Back to the Future

Mark Pope and Coach Rick Pitino enjoying the good times after Kentucky’s 1996 Championship run (David Perry/Lexington Herald-Leader staff file photo).

(LEXINGTON, Ky.) – The old has gone, the new has come.

In his farewell video to Big Blue Nation, John Calipari graciously acknowledged that the Kentucky basketball program needed a change at the top. Many of you agreed with him. Postseason wins had dwindled. Fan morale was at an all-time low. After the disappointing results from the last four years, Coach Cal’s snarky quips and swaggy braggadocio had turned a bit stale for anyone still gullible enough to listen. It was indeed time for a new voice.

Exit Boss Hogg. Enter Mark Pope.

News that the 51-year-old former Wildcat was taking over as the grand pooh-bah of college basketball’s Roman empire first leaked out late on Thursday night. With Billy Donovan still considered a viable candidate, the quick decision caught many by surprise. In fact, the mere mention of Pope as a serious choice generated more outrage initially than any debate on gun control, abortion, or unisex bathrooms.

Twelve hours later, however, the mood magically shifted. Although a few dissenters stood firm—and the “fire Mitch Barnhart” sentiments remained as ubiquitous as ever—the rest of Big Blue Nation began buying in and circling the wagons. After all, Mark Pope was one of us—a product of the glory years of the mid-90s, when the name on the front of the jersey instilled an overwhelming sense of pride, accomplishment, and honor to anyone heard cheering in the commonwealth. Plus, unlike Dan Hurley and Scott Drew, the man wanted to be here. He coveted the job.

In addition, Pope could coach. His teams at BYU played an exciting brand of basketball that spread the floor, shot threes with impunity, and actually ran in-bounds plays. On top of that, Pope was smart—a Rhodes Scholar candidate who completed three arduous years of medical school before chucking it all to pursue his coaching passion. Who in their right mind does that?

Ringing character endorsements provided the crowning coup de gras. Former teammates dubbed Pope as the ultimate leader with an infectious positivity that could move mountains. His former college coach—known for a few scandalous indiscretions of his own—attested on video to Pope’s moral integrity and grit.

Through it all, one important question loomed: Could Pope recruit? Time will soon tell. But given the blue-blooded resources now at his disposal, I’d say the chances are excellent. A just-announced $4 million injection into the Big Blue NIL fund certainly makes success more probable. He’ll need every penny, though. After John Calipari flew the coop, the cupboard for next year is frighteningly bare.

Putting all that aside, here’s what’s most astounding to me. Pope’s hiring is more than just a changing of the guard. His blink-of-an-eye ascension to the throne has resulted in something extraordinary. It’s miraculously galvanized the entire fan base in one unexpected fell swoop, giving every citizen of Big Blue Nation a lifesaving shot of adrenaline just when they needed it the most. By handing Mark Pope the keys to the kingdom, we’ve reconnected with our glorious past and recaptured everything that was once true, right, noble, pure, and admirable about the program we all knew and loved.

Okay—I’ll admit it—I’ve undoubtedly tasted the blue Kool-Aid. But here’s the thing. I’m not quite swallowing it just yet.

Ultimately, Mark Pope will be judged on one thing only—national championships. Adolph Rupp garnered four of them before being forced into retirement in 1972. Since then, four of Rupp’s successors, Joe B. Hall, Rick Pitino, Tubby Smith, and John Calipari have added additional national titles to Kentucky’s trophy case.

Will Mark Pope be the fifth?

It’s a daunting question for a new hire right out of the gate—especially to one who hasn’t won a single NCAA tournament game. But it’s also not unfair to ask it under the circumstances. Because the bar is always set unreasonably high in the Bluegrass. Mind you, the program with the greatest tradition in the history of college basketball doesn’t hang banners for Sweet 16s or Elite Eights. You won’t find participation trophies for Final Fours.

Mark Pope knows all that. And yet, he’s still willing to forsake the comforts of Provo, Utah—where expectations are much more pedestrian—to plunge willy nilly into the soul-sapping vortex that awaits him back in Lexington.

“UK changed my life forever as a human being,” Pope said in his introductory statement. “The love and passion I have for this program, this University and the people of the Commonwealth goes to the depth of my soul.”

For that reason alone, all Kentucky fans need to rally behind him. I’m all in for now. And for the sake of the kingdom, you should be too.

Dr. John Huang is a retired orthodontist, military veteran, and award-winning author. This blog post was originally written as a sports column for Nolan Group Media publications. You can follow Dr. Huang on social media @KYHuangs and check out all his books at https://www.Amazon.com/stores/Dr.-John-Huang/author/B092RKJBRD

United We Stand, Divided We Fall

It’s high time for John Calipari to do the honorable thing (Dr. Michael Huang Photo).

(LEXINGTON, Ky.) – A house divided cannot stand.

Whether attributed to Abraham Lincoln or Jesus Christ, those are wise words—and Big Blue Nation should take heed.

