When John Calipari and Mark Few announced their agreement to a home-and-home series, there was a small — but significant — distinction in the lingo used by the two legendary coaches. Few said he was excited to take his Gonzaga team to Rupp Arena, the Kentucky's home court, whereas Calipari notably stopped short of committing to take his Cats to The Kennel.
Turns out, it was not a coincidence. As Gary Parrish explained in detail, the choice in language by the Hall of Fame coach was intentional. Calipari then confirmed on Thursday the selective distinction and explained why Kentucky — set to make the trip to face Gonzaga on Nov. 20 this year — will not play on the Bulldogs' typical home court, but instead at the 12,000-seat Spokane Arena.
"I'm excited about playing Gonzaga. I'm disappointed that we have to go there first, but to make it happen I was willing to do that," Calipari tweeted. "Playing in front of 13K crazy fans in Spokane Arena will be exciting just like it will be in front of 22K fans in Rupp next year."