John Calipari Still Appreciative To Coach at Kentucky After 15 Years, 'I’m Lucky and Fortunate'

Soon after taking the Kentucky job in 2009, John Calipari spoke with former Wildcat coach Joe B. Hall, who told him that ten years would be a good run at Kentucky. Well, Calipari is now entering year 15 and shows no signs of hanging it up.

In fact, Calipari’s media day comments suggest that he is rejuvenated and prepared to coach at least another two seasons, referring to the outlook of the 2024 and 2025 recruiting classes. “I’m having fun doing what I’m doing,” Calipari said. “What is happening in ’24, ’25 — I’m liking where this program is right now.”

As long as Calipari is coaching, he will certainly have a constant stream of talent coming in. At this point, it’s about getting better results after winning just one game over the last three seasons. That said, despite the criticism he has received of late, from media and fans, Calipari acknowledges that he holds one of the best, if not the best, jobs in college basketball.

“I’m coaching at Kentucky. Basketball at Kentucky, in the SEC,” Calipari said. “I’m the luckiest guy out there – it’s a hard job, but there’s not an easy job out there… I’m lucky and fortunate that I’ve had this opportunity.”