John Calipari has remained mum on rumors that he is close to signing a contract to become the University of Arkansas’ next head coach.
Calipari was seen outside near his home Monday afternoon, but declined to comment to WKYT when approached while walking his dog.
Asked if he had a message for his fans, Calipari said, “No, I’m not. I’m walking my dog right now.”
“No, I’m fine. I’m fine,” he said after being asked for comment again.
Calipari began walking down the street with his dog behind him.
News of Calipari’s pending departure came late Sunday night after CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander reported that Calipari and the University of Arkansas were in “serious negotiations” over the position. It attracted attention. Shortly after, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported that the two sides had reached a five-year agreement. The contract has a base salary of just under $8.5 million.
The Razorbacks appear to have had a little help swaying Calipari their way thanks to his connections with Arkansas donor John Tyson, heir to the Tyson Foods empire.
The two recently played golf as talk grew that former Razorbacks coach Eric Musselman was planning to leave for the University of Southern California. According to Fox Sports.
Calipari also developed “bad feelings” about the situation in Lexington, and the lack of support led to a feeling of being unwanted. ” The same outlet also reported.
Kentucky fans were starting to grow restless after several seasons in which the team failed to live up to expectations, including two years in which they lost to No. 15 and No. 14 seeds in the NCAA Tournament.
Under his watch, Calipari led the Wildcats to a 410-123 record and helped the Wildcats win the national title in 2012.
