John Calipari Brings Core Coaching Staff from Kentucky to Arkansas
ICARO Media Group
In a move that solidifies his commitment to building a successful program at the University of Arkansas, new head coach John Calipari is set to bring the majority of his coaching staff from his previous tenure at Kentucky. According to sources close to the situation, Calipari plans to retain four out of his five assistants from the 2023-24 Kentucky team.
The coaching staff joining Calipari at Arkansas will include associate to the head coach Bruiser Flint, associate coach Orlando Antigua, assistant coach Chuck Martin, and assistant coach Chin Coleman. These experienced individuals have all played crucial roles in the development and success of Kentucky's basketball program.
In an additional coup for the Razorbacks, Calipari will also bring on his son, Brad Calipari, who served as Vanderbilt's director of on-court player development during the previous season. This appointment further highlights Calipari's trust in his son's ability to contribute to the growth of the Arkansas team.
The only staff member who will not be accompanying Calipari to Arkansas is John Welch, who recently accepted the associate head coach role at Fresno State. Although Welch will be missed, the remainder of the coaching staff from Kentucky will undoubtedly bring their expertise and experience to the Razorbacks' program.
At Arkansas, Antigua, Coleman, and Martin will hold the title of assistant coaches, while Flint will assume the role of special assistant coach. Meanwhile, Brad Calipari will take charge of player development, bringing his unique insights and expertise to enhance the skills of the Razorbacks' players.
These coaching appointments demonstrate Calipari's commitment to assembling a strong and cohesive team capable of competing at the highest level. Arkansas fans can expect a thorough and strategic approach to player development and team success under their new head coach.
John Calipari was officially introduced as the head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks on Wednesday. The five-year contract he signed includes a starting salary of $7 million per year, along with various incentives tied to the team's performance. The contract will run through 2029, with the opportunity for two automatic rollover years based on NCAA Tournament berths. Additionally, Calipari will receive a $1 million signing bonus, further solidifying his commitment to the Arkansas basketball program.
With the arrival of John Calipari and his trusted coaching staff, Arkansas fans can look forward to an exciting era of basketball success as they aim to reclaim their position among the nation's elite programs.