After another demoralizing and embarrassing first-round flameout in this year’s NCAA tournament, the Roman Empire of college basketball finds itself hopelessly divided, poised on the precipice of a potential epic collapse.

In one corner are the staunch “Fire Calipari” proponents, claiming that the Hall of Fame coach has lost his fastball. The worst regular season in program history (9 – 16 in 2021), the worst postseason losses in program history (Saint Peters in 2022 and now Oakland in 2024), and one paltry NCAA tournament win in the last five years does not the Gold Standard make.

In the other corner are the loyal Coach Cal stalwarts. Despite the lack of recent postseason success, he’s still the best person for the job. Four Final Fours and a National Championship builds you a lot of equity. The man is still one of the best recruiters out there. Plus, look at all the charitable work he’s done for the community. Who’re you going to get that’s better?

So, we’re at a virtual impasse—hopelessly divided, right? A $33.3 million buyout of Calipari’s lifetime contract only adds to the existing quagmire. That’s not chump change, and the University of Kentucky—even if generous boosters come up with the goods—cannot afford to squander that amount of money just to cover up Mitch Barnhart’s horrific boo-boo.

How, then, do we unify and rally the fanbase? If Calipari stays on as coach, I’m afraid that simply wouldn’t be possible. From what I’ve gleaned in talking to fans and media alike, the atmosphere is just way too toxic. Expecting him to change his polarizing methods at this stage is simply wishful thinking on our part. Who’s coaching at Kentucky next year is a topic for another time. It just can’t be John Calipari.

The honorable thing would be for Calipari to graciously step down. When you’ve tarnished the empire’s reputation, it’s time to fall on your sword. But we know he’s way too proud and stubborn to do that. Plus, that wouldn’t be really fair to him. Both parties agreed to the financial terms in advance. Calipari loves money, and I doubt he’d settle for a penny less to just walk away.

Upon further review, perhaps the buyout isn’t as daunting as it first appears.

First of all, there’s an offset in the contract, meaning that if Calipari would get another coaching job somewhere else, his new salary would count toward the buyout. Even at 65 years old, I don’t think Coach Cal is ready to retire to his private island, watch Alaska shows, and play with his dogs all day long.

Secondly, we’re not talking about a lump sum payment. The buyout would be paid in monthly installments over the next five years. That’s certainly manageable in the university’s $6.8 billion mega budget.

The key, then, is to find a good compromise, one that allows both parties to save face and walk away feeling good. The university can’t be seen as pissing money away in an irresponsible fashion, while Calipari can’t lose out on the cash he thinks he was promised and deserves. In addition, any boosters paying Calipari to go away also expect and demand a good return on their investment.

What if the university or the boosters pay Calipari the full buyout amount and then Calipari agrees to donate a portion of it over to whatever charitable cause he wishes? That way, the university feels that money was actually put to good use—which it would be. Calipari gets what he’s owed, further enhances his charitable legacy, and rides off into whatever sunset he chooses under the good graces of a forever thankful UK fan base.

What distinguishes that UK fan base from all the other pretenders is our unbridled passion. What binds us together is our like-minded heritage and culture. We derive deep pleasure and satisfaction in having our identity tied in with the program—the program with the greatest tradition in the history of college basketball.

That tradition is slowly slipping away. It’s time for Mitch Barnhart and John Calipari to stop the bleeding. Lock yourselves in a room and either sing kumbaya or punch each other silly. But don’t come out until you’ve reached a tenable solution.

As die-hard Kentucky fans, the onus is on us also. Whatever Barnhart and Calipari decide, it’s important for Big Blue Nation to stick together, to circle the wagons, and to come back next year more passionate than ever.

“United we stand, divided we fall” is our state motto.

Now the legacy of our basketball empire depends on it also.

In Search of Northern Lights

As I’ve gotten a bit older, my wanderlust has waned as much as my libido. No longer do I thirst for exotic world travel. If truth be told, I’m perfectly satisfied watching YouTube travel videos from the comforts of my couch at home.

It hasn’t always been that way. My goal in my younger years was to see as much of the world as my work would allow. I was pretty successful in that regard, knocking destinations off my bucket list in rapid-fire order.

Angkor Wat, Petra, and the Pyramids of Giza—check. Machu Picchu, the Great Wall of China, and the Great Barrier Reef—been there, done that. Whether cosmopolitan cities, isolated rainforests, or snow-capped peaks, if it was good enough for Frommer or Fodor, I showed up with passport in hand.

Dog-tired, worn out, and jaded

Nowadays, it takes a lot to get me jet setting. I abhor time-zone changes and overpriced hotels. Rude customer service reps and boisterous fellow travelers annoy me to no end. I’ve had it with Delhi Belly and Montezuma’s Revenge. If I’m going to have the runs, I want to be sitting on my toilet seat at home.

What, then, would it take to get me aroused again?

As my bucket list has dwindled, I’ve noticed the few remaining items have something in common. They’re not necessarily places, but rather experiences or encounters. The fewer people that have done it, the more it’s a draw for me.

