Instead, it was more like a rock concert atmosphere. The Kentucky Pros, which included John Wall, Rajon Rondo, Tayshaun Prince, DeMarcus Cousins, Keith Bogans, Nazr Mohammed, Eric Bledsoe and Jodie Meeks, were treated like rock stars, the crowd erupting to a cheer as they took the floor, just as if a band were taking the stage.
Only this all-star band had not played together for a while, if at all.
There were plenty of off notes, botched tunes and forgotten lyrics.
Instead, it was the former Louisville players who really rocked. Francisco Garcia scored a game-high 30 points. Edgar Sosa added 29 for the winners.
Still, despite the outcome, it was a treat to see the old band back together.
"It was like an NBA playoff atmosphere in here," said Calipari afterward of the crowd. "Del Harris (his assistant) turned to me and was like, 'What is this?' "
"It was emotional coming out there and hearing your name called," said Wall.
"Breathtaking," Rondo called it.
"It was the same Rupp, hasn't changed," Cousins said. "They cheer for us even when we lose."
Cousins finished with 28 points, 14 rebounds and an impromptu Dougie dance after the game was over. Meet the new Boogie, same as the old Boogie. That included some jawing with opponents and referees.
At one point, Cousins tossed Garcia like a rag doll nearly to the floor for a foul. Thing is Garcia and Cousins are teammates with the Sacramento Kings. They slapped palms afterward.
Jodie Meeks scored 17 points and hit three three-pointers. John Wall scored 15, but his shot has gained some rust in the current NBA lockout. Wall was 3-for-13 from the floor.
Read more:
http://www.kentucky.com/2011/08/15/1847 ... z1VAR101L3
