Does Pitino have Pet players?

[mhall]

I've been noticing something for the last couple of years. Rick seems to play certain guys alot no matter what they do or bring to the table while others sit alot?

For example, Kyle Kuric is really becoming a solid player. Rebounds better than anybody on the team, plays solid D, hustle plays ect. But he gets in the game and makes good plays but if he makes one mistake Pitino will jerk him quicker than a hiccup. Same is true for Peyton Siva. When he's asked about it he gets defensive and says they aren't practicing well.

Other end of the spectrum would be Jerry Smith. Jerry is playing way too many minutes for what he is bringing to the team. In fact he is actually a plus for the opposition right now, you don't even have to guard the guy leaving somebody available for Double teams.

Just some thoughts and maybe I'm all wet on this but it seems some can do no wrong and play while others have to walk on egg shells and be perfect. Seems to yell louder and more often on some players in the huddle than others to.

Any thoughts and please, serious comments, not the Usual Louisville stinks and they are a NIT team blah blah blah.

[goosecreekguy]

Interesting post for sure. I'm a Pitino fan...but I'm a lifelong UK fan first. I totally can see why you bring up the Kuric & Silva/Smith issue. At times this year I have found myself wondering the same thing. Its tough to get in the minds of coaches...on one hand we have to give them the benefit of the doubt that Pitino is good enough to know that he wants the players who play the best on the court. And then there's so much more to consider than what we see on our TV screens or courtside during the games. Attitude, responsibility, work ethic, etc. are things I'm sure he considers. I agree though, at times it seems he may concentrate on all that "other stuff" rather than giving attention to which player is going to stop his man from scoring and put the ball through the hoop.
That said, Kuric's defense is sketchy but he can score and hustles. Silva is good, but young. Smith's on the ball defense is pretty solid against smaller guards. I'm good friends with Knowles and play alot in the offseason with him (before the Achilles tear a couple weeks ago...)...I'd like to see him get more time, but he has to take better shots.
Thought to consider...I remember people saying the same thing about him at UK. I look forward to hearing what the Redbirds think about your question...

[zx150]

Mark I agree 100%. He finialy put Jennings and Samuals in the game at the same time and look what happened.

[mhall]

Mark I agree 100%. He finialy put Jennings and Samuals in the game at the same time and look what happened.

I agree Ryan. I'm convinced if he would just consider some different options once and awhile he may be pleasantly surprised. Let Samuels and Jennings grow some Chemistry together that can only be done at game time. Sometimes Rick and his practice importance is a little over the top. Game time experience is what alot of these guys need.

A wise old bird once said the minute you think you have learned it all is the minute you have become very stupid. Sometimes that Continent sized Ego of Ricky P's gets in his way.

[mhall]

I here you goosecreek. I love Knowles, that young man goes balls out 110% everytime he gets on the floor. His effort can never be questioned.