The Bobcat Nation

Has anyone seen the movie yet? I am going to see it tonight or tomorrow. I finished reading the book last night and it is definitely worth reading. The last chapter Coach Haskins talks about the NCAA and cheating in college basketball. It is really intriguing. It is a super fast book to read, so if you are a fan of college hoops I would recommend getting a copy of it.

I have heard they take some liberties with the movie, but what movie doesn't. I will give you my thoughts on Thursday after I see the movie.

We actually saw it the weekend it came out. Very good, my only problem was with the way they made Kentucky look at the end. I've seen photos, there were not Confederate flags being waved, and the UK fight song isn't Dixie. But that's just minor stuff. It's amazing to think that this was only 40 years ago.

It's interesting to hear your perspective on the Kentucky thing. If you read the book I think from Haskins' perspective Rupp was a racist and a jerk. Not to take away from anything he did as a basketball coach, but I do have a lot less respect for him and a lot more for Haskins after reading the book.

There is an interesting article this week in ESPN the mag. LeBron James discusses the movie with the main "characters" According to Pat Riley and another teammate (can't remember the name) said that was a misconception about Rupp and he actually made it a practice to schedule teams that had black players

Dang, I just canceled my ESPN subscription. I may have to go grab a copy of this issue. I have heard both sides of the story so I don't know what to believe. I am guessing the truth is somewhere in the middle as it always is. Either way, I highly recommend the book and can't wait to see the movie.

Glory Road was SUCH a good movie. Kind of reminded me of Remember the Titans. Regardless, it was an excellent movie. We saw it opening weekend and it was right before MLK Day, so... it was a great way to discuss segregation etc., with kids.

It was a terrific movie. My wife and I took our sons, ages 4 and 6, and they loved it, too. I don't think there was one inappropriate scene in the entire movie. My 6 year old did have great questions to ask about the scenes that exhibited racism. We had a very good conversation.

I agree, that it gets a little confusing when concerned with Rupp's reputation. A coach with Rupp's stature would have prodded change a little faster if he desired. The whole Jim Crow period in our nations history is just hard to understand or explain. It just infuriates me.

I wasn't aware that Haskins only started five black players in the championship game. I just assumed that they had started all year long. Nor was I aware that he only played black players in the championship game. What a statement!

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Yeah, I didn't know that either, and when I watched the movie I actually got the chills!!

My former boss was gushing about this movie and story last night, so I have to see it fairly soon so she won't get upset with me the next time I see her. She graduated from UTEP, and her older sister knew a couple guys on the team, so this movie is their personal anthem of sorts. Everything I've read and heard makes it sound like a great movie.

She pointed out that they were ahead the entire game in reality ... apparently the movie turns the final game into a come from behind scenario.