The NBA Draft is just around the corner. We’ll watch some of the most promising young players in the game walk their first steps as pros after successful stints in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>.



Unfortunately, that will also mean losing some of the best players on the team. But if someone who’s been used to that in the past, that’s definitely Coach John Calipari.



That’s why, in a recent appearance on “The Jim Rome Show,” the Arkansas Razorbacks wanted to help NBA hopeful Adu Thiero by raving about one of his most impressive traits. 



<h2>John Calipari praises Adu Thiero’s toughness</h2>



“If you watch the NBA Playoffs, it is so rough, you better be built like Adou Thiero,” Calipari said. “If you’re not and you’re a younger player, you’re not playing in these playoffs. He is physically ready right now, and athletically, [he] hits his head on the rim right now. He’s got to heal, but I think he’s in pretty good shape.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250624_BUS_425412_Adou-Thiero-1024x576_f338c000.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-291509" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Arkansas Razorbacks forward Adou Thiero</figcaption></figure>



Of course, at the end of the day, all coaches will always look to hype up their guys and this isn’t the exception to that rule. Nevertheless, it’s hard to argue with Calipari’s assessment.


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Thiero has been a notorious riser in most big boards, and while there’s nothing as a ‘can’t-miss’ player in any NBA Draft, he’s certainly tough and physical enough to hold his own with NBA-caliber competition.

John Calipari boasts Adu Thiero’s draft stock with telling comment

John Calipari boasts Adu Thiero's draft stock with telling comment - Bolavip US

miniaturas

It takes a lot to find success in the NBA. You need more than talent, height, athleticism, and physical tools. Sometimes, you even need more than good luck and health.



That’s why just a handful of players make it, and even fewer of them actually manage to have long and successful careers. No one can control all the defining factors.



What they can control, however, is the way they carry themselves. That’s why, to legendary <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>coach John Calipari, it wasn’t a surprise to see Shai Gilgeous-Alexander reach these heights.



<h2>John Calipari gushes about SGA and Derrick Rose</h2>



When asked about his former Kentucky pupil, who was recently named NBA MVP, Calipari compared him to another former MVP of his coaching tree, Derrick Rose, stating that their personalities and how they treated their teammates were what made them truly special:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250618_BUS_421212_GettyImages-2217577289-1-1024x576_dd2488b0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="shai-vs-timberolves" class="wp-image-407189" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/29134303/GettyImages-2217577289-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander </figcaption></figure>



“Unbelievable teammates, both of them. So, Shai does not do a post-game interview without teammates around him. Won’t do it. Derrick would not take a picture for a magazine, whatever, unless he had teammates around him,” Calipari told Jim Rome.


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Calipari has had his fair share of elite talents and great recruits throughout the course of the years, so watching him speak so highly of any player goes to show you just how much of a leader SGA has always been.

John Calipari explains what made Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Derrick Rose true MVPs

John Calipari explains what made Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Derrick Rose true MVPs - Bolavip US

Even though he’s not there anymore, John Calipari will always be a big part of Kentucky history. As such, his game against the Wildcats will always be a subject of debate.



His highly anticipated return to Rupp Arena was one of the most talked-about games of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> season. Now, everybody’s looking forward to watching the Razorbacks take on the Wildcats again.



Calipari’s team got the last laugh in their first encounter in front of a sold-out arena. Unfortunately, that won’t be the case again next season, as they will only meet once, and it won’t be at Rupp Arena.



<h2>Kentucky and Arkansas won’t meet at Rupp Arena</h2>



“Big Blue Nation was hoping these two teams would play twice this season to get revenge against Calipari in Rupp Arena, but they will only meet once in Bud Walton Arena. Coach Pope has been very outspoken about his respect for Coach Calipari, but despite this, he wants to beat him,” reported Sports Illustrated.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250611_BUS_416510_Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1024x576_8e092e17.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats reacts to a turnover during the 94-78 loss to the Auburn Tigers at Rupp Arena on March 01, 2025 in Lexington, Kentucky." class="wp-image-347069" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope, head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats </figcaption></figure>



Both of these teams are firmly expected to be in the race for the top of the SEC, and this matchup, hopefully, will be another instant classic to spark up a new rivalry.


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Whether Mark Pope will be able to get back at Calipari remains to be seen, as the Razorbacks look like a much-improved team after their up-and-down campaign in 2024-25.

