I've never questioned Rupp's talent or work ethic. However, I do not believe that Rupp, all things being equal, is any more talented or hard working than other top collegiate athletes. Not that "my beliefs" really matter, fact is that Rupp hasn't won anything major.
By contention I meant "scoring", and that at a college level. You can continue to ignore the fact that Rupp is a pro, and yes that is (by definition) a "different path" than college athletes take.
For me this is not about some blue collar dream. I think it's subterfuge that rupp's fanboys continually bring this up. It really comes down to a pro competing at college level, and getting away with it.