1. i don't think anyone really knows for sure, but likley this was always more about the support for the rest of the staff, and being able to get what Barnes believed he needed to either sustain the current success, but more likely continue to build on it. i don't think money for Rick was the primary motivator here. really don't.
2. that changed once UCLA said Rick Barnes is worth $5 million/year.
3. fans are gonna feel the way they feel, but just at least acknowledge, they only reason you have to feel the way you do is because of the roller coaster that went on yesterday. feeling anger toward barnes today is only the result of "sefl developed" reasons; ie, you (the collective you, not you individually) bought in to the speculative narratives pushed regarding a feud between the AD and Barnes, or you buy the notion that Barnes gave an ultimatum, or you buy the notion that Barnes doesn't really like UT, and is only here for the money....
if you listen to the folks that have actually talked to Barnes, it seems this was a serious offer that gave him something to think about from a career standpoint, that might offer him a better opportunity, and overall support, to do what he wants to do from a basketball perspective.
and our AD and president did what htey should have done..........made every effort to retain him.
i think it was a good day for Basketball and the TN athletic department in general.
imagine the difference today had he left because we wouldn't try to compete with big bad UCLA?