Illinicast: Illinois Basketball Coach an Option For Kentucky?

Illinicast: Illinois Basketball Coach an Option For Kentucky?

John Calipari, the former 15-year head coach at Kentucky has stunned many within the wide world of sports. Deciding to depart from the program, for an SEC rival. Shockingly, the former Wildcats Head Coach is headed to Fayetteville Arkansas to take over as the next head coach for the Razorbacks. Certainly, there was plenty of friction surrounding the Wildcat fanbase after recent NCAA tournament flops. Including an early bounce in the 2024 NCAA tournament. Calipari’s Wildcats were taken down by Oakland University in the round of 64. Furthermore, adding to the tension. However, I don’t know how many felt this day coming.

In his 15 years at UK, Cal averaged a .769 winning percentage (410-123 record). Winning a national championship in 2012, as well as runner-up in 2014. Plus, 2 more final 4 appearances in 2011 and 2015. Certainly, a winner, who has also dominated as one of the top recruiters in the nation. A once beloved coach of the big blue, who certainly, will remain within the hearts of (most) Cats fans for a long time. What a world of mixed emotions in the Bluegrass state.

Adam Zagoria Post on X (@AdamZagoria)

Some chatter has been discussed around social media and Kentucky sites about Brad Underwood as a possible candidate for Kentucky. Take a look at what Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria), a basketball insider for the NY Times had to about the Illinois Basketball coach.

A few early names Kentucky could target:

Dan Hurley (doubt he takes it )
Sean Miller
Brad Underwood
Mick Cronin
Kelvin Sampson
Rick Pitino https://t.co/VLl6wYFzxb

— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) April 8, 2024

Illinicast- Is Underwood a Candidate for the Wildcats Opening?

Of course, several Kentucky insiders are speculating Underwood could be a possible fit for the Wildcats. UConn Head Coach Dan Hurley, Bulls Head Coach Billy Donovan, Alabama’s Nate Oates, among others seem to be top priority. However, after an Elite 8 run For Illinois Basketball in 2024, and turning this program around, is Underwood on the list? Illincast dives into the situation, and goes into further detail on the possibilities. Like many, Sunny believes this is could be a stretch. However, in todays world of sports business, anything seems possible.

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