(Disclaimer: I have a lot of respect for Nick Calathes and Billy Donovan, so do not misunderstand the tone of this letter. It is designed to be a joke and very tongue-in-cheek and only intends to make you laugh - but maybe make a few points along the way.)
Dear Nick,
Alright, I understand there is simply no way you're going to be a four-year player here at UF. But hey, can I just get a third year?
I know everyone is going to be telling you to leave for the NBA after this season.
"Nick Calathes could be a lottery pick," one NBA analyst will say.
"Definitely a first-round pick," another expert will add.
I know this season has worn on you. I told you things wouldn't be that bad after the departure of Marreesse (sp?) Speights - Alright, I was wrong.
And yes, it's pretty pitiful that you went for a career-high 33 points at Rupp and we couldn't close it out despite Kentucky missing Patrick Patterson near the end of the game.
But come on man, we're making progress. I'm pretty sure we can't find a way to miss the NCAA Tournament this year, although we could really use a third scoring option.
And yeah, you might win SEC Player of the Year this year, but you would be almost a lock next season!
We're only losing Walter. And the SEC will likely still be down. We could put another banner up in the O'Dome.
Next year, you'd get to play with two real big men with Vernon Macklin being eligible. Imagine that! TWO great big men!
Your buddy Chandler will still be here, and you can each get more chances next year to not miss critical free throws with the game on the line. (Oops, is that still a sensitive spot?)
And your stock surely wouldn't go down by sticking around. Maybe next year I could even get you guys to play defense!
C'mon man, take a page out of Tebow's book - let's do it again next year! (But better).
Yours truly,
Billy D.
