Paul Finebaum discusses Kentucky coaching search, likelihood of Nate Oats

John Calipari leaving Kentucky means that one of the best jobs in all of college basketball is open and likely looking for a big-name coach. Among those being rumored for the job is Nate Oats, the Alabama coach.

While making an appearance on McElroy and Cubelic in the Morning, analyst Paul Finebaum shared some thoughts on the search, explaining why he’s currently focused on Oats.

“I think Nate Oats is the one on everyone’s list,” Paul Finebaum said. “I mean, the two best coaches in the country, in my opinion, are [Dan] Hurley and Nate Oats. One is playing for the national championship tonight. Listen, I’m not privy to Nate Oats’ exact contract, but what is it? Close to $20 million, or something like that?”

Recently, Nate Oats received a contract extension. That deal runs through 2030 and includes a buyout of $20 million. His annual salary is currently set at $5 million. So, presumably, to get him to leave Alabama it would cost at least that buyout and salary in the next year.

Still, because Kentucky didn’t fire Calipari and saved on his buyout, Finebaum sees them as having more money to make a splashy hire.

“So, what you said is maybe the most important aspect. Do you pay $33 million in dead money to get rid of Cal and start over again, or now you’ve already picked up a plus $13 million if you’re going after Nate Oats? I can see the enthusiasm to spend the money to get your coach as opposed to getting rid of them. Kentucky fans, especially boosters, were given a gift today. They don’t have to pay John Calipari off. What a smart decision that turned out to be. So, $20 million to get Nate Oats in addition to what they have to pay him might be a bargain for Kentucky.”

There are several other coaches being mentioned for this job. That includes Billy Donovan, Jay Wright, Bruce Pearl, and Scott Drew among others. However, Finebaum believes the focus is still on Oats.

“I think this is about Nate Oats right now. I don’t buy the Pearl stuff. I really don’t. I think he would be a tougher sell and I think the Kentucky fans want Nate Oats and I think until that one passes, the story has quickly shifted in Alabama to whether Nate Oats stays or not. Now, listen, I realize people are waking up across the state this morning to this news, probably including Nate Oats.”