Renowned Hall of Fame coach John Calipari appointed as the head coach for Razorback basketball.
FAYETTEVILLE – John Calipari, an esteemed Naismith Hall of Fame coach with six Final Four appearances to his credit, has been appointed as the 14th head men’s basketball coach at the University of Arkansas, announced Hunter Yurachek, the Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics, on Wednesday.
Calipari has committed to a five-year contract to helm the Razorbacks, with an initial annual salary set at $7 million. The contract extends through April 30, 2029, with provisions for up to two automatic rollover years based on NCAA Tournament qualifications, potentially prolonging the agreement to 2031. Notably, the contract includes a $1 million signing bonus and entails retention bonuses of $500,000 annually, alongside performance-based pay increases tied to NCAA Tournament achievements, including reaching specific rounds and winning the national championship.
A formal introduction for Calipari is scheduled for Wednesday evening (April 10) at 6 p.m. in Bud Walton Arena, open to the public. Access to the event will be through the south entrance of Bud Walton Arena, with doors opening at 5 p.m. Public parking will be available in Lots 46, 56, 56B, and 60, excluding resident reserved spaces.
Yurachek emphasized Calipari’s distinguished status in college basketball, citing his track record as a national championship-winning coach, a four-time recipient of national coach of the year honors, and renowned prowess in recruiting and elevating programs within the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and nationally. Yurachek expressed confidence in Calipari’s ability to leverage the fervent support of Razorback Nation and build upon the rich basketball tradition at the University of Arkansas.
Calipari’s illustrious coaching career spans over three decades, during which he has guided numerous players to success in college and professional basketball, as well as in their post-playing endeavors. Notably, he boasts a remarkable record of developing NBA talent, with 58 players selected in the NBA Draft, including 41 first-round picks and four overall first picks. Additionally, Calipari has garnered recognition as a top coach across multiple collegiate conferences, earning numerous coach of the year accolades throughout his tenure.
Having led teams to 23 NCAA Tournament appearances, including six Final Four berths and a national championship, Calipari stands as one of the most accomplished coaches in college basketball history. His coaching achievements include taking three different programs to the Final Four, a feat shared by only one other coach in NCAA history. Calipari’s teams have achieved remarkable success on the court, setting records for most wins in a single season and consistently contending at the highest levels of collegiate basketball.
Calipari’s tenure at the University of Kentucky saw notable accomplishments, including a national championship victory in 2012 and several deep tournament runs. His impact extended beyond the court, as evidenced by his players’ success in the NBA and his commitment to their holistic development. Prior to his tenure at Kentucky, Calipari enjoyed successful stints at Memphis, UMass, and in the NBA, further solidifying his reputation as a transformative leader in the world of basketball.
In summary, Calipari’s appointment marks a significant milestone for Razorback basketball, signaling a new era of competitiveness and excellence under his leadership.
