The First Time
As a senior in 1992, John Pelphrey and his Kentucky teammates were the first Wildcats to host the Razorbacks at Rupp Arena.
To say the least, that Razorbacks squad — which included Lee Mayberry, Todd Day and Oliver Miller — were rude guests.
The score was close for much of the game, but as Nolan Richardson’s Razorbacks often did, the Hogs wore down Kentucky late to run away with a 105-88 victory.
“I think it was the first SEC game,” Pelphrey said. “It was an awesome atmosphere. We knew how good Arkansas was.
“Nolan Richardson went to a zone in the second half. Back then you had the 45-second shot clock. Arkansas spread the floor, and we all ended up with the wrong guys. I ended up on Lee Mayberry. He went right by me for a layup and the score ended up being lopsided.”
Pelphrey said he and the Wildcats were looking forward to a rematch in the SEC Tournament Championship Game, but the Hogs were bushwhacked by an excellent Alabama squad that feature Latrell Sprewell, Robert Horry and James “Hollywood” Robinson in the semifinals.
“There were NBA players everywhere you looked in the league that season,” Pelphrey said at SEC Basketball Media Days. “Shaq was at LSU at that time, too. We had Jamaal Mashburn. The league has always had amazing talent. But that was before everyone left early.”
I was at Rupp arena for the game Saturday. They gave Coach Pelfrey a great reception and applause. Before Coach came out they “booed” the players. Kentucky fans are two-faced and rude. When they offer that contract, Coach Pelfrey, just remember that if you respect the coach, you respect the team also.