John Calipari on Lakers rumors, one-and-done, title game
John Calipari came into our New York studio to discuss the national title game and his new book “Players First, Coaching from the Inside Out.” Here are some of his takes:
— Calipari said there was nothing to Rex Chapman’s Tweet that he was going to the Lakers. “I was really surprised,” Calipari said. “That’s all part of being the coach at Kentucky. But that disappointed me. Unless the Lakers told him. …. They had a coach, we had a coach. But I accept it. I’m not mad at Rex.”
— Calipari said he wants the one and done to change to two required years. Calipari said that one and done is a negative term and it should be “succeed and proceed.” Calipari said that several of his players have played one year and gone on to great success.
— Calipari explained why his team was a bit tight for the title game. “I tried to minimize the game,” Calipari said. “It didn’t work.” Calipari said the stage and the moment got to them.
— Dan asked about criticism of his coaching in the final minute. Calipari said that he feels the only mistake was not making a timeout after a basket in the final minute.
— Dan asked about his reputation. Calipari said if he’s getting criticized, he doesn’t know about it. Can’t use the internet. Doesn’t read e-mail. He said he can text.