There are some speeches that make you wish you were there to witness them first hand. Today Coach Pitino gave one of those speeches. I was able to be there at the Tip-off Luncheon with my son and was able to feel the emotion circulating in the ballroom at the Marriott. Coach Pitino is a guy who has been humbled by life and because of that he is able to speak with a genuineness and sincerity that is very engaging. Today Coach Pitino had the 1200 Cardinal supporters hanging on every word as he spoke about the recent accusations against the Louisville basketball program.

I saw on that stage today a man that loves his friends, respects the importance of family and loves the University of Louisville. He spoke with great resolve and vowed to not let this recent news take away all that he has accomplished in his career and all that he has accomplished at the University of Louisville. I believe that Coach Pitino will get his players, his program and the fans through this with the grit and determination we’ve seen from him during his career. Today Coach Pitino gave us all the reassurance we needed.

I brought my son with me today and at 3 years old his Louisville program has a very solid foundation and is thriving in a very competitive landscape. His Louisville Cardinals are really miles ahead of where mine were in 1975, and I don’t have any doubts that it will do just what it has for me and provide many great memories for him in the future.

Here is Coach Pitino’s speech at the Tip-off Luncheon: