at least based on what is visible to the public, I cannot fault the UK administration or athletic director for what has transpired in Lexington over the past few weeks.  Tubby Smith left of his own accord, albeit with mutual agreement that it was probably best for all concerned.  Both sides maintained some modicum of dignity in his departure.

UK has not been out-of-line.  It has been the fans, internet message boards, radio talk-shows, and the media in general which have turned this thing into a circus (sorry, SOW).  These are the ones whose action will cause any potential hard feelings with whomever is ultimately named head coach at UK.  They are the ones who have continued to hold an unrealistic view of where their program currently resides in relation to the rest of college basketball TODAY, even though they are entitled to high standards, given the 'Cats proud tradition.

To my knowledge, there have been no official numbers thrown out by UK, and the "speculated" numbers have varied widely (several million dollars).  Whoever becomes coach at UK will be paid well, but I don't think they will have to be paid Sabanesque sums of money.  No need to act out of desperation or feelings of hurt pride.  Even though being turned down has to sting, there is never just "one man for the job".

Billy Donovan almost HAD to be their first choice, and Barnhart would have rightly been crucified were that not the case.  Hopefully, he didn't find himself without a short list featuring a few other names besides Billy the Kid (being prepared).  While another coach can come into Lexington and be successful, it is their fans who bear virtually the whole responsibility for any feelings the new guy has in regards to being "Plan B".   Frankly, there was no guarantee that Billy would meet some of their expectations over the long haul.

Billy staying in Gainesville does not make Kentucky a laughing stock.  It does not diminish the history and tradition of the program in Lexington.  They WILL be successful again, and probably occasionally at the level that many of their fanatics expect.  It merely means that UF currently offers Donovan most everything he wants in his position.  It means that Florida, despite not having been the traditional basketball school, DOES have much to offer, and IS currently among the elite of college basketball (this decade).

Nobody "owes" anyone anything, for the most part.  Donovan is, no doubt, grateful to UF and Foley for the opportunity and resources and atmosphere provided him in Gainesville.  We are certainly grateful for the job the man has done as head coach of the Florida Gators.  Billy will be well-compensated, and rightly so.  But it should never be solely about the money.  Just like SOS, if the day ever comes when he no longer has the drive, the desire to coach, and is not focused, then it is time to move on or hang it up.  No hard feelings.  I'm just happy it appears that day is still in the distant future.