NCAA
Who could replace John Calipari at Kentucky? The best candidates for the Wildcats basketball head coaching job
John Calipari’s journey has left an indelible mark on the sport, and his legacy continues to evolve.
The departure of John Calipari from the helm of the Kentucky Wildcats basketball program has left a void that needs filling. As one of the most prestigious coaching jobs in college basketball, the Wildcats’ head coaching position carries immense expectations and pressure.
Let’s dive into the potential candidates who might step into this high-profile role.
Who can be his possible replacement at Kentucky?
Scott Drew: The Consistent Builder
Drew has achieved remarkable consistency at Baylor University. While their 2021 national championship might have been a one-off, his year-over-year success is impressive.Drew’s Baylor teams have reached 12 of the last 16 NCAA Tournaments, with five trips to the Sweet 16 or beyond.
Convincing him to leave Waco after two decades would be no small feat, but Kentucky’s allure might be the one thing that tempts him.
Tommy Lloyd: The Rising Star
Currently at Arizona, boasts an impressive record. In three seasons as a head coach, he’s gone 88-20 with two trips to the Sweet 16. Arizona faces some instability due to budget issues and conference changes. If Kentucky believes Lloyd can deliver championships, it might be worth paying the hefty buyout to secure him.
Bruce Pearl: The Showman
Despite ethical and NCAA issues, Pearl has built a strong program at Auburn. His charisma and showmanship resonate with fans. Coaching at a blueblood program like Kentucky could be enticing for Pearl, just as it was for Calipari when he left Memphis in 2009.
Buzz Williams: The Overachiever
Williams has consistently delivered results at non-premium programs. His success at Marquette and Virginia Tech speaks volumes. Coaching at Kentucky would be a step up, but Williams has shown he can thrive even in challenging situations.
While these are just a few names, the Wildcats’ next head coach will inherit a program with unmatched resources and a passionate fan base. Whoever steps into this role will carry the weight of tradition, expectations, and the pursuit of championships.
Under his leadership, Kentucky won the NCAA Championship in 2012. Calipari has been named Naismith College Coach of the Year three times (in 1996, 2008, and 2015). He was inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame in 2015. He will surely be missed by the wildcats.