Arkansas and Kentucky will meet again this season, but there’s a major catch

Arkansas and Kentucky will meet again this season, but there's a major catch - Bolavip US

The first-round series between the New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons has been as exciting as advertised. Unfortunately for the Pistons, they haven’t been able to close out games.



The Knicks are holding onto a 3-1 lead after an exciting Game 4. The Pistons were up by one down the stretch and were just seconds away from evening things up with two wins apiece.



Then, Karl-Anthony Towns poured some ice-cold water on their aspirations by knocking down a game-winner. That’s why Arkansas assistant coach Brad Calipari, John Calipari’s son, couldn’t hold back his emotions. 



<h2>Brad Calipari shouts out Karl-Anthony Towns</h2>



“YEAAHHHHHHHHHHH BROTHER @karltowns,” Calipari wrote on Instagram.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250428_BUS_387256_Towns-1024x576_e474c088.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-310016" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/09194215/Towns.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks </figcaption></figure>



Of course, Towns and the Calipari family go a long way back. Calipari coached him at Kentucky, and while he didn’t play with Brad, who joined the program in 2016, he’s still a close friend of the family.


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Now, the Knicks will look to close things out when the series heads back to Madison Square Garden for Game 5, and the Caliparis will most definitely be rooting for the former Wildcat.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="680fddc56322de585807afde" data-title="Will the Knicks make the Finals?" data-options="2"></div>

Arkansas' Brad Calipari Reacts To Karl-Anthony Towns' Game-Winner Vs. Pistons

John Calipari’s son shares hyped-up message after Karl-Anthony Towns’ game-winner vs. Detroit

John Calipari's son shares hyped-up message after Karl-Anthony Towns' game-winner vs. Detroit - Bolavip US

John Calipari is known for being one of the most successful coaches of his generation. He’s a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> legend, and a lot of that has had to do with his ability to land top players.



That might be the case again in 2025. With the transfer portal just about to close, reports state that the Arkansas Razorbacks might land one of the most coveted players.



They already landed commitment from star power forwards Nick Pringle and Malique Ewin, and they could now get their hands on Dominican G Baker Mazara as well.



<h2>Arkansas could land Chad Baker Mazara</h2>



“Chad Baker-Mazara, one of the more desirable players still available in the portal, is reportedly talking to Arkansas, per Goodman Hoops,” reported Robert Marvi of Athlon Sports.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250423_BUS_383520_John-Calipari-1024x576_719906ca.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-382694" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/04/22130716/John-Calipari.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Coach John Calipari</figcaption></figure>



The 6-foot-7 guard has been with the Auburn Tigers for the past couple of years, and he’s coming off posting averages of 12.3 points, 3.0 rebounds, 2.7 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.


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He’s a 39.8% shooter from beyond the arc, and he’s also played at San Diego State, Duquense and Northwest Florida State College before taking his talents to Auburn.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68092cae6322de585807ae4f" data-title="Will Calipari lead Arkansas to a title?" data-options="2"></div>

Transfer portal news: Arkansas could land one of the top players

Transfer portal news: Arkansas could land one of the top players - Bolavip US

With a veteran coach at the helm, the Arkansas Razorbacks were expected to be one of the powerhouses in<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> last season. However, things aren’t as easy in a conference like the SEC.



Even so, coach John Calipari was able to rally around his players, and following a complicated stretch in which it seemed that they weren’t going to make the tournament, they closed out the season on a high note.



Unfortunately for them, not even upsetting Rick Pitino and St. John’s was enough for them to get the job done in the following round. Following their loss to Texas Tech, the legendary coach was brutally honest. 



<h2>John Calipari shares honest thoughts on end of the season</h2>



“I feel like [expletive] right now, but this was as rewarding a year as I’ve had in all my years,” Calipari said.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250415_BUS_377190_John-Calipari-1024x576_ce755c94.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315499" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head Coach John Calipari of the Arkansas Razorbacks</figcaption></figure>



At the end of the day, not many people thought the Razorbacks would make it to the Sweet Sixteen round after the way they struggled in conference play earlier in the season.


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Now, with a new roster and new challenges, coach Calipari will look to build from this season’s resiliency to lead the team to the mountaintop in his second year in charge of the program. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67feb36d0c8fd1e7fdf27016" data-title="Will the Razorbacks win the national title next season?" data-options="2"></div>

John Calipari gets brutally honest on NCAA Tournament loss with Arkansas

John Calipari gets brutally honest on NCAA Tournament loss with Arkansas - Bolavip US

The Arkansas Razorbacks had their fair share of ups and downs this season. Still, they managed to make a deep run in March Madness, even reaching the Sweet 16 against all odds.



