John Calipari to Coach Kentucky

Calipari’s text message to ESPN.com’s Andy Katz said it all, “I am accepting the UK job! Go Big Blue, coach Cal.”

Calipari will receive the biggest contract in college basketball, an eight-year deal for $31.65 million and incentives. The excitement following the deal, however, will likely pass quickly, as the former Memphis coach will be under pressure to get his team to perform. Some have even said that they believe Kentucky should be a top 5 team, if all of their players perform to their potential.

Calipari reportedly told the returning players at Memphis that they needed to stay there. Now that Calipari has left, it also looks as if Tyreke Evans will leave the Tigers and head to the NBA draft.

(Photo by Adam Sonnett)