Dodson coming back? Latest on Jones, Another NBA/Cal rumor, Is Payne coming?

-The biggest news today was Darnell Dodson will be coming back to UK according to Vargas and Dodson's former coach at Miami Dade. I was told in the past that it was in Dodson's court but he would have to change a lot of things to make it happen and most believed it was just to much for one person to change in such a short time. We are talking off court issues, academics, mindset in practice...

I hope it is true, we could use his depth. With Dodson returning and if Vargas some how is eligible we so far have ten scholarship guys: Liggins, Miller, Harrelson, Hood, Dodson, Knight, Kanter, Poole, Lamb, Vargas then Polson is walking on to make 11.

I still believe Jones will end up at UK...who knows when that will occur but I'm told he has told Lamb and Knight he is coming. So he could change his mind but in my opinion, he is committed to UK not Washington. So that makes 11 scholarship and one walk on. My guess is, that will be it for 2010.

Kadeem Jack was considered to be a major option but it seems Vargas took his spot. It doesn't seem that UK wants both Vargas and Jack. If Jones does go elsewhere, UK may still be interested but that is pure speculation.

-It still seems we are in the drivers seat to add Payne to the coaching staff. UK has interviewed at least two other candidates for this position one being Illinois assistant coach Jerrence Howard.

UK must interview others even if they know Payne will come. Also some of the UK assistants may receive head coaching positions down the line and you take times like this to get a head start on who you want to replace them.

-Another Cal to NBA rumors abound after Chicago Tribune stated that Lebron and Cal may be a package deal to the Bulls. With Rose already being in Chicago, this has some people concerned, it's so funny how people keep falling for this stuff over and over again...he isn't going anywhere.

-There is talk of Nike getting involved with the new arena. They may be a significant contributor to the place. UK would like for this to happen, it's all about convincing Nike that it's a smart investment on their part.

-UK is also considered to be in the top two for the 6'11 Arnett Moultrie, transfer from UTEP.  He would have to sit out the 2010 season but would allow UK to have a great practice player with expereince in 2010.