In that regard, I wouldn’t mind seeing the northern lights. This natural phenomenon—also called the aurora borealis—consists of dancing ribbons of light in the sky caused by charged particles in the sun’s solar wind slamming into the earth’s atmosphere. At least that’s what I read on Wikipedia. Our planet’s magnetic field then deflects these particles toward the north and south poles, resulting in a beautiful array of heavenly hues that have dazzled stargazers for millennia.

High-latitude locations obviously work best for viewing. Norway, Alaska, and the Yukon in Canada are ever popular destinations. No. 1 on the travel list, however, remains the country of Iceland.

The Land of Fire and Ice

I’ve actually always wanted to visit Iceland. I’ve heard the scenery is jaw dropping, especially in wintertime. Volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, lava fields, tectonic plates, and half-frozen waterfalls all coming together in a kaleidoscope of God’s creation.

Don’t like crowds? Less than 400,000 people live in Iceland, and the northernmost capital in the world—Reykjavik—is only a scant six-hour direct flight from Chicago. The fact that I’m meeting my daughter Katie and son-in-law CJ there is a cherished added bonus.

But I’m going primarily to see the lights. According to the experts, the month of February gives me the best fighting chance.

So, February it is.

Iceland, here I come!

As anticipated, I found the Icelandic scenery SPECTACULAR and the traveling experiences unique and mesmerizing. Imagine relaxing in geothermal pools sipping your favorite beverage while gazing simultaneously at captivating ocean views and majestic snow-capped peaks—all in subfreezing temperatures. Or how about an exhilarating snowmobile ride over a glacier to a cozy hidden ice cave? Iceberg-filled lagoons, black sand beaches, and towering vertical cliffs line the country’s 3000 miles of coastline.

You want history? Reykjavik has that too. Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky tangled over a chessboard back in 1972. And Reagan and Gorbachev duked it out at the Hofdi House on the scenic downtown waterfront fourteen years later.

And to think, I experienced it all—except for the one thing I was there to see in the first place. Due to lack of cosmic activity, or a preponderance of cloud cover, or simply too much light in the sky, the dancing ribbon of lights had thus far eluded me. After consecutive days of letdowns, I had pretty much given up—resigning myself to another unchecked line item in the grand scheme of life.

And then…on a bitterly cold and overcast night, the magical moment arrived. Without warning, the clouds parted, the skies cleared, and those illusive ribbons appeared in the heavens above. These weren’t the massive light show displays you see in National Geographic. But neither were they figments of my imagination, either. These were the real northern lights—dancing green streams of luminescence as if God were painting the heavens himself. THANK YOU, LORD!

Take-Home Lesson

On my return flight home, I got to thinking. Would my trip have been any less enjoyable had I not witnessed the northern lights with my own eyes? Perhaps a bit. The lights definitely sent this trip over the edge. As is so often the case, just when you thought all hope was lost, perseverance and patience ultimately paid off for me.

But that’s not the lesson I wanted to convey. Even had I not seen the northern lights, this trip still should have been utterly fantastic. Look, we all have regrets in life. Disappointment abounds. Not everything works out as planned. The key to contentment is savoring and acknowledging all the worldly experiences around you. Whether you’re traveling the globe or exploring your own backyard, there’s plenty of good cheer to be had with your precious time and the people you love.

Life is short. Make the most of it.

Come to think of it, I’m ready for my next big bucket-list adventure.

I’ve seen the northern lights. Can Big Foot, the Yeti, or the Loch Ness Monster be far behind? Throw in a UFO sighting (and a ticket to the Masters), and I’ll die a very happy man.

Dr. John Huang is a retired orthodontist, military veteran, and award-winning author. He currently serves as a reporter and sports columnist for Nolan Group Media. You can follow Dr. Huang on social media @KYHuangs and check out all his books at https://www.Amazon.com/stores/Dr.-John-Huang/author/B092RKJBRD

A Legacy Renewed

Me, with scholarship recipients at the recent Dean’s Circle Donors Luncheon sponsored by the UK College of Arts and Sciences.

I miss my dad. It’s hard to believe it’s already been over two years since he died. I think about him a lot—much more so it seems as the days slip away.

I find myself thinking also about his circle of influence. As his eldest-born son, his influence on me was meaningful and profound. But during his ninety-three years on the face of this earth, what legacy did he leave behind to the many others he encountered?

Come to think of it, what lasting legacies do any of us leave behind? The answer, I’m afraid, is slim to none. Most legacies fade away like yesterday’s news. Once you’re laid out on that cement slab, people quickly forget the things you’ve accomplished.

Just look at the great athletes of our generation. After Father Time catches up with them and their playing careers are kaput, no one remembers them anymore. They’re all distant memories, reduced to a small footnote in the annals of sports history.

An even better example are the legacies of U.S. presidents. Here you have people who at one time held the most powerful positions on the planet. And yet, other than George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Franklin Roosevelt, we can’t really recall any of their most significant achievements.

What did Zachary Taylor or Millard Fillmore ever do?

