fans in the barn.

He said this time of year it is important to remind the players to be thankful they have clothes on their back and a roof over their heads -
and the importance learning positive social skills.

Another time I heard him talk about the importance of loyalty to team and to each other.

I think Tubby is far more interested in teaching than he is about facilities.

I am sure he will push and push hard for a practice facility, but I doubt that will be the deal-breaker between Tubster and the U - JMO.

[ShowinGoldyLove]

For Tubby, the practice facility is huge, and I think justifiably so.

Tubby doesn't want to compete for Big Ten titles, he wants to compete for championships. Any coach at his level does. In order to compete with the best programs in basketball to get the top recruits across the country, we need all the bells & whistles that they have.

Yes, it's going to cost money. However, I think we Minnesotans are extremely happy with the recent success we've had, and are always conservative about building new facilities etc, saying, "well, let's just wait for a bit and think about it."

Tubby is way ahead of us; he's thinking down the road. In order to get a facility built, he has to start planting the seed now in order to get it built when he's still coaching our team.

I think it's a great sign that he is so adamant about the practice facility; it shows that he isn't looking at this gig as a stepping stone where he will bolt in a year or two...he wants the program to compete for years to come, and presumably wants to be an integral part of that.

[Roy Christensen]

think it's a great sign that he is so adamant about the practice facility; it shows that he isn't looking at this gig as a stepping stone where he will bolt in a year or two...he wants the program to compete for years to come, and presumably wants to be an integral part of that.

Good point. Perhaps a new practice facility could be built to help stimulate our economy.:)

If we do build a practice facility I think expectations for consistent winning and championships would rise dramatically among the Gopher fans. We would become more like Kentucky.

[dbaldrich1]

http://thehole84398.yuku.com/reply/630/t/Krys-Faber-favors-Minnesota.html#reply-630

What were you suggesting there?

Here are the pertinent posts from the exchange you're referring to:

Goph4phan: "This comes up about once every 2 months. Payton has already taken a redshirt year, so if he wanted to still play D-1 hoops he'd have to lose a year of eligibility. I see KP having no reason to leave the program"

JonnyGopherP: "Are you sure about that[?]"

I don't see that JG was necessarily suggesting anything (although it's possible) -- he simply asked if Goph4phan was sure about his statement. No response from Goph4phan, and the subject just died. That suggests that JG wasn't really pushing any specific or conlusion.

Sorry, From The Barn, but you really didn't do much to support your point. I think it would be best to let it go, rather than to continue trying to defend a weak position.

On topic -- I hope that Tubby stays until he retires, and that the U of M finds a way to raise the $$$ for a top-notch practice facility. It'll get help better players here, which will improve the program, which will in turn increase revenue for the athletic department -- that's a win/win. So, a practice facility is not simply a large one-time expense -- it's an investment in the program, which will serve the long term interests of the school as a whole.

Whether that kind of $$$ can be raised in this type of economy is questionable, but that doesn't mean that Tubby should stop trying to lay the groundwork to make it happen when the $$$ is available.

[GopherGod]

Can we convert the Ridder arena, that was a huge waste of money that Chris Voelz rail-roaded through on her way out the door.

[cheeseheadgophfan]

I would be willing to predict that if Tubby continues to get results, that there are plenty of deep pocketed alumni who could get that practice facility built in a hurry.

[The Truth]

The AD at Kentucky tried to run Tubby off in 2001 (after 110 W in 4 years, 1 NCAA and 3 SEC titles, 3 SECT championships) so he could re-hire Rick Pitino.

UK fans' criticism of Joe Hall is proof positive what idiots many of them are. The same thing with Tubby, although some wanted him gone even in May 1997.


We all know how bad Larry Ivy was; using the UKAD as his own personal fiefdom and piggybank. HIs failure to pay for assistant coaches (which caused George Felton to leave) and his refusal to upgrade facilites because "we're Kentucky. We don't need them" are all documented and contributed to many of the problems OTS had in recruiting.

Of course you also fail to mention Mitch Barnhart's commitment to OTS with his contract extension in 03 that made him a very wealthy man and building the state of the art Craft Center.