The No. 10 team fell to No. 3 Texas Tech in an overtime thriller after upsetting Rick Pitino and No. 2 St. John’s in the second round and finishing the season strong.



Now, John Calipari will have to dig deep into the transfer portal to replace one of their best players, as Aduo Thiero is more than likely to take his talents to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a>. With that in mind, Alexander O’Riley of Sportskeeda reports that they could pursue RJ Luis Jr.



<h2>Arkansas could target RJ Luis Jr to replace Adou Thiero</h2>



“There are few better replacements than small forward RJ Luis Jr. if the Arkansas Razorbacks need to replace Adou Theiro. It would be poetic if after the Razorbacks upset St. John’s in March Madness, they successfully brought in their best player through the transfer portal,” he wrote.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250403_BUS_369488_John-Calipari-1024x576_febb431a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315499" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head Coach John Calipari of the Arkansas Razorbacks</figcaption></figure>



Thiero sustained an injury late in the season but is still projected to be taken in the first round of the NBA Draft, and rightfully so. Of course, that puts the program in a tough spot.


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Then again, John Calipari knows all the tricks, and if there’s something you can’t blame him for, it’s not being active when it comes to stacking up the best talent in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="67eedb150c8fd1e7fdf26c34" data-title="Will Calipari lead the Razorbacks to a title?" data-options="2"></div>

John Calipari and Arkansas could land big replacement for NBA-bound Adou Thiero

John Calipari and Arkansas could land big replacement for NBA-bound Adou Thiero - Bolavip US

The Arkansas Razorbacks entered the college basketball season with high expectations. Unfortunately, it didn’t seem like they were going to live up to them.



They got off to a dreadful start to conference play, with coach John Calipari drawing some steep criticism because of his team’s rather surprising shortcomings.



That’s why it was such a big surprise to see them take down Kansas and St. John’s. However, when asked about beating a fellow legend like Rick Pitino, coach Cal couldn’t care less.



<h2>John Calipari didn’t care about beating Rick Pitino</h2>



“I didn’t care. It was about let’s just win because what these kids went through, they deserved good to happen because they came together,” he said. “They became one heartbeat.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250327_BUS_365140_Rick-Pitino1-1024x576_5578080d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-285146" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Rick-Pitino1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Rick Pitino</figcaption></figure>



Pitino and St. John’s were the No. 2 seed, but Calipari wasn’t bothered by that. If anything, he believes his team is capable of everything after the way they rallied late in the season. 



<h2>Calipari had bigger concerns</h2>



“If you went through the year, we went through when we were 0-5, when we were 1-6, and they said they got no chance of making the NCAA tournament. When you’re playing games, you’re not worried about the other coach; you’re about survival,” he said.


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Now, he can only focus on taking down the Texas Tech Red Raiders in the Sweet 16 to continue his unlikely journey to the top. Only then will he be able to think about his rivalry with Pitino.


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March Madness: John Calipari gets brutally honest on Rick Pitino after Elite Eight upset

March Madness: John Calipari gets brutally honest on Rick Pitino after Elite Eight upset - Bolavip US

The Arkansas Razorbacks have turned plenty of heads in the NCAA Tournament. Despite their inconsistency, they’ve still managed to get a couple of wins in the first rounds.



Now, they have a Sweet 16 date with Texas Tech. Notably, the Kentucky Wildcats have also reached this stage, and they will square off vs. Tennessee in the following round.



Both teams are on opposite sides of the bracket, so they could only face off in the tournament game. That’s why John Calipari couldn’t care less about what his former program is up to right now. 



<h2>John Calipari isn’t thinking about Kentucky</h2>



“No, not worried about them,” Calipari said on The Dan Patrick Show. “This is what’s happened for us. This season has been the most rewarding season I’ve had. Seasons where we won more games and won national titles and Final Fours and Elite Eights. I’ve had all those but what this team has been through to survive it, it’s been as rewarding as any season.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="631" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250326_BUS_363425_johncaliparijpg_242310155-1024x631_812b1044.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=631" alt="" class="wp-image-216672" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/johncaliparijpg_242310155-1024x631.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/johncaliparijpg_242310155-300x185.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/johncaliparijpg_242310155-768x474.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/08/johncaliparijpg_242310155.jpg 1200w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>John Calipari </figcaption></figure>



At the end of the day, there’s no reason he should be looking over his shoulder and paying attention to other teams. It’s hard to win in this tournament as it is, so there’s no need to add more pressure.


