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UK Hoops coach Mitchell pulled a big surprise on country music star Eddie Montgomery

October 17, 2011|By LARRY VAUGHT | larry@amnews.com
  • Eddie Montgomery said he had no idea UK Hoops coach Matthew Mitchell was going to pull him out of the stands at Big Blue Madness.
Clay Jackson

LEXINGTON - Country music singer Eddie Montgomery was appreciative that Kentucky women’s basketball coach Matthew Mitchell arranged for him to have tickets to Friday’s Big Blue Madness at Rupp Arena.

The Montgomery Gentry star wasn’t sure if his schedule would permit him to attend, and when he found out he could, Mitchell quickly arranged for lower arena seats.

“I can’t ever thank him enough for taking care of me,” said Montgomery.

Mitchell, a huge Montgomery Gentry fan, did more than that, though. He also brought Montgomery on the court with his team as a honorary co-coach for the women’s scrimmage in front of 23,000-plus fans.
Here’s what Montgomery had to say about his Big Blue Madness experience:

Question: Did you know Mitchell was going to bring you on the court as his co-coach for Big Blue Madness?

Montgomery: “I¿had no idea. It was unbelievable. Took me totally by surprise and off guard.”

Question: What did you think of his dance routine to start Big Blue Madness?

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Montgomery: “I tell you what, he was awesome. He was more excited than ever. We were great last year, but really look out for the girls this year. They are going to be walking the dog, baby.”

Question: Does it thrill even you to do something like that considering how often you are on stage in front of big crowds on a regular basis?

Montgomery: “I was as nervous as can be. It is Rupp Arena, home of the Cats. It’s just unbelievable to be asked to step on that court for a great night like this. I feel like I just won an award.”

Question: Do you think you may need to get Mitchell, who used to be in a band, on stage with you in the future?

Montgomery: “That’s what I¿am talking about. I want to get him and bring him out on stage with me, especially after seeing him do that dance. Of course, he will probably show me up on stage. He is an entertainer.”

Question: Have you enjoyed seeing what he has done with the women’s program since you two are friends?

Montgomery: “It is great what he has done. He has it going. Seeing great things ahead. Since he has been here, it has changed around so much.”

Question: Was this blue hat just for Big Blue Madness?

Montgomery: “This hat was specially made for me and Kentucky. I will wear it any chance I can get. They made 10 of them, and that’s it. I¿have them and nothing like the Kentucky blue, baby.”

Question: How often any more do you get a chance just to do something for fun like this?

Montgomery: “I just got in off the road and have to leave again soon for California, so it is just awesome to be able to be here. This is my home. It’s such a great honor to help out on this night. Just seeing it all is unbelievable. You can’t appreciate this on TV. The atmosphere just brings you alive when you walk in here. It’s unbelievable when you tak your first step in this building. There’s nothing like it. I don’t care where you go and see whoever you want to in any building you want to, but when you walk in this building, it’s different.

“I still get nervous and excited at the same time when I am hear to watch a game just like I¿do for a big show. Whether it is a show or watching the blue play, I love it.”

Question: Knowing you are a big football fan who is suffering this season, how eager are you for basketball to start?

Montgomery: “I am here. It starts with this. I am ready and can’t wait. Both the men and women are going to be great. They are second to none. And I have been taking a beating, even on my own bus, over football. I’m afraid it’s not going to get better this year, either. But basketball will be different.”

Question: How excited are you about the new album, “Rebels on the Run,” that is due in stores Tuesday?

Montgomery: “I can’t wait. As soon as I saw the title, it reminded me of when I was running around Danville and Boyle County myself. You have to hear the song, but it is pretty cool. Being my hometown Danville and Boyle County, this is getting back to our roots. I think people are really going to like it.”

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