Calipari: I’d Attack Arizona Differently

Calipari Reflects on NCAA Tournament, College Basketball’s Future

John Calipari, a legendary figure in college basketball, joined ESPN’s Get Up to discuss the NCAA Tournament and share his thoughts on the current state of the game. The conversation touched on key games, coaching decisions, and the challenges facing young athletes.

Arizona vs. Michigan: A Heavyweight Bout

Looking ahead to a highly anticipated matchup between Arizona and Michigan, Calipari praised both coaches for building strong teams. He highlighted the advantage of having deep rosters, explaining that it provides a buffer for potential issues like foul trouble or injuries. “When you have those numbers, you have a lot of room for error,” Calipari noted. He specifically mentioned Arizona’s impressive performance, calling them a “buzz saw” during their recent game.

When asked what decides games between evenly matched, deep teams, Calipari emphasized the importance of aggression. “One team ends up being the aggressor and dictates what’s going to happen,” he stated. He then reflected on his own team’s past game against Arizona. “Let’s use our athleticism. Let’s spread this court. Let’s get after them,” he recalled their strategy. However, Calipari admitted a change of heart in hindsight. “If I had to do it over again, I would have gone right back in the lane and been tight and tried to get them to shoot,” he confessed. His initial fear was being overpowered by Arizona’s size, but he now believes a more direct approach might have been better.

Yukon’s Miracle Shot and Duke’s Future

The discussion also turned to Yukon’s dramatic buzzer-beater win. Calipari found the play fascinating, noting that it shows “you can do different things and win even if you don’t really think they’re right.” He questioned the decision not to foul a player who had possession late in the game. “Why wouldn’t they foul?” he wondered aloud. He also expressed sympathy for John Shire, the coach at Duke, who is following a legendary predecessor. Calipari stressed that Shire should not be defined by one moment, acknowledging the immense pressure of coaching at such a high-profile program.

Arkansas’s Resilient Season

Calipari then spoke about his own team’s season at Arkansas. Despite winning 28 games and reaching the Sweet Sixteen, he acknowledged the impact of numerous injuries. Key players like Nick Pringle, Carter, Billy, Malik, and DJ all dealt with significant physical issues throughout the year. “These kids fought,” Calipari said with pride. He particularly praised Malik’s determination to play through a swollen knee and Pringle’s decision to play despite a hamstring injury. “That alone makes me feel so good about the team that I coached,” he added, wishing they could have advanced further for the players who gave so much.

Concerns About College Basketball’s Health

Shifting to a broader perspective, Calipari expressed serious concerns about the current direction of college basketball. “No. And it’s not sustainable what we’re doing,” he declared. He believes the focus has shifted away from developing 17 and 18-year-old American players. Instead, he sees issues with recruiting older players, including those from overseas whose eligibility and age can be questionable. “We don’t know if their birth certificate is right or not. We don’t know if they’re 18 or 35,” he stated.

Calipari argued that the transfer portal and NIL deals have created a transactional environment, rather than a developmental one. He questioned the system that allows players to transfer multiple times without sitting out, suggesting it hinders their ability to get a college education. “They’re leaving for money,” he observed. He believes players should have a one-time opportunity to transfer if a coach leaves, but after that, they should be committed to their program.

He passionately advocated for returning the focus to the core values of college sports. “I’ve had the best chance in my career to coach the best players because their families entrusted me with their child,” Calipari said, highlighting the transformational aspect of coaching. He proudly mentioned the many players he’s coached who have gone on to the NBA, including lottery picks. He specifically praised Darius, an all-American player who played through injuries. “He played to win,” Calipari emphasized, contrasting it with players who sit out to protect their draft stock.

Calipari urged fellow coaches to “stand your ground” and prioritize the development of young athletes. “I don’t care how much kids make. Never have. Don’t care,” he reiterated, focusing on the bigger picture. He believes the emphasis should be on providing opportunities for 17 and 18-year-olds and ensuring they receive a college education. “If we do, we’re going to do the right stuff,” he concluded, hoping to leave the game in a better place for future generations.

“We’re taking our eye off the ball. Let’s worry about 17 and 18 year olds.” – John Calipari

Source: John Calipari on what he would’ve done DIFFERENTLY in Arizona vs. Arkansas | Get Up (YouTube)