Rick Byrd

[Intern]

Heard an interview on the radio today with newly retired Belmont bball coach Rick Byrd. He mentioned that he spent some time with Cal in Jacksonville during the tournament, which is nice to know because he is truly an offensive genius. Not sure how extensive their relationship is, but can't help but wonder if Cal would ever use him in an official/unofficial "consulting" capacity going forward.

Cal has obviously carved out a lucrative, HOF career sticking to his guns, but even Nick Saban came to the realization that he needed help to modernize his offense, which has certainly paid off.

 

[502 Wildcat]

I'd take him as an assistant if Barbee/Justus/Payne ever leave.

Not sure if he'd be interested in relocating at this point in his life though.

Probably would make more as a UK assistant than a Belmont HC too, or very close anyway.

 

[ORCAT10]

I'd take him as an assistant if Barbee/Justus/Payne ever leave.

Not sure if he'd be interested in relocating at this point in his life though.

Probably would make more as a UK assistant than a Belmont HC too, or very close anyway.

Great coach.

 

[YouKay]

I mentioned this at HOB earlier. Would give an eyeball for this to happen.

Belmont was in the top 5 of offensive efficiency this season. Had the #3 scoring offense. Led the nation in assists, with a freshman PG who probably had no other D1 offers. They were not just a jack-up-threes offense this year either. They had NBA caliber players at center and forward and got the ball inside almost at will. They had 5 different players with at least one 20 point game this year. I can only imagine what Byrd could do with UK level talent.

At least I hope Cal will have him come to Lexington for a long visit and give him some pointers.

 

[JayCatz44]

I say he's probably retiring for a reason.

 

[Mr Schwump]

College football has all these "Quality Control Assistants" many of whom are ex-HCs, wonder why basketball doesn't try that?

 

[MakinMusic_rivals]

Byrd’s offense works well with the types of players he recruits. He knew it and it’s why he never jumped on other jobs that were higher level. Part of the draw for elite players is freedom to create. There are all sorts of nuances to this argument not making sense.

I’m not taking anything away from Byrd. He’s been great. Playing and coaching in that type of league is a whole different ball game.

 

[YouKay]

I say he's probably retiring for a reason.

He is 66 and has been at Belmont for 33 years. He got his 800th win this year and this was probably his best team ever. I think he thought this year was his best shot at finally winning a NCAA tournament game, and he was right. He is going out on top.

 

[YouKay]

Byrd’s offense works well with the types of players he recruits. He knew it and it’s why he never jumped on other jobs that were higher level. Part of the draw for elite players is freedom to create. There are all sorts of nuances to this argument not making sense.

That is true to some extent. But I dont see Cal giving guys much freedom to create, especially in the postseason. And you need disciplined offense against a zone defense, traps, presses, etc.

 

[Jazzycat]

Maybe he could serve as a consultant to Calipari. The question is will Calipari be open to taking advice from Coach Byrd. Otherwise, it is a waste of money, but I like the idea...

 

[Wildcats1st]

Belmont shot 20-25 threes per game I don’t think cal will go there

 

[Tapemaster8]

Heard an interview on the radio today with newly retired Belmont bball coach Rick Byrd. He mentioned that he spent some time with Cal in Jacksonville during the tournament, which is nice to know because he is truly an offensive genius. Not sure how extensive their relationship is, but can't help but wonder if Cal would ever use him in an official/unofficial "consulting" capacity going forward.

Cal has obviously carved out a lucrative, HOF career sticking to his guns, but even Nick Saban came to the realization that he needed help to modernize his offense, which has certainly paid off.

I think Cal has said he spent some time with Coach Byrd in the off season discussing and even watching his practices!

 

[TennCat]

I always liked Rick Byrd. He is a tremendous basketball coach whose name always seemed to pop up whenever Tennessee had an opening. With the some of the past coaching decisions that the Vols have made (Martin & Tyndall), I always wondered why he didn’t get more of a look. I know one thing: his teams were always well-coached and his offense was something to watch.