College basketball appears poised for a significant coaching shift.
Reports indicate John Calipari will depart Kentucky after 15 years to join Arkansas, as disclosed late Sunday night by multiple sources, with CBS Sports breaking the news.
Expected to finalize within 24 hours, ESPN’s Pete Thamel notes the deal spans five years and is described by The Athletic as a “massive new deal.”
Calipari’s purported close relationship with John Tyson, Arkansas’ principal benefactor and scion of Tyson Foods, is cited. Calipari has previously referred to Tyson as a “longtime friend.”
Arkansas’ vacancy arose following Eric Musselman’s departure after five years as head coach, opting for USC’s opening.
Under Calipari’s leadership, Kentucky secured a national championship in 2012, featuring six Final Four and seven Elite Eight appearances. Upon finalization, the 65-year-old would exit the Wildcats with a 410-122 (77.1%) win-loss record.
