CBS publicly chastised Kentucky and Hall for being fearful of the growing threat, only 90 miles down the road, and the pressure began to mount with each new season. The intensity of the pressure on UK to accept this game mounted after almighty CBS, owner of NCAA Tournament broadcast rights, became a partisan in the debate. The status quo prevailed under the devout leadership of Coach Hall, a true disciple of Rupp. Nevertheless, once Coach Rupp retired, this argument reappeared for Joe B. Coach Rupp had opposed this series because he felt it would divide the fan base, and in his 43 years at the helm, his UK teams only played Louisville 3 times, winning twice. If UK defeated “little brother,” Kentucky's status is not enhanced due to the attitude that Kentucky is dominant and “should win.” Similarly, if Louisville could leave the game victorious, Kentucky would lose some of its gloss and stature with future recruits, ultimately eroding fan support across the Bluegrass State.
It was clear that the Baron viewed the suggestion of any such game as a “lose-lose” proposition for the University of Kentucky basketball program. Why should UK provide its prominent stage for Crum and the Cardinals to strut their stuff. The Baron himself planted the roots of UK's opposition. However, the UK camp snubbed Louisville and Crum and publicly opposed this game.
Coach Crum labored to build a nationally recognized basketball program under the shadow of the tradition and attention of the world renowned Wildcats, holders of five national championships. With respect to basketball, this mutual hatred came to a boil between the late 1970s and the early 1980s as Coach Crum lobbied for a chance to play the mighty wildcats. These two groups are not only bitter rivals on the field and court, they truly do not like one another in any realm of human existence. There has never been love lost between the University of Louisville and University of Kentucky football and basketball camps, whether it be players, coaches or fans.
0 kommentar(er)
