Rick Pitino accomplished great things at the University of Kentucky, winning a national championship and reaching three Final Fours in eight seasons.
However, for a long time, Pitino was persona non grata among BBN, mostly because he became head coach at archrival Louisville four years after leaving Lexington.
On KSR today, Pitino discussed his relationship with the Kentucky fanbase, acknowledging that he understood their anger at him.
“The Kentucky fans, to me, are very special,” Pitino said. “They treated me, my family, with great reverence. I’ve got nothing but great things to say about the Kentucky fan. I totally get it today why they were bitter at me for going to the University of Louisville.”
Pitino said when he took the job at Louisville, he did so partially because he loved his time at Kentucky so much and was searching for a similar experience.
Now the head coach at St. John’s, it has been nearly 30 years since Pitino last roamed the sideline in Lexington, but some of that blue blood hasn’t left him.
He revealed on KSR today that he has donated to the UK football program NIL collectives and says he would do the same for basketball if asked by new head coach Mark Pope.
“Well, I actually cut a check to the football program because I’m a casual friend of Mark (Stoops) and Eddie Gran. I cut a check to the football program,” Pitino said. “I would definitely cut a check if Mark (Pope) needs me for anything no matter what it is. Except for my first-born, Michael? He can have it.”
“I absolutely love Mark (Pope) and would do anything for his program,” he added. “Rooting for football, I sent the baseball coach a text wishing him good luck. I’m very bullish on Mark (Stoops) and the football program. Hope they do great.”
Pope played for Pitino from 1994-97 and received support from his old coach when he was hired to replace John Calipari this offseason.
Kentucky and St. John’s are slated to face each other in a home-and-home series beginning in 2025.
Related: Rick Pitino Has Confirmed Home-And-Home Series With Kentucky