John Calipari buyout numbers revealed after question from fan

Kentucky committed long-term to basketball coach John Calipari after he established himself as one of college basketball’s best coaches of all-time. However, two historically bad years for the Wildcats have brought fans to ask some pretty crazy questions about the future.

On KSR, a caller asked On3’s Matt Jones about the current buyout on John Calipari’s deal. While he did not immediately provide accurate details, the host later offered accurate terms on social media.

“We had a caller ask today about Calipari’s buyout today on KSR Radio and I had the wrong amount,” said Jones. “It is $52 million this year and decreases by a little over $6 million a year over the next eight seasons.”

Despite the early NCAA Tournament exit against St. Peter’s with a roster filled with high-level recruits and well-respected transfers, with such a high buyout there is no realistic way for Kentucky to part ways with Calipari anytime soon without his resignation.

No matter how crazy the question or answer seems, John Calipari has caught widespread criticism for both the 2020-21 season as a whole and the NCAA Tournament upset. The past two years have not met the Kentucky standard despite his resume and list of future players committed or linked to the program over the coming years.

John Calipari addresses change in philosophy

John Calipari has now gone two straight years without a postseason win. Even further back, it’s been seven years since Kentucky made it out of their region and appeared in the Final Four.

Amid the discussion about his buyout, John Calipari addressed whether he was going to change his philosophy going forward after another season of coming up short in March Madness. He gave an honest answer, saying he will discuss with coaches from around the country and be open to suggestions.

“I adjust every year but we were top 3 in the country in offense,” Calipari said. “It depends who we have but I am open to suggestions. I talk to coaches all over the country.”

Kentucky ended the season with a top 15 scoring offense, averaging 79.4 points per game. Five different players were in double figures throughout the year, led by center Oscar Tshiebwe. Guard play from TyTy Washington and Sahvir Wheeler helped as well.

Now, as usual in Lexington, there will be some roster turnover incoming. Between players leaving via the transfer portal or the upcoming NBA draft, Calipari will have to hit the transfer portal to bring in his own players. Two On3 Consensus five-star prospects from the 2022 class will be coming into the program as well with Cason Wallace and Chris Livingston.

Change will be coming for Kentucky, with Calipari needing to get back to making deep NCAA Tournament runs on a yearly basis.