Kentucky head coach John Calipari addresses report stating contact with Texas

Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte is always looking to make splash hires and originally, thought he did in the basketball program with Chris Beard. However, Beard was fired regarding an off-the-court issue and the Longhorns are now in search of a new leader.

Kentucky‘s John Calipari has been linked to a move to Austin, with a report stating there have been contact between the two parties. Calipari had the opportunity to address the matter for the first time on Monday, denying he has personally spoken to anyone involved with the Texas program.

“I haven’t talked to anybody,” Calipari said during his call in radio show.

While some might be distracted by midseason coaching rumors, Calipari has been in this situation before. He will know how to handle the situation moving forward. All focus is going to be getting things right on the court.

Calipari would be making a big move leaving Kentucky, where there has been restlessness regarding the Wildcats’ recent performances. They were bounced by 15-seed St. Peter’s in the Round of 64 in the 2022 NCAA Tournament. And now, Calipari has seen his team get off to a slow start this season.

From a Texas perspective, they have performed well since Beard was let go. Acting head coach Rodney Terry got a big win against Oklahoma on the road and most recently defeated Oklahoma State. A blowout loss at home to Kansas State has been the only slip up.

While things might be stable on the court for the Longhorns, the future of the program is still in question. Calipari will not be the only big named linked to the job, with a long coaching search likely taking place over the next few months. But being arguably the biggest name in college basketball, it’s going to be a story until things are finalized one way or the other.

Texas reportedly reaches out to John Calipari

Texas reportedly reached out to Kentucky head coach John Calipari, according to Travis Branham.

The news came on the heels of Texas firing head coach Chris Beard amid legal troubles. Kentucky is 10-5 this season after a loss to No. 4 Alabama Saturday.

If there is any movement regarding Calipari and the Texas job, it will have to come in the offseason. Until then, the Kentucky head coach will be figuring out how to get his program back on the right track. Winning will be the only option in Lexington this season.