Overview
- Calipari said he would walk away rather than coach on a pay-for-play basis in the NIL and transfer-portal era.
- He announced that Arkansas players who put their names in the portal will not be permitted to rejoin the program.
- He called for reforms including enforcing “five years to play four,” criticizing extended eligibility pursued for money.
- He framed the stance as protecting the sport’s future, citing talks with Houston’s Kelvin Sampson and noting his assistant son Brad.
- His remarks came as Arkansas manages roster churn, with exits like Boogie Fland (Florida) and Zvonimir Ivisic (Illinois) and additions including Elmir Dzafic and five-star Darius Acuff Jr.