Scott Drew releases statement, explains decision to stay at Baylor

Scott Drew decided to remain at Baylor despite Kentucky’s interest in the Bears basketball coach. Following the departure of John Calipari for Arkansas, the Wildcats turned to top candidates.

A wildly successful coach, Drew looked like a good fit for Big Blue Nation. But alas, he opted to stay put at Baylor, where he’s been since 2003.

He released a statement on why he opted to remain the Bears coach.

#JOY pic.twitter.com/JhxpsmHVOw

— Scott Drew (@BUDREW) April 11, 2024

“In our program, we strive to put Jesus first, then others, then ourselves,” Drew said in a statement. “We truly believe God has called my family and I continue our work here at Baylor, surrounded by the best people and community anyone could be blessed to have. We are grateful for the support of Mack Rhoades, President Livingstone and the entire Baylor Family, and we look forward to working together to bring more championships to Waco. #JOY.”

Drew emerged as the reported top target on Kentucky’s board after coaches like Alabama‘s Nate Oats and the Chicago Bulls’ Billy Donovan announced they were committed to their current jobs.

Drew has been wildly successful at Baylor, elevating the program into a regular NCAA Tournament contender. That postseason success culminated with a national championship during the 2020-21 season.

In total, Drew has posted 12 NCAA Tournament appearances, which have included one Final Four appearance, two Elite Eights, four Sweet 16s and nine opening-round wins.

Baylor has won at least 20 games 15 times under Drew’s direction.

The 53-year-old head coach has now won the Big 12 Coach of the Year honors three times, doing so from 2020-22. He has a 446-244 (.646) overall record as a head coach, including a 189-173 (.522) mark in Big 12 play.

Baylor has finished in the top three in the conference in each of the last five seasons after doing so just three times in Drew’s first 16 seasons in charge of the program.