Here’s my point. My dad was not a transcendent athlete or famous political figure, but he was legacy smart. Before he left us, he directed a substantial part of his life savings towards scholarships at Centenary Church and at the University of Kentucky, knowing full well that education has a transformative and lasting impact.

I’ll admit I bristled a bit when I heard he was giving away my inheritance. But practically speaking, it made sense. Years from now, those scholarships would be worth a heck of a lot more than an African safari or a new Mercedes.

In that vein, I now present to you “Family Strong,” a memoir that my father meticulously crafted before his passing. It’s not just a book; it’s a beacon of hope, a reminder that our stories can create lasting impact for others in our own circle of influence. By purchasing the book, you not only gain insights into my dad’s remarkable life, but you also become a permanent part of the scholarships he established, furthering his legacy of belief in the transformative power of education and academic achievement.

“Family Strong” takes you on a journey from Fujian, China, to the heart of America, weaving together a tapestry of faith, love, and perseverance. My dad’s inspirational story embodies the American Dream in action, showcasing virtues like industriousness, honesty, humility, selflessness, and love. Through his vivid recollections, you’ll gain a unique perspective on the American immigrant experience during the 1950s and ’60s—all sprinkled with rich doses of humor, wisdom, and cultural insights.

This memoir, however, is not just my dad’s story told in his own words; it’s a celebration of love, faith, and family. As you explore his amazing life, you’ll also discover these similar narrative themes coming from us—his children and grandchildren—thus adding depth and warmth to the overall tale.

Moreover, the book pays homage to my dad’s legacy through the aforementioned Huang Family Scholarships. Established in June 2022, these scholarships inspire academic success, hard work, and a spirit of learning that transcends time.

Ultimately, “Family Strong” is an invitation to embark on a journey of faith, love, and the pursuit of your own dreams. My dad’s life, with all its trials and triumphs, serves as an inspiration for you to reflect on your own unique journey and the personal legacy you wish to leave behind.

Please join me in spreading the good word about “Family Strong” and be a part of preserving my dad’s legacy for generations to come. Remember, your purchase is not just a transaction—it’s a step towards ensuring that his story continues to inspire, motivate, and impact lives.

Click on the link below to purchase. Note that kindle, paperback, and hardcover versions are all available.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CTD1ML8J

Once you’ve made a purchase, please let me know either through direct message or email (KYHuangs@aol.com) so that I can include your name as a permanent part of the scholarship legacy.

THANK YOU!

“From generation to generation – Dr Huang came to Kentucky and fulfilled an American dream for his children, their children and those who will follow in extending a legacy of goodness, kindness and a love for his colleagues, students and the Wildcats.”

—Dr. Eli Capilouto, University of Kentucky President

“As a pastor, I meet many people who are extremely kind, who are humble and who have accomplished great things. I’ve met very few who can be described in all three ways. Dr. Huang was a man of impressive achievement, yet he respected others and was a true witness of his deep, Christian faith. His autobiography is not only interesting but so very inspiring.”

—James Williams, Centenary Church Lead Pastor

“This book serves to witness that our Lord Jesus Christ is merciful, full of love and grace, and is a good Shepherd who always wants to find and save His lost sheep.”

—”Pete” Huang, author of Family Strong

Zvonimir’s Jaw-Dropping Debut

(LEXINGTON, Ky.) – Attention College Basketball World: We interrupt your current season to bring you this special announcement. The program with the greatest tradition in the history of college basketball just delivered another “you’ve got to be kidding me” moment.

Considering the grand tradition that is Kentucky Basketball, you’d think these announcements might amount to a dime a dozen. But these declarations—manifested as iconic moments—are by definition few and far between. Because iconic moments are just that—archetypal, quintessential, seminal—occurring only once every decade or so.

Hatton’s halfcourt prayer, James Lee’s thunderous dunk, Padgett from the top of the key, Tayshawn from ten feet yonder. Full names and dates and descriptions not needed because the events themselves transcend the details. They’re all moments where we remember exactly where we were and what we were doing when Claude or Cawood or Tom described them so vividly.

And now add this one to your treasured archives: Zvonimir’s behind the back pass leading up to that glorious, mythical, magical, “THIS HAS TO GO IN” three-pointer by Antonio Reeves. Store it in there tight. Preserve it at all costs on your Mount Rushmore of Kentucky Basketball memories. Don’t let it ever dissipate or dissolve because you’ll repeatedly share that precious moment—through your own mist-filled eyes—with your children and grandchildren. You’ll nostalgically relive with friends and loved ones the joy and passion unique to us as privileged citizens residing in a proud and unified Big Blue Nation.

For those in winter hibernation who have no earthly idea what all this ruckus is about, I present to you Zvonimir Ivišić. Kentucky’s 7-foot-2 freshman took the floor for the first time and helped the eighth-ranked Wildcats cruise to a 105 – 96 smackdown of the visiting Georgia Bulldogs.

