another team that they had to ask permission, as that coach was under contract. Wouldn't that have happened here and that part wasn't mentioned. So, possibly the call to TH was not the first, and as stated, as there was a buyout clause, it would necessitate that the UK AD has to speak to TH (or BS or whoever).

Am I only thinking pro sports and that doesn't happen at the college level? As I note, it would seem if you have a contract with an individual, it would require that institution granting their right to allow you to be approached about employment, which could necessitate a clause (buy-out in this instance) being invoked.

I'm no lawyer and so I'm guessing on all this based on what I've heard over the years.