CBB

NCAAB News: John Calipari gets huge pay raise as Arkansas makes it to the Big Dance

Even though it wasn't an easy season, John Calipari will get a significant incentive after making the NCAA Tournament.

Head Coach John Calipari of the Arkansas Razorbacks
Ā© Johnnie Izquierdo - GettyHead Coach John Calipari of the Arkansas Razorbacks

To say that this season has been a wild ride for the Arkansas Razorbacks would be a massive understatement. However, despite their struggles, they still made it to the NCAA Tournament.

John Calipari’s program entered the season with high hopes and expectations, especially considering the influx of talent the team got when he left the Kentucky Wildcats.

At the end of the day, they snuck into the Big Dance after some ups and downs, and that means Coach Calipari will be in for a significant bump in his salary going forward.

Advertisement

John Calipari will cash in on a big bonus

ā€œArkansas men’s basketball team’s NCAA tournament at-large bid means automatic 1-yr contract extension and $50,000 raise for coach John Calipari — who is not eligible for any lump-sum team performance bonuses. Added yr, thru 4/30/2030, set to be worth $7.55 million ($5,287,500 guaranteed), reported Steve Berkowitz.

Arkansas Razorbacks head coach JOHN CALIPARI gives instructions during Arkansas s win over MD Eastern Shore at Bud Walton Arena.

John Calipari

Advertisement

Of course, that will mean little if this team doesn’t get the job done in the tournament. Calipari has found plenty of success in the Big Dance in the past, but he’s also had some shortcomings.

25 highest-paid college basketball head coaches: Who earns the most?

see also

The Razorbacks will tip off their road to the National Championship on Wednesday night with a hot matchup with Bill Self and the Kansas Jayhawks at Providence.

Advertisement
ALSO READ
Barcelona vs Athletic Club: Lineups for Spanish Super Cup 2026 semifinals
Soccer

Barcelona vs Athletic Club: Lineups for Spanish Super Cup 2026 semifinals

Packers officially cut a quarterback to add another player behind Jordan Love before playoffs
NFL

Packers officially cut a quarterback to add another player behind Jordan Love before playoffs

Chiefs try their luck with two new players for 2026 as Patrick Mahomes’ offense faces changes
NFL

Chiefs try their luck with two new players for 2026 as Patrick Mahomes’ offense faces changes

Mike Tomlin delivers important warning to Aaron Rodgers and Steelers before game against Texans in 2026 NFL playoffs
NFL

Mike Tomlin delivers important warning to Aaron Rodgers and Steelers before game against Texans in 2026 NFL playoffs

Better Collective Logo