I didn't use the word "bust."
I said he was a historic disappointment. How many top 2 recruits in UK history needed 4 or 5 years to become NBA-worthy, only to fade out after a handful of NBA games cameos?
2-10 against UNC in a season ending loss as a junior. 7 points
0-9 against Marquette in a season ending loss as a sophomore. 0 points
1 point in a season ending loss to Michigan as a freshmen.
When I remember Rhodes, I remember a really talented guy who never really improved at Kentucky. A guy who shot 39% from the field as a junior. I also remember him as a guy who his high school coach - Bob Hurley Sr. - once described this way: "'Rod was Kobe Bryant before anyone heard of Kobe Bryant."
Here is a good article that puts Rodrick's hype in perspective. It's easy for us to forget how hyped he was. Pitino even framed his letter of intent.
Rodrick Rhodes Article from 1996
You don't think he was a disappointment and that's fine. I do; but again, I ask you, how many top 2 recruits can you think of that took 5 years to make it to the NBA?