I could be the only one, but I find it frustrating that there are some threads on here who want certain coaches because of one game or one season. This entire mindset of "they did something good for one, year" that must mean they are UK ready. No.
What does UK ready look like? To me it's a coach who is clear as day ready for the job. It requires a specific temperament (alpha, who wants to win no matter what), recruiting, an interesting basketball philosophy that is centered around offensive or defense. They have shown they can compete consistently in their conference, consistently make the NCAA tournament and win games in the NCAAT and their conference tournament. Preferably, someone with final 4 experience or has one a title. Or someone who can make a sweet 16 to elite 8 a handful of times over a 5-10 year span.
There are many variables that would qualify a UK coach.
Some of these names on here are interesting, but are 100% not ready to take the UK job. Do they have potential? Yes. Basically some of the names being thrown around are just a step above Pope but not proven yet.
Kentucky needs a proven coach. Not a coach based off potential.
Here are some of the names that I have seen been thrown around the last few weeks that don't yet meet the standards of being a UK coach, but has the highest possibility in the future based off recruiting and consistency.
Jai Lucas - Miami
Grant McCasland - Texas Tech
T.J Otzelberger - Iowa State
Ben McCollum - Iowa
Flynn Clayman - High Point
Tommy Lloyd - Arizona
Sean Miller - Texas
Josh Shertz - St. Louis
Out of all of those coaches, Tommy Llyod is by far has the highest potential because of his recruiting ability and play style. He has never been to an elite 8 yet. If he can make a final four this year, he leaves this group.
I am sure I am missing a few, just going based off memory.
I just wish more would sit and think before they want someone who has "what have you done for me lately".
Kentucky needs a proven winner, a proven recruiter and someone with the right temperament.
