John Calipari, the legendary college basketball coach, is making waves in the world of college basketball as he finalizes a deal to join the Arkansas college basketball program. This surprising move comes just weeks after Calipari reaffirmed his commitment to the Kentucky Wildcats, leaving fans and the basketball community in shock.
Reports linking Calipari to the vacant Razorbacks position emerged, taking the Arkansas coaching search on an unexpected turn. Late Sunday night, ESPN reported that Calipari and Arkansas are in the final stages of securing a five-year deal for him to become the program’s next head coach. The deal is expected to be completed within the next 24 hours.
Discussions between school officials and Calipari have taken place, and it has been reported that Calipari informed Kentucky of his negotiations with Arkansas. According to CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander, Calipari’s contract with Kentucky required him to inform the school if he discusses another job opportunity. Furthermore, a major Arkansas donor is ready to make a significant commitment to bring Calipari to Arkansas.
This unexpected twist comes as a surprise to Calipari, who seemed to have plans to remain in Lexington despite recent disappointments in the NCAA Tournament. Although he led Kentucky to a national title in 2012 and Final Four appearances in 2011, 2014, and 2015, the Wildcats’ early exits in the tournament in recent years had left fans restless. The team’s season ended with losses to No. 15 seed Saint Peter’s in 2022 and No. 14 seed Oakland this year, leading to speculation about Calipari’s future. However, he and athletic director Mitch Barnhart confirmed that he would be returning for his 16th season.
Calipari’s decision to join Arkansas will not result in a buyout owed to Kentucky, as his contract with Kentucky runs through the 2028-29 season. This move also allows Kentucky to avoid paying him $33 million if they had decided to terminate his contract after this season.
Meanwhile, Arkansas is in search of a new coach following Eric Musselman’s resignation to take over at USC. Calipari’s arrival brings excitement and high expectations to the Razorbacks program, which is eager to regain its prominence in college basketball.
This unexpected turn of events has caused a stir in the college basketball community. Calipari’s decision to leave Kentucky and join Arkansas marks a significant change in his coaching career and raises questions about the future of both programs. As fans eagerly await the official announcement, it is clear that this move will have a lasting impact on the landscape of college basketball.