By the time the final horn sounded, Zvonimir (or Big Z as he’s affectionately known) had stuffed the stat sheet. The rising star from Croatia scored 13 points (on 5-of-7 shooting, 3-for-4 from behind the arc), grabbed five rebounds, had two assists, three blocks, and two steals in just 16 minutes of action. But it was the interminable delay in becoming eligible to even play that added to the overall magnitude of his heroics on the court.

For you see, Big Z waited patiently for nearly five whole months from the time he committed to play for the University of Kentucky before the big bad NCAA finally granted him clearance. The announcement, which came suddenly through an email from the clandestine smoke-filled back rooms of the NCAA compliance office, was met with joyful relief by everyone, including those in the Ivišić clan back home in Vodice.

“They were just too happy for me,” Zvonimir acknowledged after the game. “They couldn’t wait for me to play. They were praying to God every day that this day came.”

God answered their prayers with one of the greatest debuts I’ve ever witnessed in Rupp Arena. But historically speaking, where will we ultimately rank it?

Iconic moments are laudable and noteworthy because they represent something far greater than the play on the court. As fantastic as Big Z’s debut turned out, is it possible we’ll only elevate it into the pantheon of UK Basketball’s greatest moments if Kentucky wins a national championship?

I would say that’s debatable. Does anyone care that Tayshawn’s five three-pointers against North Carolina took place in a season that ended at the Sweet Sixteen? Do fans dismiss the lovable Oscar Tshiebwe and all his other-worldly rebounding feats of grandeur because his team got Saint Petered? Do we wipe out the accomplishments of Kentucky’s 1983 – 84 team—one of my personal all-time favorites—simply because they had one horrific half of shooting?

We all agree that iconic moments represent more than just a statistic or a final score. They’re compilations of multiple factors coming to a head. They take into account the stories behind the story—the relentless practices, the team camaraderie, the sacrifices involved in striving to be that championship caliber team.

But even more than that, these moments are deemed iconic because we as fans grant them iconic status. We get to be judge and jury, our feelings and emotions and participation in the moment every bit as important as the moment itself. Only time will tell. History will judge.

For the time being, then, let’s just all bask in Big Z’s iconic debut. For the time being, let’s watch it again and again on YouTube, replay it over and over in our minds. Let’s cheer, scream, and jump up and down like idiots as we all did in real time.

For the time being, let’s all eat, drink, and be merry. Dismiss those worries regarding Final Four droughts, defensive lapses, or mysterious “general soreness” injuries that linger.

And for the time being, just relish and enjoy every game…and thank God for answered prayers. Because for a couple of fleeting moments smack dab in the middle of college basketball season, Zvonimir Ivišić gave Kentucky Basketball fans a glimpse of heaven on earth.

Dr. John Huang is a retired orthodontist, military veteran, and the award-winning author of Kentucky Passion. He currently serves as a reporter and sports columnist for Nolan Group Media. You can follow Dr. Huang on social media @KYHuangs and check out all his books at https://www.Amazon.com/stores/Dr.-John-Huang/author/B092RKJBRD

How to Read the Bible

I’m not much one for New Year’s resolutions. But one I try to make at the beginning of every year is to read my Bible more. Some years I’m more successful than others. Unfortunately, last year was kind of a bust. I aim to do better in 2024.

For those of you who share my love of reading, you might already be aware that the Holy Scriptures comprise the best-selling book of all time, with over six billion copies sold to date. To put that in perspective, even the wildly popular Harry Potter series, with its five million copies, pales in comparison. J.K. Rowling has a way to go before catching up to Moses, King David, and the Apostle Paul as a best-selling author.

Why, then, is the Bible so captivating? I think—at its core—it’s because of the story behind the story. Every human on earth with even an ounce of curiosity wants to know how they came into being. The idea of a Supreme God who breathed the world into existence, subsequently destroyed it in disgust, and then ultimately sent his son to die for all of humankind’s sins is a plot that’s simply too intriguing to pass up.

Throw in a cast of characters with multiple personality flaws, a series of violently epic confrontations, and a protagonist that walks on water…and you can see why it’s ten times better than any Netflix subscription.

Yet, as captivated as I am by the Bible’s explosive narrative, there are moments of genuine frustration. The book claims to be God breathed—the inerrant, divinely-inspired Word of God. If this is indeed an all-knowing God speaking candidly to me, I certainly want to be receptively tuned in. But just between you and me, I sometimes have my doubts.

Do I truly comprehend the intricacies of how this story came together? To read God’s words more faithfully, I know I need to delve into the Bible’s background, to better understand the prophets who penned it, and to grasp all the nuances of the culture and language embedded in its verses.

At times, what I’m reading seems so dad gum complex—all that intricate imagery, the flowery poetry, those metaphorical references, not to mention the enigma that is the entire book of Leviticus. If it’s all enough to send a Biblical scholar into a literary funk, then what’s an “average Joe” like me to do?

