Kentucky: Now in the hunt for a title?

Andy Katz at ESPN reported Friday, May 8 that Patrick Patterson has departed the NBA Draft and will return to Kentucky and play for new coach John Calipari.  Read the ESPN story here.

That leaves Jodie Meeks as the only question mark.  It also means Calipari will have one of the SEC’s best front line players back to go along with recruits Daniel Orton and DeMarcus Cousins.  Back to Meeks: Look for the sweet-shooting guard to return to UK as well.   While Meeks is a projected late first-round pick in June, his pro future is at best uncertain.  Why not return for another season and have the chance to play for a national title?

If Meeks returns, the Wildcats – who missed the NCAA’s for the first time in 18 years this past March – will move up our Power 24 rankings and be a Top 10, if not Top 5, contender.   College Hoops and the NCAA Tournament is a lot more fun than an 82-game grind in the NBA.   Unless Meeks feels thoroughly confident about a first-round selection and guaranteed contract, he’ll be back.   That would be a little bluegrass heaven for Big Blue Nation.  Get out the banjo.

Our 2010 Power 24 rankings will be updated  after all final determinations about the NBA Draft are complete.   That’s also when I’ll launch our first Bracket Projection for 2010.   As always, send a Rebound. – Dave.