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    John Calipari’s Most Likely NBA Destination Arises as Team Hunts for New Coach

    The New York Knicks’ search for a new head coach after firing Tom Thibodeau has reignited speculation about John Calipari’s potential NBA return. As a prominent college coach with Arkansas, Calipari’s name has surfaced due to his historical ties with the Knicks’ front office. But at 66, with a mixed recent record, is this a realistic move?

    Knicks’ Coaching Search Sparks John Calipari Rumors

    The Knicks fired Thibodeau on June 3, 2025, following a 4-2 Eastern Conference Finals loss to the Indiana Pacers, which led to a highly publicized coaching search. On June 4, Jeff Goodman suggested on Twitter that the Knicks could become a home for Calipari since he is connected with Knicks executive William “World Wide Wes” Wesley, who holds influence in the organization.

    But Goodman said Calipari’s age and track record won’t let him. This followed a comment from another user in response to Goodman’s original tweet, lamenting how Calipari was previously “good enough to be rumored to every NBA opening” and how much his stock has dropped since his Kentucky days.

    John Calipari’s NBA Fit Faces Challenges

    Calipari, who led Arkansas to a 22-14 record and an NCAA Sweet 16 in his first season, had a memorable college career but a poor NBA record with the Nets, 72-112 from 1996-1999. His last season at Kentucky, 2023-24, ended with a 23-10 record, while his worst Kentucky season was 2020-21, with a disappointing 9-16 record.

    Todd Fuhrman’s betting odds list Calipari as a long shot at 40/1, with candidates like Mike Malone (+150) and Jay Wright (+150) favored.

    The Knicks’ preference for a proven NBA coach, combined with Calipari’s age and recent struggles, dims his chances. Wesley’s influence keeps the door slightly ajar, but the fit feels more nostalgic than practical in today’s NBA landscape.

    KEEP READING:  John Calipari Attends Thunder-Wolves Game 4 To See Former Stars Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Julius Randle

    While the Knicks remain Calipari’s most likely NBA destination due to historical ties, the odds and current dynamics suggest this reunion is improbable. His college legacy endures, but the NBA may remain out of reach.

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