According to a report by ESPN’s Pete Thamel on Sunday night, John Calipari is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations for a five-year contract to assume the role of head coach at Arkansas.
John Calipari and Arkansas have entered into serious talks about its head coaching position, sources told CBS Sports, and Kentucky has been notified on the talks. Calipari’s contract terms mandate he must inform Kentucky if he engages with another school about a job interview.
— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) April 8, 2024
This development follows earlier reports by Matt Norlander of CBS Sports, who indicated that serious discussions had commenced between Calipari and Arkansas regarding the head coaching vacancy at the university.
Kentucky had been made aware of these discussions, as per the terms of Calipari’s contract, which stipulate that he must inform the university if he engages in talks with another institution about a potential coaching position.
The potential move has stirred significant interest and speculation, particularly considering Calipari’s longstanding tenure at Kentucky spanning 15 seasons.
The reports have also highlighted the relationship between Calipari and John Tyson, a prominent Arkansas donor and the owner of Tyson Foods, suggesting potential ties that may have influenced the coaching discussions.
The Tyson family (biggest Arkansas donor) is prepared to make a major commitment to bring Cal to Arkansas, sources said.
Calipari is very close with the Tyson family and has been for years.
The story is gaining volume because major boosters are optimistic this can happen.
— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) April 8, 2024
Should Calipari indeed make the move to Arkansas, it would mark the end of an era for Kentucky basketball and signal a new chapter for both programs involved.
