If you’ve been on the Internet in the last day or two, you’ve probably heard this rumor swirling – NC State has met with and offered John Calipari their head coaching job. You can read the details a number of places, but David Glenn probably has the best sources. According to Glenn, Calipari was “overwhelmed” by State’s offer.
Calipari seems like a near-perfect fit for the Wolfpack. He’s a big name with proven recruiting success and he’s built two programs up to national elite status. Given his stature and history, there’s no question that he’s not afraid to challenge Duke and Carolina for regional (and national) supremacy. On top of that, Calipari gives off the whiff of scandal that I think a lot of State fans are probably looking for at this point. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t think they want trouble, but I think they are tired of getting praise for doing everything the right way and then losing. A guy who seems willing to bend some rules (whether he actually does or not) to get to the promised land is just what they need now. Remember, all three of their past successful coaches ran afoul of the NCAA at some point.
I’ve written a bit about my feelings on Calipari before – here and here – but I should point out that I do think he’s a very good coach. I’m not sure he’s a great game coach (and I know some Memphis fans who would back me on that), but he’s a great recruiter who builds some great teams.
I should also add that from the sound of things, he is doing a much better job keeping his players in school than he did at UMass. Memphis has a long history of not graduation players, but I’ve read that Calipari has a success rate of 80%, which is commendable. If he comes to State (and I bet he will), I hope he keeps that up.


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