Joe B wasn't Rupp and Tubby wasn't Pitino. It's hard following a legend and trying to live up to what both men accomplished at Kentucky. But let's be honest with ourselves for a moment: Unrealistic expectations or not, if OTS had broken through to the Final Four in 03 or 05 (or both years) he'd still be at Kentucky. The fact that he didn't (and what happened post 05) led him to Minnesota. I think it's worked out well for both programs-both of which were in need of new blood, new vision and new direction.

[Friend Of Tubby]

We all know how bad Larry Ivy was; using the UKAD as his own personal fiefdom and piggybank. HIs failure to pay for assistant coaches (which caused George Felton to leave) and his refusal to upgrade facilites because "we're Kentucky. We don't need them" are all documented and contributed to many of the problems OTS had in recruiting.

Of course you also fail to mention Mitch Barnhart's commitment to OTS with his contract extension in 03 that made him a very wealthy man and building the state of the art Craft Center.

Joe B wasn't Rupp and Tubby wasn't Pitino. It's hard following a legend and trying to live up to what both men accomplished at Kentucky. But let's be honest with ourselves for a moment: Unrealistic expectations or not, if OTS had broken through to the Final Four in 03 or 05 (or both years) he'd still be at Kentucky. The fact that he didn't (and what happened post 05) led him to Minnesota. I think it's worked out well for both programs-both of which were in need of new blood, new vision and new direction.

UK was 32-4 (19-0 undefeated vs SEC and #1 team in AP poll) in 2003 so a contract extension was warranted. UK was 87-15 (85%) for the #1 W-L record in college basketball in 2003-04-05.

Tubby convinced a personal friend from Tulsa (Joe Craft) to donate $6 million to finish the facility when Mitch B couldn't raise the $ needed to do so.

Tubby has won 5 of 7 vs Pitino this decade. It APPEARS he may be > Pitino right now.

FF in 2003 or 2005 (regardless), Tubby and his family are plenty happy to be in Minnesota and gone from Kentucky.

[The Truth]

UK was 32-4 (19-0 undefeated vs SEC and #1 team in AP poll) in 2003 so a contract extension was warranted. UK was 87-15 (85%) for the #1 W-L record in college basketball in 2003-04-05.

Tubby convinced a personal friend from Tulsa (Joe Craft) to donate $6 million to finish the facility when Mitch B couldn't raise the $ needed to do so.

Tubby has won 5 of 7 vs Pitino this decade. It APPEARS he may be > Pitino right now.

FF in 2003 or 2005 (regardless), Tubby and his family are plenty happy to be in Minnesota and gone from Kentucky.

You sir are the master of dodging everything and trying to spin your way out of answering anything of substance.

1. An outstanding record (and a well deserved raise) but the lack of a Final Four appearance or a National Title dampens it a bit. You just can't deny that.

2. Joe Craft is also a UK alum and a native Kentuckian who made his fortune in the energy business. His friendship with OTS was/is real but his connection with the University and the commonwealth was as well. Plus, Mitch has alienated long time Old Boy Network boosters with his new model and vision for UK athletics. It's no longer about what you gave 30 years ago, who you know or how you profit from "favors" in the AD's office. You can also ignore the fact that Mitch gave OTS what he always wanted and committed to him fully. His repayment? Sub-par recruiting, some really bad records his last two seasons (and losses) and bolting for another school.

3. Tubby is an outstanding basketball coach and Pitino has yet to regain the magic in revitalizing the UofL program post-Crum that he had at Kentucky (which is hard. That was a very special time at a very special place. That kind of magic doesn't come around very often). Both are HoF, National Championship coaches. What any of that has to do with OTS following Pitino at Kentucky (like Joe B following Rupp) is beyond me.

4. Maybe so. But I also know he's told Van Florence (among others) that he and Donna are planning on returning to Kentucky once Tubby retires. Just like Clem Haskins has returned (albeit he is a native son) after he left Minnesota. I think Tubby and his family love Kentucky and a lot of the people there. What they don't enjoy is the intense focus and spotlight on Kentucky Basketball. It's hard to survive in the job. It either takes great ego (Rupp, Pitino) or great character (Tubby Smith) to survive. Lesser men (like Eddie Sutton) haven't fared as well.

[ShowinGoldyLove]

Honestly, both FoT and The Truth, the vast majority of us couldn't care less about the inner workings of Kentucky's AD department and donors.

