“Blessings and prayers”: John Calipari posts emotional message for coach Nolan Richardson after wife Rose’s death
John Calipari penned an emotional message for Arkansas Razorbacks great Nolan Richardson on Monday following his wife, Rose Richardson's death on Sunday. She was 84.
"Rose Richardson, Coach Richardsons wife and right hand person who was with him every step of the way passed away," Calipari wrote. "From all the championships and celebrations to all the heartbreak that comes with the losses Rose was always there for him. For 12 years Coach returned the favor and was Roses caregiver. That shows a lot about the man.
"I talked to Coach Richardson yesterday and let him know we are here for him and ready to help him get through this tough time. Blessings and prayers to Coach Richardson and the family."
Nolan Richardson was reunited with Rose during his high school basketball coaching days after they initially met in El Paso, Texas when they attended high school. They were married for over 50 years. Richardson called her "the greatest coach’s wife I could have ever been blessed with" in his statement addressing her death.
Nolan Richardson paid a visit to John Calipari and the Razorbacks recently
In August, Richardson visited the University of Arkansas, and Calipari talked about it on social media.
"I’m so happy, great having Coach Richardson at practice today! It reminds me of my days in the gym with Coach Hall, Coach Bartow and Coach Leaman watching practice. Coach spoke to the team too, video to follow! I couldn’t be happier!!"
Nolan Richardson set all-time program records in his 17-season tenure at the Razorbacks in wins (389) and winning percentage (.697) and led them to the 1994 national championship. In 2019, the Razorbacks renamed the court at the Bud Walton Arena to the Nolan Richardson court as a tribute to the iconic coach.
John Calipari replaced USC-bound Eric Musselman this offseason as the Razorbacks' new head coach. He has immense weight on his shoulders ahead of his maiden season, given that the Razorbacks have made the NCAA Tournament in the last three seasons but haven't won the SEC regular season title since 1994.