After rumors surfaced that the University of Kentucky Coach John Calipari inquired about the vacant president position for the New York Knicks, Calipari took to social media and talk shows to dispute the claims.
As of March, Kentucky announced that it extended Calipari’s coaching contract to 2024. The Wildcat’s coach has become famous for his one and done talents that now can be seen on every all-star team, including John Wall, DeMarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis. At one time, Calipari coached the New Jersey Nets. Yet, coaching and recruiting at Kentucky has best suited his talents. Calipari loves his role and has no intention of returning to the NBA.
NO ONE has contacted the Knicks on my behalf. I am the coach at Kentucky and will be for a long time!
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) June 30, 2017
“There is no one on my behalf who called the Knicks,” Calipari said on ESPN’s radio show Mike and Mike. “There might be a college coach who inquired, but it wasn’t me. I called my wife and asked, “Was it you?”
Calipari’s interest in the Knick’s presidency has not been the only false rumors to emerge after the departure of Phil Jackson. Hall of Famer Isaiah Thomas was also reported as being interested in the position. Thomas quickly made announced these rumors to be untrue.
I'm not interested in joining @nyknicks. I'm happy with the @nyliberty & NBATV. I wish the best for the Knicks and @PhilJackson11
— Isiah Thomas (@IsiahThomas) June 29, 2017
The rapidity to which people are denying contacting the Knicks speaks to the tumultuous culture that the Knicks have created. Both potential players and managers do not want any part in the franchise, and they will go out of their way to make their disinterest known. Many more famous names will be thrown in the pot for Jackson’s position as the summer progresses. Some will be rumors and some will be true. No matter who the Knicks sign however, a new president will not fix their problem.
Featured Image via Wikimedia
