Arkansas’ coaching search since Eric Musselman’s departure has become quite the story over the past few days. On Sunday, Kentucky’s John Calipari emerged as the most interesting name to date.
Many insiders initially resisted, but even the most prominent basketball reporters have been amplifying the reporting. Bob Holt of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette was the first to report.
One interesting aspect that Jones did note is the financial point of this possible move. If Calipari were to leave willingly, Arkansas would be able to avoid paying a buyout since his lifetime contract doesn’t have one. Kentucky would then be able to move on from his deal, which has come under increasing criticism since its signing back in 2019.
NCAA NEWS & RUMORS: John Calipari, Arkansas & Kentucky Updates
Musselman left the job last week to become the next head coach at USC. Since then, several names have circulated for the Hogs. Ole Miss’ Chris Beard, Kansas State’s Jerome Tang, McNeese State’s Will Wade, Mississippi State’s Chris Jans, and Little Rock’s Darrell Walker have all been mentioned throughout the past few days.
However, Calipari is by far the biggest name in that group, even if he is closer to the end of his career than the rest.
NCAA NEWS & RUMORS: John Calipari, Arkansas & Kentucky Updates
The Hall of Famer has spent the past 15 years of his 32-year collegiate coaching career at Kentucky. In that time, the Wildcats have been 410-123 (.769), even with a dip during this decade, with four Final Fours and one national title.
