PHOTO: Arkansas HC John Calipari poses with Sacramento star Malik Monk’s mom - “One of the original momma bears”
John Calipari's illustrious Kentucky Wildcats roots followed him to Arkansas, as four players transferred to the Razorbacks after his exit from the program. As he grips the program through offseason practices and bonding sessions, another awarding instance of his tenure with the Cats comes through Sacramento Kings star Malik Monk's family.
Calipari posted a photo with Jackie Monk, Malik's mother, in an X update on Thursday, highlighting her efforts to ensure her children's success and the relationships he endures through his coaching role.
"One of those special moms Ms. Jackie Monk, Malik’s mom! She was one of the original momma bears. Again, what is great about our profession is the relationships!" Calipari quipped in the post.
Malik Monk's brother Marcus Monk and his son Maasai were also present in the vicinity, which Calipari highlighted by posting a group image in the comment section of his X update.
Jackie Monk was one of the biggest influences on Malik Monk’s basketball journey, as she used to hoop until the birth of Malik's elder brother Marcus.
Apart from all the basketball talks the mother-son duo had, Jackie moved to Bentonville to support Monk’s basketball pursuits and Marcus’ football journey with the Razorbacks.
She used to work for a local school district as Malik Monk represented Bentonville High, earning a trip to McDonald’s All-American and Mr. Basketball of Arkansas award in 2016. He eventually joined the Kentucky Wildcats that year, sparking the John Calipari connection with the family.
John Calipari adds another game to the Razorbacks' non-conference 2024-25 schedule
John Calipari’s first appearance as the Arkansas coach came in April’s introductory press conference. Since then, he has been actively bolstering the roster, scouting upcoming talents and initiating conversations with top recruits.
With that, the coach has added a home game against North Carolina AT&T on December 21. The Razorbacks are aligned to play on grand stages like Madison Square Garden, Dallas and North Little Rock for exposure.
Their current December schedule pits them against teams like Miami for the SEC/ACC Challenge, Michigan, for the Jimmy V Classic and three games in Arkansas.