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Of course, having them face off at any point would be a major storyline. But until that happens — if it happens at all — Coach Cal should only focus on the task at hand.

NCAAB News: John Calipari doesn’t care about Kentucky

NCAAB News: John Calipari doesn't care about Kentucky - Bolavip US

Everything seems to be going John Calipari’s way right now. Just like it usually happens in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, a team that was thought to be done could now make a big run.



The Razorbacks have won a couple of games in the NCAA Tournament already, and they’re now about to get some big help ahead of their Sweet 16 date with Texas Tech.



According to coach Calipari, forward Aduo Thiero will be available to play in the West Region semifinals, and it will be the first time since January 18 that they have a fully healthy roster.



<h2>The Razorbacks will have Adou Thiero back </h2>



“We need his toughness and athleticism,” Calipari said on The Pat McAfee Show. “The most he’ll play, 12 minutes. Maybe 15. Maybe. I doubt (it), but you’ve got to prepare now because we’re a different team.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250325_BUS_363426_Adou-Thiero-1024x576_437512c3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-291509" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/12134442/Adou-Thiero.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Arkansas Razorbacks forward Adou Thiero</figcaption></figure>



This isn’t much of a surprise, as coach Cal had already hinted at a potential return. However, his return to practice was limited. Now, with more time to heal, he’s going to give it a go.


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Thiero sustained the knee injury late in February in his team’s 92-85 over Missouri. He was hobbling around and fought through the injury in the second half, and he was believed to be shut down for the season.

March Madness: John Calipari’s Razorbacks get massive injury news ahead of Sweet 16 game

March Madness: John Calipari's Razorbacks get massive injury news ahead of Sweet 16 game - Bolavip US

The Arkansas Razorbacks went through a lot this season. Eventually, they still managed to sneak their way into the NCAA Tournament. Their first stop, however, will be a tough one.



John Calipari and his troops arrived in Providence for a date with the Kansas Jayhawks. That will be yet another epic matchup between Coach Calipari and Bill Self.



That’s why Calipari had no choice but to tip his hat to his fellow Hall of Famer colleague. When asked about the upcoming matchup, he lamented that they had to face off.



<h2>John Calipari has nothing but respect for Bill Self</h2>



“Unbelievable the culture he’s built, the program, all of that stuff,” Calipari said. “He and I are friends. I hate playing people that I consider friends or know well. All these teams, why you gotta put me against him first game? So, we know what we’re up against.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250319_BUS_359131_Bill-Self-1-1024x576_dfd9bb3c.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Bill Self in 2024" class="wp-image-287587" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/06142546/Bill-Self-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head Coach Bill Self of the Kansas Jayhawks</figcaption></figure>



Calipari and Self have beaten one another to win National Championships in the past. A title isn’t at stake right now, but one could end the other’s season another time.


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Of course, given how inconsistent the Razorbacks were this season, the Jayhawks should take care of business. However, anything can happen in a win-or-go-home situation.

March Madness: John Calipari admits he doesn’t want to face Bill Self

March Madness: John Calipari admits he doesn't want to face Bill Self - Bolavip US

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.



<h2>John Calipari will cash in on a big bonus</h2>



“Arkansas 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.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250318_BUS_357515_John-Calipari-1-1024x576_3f8fa7cc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Arkansas Razorbacks head coach JOHN CALIPARI gives instructions during Arkansas s win over MD Eastern Shore at Bud Walton Arena." class="wp-image-290604" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>John Calipari</figcaption></figure>



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.


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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.

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

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

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander entered the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NBA</a> as an intriguing prospect with a high upside. However, he wasn’t the most sought-after or talked about player when he came out of Kentucky.



His coach, John Calipari, always knew he was destined for big things. That’s why he’s not surprised to see him become an MVP candidate and one of the best players on Earth.



However, it’s not his game that impresses him. Following his 40-point explosion vs. the Denver Nuggets, coach Calipari took to social media to explain what truly makes the young guard special. 



