Taylor's Thoughts: Scott Stricklin

When I returned to covering sports on a full-time basis following a two-year hiatus five years ago, Scott Stricklin made me feel at home at Rupp Arena. I had covered UK in my previous job, but took a break from sports when I joined the newsroom in Winchester.

Stricklin, who replaced Brooks Downing, is one of the driving forces behind accommodating the media when it comes covering the University of Kentucky. He won’t be around when the Wildcats open the season in November. Instead, Stricklin will be working in a different capacity at Mississippi State.

He will be missed. Part of Stricklin’s current job is to coordinate interview requests with the media and the coaches.

That isn’t always easy.

When former Kentucky coach Tubby Smith wasn’t granting freshmen interviews two years ago, I asked if I could get a one-on-one with Jodie Meeks. Stricklin was very accommodating and a five-minute session was granted. That was with Smith’s approval.

When KSR approached me about joining its lineup, I asked Scott about it and he gave me his blessing. Scott also has been accommodating to this writer when it comes to seating at UK home games, which has always been appreciated.

Sometimes us “little guys” in the media have it a bit harder when it comes to those types of things.

Scott is personable and approachable, which makes it easier for members of the media. Thanks for everything Scott, and good luck at Mississippi State. If you want to sit in my press seat when you visit, don’t hesitate to ask.