On Tuesday night, during the first half of Kentucky’s loss to South Carolina at Rupp Arena, a spectator was escorted out of the arena after holding up a sign that read “Please go to Texas,” referring to speculation about Kentucky coach John Calipari potentially coaching the Longhorns. The unidentified man held up the sign for several minutes before arena security arrived following complaints from other fans. Kentucky basketball spokesman Deb Moore said that the man was given the choice of putting the sign away but refused and chose to leave.
This incident occurred amidst a difficult period for the Kentucky basketball team. The team currently has a record of 10-6, and is 1-3 in the Southeastern Conference, and have lost their last two games. Furthermore, their 28-game home winning streak was snapped by the Gamecocks. With the team in danger of missing the NCAA tournament, coach Calipari has come under criticism on social media.
The disappointment of Tuesday night’s game followed a 78-52 loss at the hands of No. 4 Alabama. This season, the team has also suffered double-digit losses against Michigan State, Gonzaga, UCLA, and Missouri. Despite starting the season ranked No. 4 in the AP Top 25, the team has yet to find its footing.
In the midst of Kentucky’s struggles, speculation arose that Calipari might be a candidate to coach the Longhorns, following their decision to fire Chris Beard on Jan. 5 after he was charged with felony domestic violence in December involving his fiancée.
Calipari, a Hall of Famer, said on his weekly radio show Monday night that he hasn’t spoken to Texas, adding that he remains focused on Kentucky. After the game, Calipari understand the fans’ frustration and said, “If you want to get on me, that’s fine. I’m the coach. If we weren’t ready to play, then I’ve got to look at me and say, well, what, why, where were we mentally.”