We are extremely excited that Gophers are playing well, just came off a big win, and have some exciting games coming up.

I'd just politely ask you guys to refrain from making this thread, or any other for that matter, a banter back and forth about the history of Tubby and the Kentucky basketball program. That's what the Kentucky board is for. Thanks!

[The Truth]

Honestly, both FoT and TruthTeller, the vast majority of us couldn't care less about the inner workings of Kentucky's AD department and donors.

We are extremely excited that Gophers are playing well, just came off a big win, and have some exciting games coming up.

I'd just politely ask you guys to refrain from making this thread, or any other for that matter, a banter back and forth about the history of Tubby and the Kentucky basketball program. That's what the Kentucky board is for. Thanks!

Edit: Counterproductive to polite discourse. I apologize for cluttering up your board.

[Dr.Don]

ShowingGoldy, you hit it right on the head. I have been trying to ignore both FoT's and Truth's comments without responding to their bickering, but it was getting boring. Thank you for interjecting on behalf of a lot of us who are tired of their bantering about KY. We love Tubby, the job he is doing, and we LOVE our PUPS, #23 in the nation in both major polls. GO GOPHERS!!!!!

[Ski U Mah Gopher]

Construct your way into good times.

One of the ideas for stimulus is building public buildings. Even though it will only be used by 2 team, it is a public building.

[Dr.Don]

Right on the money, Ski U. Public works built this great nation, and will rebuild it again. Public works for Gopher Athletics....put people to work, they pay taxes, income grows, everyone wins. It's called investing in the future. GO GOPHERS!!!!!!!!!!

[GopherinPhilly]

Time for Fat Pat to become Retired Pat....

[Friend Of Tubby]

Honestly, both FoT and The Truth, the vast majority of us couldn't care less about the inner workings of Kentucky's AD department and donors.

We are extremely excited that Gophers are playing well, just came off a big win, and have some exciting games coming up.

I'd just politely ask you guys to refrain from making this thread, or any other for that matter, a banter back and forth about the history of Tubby and the Kentucky basketball program. That's what the Kentucky board is for. Thanks!

The Gophers are a great opportunity for Tubby, his family, players, and staff to show what they can do. You will reap the many benefits of that for the next (?) years.

[Friend Of Tubby]

You sir are the master of dodging everything and trying to spin your way out of answering anything of substance.

1. An outstanding record (and a well deserved raise) but the lack of a Final Four appearance or a National Title dampens it a bit. You just can't deny that.

2. Joe Craft is also a UK alum and a native Kentuckian who made his fortune in the energy business. His friendship with OTS was/is real but his connection with the University and the commonwealth was as well. Plus, Mitch has alienated long time Old Boy Network boosters with his new model and vision for UK athletics. It's no longer about what you gave 30 years ago, who you know or how you profit from "favors" in the AD's office. You can also ignore the fact that Mitch gave OTS what he always wanted and committed to him fully. His repayment? Sub-par recruiting, some really bad records his last two seasons (and losses) and bolting for another school.

3. Tubby is an outstanding basketball coach and Pitino has yet to regain the magic in revitalizing the UofL program post-Crum that he had at Kentucky (which is hard. That was a very special time at a very special place. That kind of magic doesn't come around very often). Both are HoF, National Championship coaches. What any of that has to do with OTS following Pitino at Kentucky (like Joe B following Rupp) is beyond me.

4. Maybe so. But I also know he's told Van Florence (among others) that he and Donna are planning on returning to Kentucky once Tubby retires. Just like Clem Haskins has returned (albeit he is a native son) after he left Minnesota. I think Tubby and his family love Kentucky and a lot of the people there. What they don't enjoy is the intense focus and spotlight on Kentucky Basketball. It's hard to survive in the job. It either takes great ego (Rupp, Pitino) or great character (Tubby Smith) to survive. Lesser men (like Eddie Sutton) haven't fared as well.

I'll leave it this way. Gillispie and Kentucky fans are a better fit than any coach UK has ever had. Rupp, Hall, Sutton, Pitino, or Tubby, Gillispie is more appropriate for UK fans than any other(s).

[MNSnowman]

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k16/MNSnowman/linked%20photos/makeitstop.jpg