The answer is simple, but not necessarily easy. We can’t just casually read the Bible like you would a work of fiction. We need to occasionally approach it with a radically different mindset. There’s nothing wrong with personal devotional time alone with God. But by changing things up a bit—by tackling the Bible together as the body of Christ—I promise it’ll greatly enhance your understanding and perspective. Some of my most profound “aha” spiritual revelations have come from shared insights gleaned collectively in the presence of other like-minded believers.

I’m inviting you, then, to join me in a transformational class titled “How to read the Bible.” While I won’t profess to have all the answers, I do claim to have several decades of sweat equity invested in the topic. I’ve also got a secret weapon this time around. He’s Parker Outman, my co-leader and Centenary intern, who just graduated with a brand spanking new, high fallutin’ seminary degree from Asbury.

Parker and I couldn’t be more different, aside from our shared love for the Lord. He’s young, unjaded, and ready to tackle the world with enthusiasm and vigor. Even his allegiance to the Kansas Jayhawks doesn’t deter me one bit. What can go wrong, you ask?

Assuming we don’t crash and burn, our aim is to provide you with two radically different perspectives, blending Parker’s newfound seminary education with my extended enrollment in the school of hard knocks. Together with the Holy Spirit, we’ll shower you with so many nuggets of practical information that you may never want to put the Bible down again. Regardless of where you are in your spiritual walk, our gracious God is preparing through his divine word a sweet spot for you to softly land.

Isaiah 55:9 tells us that God’s ways are higher than our ways, and his thoughts are higher than our thoughts. If this is a God who desires the absolute best for each and every one of us, shouldn’t we all be clamoring together to decipher what he has to say?

As you consider joining us, think about this: What mysteries lie within the pages of your Bible that could be unveiled through shared exploration and understanding? Parker and I look forward to discovering that together.

We hope you’ll join us in our quest. I can’t think of a better way to start off the new year.

“How to Read the Bible” will kick off on Wednesday, January 31, at 6:00 pm at Centenary Church—2800 Tates Creek Road. The class will run for six consecutive Wednesday nights (excluding February 14, the Ash Wednesday service). Regardless of where you are in your spiritual journey, you are welcome to attend, and the church will provide childcare.

Dr. John Huang is a retired orthodontist, military veteran, and award-winning author. He currently serves as a reporter and sports columnist for Nolan Group Media. You can follow Dr. Huang on social media @KYHuangs, check out his blog at Huangswhinings.com, or purchase his books at https://www.Amazon.com/stores/Dr.-John-Huang/author/B092RKJBRD

Making the Move

What do death, illness, marriage, divorce, job loss, moving, retirement, and imprisonment have in common? They’re all consistently ranked at the top of the list of life’s greatest stressors.

How many of those stressors have you personally experienced? So far in this life, I’m batting six for eight. Fortunately, I’ve never been behind bars yet. Nor have I been divorced. I’ve technically never died either, but I’ve certainly lost loved ones to the great beyond. I’ve also moved a lot in my short time here on earth. Thirteen times to be exact.

Think about all the times you’ve moved, and let’s compare stories right here.

Move No. 1 for me was a big one. That one involved traipsing halfway around the globe from Taiwan to the United States with my parents as they pursued the American Dream. I was only four years old at the time, but I still remember it being a pretty big deal. Being in a strange country, learning a strange language, and being around kids who constantly made fun of me was certainly quite daunting.

Fast forward four years, and another big deal was move No. 4. That’s when our family relocated from Charlottesville, Virginia, to Lexington as my dad got a teaching job as an assistant professor in the department of civil engineering at UK. Looking back, that was a very pivotal moment—the exact time in which my life-long love affair with the University of Kentucky first began.

Move No. 7 was the next big deal. This was my first move away from home as a young adult—to Ft. Jackson, South Carolina, as a brand spanking new Captain in the United States Army. I rented an apartment overlooking a beautiful lake for 290 bucks a month. Little did I know at the time that it would be the most scenic backyard view I’d ever have.

Move No. 9 was also huge—back over the pond to Germany. Spending three years overseas in austere government housing was certainly different. But when it’s free, who can complain, right? Plus, it seemed like we were never home. Kanisa and I traveled anywhere and everywhere without a care in the world.

Move No. 11 brought me back to Kentucky. With a wife and young daughter in tow, it was time to finally settle down.

Home ownership came into the picture with moves 12 and 13. And with that privilege came a bunch of unwanted headaches. Lawns to maintain, appliances to repair, roofs to replace, and mortgages to pay. I’m no handyman, so it just hasn’t been my cup of tea. In fact, I’d be willing to say that the pride of home ownership in America is vastly overrated.

That brings me to move No. 14. I’m happy to report that we’re downsizing. We’re coming full circle—back to apartment-style living. Oh, it’ll be an adjustment for sure coexisting in such a small space with neighbors on top of you. But when it comes right down to it, I’ve never been much into owning anything at all. I’d much rather just rent and borrow the things I need and let someone else worry about the cost and upkeep.

And isn’t that what our temporary life here on earth should mimic? We’re simply renting and borrowing. We’re stewards of our fragile earthly bodies until we ultimately arrive in our permanent heavenly home. Technically, we own nothing, and we certainly can’t take anything with us when we depart. We’re all essentially paying rent to our master and creator until our lease on earth is up.

