JOHN CALIPARI: BASKETBALL AND POLITICS

John Calipari allegedly left Kentucky, in part, because Joe and Kelly Craft exerted too much influence over UK Athletics. Calipari allegedly refused to — and prohibited players — from endorsing Craft when she ran for Governor. The push for Calipari’s ouster allegedly began. If you’ve ever been involved in Kentucky politics, you know how dirty it can get. Our politicians play the game better than anyone. TOP VIDEOS Was Cal’s decision to make Barnhart believe he was staying — only to walk away — his “middle finger” to the influence Kentucky politicians have on college sports? The Hall of Fame Coach seemingly made it clear that his goal of protecting his players won’t be sidelined by anyone, for any reason. In a reflective and somber tone, he reminded us that everything he did in the Commonwealth was for the benefit of his players. If it didn’t benefit his players—- he didn’t do it. What I saw in Arkansas was a leader, refusing to bow down to the elite, sending a clear message — “My Players Can Follow Me Anywhere — Watch Us Now!”