Calipari: Will retire before becoming 'transactional' coach - ESPN
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Myron Medcalf
Oct 14, 2025, 04:09 PM ET
BIRMINGHAM, Alabama -- John Calipari, the 66-year-old coach, is not considering an early exit from college basketball, despite watching his peers depart unexpectedly due to major sport changes. However, he emphasizes that he will leave when he can no longer fulfill his coaching vision.
Calipari defines his coaching philosophy as 'transformational' rather than 'transactional'. He aims to help families through his work, and believes that a transactional approach, where players are paid to perform, goes against his values. If he becomes transactional, he won't continue his work.
Despite Arkansas' recent additions, including five-star recruit Darius Acuff, the program has also lost standout talents to the portal, such as Boogie Fland and Zvonimir Ivisic. Calipari's approach to the portal is strict; he warns players that entering it means their time with the Razorbacks is over, even if they change their minds. This stance reflects his commitment to maintaining genuine relationships with players.
Calipari remains passionate and connected to his players, as evidenced by his practices at Arkansas. He plans to stay in college basketball to make positive changes for the next generation of coaches, including his son, Brad Calipari. Calipari's concern is for the long-term impact of frequent transfers, which can lead to players being perceived as 'mercenaries' rather than loyal team members.
He believes that the current era has made it more challenging to build genuine relationships with players. Calipari's focus is on ensuring that his own children and the next generation of coaches benefit from a more stable and supportive environment.