So, whether you’re currently experiencing health problems, financial difficulties, relationship challenges, or jail time—don’t sweat it. It’s temporary. Lay it all at the foot of the cross. Remember, you’re not the owner. You don’t have to fix anything (or everything) yourself.

“Do not be anxious about anything,” the Apostle Paul reminded us in the Book of Philippians. “But in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

In other words, just make the move, pay your rent, call the landlord when you need help, and let the Master handle it all.

How liberating is that?

Wish us luck. We’re making the move.

In this season of Thanksgiving, may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.

Dr. John Huang is a retired orthodontist, military veteran, and award-winning author. He currently serves as a reporter and sports columnist for Nolan Group Media. He is the author/coauthor of five books, Cut To The Chase, Kentucky Passion, From The Rafters Of Rupp, Serving Up Winners, and his latest release, They Call Me Mr. Secretary. You can follow Dr. Huang on social media @KYHuangs and check out all his books at https://www.Amazon.com/stores/Dr.-John-Huang/author/B092RKJBRD

Rekindled Passion in Wildcat Nation

Tre Mitchell celebrates with teammates in a 22-point effort in victory over Saint Joseph’s.

(LEXINGTON, Ky.) – The passion is back.

In Kentucky’s 96 – 88 overtime victory the other night against the Saint Joseph’s Hawks, there was a point in the game that I thought the Wildcats might actually lose. With 30 seconds left in regulation and his team trailing by a point, D.J. Wagner shot a layup that would have given the Wildcats the lead.

He missed.

Fortunately for Big Blue Nation, Tre Mitchell grabbed the errant rebound and slammed it home for a one-point lead.

What was significant about this moment wasn’t that Kentucky ultimately prevailed in overtime and avoided the monumental upset loss at home. But rather, the significance was that—for the first time in a while—I actually cared again whether Kentucky Basketball won or lost.

And so apparently did a bunch of other Wildcat fans watching around the commonwealth. It’s been a while since we’ve all collectively felt the joy—that nail-biting, gut-wrenching nervous energy excitement of actually giving a crap. When Kentucky wins, we’re on cloud nine. When Kentucky loses, we’re depressed for a week.

As weird as that sounds, I miss that feeling.

I can’t tell you how many times over the past couple of seasons that I heard former die-hard fans tell me that joy was gone. Half the time, they didn’t even know when the Cats were playing. That’s sad. When it comes to Kentucky Basketball, there’s nothing worse than fan apathy.

Let’s face it, we’re all tired of hearing about 9 -16 seasons, first-round exits to Saint Peter’s in the NCAA tournament, and Kansas surpassing us as the all-time winningest program in college basketball. Everyone and their brother is totally frustrated by situations where Shaedon Sharpe doesn’t play at all or where Devin Askew plays too much. We’re devastated and demoralized that Final Fours—much less national championships—have apparently become things of the past.

Amidst the gloom and doom of it all, we’ve all forgotten the exhilaration of seeing the last shot go in, the elation of shooting (and making) a bunch of three-point daggers, and even the excitement of successfully running a simple inbounds play.

In one fell swoop the other night, all those emotions came flowing back.

I guarantee you this current team will recapture your passion. They’re agile, mobile, and versatile. Sure, they’re young, but they’re also extremely fun to watch. Talent is overflowing in the backcourt. Antonio Reeves can shoot with the best of them, and “dawgs” like Wagner and Rob Dillingham don’t frequently appear together out of thin air.

Reed Sheppard, however, may be better than anyone, and he’s already a fan favorite. Check out the buzz whenever he’s on the floor.

And don’t forget about Mitchell—the star of the game. The West Virginia transfer can definitely stretch the floor with his three-point shooting. Don’t ever underestimate his maturity and leadership either. It’s all part of the championship puzzle.

On top of all that, Coach John Calipari seems to be letting them play. Random basketball he calls it.

“Random is we are spacing the court, and we are playing off of one another,” the Hall of Fame coach explained. “It is kind of like you have five 3-point shooters. Do you know what you would do? Shoot a lot of 3s.”

One man’s “random” may be another man’s “rolling the balls out.”

Either way, it’s exciting for the program with the greatest tradition in the history of college basketball to be relevant again. It’s appropriate for Kentucky to recapture the all-time wins mantle. And it’s certainly exciting and appropriate for the most passionate fans on the planet to care about their team again.

Is it sustainable? I hope so.

If Kentucky gets a healthy seven-footer (or two or three) back into the lineup, then it certainly will be. Then and only then will all be right with the world.

Happy Thanksgiving.

Dr. John Huang is a retired orthodontist, military veteran, and award-winning author. He currently serves as a reporter and sports columnist for Nolan Group Media. His latest book, “They Call Me Mr. Secretary,” has been met with great anticipation. You can follow Dr. Huang on social media @KYHuangs and check out all his books at https://www.Amazon.com/stores/Dr.-John-Huang/author/B092RKJBRD

Wildcats Seek Redemption in Rivalry Showdown

Kentucky Coach Mark Stoops presented with the perfect opportunity to “pony up.” Popping Louisville’s 10 – 1 bubble can drastically change the perception of Kentucky’s disappointing season to date (Dr. Michael Huang Photo).

