After 15 seasons, hall of famer John Calipari is stepping down as head coach of Kentucky men’s basketball.
His statement was released on social media on Tuesday, April 9, after ESPN’s Pete Thamel announced on Sunday that the Arkansas men’s basketball program was finalizing a contract with Calipari.
Kentucky head coach John Calipari, left, speaks with guard Justin Edwards (1) during the No. 3 Kentucky vs. No. 14 Oakland mens basketball game in the first round of the NCAA Tournament on Thursday, March 21, 2024, at the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Kentucky lost 80-76. Photo by Samuel Colmar | Staff (Samuel Colmar)
“This program probably needs another voice,” Calipari said in a video posted on X, formerly known as Twitter.
There’s no question that the past couple of seasons for Calipari have proved disappointing for a vocal Big Blue Nation and, after another first round exit in March, his separation from Kentucky came as little surprise.
But, despite the rocky road, the past 15 years have proved historic for Kentucky’s program.
In Calipari’s tenure, the Wildcats went 410-122 while claiming six SEC Tournament titles and one NCAA Tournament title.
During his time, no team during March Madness has achieved more wins (32), Final Fours (four), Elite Eights (seven) or Sweet 16s (eight).
He produced 47 NBA Draft picks, including three No. 1 overall picks in John Wall, Anthony Davis and Karl Anthony-Towns.
Now in 2024, he says goodbye to Kentucky after aiding in its journey to the winningest college men’s basketball program in history.
Without further adieu, go here for the full article.
