The towering combination of Mangok Mathiang and Gorgui Dieng was an imposing sight during the few minutes they were on the floor together during pre-season scrimmages.

Mangok Mathiang

But that was probably the last time most fans will see them together for a while. Rick Pitino had hinted Mathiang would be redshirted but had yet to make a decision. The NCAA made the decision for them, indicating Mathiang won’t be eligible this season.

The eligibility question always come up this time of year for someone on a Pitino team. He might want to go ahead and file an appeal for next season. The NCAA has a habit of putting these decisions off to the last minute.

The good news for the 6-foot-10 Mathiang, who weighs 200 pounds, is that he will be first in line to eat at meals as Pitino seeks to fatten him up. But then he will report directly to strength coach Ray Ganong who will see that MathianG converts all the extra carbs into muscle.

Even better, UofL continues to be well stocked down low with all the energy and beef provided by Gorgui, Chane Behanan, Montrezl Harrell, Stephan Van Treese and Zach Price.

But get the appeal process going, ASAP.

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By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.