4 PM Headlines: Big Blue Nation Football Reboot, Basketball Reloading…and VOTE!!!
By Wayne
Nov 3, 2012; Lexington , KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach Joker Phillips walks off the field after the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores at Commonwealth Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-US PRESSWIRE
As always, the Big Blue Nation has been busy with news on all major sporting fronts, so let’s get right into it.
Joker Phillips is all class, which is the only downfall to his firing. In his first post-firing press conference, he ensured no bridges were burned as he crossed into the unemployment line. Kyle Tucker from the Courier Journal has put together some quotes that really spell out how Joker’s priorities lined up…and none were about him.
Joker says coaching last two was hard call. "I don't want an open casket. I don't want to be anyone's centerpiece." did it for players only.
— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_ATH) November 6, 2012
Joker: "I came here as a kid. This place turned me into a man the first time. This time it strengthened me."
— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_ATH) November 6, 2012
Tombstone Legacy
Joker wants his tombstone to say he was a good friend, husband, man. "If it says 'OK coach,' that's fine with me."
— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_ATH) November 6, 2012
On Mitch Barnhart and the Administration Support
Joker said he never asked Mitch Barnhart for anything he didn't get. "Bells and whistles don't sell places."
— Kyle Tucker (@KyleTucker_ATH) November 6, 2012
What is more interesting than what he says, is what some of his players are saying now that the shoe has fallen. Courtesy of Aaron Smith with Rivals
LB Avery Williamson
Matt Smith
Joker will be missed but the coaching record will not. He will land on his feet, though, especially with the $2.5 million cushion.