John Calipari made a surprising move to coach at Arkansas. He spent the last 15 years at Kentucky where he had an overall record of 410-123 and went to the Final Four, four times. He also won one National Championship in 2012. Calipari is a hall of fame coach, who has had great success putting multiple players in the NBA after their first year in his program.
Kentucky has had a rough couple of years in the NCAA Tournament. Kentucky said they were giving Calipari another chance this upcoming season, but after a first-round loss in the Tournament, the College and Coach parted ways. Calipari stated in his farewell message to the fans that it was time for a new voice.
Kentucky hired Mark Pope from BYU, who was also captain of the University of Kentucky 1996 National Champion Team.
Trent McQuade (12) said, “I think it was a good thing that Cal is gone. I like Mark Pope and it was a good hire even though it wasn’t the most famous hire.”
Arkansas has had a couple competitive years recently, and they hope this hire can take them to the next level. Calipari is a well-known name, and he should be able to get recruits to go there. Arkansas will get some flipped commits from Kentucky and transfers in the portal.
BYU are trying to capitalize on Mark Pope’s recent success after he guided them to a 5th placed finish in their first year in the Big 12. The first step in doing so was hiring Kevin Young as their new coach, a former associated head coach with the Phoenix Suns.
“The Fanbase will miss Mark Pope. He was awesome with the fan base and with the interviews. I have no bad feeling towards Mark because who wouldn’t take a job at your former school? BYU is in good shape with their new hire. The recruits should consider going here because he has NBA experience.” Said Mr. Hunt.