## Basketball's Maverick Back With Bold Merger Idea

Rick Pitino isn't one to shy away from bold statements. Just weeks after Coach K floated the idea of an ACC-Big East merger, Pitino joined in, calling it "an awesome thing" for college basketball. 

**A Mega Conference Dream**

On a podcast with Jon Rothstein, Pitino argued that combining the traditional powerhouses like Duke, North Carolina, and Louisville with Big East stalwarts UConn, Villanova, and St. John's would be beneficial for both conferences.  “In order for the Big East and the ACC to survive this football mania — because a bad college football game will surpass an NBA playoff game as far as viewership is concerned," Pitino said.

He believes a mega conference would help preserve basketball’s prestige in a landscape increasingly dominated by football. "So, if we want to survive basketball-wise with the ACC and the Big East and to preserve the Dukes, the Carolinas, the Louisvilles of the world, and the Big East, combining it into a mega conference would be an awesome thing.”

**Reality Check: Football vs. Basketball**

Pitino’s vision faces significant hurdles. Most Big East schools don’t play football, making financial alignment with the ACC difficult.  TV rights also add another layer of complexity. Pitino admitted that while he believes expansion to 16-17 teams would benefit the Big East, league presidents are resistant due to concerns about money distribution. 

“Unfortunately, outside of Coach K and myself, I don’t think there are a lot of feelings that way,” he said of the merger idea.  “I don’t think the NCAA is very proactive, I don’t think the ACC and the Big East are very proactive. I don’t think they think outside of the box.”

**The Never-Ending Love Affair with Basketball**

At 72 years old, Pitino’s passion for basketball remains undimmed. He recently revealed that his son, Xavier coach Richard Pitino, tried to convince him to retire, but he admits he wouldn't know what to do without the game. “I think the blessing for me is I was two years out of the game, and boy, did I miss it.  If I’m without basketball, I think I would age considerably.”


One thing is clear: With Pitino back in the game, college basketball has an added dose of excitement and unpredictability. 


## Basketball's Maverick Back With Bold Merger Idea

Rick Pitino isn't one to shy away from bold statements. Just weeks after Coach K floated the idea of an ACC

Rick Pitino joins Coach K in calling for ACC-Big East merger

## Is Kentucky Really College Basketball's Greatest? 

Before every game at Rupp Arena, fans hear a familiar greeting: "Welcome to Rupp Arena, Home of the Greatest Tradition in College Basketball!" But is that statement truly 100% correct? One investigative look at the numbers suggests it just might be. 

**A Legacy Measured in Wins**

The raw data paints a compelling picture. Kentucky boasts the most wins and 20-win seasons in college basketball history.  They've secured an astounding 31 SEC Tournament Titles – just three fewer than the rest of the league combined. Their postseason success further solidifies their place among the elite, with eight NCAA championships and countless Final Four appearances.

 **Beyond the Box Score: The Big Blue Nation**

While these numbers speak volumes, it's more than just wins and losses that define Kentucky basketball.  The program's immense popularity is undeniable, fueled by a passionate fanbase known as the "Big Blue Nation." This dedicated following creates an electric atmosphere at Rupp Arena, making it one of the most intimidating venues in college sports. 



**Stay Up-to-Date on the Wildcats**


For more Kentucky news and views, check out the KSR YouTube Channel for interviews with coaches and players, commentary from the KSR crew, Rapid Reactions following big events, and a lineup of live shows.  


## Is Kentucky Really College Basketball's Greatest? 

Before every game at Rupp Arena, fans hear a familiar greeting: "Welcome to Rupp Arena, Home of the Great

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Rick Pitino joins Coach K in calling for ACC-Big East merger

25 Reasons Why Kentucky is the Greatest Basketball Program of All Time