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John Calipari explains secret formula that molds Kentucky basketball players into top NBA Draft picks

By Brad Berreman

Jan 29, 2020; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari reacts during the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores in the second half at Rupp Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 29, 2020; Lexington, Kentucky, USA; Kentucky Wildcats head coach John Calipari reacts during the game against the Vanderbilt Commodores in the second half at Rupp Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kentucky basketball has a consistent pipeline to the NBA, and John Calipari has revealed the formula that creates stars at the next level.

Kentucky basketball coach John Calipari has drawn some criticism for being a lead purveyor of the “one and done” culture in the sport. He has also been unapologetic about it, citing the number of former Wildcats who get drafted, get drafted highly and have success in the NBA.

On Wednesday night, two Kentucky players went in the first round of the 2020 NBA Draft. Guard Tyrese Maxey (No. 21 to the Philadelphia 76ers) and guard Immanuel Quickley (No. 25 to the Oklahoma City Thunder, traded to the New York Knicks) continued that tradition. A third former Wildcat, center Nick Richards, was drafted in the second round (No. 42 to the New Orleans Pelicans, traded to the Charlotte Hornets) and three more signed as undrafted free agents.

John Calipari explains how Kentucky builds players for the NBA

During the draft on ESPN, Calipari explained why he thinks his former Kentucky players get so well-prepared for the next level.

“They have to fight here. They’re not guaranteed anything and when you pick here, you know there are going to be other good players,” “You’ve gotta take what you want. You’re not going to be given anything, you’ve got to earn it. You’ve got to create your space.”

“Coming here, you’ve got to bet on yourself,” Calipari said. “You’re not betting on me as a coach. You’re betting on yourself and you’re not afraid to come into this. Those are those kids and that’s why, I feel, they do so well.”

Over Calipari’s 11 seasons as coach, Kentucky has had a total of 41 draft picks, which is a staggering 14 more than Duke who has the second most. Of the 41 NBA Draft picks, three were No. 1 overall picks, 31 were first-rounders and 21 were lottery picks.

Calipari openly celebrates what he calls “Graduation Night” for his players. It came about five months later than normal this year, but the 2020 NBA draft still had ample shades of Kentucky blue.

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