<h2>John Calipari raves about Shai Gilgeous-Alexander</h2>



“The thing that impressed me the most about Shai yesterday wasn’t scoring 40 or leading his team to a win,” Calipari wrote. “It happened after his pregame warmup. He hugged us and we laughed the he proceeded to walk to the 1000s of fans along the baseline and sideline leading to their tunnel. It wasn’t a fly by he spent time, and then I was told he does it EVERY home game and that’s why they lineup. MVP move.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250312_BUS_353247_imago1053323632-1-1024x576_2888354d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder during their regular season NBA" class="wp-image-303501" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30181107/imago1053323632-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Shai Gilgeous-Alexander 2 of the Oklahoma City Thunder </figcaption></figure>



Of course, that’s the kind of move that makes a coach proud. At the end of the day, they prepare them not only to become better basketball players but also better human beings.


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Gilgeous-Alexander is looking to lead the Oklahoma City Thunder to their first championship since they relocated, but he’s already a champion at heart for what he’s done.

John Calipari shares bold take on OKC Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

John Calipari shares bold take on OKC Thunder star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander - Bolavip US

Throughout the course of his long and successful career in college basketball, John Calipari has never minced his words about anything. He’s outspoken and will tell it as it is.



That happened again on Monday when he admitted that he didn’t care one bit about the SEC Tournament. Needless to say, it didn’t take long before people shared their thoughts on this controversial opinion.



Notably, that includes ESPN College GameDay’s Jay Williams. The Duke legend didn’t hold back on Calipari’s words, calling his take on the tournament flat-out ‘absurd.’



<h2>Jay Williams blasts John Calipari’s ‘absurd’ take</h2>



“I know that John Calipari says that he could care less about winning the SEC Tournament, but we are talking about, arguably, the greatest single season conference of all-time. So I think that’s absurd,” Williams said. “Like, I think everybody’s approach is to win every single game they play, right? And you’re also talking about — you can make a case, Seth, that the semifinals of the SEC Tournament could be more exciting to watch than the Final Four. They could (both) be in the Final Four.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250311_BUS_353252_John-Calipari-1-1024x576_b6cdee67.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Arkansas Razorbacks head coach JOHN CALIPARI gives instructions during Arkansas s win over MD Eastern Shore at Bud Walton Arena." class="wp-image-290604" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/11080114/John-Calipari-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>John Calipari</figcaption></figure>



More than that, Williams believes this conference tournament could be great preparation for what the Arkansas Razorbacks might come across in March Madness:



“Actually, you can make the case — you would hope that that would be the Final Four. The teams — think about this, here’s count for you. The SEC has won 21 wins against AP ranked non-conference opponents so far this season, most by any conference a single-season history in the AP poll. Come on, like, that’s what this tournament is about,” Williams added.


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Ironically, Calipari is more than familiar with this instance, as he won six SEC Tournaments during his days with the Kentucky Wildcats, including four in a row starting in 2015.

Jay Williams has one word to destroy John Calipari’s take on the SEC Tournament

Jay Williams has one word to destroy John Calipari's take on the SEC Tournament - Bolavip US

The Arkansas Razorbacks may have salvaged their seasons. Their big win over Vanderbilt might have been just enough to get one of the final spots in the NAA Tournament.



However, John Calipari still wasn’t satisfied at all. He thinks his team didn’t get fair treatment from schedule-makers, as they had little to no rest between critical games.



Most SEC teams play after three-day breaks, but Calipari isn’t a fan of that. Following the win, he blasted schedule-makers for giving them a Saturday morning game after a night game on the road on Tuesday.



<h2>John Calipari complains about the schedule</h2>



“We had to win one of these two,” Calipari said. “We won this one. Now hopefully we’ll show up for an 11:00 game. So they’re sending us home at 3:00 in the morning, and we play an 11:00 a.m. game. I know they’ve done that to other teams in the league — not. I’m happy for the guys. Our hard work pays off, all that good stuff. Can I go so we can get home by 2:00?”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250306_BUS_349881_John-Calipari-1024x576_c3f09e4f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315499" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103742/John-Calipari.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head Coach John Calipari of the Arkansas Razorbacks</figcaption></figure>



The fact of the matter is that the Razorbacks took care of business when it matters the most. They bounced back after a loss to South Carolina that could’ve ended their tournament aspirations.


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Now, with March Madness just around the corner, Calipari and his troops won’t have much time to spare. The field is level and the same for everybody, so there’s no more room for excuses.

John Calipari calls out the SEC as the Razorbacks are dealt a tough hand to close out the season

John Calipari calls out the SEC as the Razorbacks are dealt a tough hand to close out the season - Bolavip US

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