I am not saying it's right, that it shouldn't be punished or anyone absolved but arrangements for recruits to "meet and interact with" ladies has been going on for many, many years. This one might differ in terms of how organized it was along with some other aspects, It is also the first time that a book was written about it which has shone a spotlight on the practice.
While I would agree that it is virtually impossible for a head coach to know everything that is going on with every kid, assistant coach, support staff and boosters involved in his program, I really find it hard to believe Pitino didn't know about this. During a visit you're telling me he didn't check in the next morning to see how the evening went? He didn't ask the recruits' host or the recruit " so what did you guys do last night?" Or did he just say, "Did you enjoy yourself last night" and winked. Finally, where did the former GA/DBO get the funds for these soirees, especially when he was a GA?