John Calipari and Coach K discuss the evolving nature of NIL in college basketball landscape
John Calipari has seen the evolution of college basketball in over three decades as head coach of various programs in the country.
Ahead of kickstarting a new journey with the Arkansas Razorbacks, Calipari discussed the impact of NIL deals on college basketball with Duke Blue Devils' former coach Mike Krzyzewski, aka Coach K.
Coach K retired in 2022, following 42 years at Durham. As part of the premiere of the 20th season of his podcast, 'Basketball & Beyond' with Coach K, Krzyzewski invited Calipari.
The duo discussed how NIL deals have changed the landscape of college basketball, with Krzyzewski describing it as 'pay for play'.
"Coaching right now, I coached, now, three years ago," said Krzyzeswki. "It's pay for play. It's pro. Why aren't we doing things like the pros? They're already getting paid, all these kids are getting paid.
"I'm not against it. Let's just get current in everything. Why not get current in everything?" he added.
Calipari agreed with Krzyzewski's views, revealing how he treats his players as if they're playing in a pro league.
"What you're saying, is so true in that, the relevance of the parties involved to be, name, image and likeness. But, the reality of it is what you said. It's not," said Calipari.
"I'll be honest with you. I'd tell my guys, you're pros and I'm going to treat you like pros. I'd tell these kids, if you're doing this, great. And they'd say, where would the money go? I'd say, I'll keep the money! It'd be my money, so I'd be finding you left and right."
John Calipari leads Arkansas Razorbacks to strong victory in exhibition game
After 15 seasons with the Kentucky Wildcats, John Calipari made a major decision to take up the top job at the Arkansas Razorbacks.
He made a solid impression early on, as the Razorbacks beat the Kansas Jayhawks 85-69 in an exhibition game at the Bud Walton Arena on October 25.
Boogie Fland and DJ Wagner, two players who decided to follow Calipari to Arkansas instead of representing the Wildcats, starred for the Razorbacks, finishing with 22 and 24 points, respectively.
Calipari will begin his maiden season as the Razorbacks' head coach with a home game against the Lipscomb Bisons on November 6.