John Calipari’s transition from Kentucky to Arkansas appears to be a rare instance of a coaching change that benefited both sides. After spending 15 seasons leading the Wildcats and delivering an NCAA championship along with multiple SEC titles, Calipari’s tenure in Lexington had run its course. A string of disappointing seasons led to a mutual parting, as it seemed his message no longer resonated with the team.
Rather than dwelling on the past, Calipari embraced a fresh start with Arkansas, while Kentucky moved forward with Mark Pope, who arrived from BYU. Now, almost a year later, both programs have reached the Sweet 16, and Calipari remains content with how everything unfolded.
During a recent appearance on *The Pat McAfee Show*, Calipari reflected on his departure from Kentucky and his new chapter with the Razorbacks. He made it clear that there were no hard feelings, emphasizing that the move worked out well for both parties.
“It was great for me and great for Kentucky. They’re doing great,” Calipari said, as cited by *On3*. “You see my daughter, my wife, they’re into this just like I am, and we gave everything we had, but it was time. It was time. Now, someone could go in and match what we did over that period of time. I wish them well. I’m in another situation, and I’m at peace.”
Of course, it’s easy to feel at peace when things are going well, and for Calipari, they certainly are. Arkansas entered the NCAA Tournament as a No. 10 seed and was viewed as a bubble team heading into March Madness. However, under Calipari’s leadership, the Razorbacks have embraced the underdog mentality, knocking off No. 7 Kansas and No. 2 St. John’s to secure their Sweet 16 berth. They will now face No. 3 Texas Tech on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Kentucky, a No. 3 seed, also made it through to the Sweet 16 by defeating No. 14 Troy and No. 6 Illinois. They are now set to take on No. 2 Tennessee on Friday.
Although the only way Arkansas and Kentucky could meet in the tournament would be in the national championship game, Calipari insists that revenge is not on his mind. Earlier this season, Arkansas traveled to Lexington and defeated Kentucky, but even that victory did not change his perspective. Instead, he remains focused on the present and his current team.
“I’m at peace with what went on. I’m not being revengeful,” Calipari said. “I went into Kentucky. We won that game. I was humble about it. I’m not like trying to beat them because they did this. None of that. I’m about these kids, and my job right now is to stay locked in.”
For Calipari, the goal is clear: continue guiding Arkansas on their unexpected tournament run, rather than dwelling on what could have been at Kentucky.
Leave a Reply