NEWSLETTER
John Calipari made things official on Tuesday afternoon.
The long-time Kentucky Wildcats head coach announced via social media that he would be leaving the program. Reports initially dropped that Calipari was planning to depart for a job with the Arkansas Razorbacks on Sunday, but he nor the University had confirmed the news until now.
“It’s been a beautiful time for us. This is a dream job. Anybody in our profession looks at the University of Kentucky in basketball and said that is the bluest of blue,” Calipari said in a video statement. “The last few weeks, we’ve come to realize that this program probably needs to hear another voice. That the University as a whole has to have another voice giving guidance about this program that they hear. And the fans need to hear another voice. We’ve loved it here. But we think it’s time for us to step away, and step away from completely from the program.”
Kentucky Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart also took to social media to confirm Calipari’s exit. He first praised the now-former head coach for everything he accomplished during his 15-year run before stating that the program is currently working on hiring a proven replacement.
What Comes Next for Kentucky?
Calipari is expected to sign a five-year deal with Arkansas, ESPN reported over the weekend. The move for the Razorbacks came after Eric Musselman decided to leave the program for the USC opening.
As for Kentucky, they now have some massive shoes to fill. Only UCLA has accumulated more championships in NCAA men’s basketball history. With that in mind, there is little questioning that they have both the pedigree and resources to make a significant splash with their next hire.
Two popular figures that have already been tossed around are UConn head coach Dan Hurley – who is coming off back-to-back championships – and Baylor Bears head coach Scott Drew. But one other name has stood out above the rest.
People have tried to connect head coach Billy Donovan to Kentucky ever since the Wildcats lost in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament. The speculation turned into a legitimate news cycle, however, on Monday afternoon. ESPN’s Pete Thamel directly labeled the Chicago Bulls head coach as Kentucky’s home run hire.
Indeed, it sure sounds like Donovan is going to get a call, but the question is whether or not he’ll pick up the phone. The Bulls’ leading man last coached in college during the 2014-15 season before leaving to take over the Oklahoma City Thunder. For more on Kentucky’s reported interest in Donovan, make sure to read our post below:
