Orlando "Tubby" Smith is in his sixth season as coach at Kentucky, where he won the national championship in his inaugural campaign in 1997-98. He is 137-45 overall with the Wildcats, whom he leads today against one of their biggest rivals, No. 6 Indiana, on a neutral court at Louisville's Freedom Hall. This past week, as the Cats took final exams, Smith answered five questions from Enquirer reporter Bill Koch.

Q: Were the bright silver uniforms from last Saturday your idea? How did you like them, and will we being seeing them on a regular or semi-regular basis?

A: The idea was Nike's, obviously marketing-related. While it was intended to be retro, it was more of a cross between the past and the future. Those uniforms really didn't help us, so I doubt we'll see them again anytime soon.

Q: Allen Edwards is your first former UK player to come back as an assistant coach. How gratifying is it to have a player return in that capacity, and what kind of coach is Edwards? Does he have the potential to be a head coach some day?

A: It's very gratifying. Allen is serving in a role as team manager. He's returned to school here to complete his degree on the Cawood Ledford Scholarship Fund, which gives assistance to former student-athletes who need to finish their academic requirements. So I'm really pleased with Allen as he achieves his academic goals. He'll make a great coach someday.

Q: Where did you learn to fire up the UK fans by playing to the Jumbotron screen? Has an official ever said anything to you about that? Do you like having the screen at Rupp?

A: I love the big screens at Rupp. But in all honesty, Saturday was the first time I had looked at them on a call. The officials didn't say anything about me watching them, but if it would get them to change their call, I wish that they would take a glance at them now and then.

Q: How often do you hear from former players such as Tayshaun Prince once they reach the NBA? Do they call you for advice and support when things aren't going well?

A: Just this season, I've talked to Tayshaun a few times and flew up and caught his game with the Hornets in Detroit. So I got to see him and Jamaal (Magloire). And I've talked to a few of the other guys as well. Everyone is very busy, so we don't talk as much as we'd like, but now and then I'll get a call and one of the players will want me to call their general manager on their behalf, or they'll be seeking advice on a contract.

Q: You have a remarkable cold, hard stare or glare that you occasionally use on your players. Is the glare more effective than yelling in getting your message across?

A: Yes. Many times it can be just as effective as yelling. It's just another element or tool that I can use to get their attention.