John Calipari is well known for his “one-and-done” philosophy. The Kentucky Wildcats head coach has become famous for recruiting players who spend one year playing for him before moving on to the NBA.
This year, Calipari is taking it to the extreme. The head coach announced over a series of Tweets on Wednesday that all of his players will declare for the NBA draft this summer. In doing so, they will be taking advantage of a newly instituted NCAA rule allowing players to declare for the draft in hopes of being invited to the combine with the option of withdrawing their names and keeping their college eligibility.
Calipari had the following to say:
When the season’s over, it’s about each individual player and what’s right for them and their families.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) March 23, 2016
With that being said, every player who is eligible for the draft, including our walk-ons, will submit their names for the NBA Draft …
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) March 23, 2016
… in hopes of being invited to the combine in May.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) March 23, 2016
The new rule states they can submit their name a total of three times. If they choose to withdraw, they have until 10 days after the combine
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) March 23, 2016
It's a true win-win for the student-athlete.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) March 23, 2016
Clearly, Calipari has the best interest of his players in mind here. There is really no losing scenario for the players as they will be able to change their mind and stay in college if they choose to do so. Coach Cal is merely giving them the option of pursuing a career in the NBA as soon as they would like. This seems like a smart move by Calipari in using the new rule to provide benefits to his players.
