John Calipari shares favorite TV show, what makes 2022-23 roster different

John Calipari and Kentucky felt a massive weight come off their shoulders after going into Knoxville and winning 63-56 over No. 5 Tennessee. The Wildcats, with their head coach included, had been under a ton of pressure with how their season had played out so far. Still, they found a way to go into Thompson-Boling Arena and pick up what is by far the most impressive victory of their year.

Calipari explained how they did it following his team’s win over the Volunteers. He said that, with the advice of some colleagues, he realized the Wildcats needed to play more ‘traditional’ considering the pieces they have. He went on to describe how Kentucky got to this point and how it developed in order to earn such a landmark win for its campaign.

“We’re different. That doesn’t mean we’re not good. I’ve said this is a different team,” said Calipari. “I’ve had coaches, Hall of Famers, my friends, that have called me and said, ‘You may have to play more traditional’. All these guys are doing this, taking 30 threes. (We) may have to play more traditional because of who we are and what our team is.”

“That’s my job. To figure out what’s the best way for this team to play. I have a different team every year I coach. Even if you got one or two guys back, you’ve got four or five new ones…I gotta figure it out. And it takes me time. When you have injuries and all that kinda stuff? It adds to it. And I told you all this is gonna take time, this is not gonna happen overnight,” Calipari said. “Everybody panicked…(But) I’m so happy to be coaching that group of guys. Now I’m gonna do everything I can to help them break through and be what they can be. That’s my job.”

Calipari and Kentucky has been criticized, whether it was justifiable or not, for the 10-6 start to their season. They hadn’t earned a signature win and had been embarrassed on the road and against top competition. Their win over Tennessee has since shifted that narrative to a degree. They were able to do it by overcoming a quick 8-0 deficit, outrebounding the Vols by 20, and holding them to 3-21 (14.3%) from deep.

In the end, Calipari reminded everyone that he could care less about the outside chatter. His concern is his team and, from what he said after the win, a historical drama series from back in 1972.

“I don’t read, I don’t listen. I watch Alaska shows. You know what one I’m on right now? The Waltons…That’s the greatest show,” said Calipari. “It’s 50 years old. But I watch (that). I don’t pay attention.”

Calipari and his ‘Cats can’t put their feet up and watch the show just yet, though. They have several big games left that they’ll need to secure before they’re safely within the NCAA Tournament field again. Still, Kentucky picked up a foundational win this weekend and will now focus on making it two straight when they face Georgia on Tuesday night.