Kentucky basketball coach John Calipari issued the following statement on the decisions by UMass and Memphis to honor him this coming season …
“I appreciate UMass and Memphis for deciding to honor what we were able to accomplish. UMass gave me my first opportunity and Memphis revived my career. I have a special place in my heart for both Amherst and Memphis. Ellen and I have made so many friends and created relationships with so many people at both schools that we will forever cherish. This week is about all of the schools, all of the staffs, all of our friends, all of our supporters, but most importantly, all of our players from all three schools.