
After some prodding, Brian Long edged away from Kentucky’s one-for-all team mantra and acknowledged that receiving a scholarship this season brings personal satisfaction. “In general, it makes you feel better,” he said. “Having a scholarship is huge for a multitude of reasons.” UK Coach John Calipari rewarded Long and the other walk-on from last season, Sam Malone, with scholarships in 2012-13. Of course, a scholarship eases the financial burden of sending a son or daughter to college. To get a “promotion” from walk-on to scholarship player also serves as a boost to a person’s self-esteem. Long described it as a combination of reward for a job well done during the last school year and an incentive to continue on the same course this school year.