(LEXINGTON, Ky.) – Thank God for Louisville.

After a demoralizing 17 – 14 loss to the lowly South Carolina Gamecocks, the Kentucky football program appears poised on the brink of a momentous season-ending crash and burn. Not only have dreams of a magical ten-win campaign gone by the wayside, but the reality of a 6 – 6 trainwreck has even a few die-hard crazies calling for Mark Stoops’ scalp.

There’s only one potential saving grace for the embattled Kentucky coach. Ironically, it comes from a program just down I – 64 that previously served as Stoops’ whipping boy. Four straight wins over a Louisville little brother had the Kentucky head man cruising comfortably in his own skin…until now.

Lo and behold, how times have changed.

There’s a new sheriff in town on the Cardinals’ sidelines. Coming into this Saturday’s high-noon showdown, Coach Jeff Brohm—in his first year at the helm—is looking for Louisville’s 11^th win for the first time since the 2012 season. The Cards picked up their 10^th win last Saturday for only the seventh time in school history and the first time since 2013. Their 38 – 31 victory over Miami also clinched a spot in the ACC title game—Louisville’s first and only appearance ever in any conference championship.

And now, Stoops and company get a chance to crash the party. By taking down their intra-state rivals on the home turf of L&N Stadium, Kentucky can show once and for all that even a mediocre SEC team is heads and shoulders above the best that other lesser conferences have to offer. Bragging rights are certainly in order, but for the Big Blue faithful, there’s a lot more at stake.

For Kentucky fans, it’s a serendipitous shot at redemption.

No matter how you slice it, this upcoming Governor’s Cup is a potentially nurturing salve to what has turned into a poop storm of a Kentucky season. Sure, the team stunk it up with its undisciplined play on the field. And off the field, the false bravado early on and Stoops’ infamous “pony up” comment only added to the program’s existing woes. But knock the Cardinals off of their high-and-mighty perch, and we can at least put the torches and pitchforks away for one more season. A win won’t right all the awful wrongs, but it sure can change the narrative of a program approaching freefall.

If Stoops was feeling the pressure of a fan base in revolt, he certainly didn’t let on at his weekly Monday news conference.

“It’s been a tough stretch, without a doubt,” Stoops acknowledged. “This is another game. It certainly doesn’t salvage some of the things that we’ve done or anything like that. We don’t look at it that way. We look at it as another opportunity.”

I beg to differ. It’s not just another opportunity, but rather it’s a golden opportunity for Kentucky football fans to have something legitimate to cheer about in a season gone horribly sour. Beat U of L, win your bowl game, and suddenly 8 – 5 isn’t that far off from what many of the disgruntled experts predicted preseason.

There’s a difference between disgruntlement and disappointment.

Win or lose, Stoops has consistently denied any sort of disgruntlement emanating from him or his team.

“When did I ever say I was disgruntled?” he snapped back when asked his thoughts after the Alabama blowout. “You put words in my mouth. I never said I was disgruntled. I said I’ll never be defeated. A touch disappointed, I’m not disgruntled, I’m not defeated, I’m on to the next, I’m going to go try to win this game.”

If social media were any indication, it sure seemed there was some disgruntlement coming from players and their parents after the stinker the Cats pulled in Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia. But less than forty-eight hours after the carnage, Stoops remained unperturbed.

“I’m disappointed with that game that comes from investing so much,” Stoops acknowledged. “But far from defeated. Our team will show the resolve that we’ve always had and come back this week and try to put together a great week. The bottom line is go execute a little better than we did Saturday.”

And what about his “pony up” comment?

There’s been a lot made about those two infamous words Stoops uttered on his coach’s show just a few short weeks ago. I personally think fans and media grossly misconstrued his intentions. Unfortunately, if things go south from here, they’ll most likely permanently etch those words on his UK coaching tombstone.

“I really don’t want to talk [about it], I want to move past that,” Stoops said when asked if he’d like to go back and change the way he presented those comments. “You have to listen to the whole conversation. Everyone takes a piece of something you say and [they] act like you’re making an excuse. Please go back and listen to the one-minute conversation. That’s at my radio show. It’s a little more laid back. We can just discuss and talk.”

“I was very up front with the caller,” Stoops continued. “It’s like fans have every right. I never get offended or defensive. I may defend our program or our players or say things that we need. But as far as that goes, that was nothing. It was something I light-heartedly said that that person can do something—that is a way they can do something. Outside of that, I make no excuses. You know I haven’t for eleven years. I’m not going to start now. I’ll tell you facts and I’ll tell you reality.”

Here’s the reality—beat Louisville and all is forgiven (well, almost all).

Lose to the Cardinals, and you’ve got a lot more explaining to do.

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