KP has been the front runner the entire time. While it sounds like Josh Heird did "due diligence" and at least considered other candidates, I would have been surprised if anyone other than KP landed the job. 

Probably some risk here since it would be a first time job, but the reward seems very high. Plus with an alum it might be more likely to endure potential sanctions - he won’t be looking for greener pastures. If it happens, good hire for Louisville. 

2 minutes ago, gchs_uk9 said:

Probably some risk here since it would be a first time job, but the reward seems very high. Plus with an alum it might be more likely to endure potential sanctions - he won’t be looking for greener pastures. If it happens, good hire for Louisville. 

The biggest knock for him is he has zero head coaching experience. If he's able to land elite recruits (Hey, DJ Wagner), his acclimation probably is a little more smooth than someone else's might be. 

Certainly should be a talent upgrade under him. Will be interesting who his staff will be which is just as important as  the head coach. 

There have been rumblings that Nolan Smith may join Payne's staff, we'll see if that shakes out. 

Memphis hired Penny Hardaway with next to 0 coaching experience.  Only some middle school experience (and maybe some AAU?)  He's beginning to find his way.  Lets hope Payne can get on track fast.

5 minutes ago, The Raven said:

Memphis hired Penny Hardaway with next to 0 coaching experience.  Only some middle school experience (and maybe some AAU?)  He's beginning to find his way.  Lets hope Payne can get on track fast.

I noticed Larry Brown on the bench for Memphis in their tournament. An assistant coach like that is a huge benefit. If Payne ends up at Louisville, staffing could play a huge role in determining his success. 

5 minutes ago, The Raven said:

Memphis hired Penny Hardaway with next to 0 coaching experience.  Only some middle school experience (and maybe some AAU?)  He's beginning to find his way.  Lets hope Payne can get on track fast.

I have zero doubts about KP's coaching ability. He's been a coach for far too long and high profile places not to be able to coach basketball. We'll see how long it takes him to adjust to being THE guy. 

9 minutes ago, The Raven said:

Memphis hired Penny Hardaway with next to 0 coaching experience.  Only some middle school experience (and maybe some AAU?)  He's beginning to find his way.  Lets hope Payne can get on track fast.

Is he? Penny has had a nice month, month and a half, but I think most would say his tenure has been a disappointment so far.

36 minutes ago, TheDeuce said:

The biggest knock for him is he has zero head coaching experience. If he's able to land elite recruits (Hey, DJ Wagner), his acclimation probably is a little more smooth than someone else's might be. 

Doesn't matter in college sports any longer. Hardaway, Stackhouse, Deion Sanders, Eddie George.....all that matters is the NAME. Be interesting to see if any UK guys enter the portal and wind up there.

Just now, 9068 said:

Doesn't matter in college sports any longer. Hardaway, Stackhouse, Deion Sanders, Eddie George.....all that matters is the NAME. Be interesting to see if any UK guys enter the portal and wind up there.

I don't see any UK guys transferring to Louisville because of KP.

29 minutes ago, bugatti said:

Is he? Penny has had a nice month, month and a half, but I think most would say his tenure has been a disappointment so far.

He’s won 20 games every one of his 4 seasons.  Won the NIT last season and is in the NCAA this season.  I’d say he’s finding his way.  

38 minutes ago, TheDeuce said:

I have zero doubts about KP's coaching ability. He's been a coach for far too long and high profile places not to be able to coach basketball. We'll see how long it takes him to adjust to being THE guy. 

That’s what I meant, I just didn’t word it very well.  

44 minutes ago, bugatti said:

Is he? Penny has had a nice month, month and a half, but I think most would say his tenure has been a disappointment so far.

Considering where they were in December I’d say he has found something.