Even the most optimistic of Louisville hoops fanatics understand the Cardinals have fallen short of expectations.
Thus, as they say in support group settings, said expectations unrealized have led to resentments.
Thereby, despite a 20-8 record and a fairly firm grasp of an invite to the Dance, the natives are restless.
Not without some justification.
As we say, the honeymoon is over for Pat Kelsey.
Questions about his roster construction, queries about his strategy to eschew any FG attempts other than threes and layups, defensive setups, concerns about roster rotation are all legitimate.
But, as I’ve personally offered to all who inquire, it’s what happens between this season and next that will be most telling.
How future rosters are assembled. An experienced PG to run the show. A significantly greater inside presence. Guys with a better handle who can get it to the hoop, and finish. Etc, etc.
So, yeah, fans have questions. So do I.
We got opinions.
Hey that’s why my screeds are here, to give you readers something to react to.
There is one line of criticism that bemuses me. (Were I not an ancient dude, I’d be more inclined to have a go at those who bring it up. Age does bring a sense of perspective, along with the aches and pains and biopsies.)
I must take issue with those who decry that Pat Kelsey is nothing but a Mid Major coach and that’s that.
It may prove to be so.
But it is far far from a given at this juncture.
He seems a bright fellow. Lots of energy and drive. Intelligent.
This is a learning curve for him. Coaching at one the sport’s great programs in front of a massive critical and anxious fan base is not a stroll with the dog down Baringer path in Cherokee.
His final chapter here is not close to being written.
But for those who have already given up on PK, allow me to offer this.
Prime example is, of course, Mike Krzyzewski. He was hired at Duke after a 9-17 season at West Point. Which is, a lone NIT title notwithstanding, not a bastion of basketball. Coach K went 17-13 his first year in Durham. Followed by 10-17 and 11-17.
He was not terminated. He adjusted.
I shan’t recite what happened after that.
Which is to say, Pat Kelsey still has time to prove he’s ready for prime time.
For those who have already given up on him, well, have at it if you must.
For shits and giggles, I did a quick dive into the coaching journeys of the current Top 10.
Dusty May was at Florida Atlantic.
Dan Hurley at Wagner and Rhode Island.
TJ Otzelberger at South Dakota State.
Kelvin Sampson at Montana Tech.
Todd Golden at San Francisco.
Matt Painter at Southern Illinois.
Brad Underwood at Daytona Beach CC and Stephen F. Austin.
Ryan Odom at Maryland Baltimore County.
Bill Self at Oral Roberts and Tulsa.
Catch my drift?
Let’s see what happens as time passes.
Meanwhile . . .
. . . Beat Clemson.
* * * * *
Seems the St. John’s vs. UConn rematch wasn’t all it was cracked up to be.
Talk about anticipation.
I know a guy who dropped a Hamilton +99 for a Peacock subscription just to watch.
Let’s simply say it was clear that The Rick in his 1:19 post game presser was not pleased with the outcome.
The Johnnies, winners of 13 in a row coming in, didn’t score a FG in the last 17 minutes of play.
0/24.
RP was a mid major dude once. A few times actually. Hawaii. Boston University. Iona.
Is he still really ready to coach at the highest level?
Haven’t been to the Red Storm chat room, but it sure wouldn’t surprise me if some fans so inquired.
* * * * *
Speaking of said bespoke fellow, let me add a few cents on the current hoops dustup.
Should coaches go back to wearing suits and ties?
Armani man Pat Riley thinks so.
Kornheiser and Wilbon think so.
Feh.
If Mick Cronin wants to wear a suit, good for him.
If ever there was a guy who should consider adopting the new dress code it’s Buzz Williams. But if he wants to continue to dress up and shvitz through his attire, his choice.
But it’s 2026.
Given my station in life, I see a lot of doctors. Can’t remember the last time I saw one with a tie on.
Casual and comfortable is now.
— c d kaplan
