For those that remember? Pitino's 1st year compared to Pope's 1st year.

[katsrhot14]

I understand that the game and rules (NIL)have changed. Both had rosters that weren't as good as many of the opposing teams. But for some reason, you always thought they had a chance to win. Both won games they shouldn't have won, and they lost games they should have won. If I remember correctly, Kansas beat Kentucky 150 - 95 in Pitino's 1st year. This board would go nuts if Pope's team got beat that bad! I also remember them beating Shaq and LSU in Rupp when they were not nearly as good as LSU. Pope has beaten teams that we would probably lose 9 out of 10 times this year. We have also had a couple of bad losses this year. Both teams played hard and with grit! For some reason, we were excited to watch Kentucky play. Was it because we were underdogs and were not expected to win? Not sure, but no matter the outcome for the rest of the year, Im excited for the rest of the year, and the future! The Pope will deliver!

 

[OliverSimmonstwinbrother]

Totally different circumstances. We were on probation. Also Pitino was already a proven winner at the college level when he arrived. Pitino would have had these guys running since December if he was the coach with the lack of effort and defense these guys show often.

 

[CatFanInIlliniLand]

I know we aren’t coming off probation but the way Cal left is also different. When previous coaches left, we never lost every single player.

I see some similarities. I feel the same excitement. If Pope doesn’t work here long term, it definitely won’t be for lack of passion or love for the program.

 

[katsrhot14]

Totally different circumstances. We were on probation. Also Pitino was already a proven winner at the college level when he arrived. Pitino would have had these guys running since December if he was the coach with the lack of effort and defense these guys show often.

I somewhat agree, but I feel like we have been on probation over Cal' last 5 years! We never met expectations, which led the fan base to be less excited.