BREAKING:Tubby Smith Makes Surprise Return to UK….

*Tubby Smith Makes Surprise Return to UK*

LEXINGTON, KY – In a shocking move, the University of Kentucky announced today that legendary coach Tubby Smith will be returning to the Wildcats’ basketball program.

Smith, who coached UK from 1997 to 2007 and led the team to a national championship in 1998, will join the staff as a special assistant to head coach John Calipari.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Coach Smith back to the UK family,” Calipari said. “His experience, wisdom, and passion for the game will be invaluable assets to our program.”

During his tenure at UK, Smith compiled a 263-83 record and won five SEC championships. He’s also coached at Tulsa, Georgia, and Memphis, and has a career record of 603-276.

Smith’s return to UK is seen as a major coup for the program, which has been looking to bolster its coaching staff. His presence is expected to have an immediate impact on the team’s performance and recruiting efforts.

“I’m excited to be back in Lexington and be a part of the UK basketball family again,” Smith said. “I’m looking forward to working with Coach Calipari and helping the team achieve greatness.”

Smith will begin his new role immediately and will be on the sidelines for UK’s next game against Tennessee.

The move has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, with many experts praising UK’s decision to bring back the legendary coach.

“This is a huge hire for Kentucky,” said ESPN analyst Dick Vitale. “Tubby Smith is a proven winner and one of the most respected coaches in the game. He’ll bring a level of expertise and credibility to the UK program that will be hard to match.”

UK fans are ecstatic about the news, with many taking to social media to welcome Smith back to the Bluegrass.

“Tubby is back! This is the best news I’ve heard all year!” tweeted @UKFan4Life.

The Wildcats’ next game is scheduled for Saturday against Tennessee. With Smith on board, expectations are high that UK will make a deep run in the NCAA tournament this season.