John Calipari has signed a five-year contract to become the head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks men’s basketball team. The contract includes a base salary of $7 million per year, a $1 million signing bonus, and annual retention bonuses of $500,000.
Additionally, Calipari can earn performance-based incentives, such as up to $500,000 for winning a national championship. The agreement also features a no-compete clause, preventing him from accepting coaching positions at other Southeastern Conference schools during the contract term.
This move follows Calipari’s 15-year tenure at Kentucky, where he achieved a 410-122 record and secured a national championship in 2012. His decision to join Arkansas was influenced by a close relationship with Arkansas billionaire investor and Tyson Foods chairman John H. Tyson, who has been a significant supporter of the university’s basketball program.
Under Calipari’s leadership, Arkansas aims to enhance its competitiveness in college basketball, bolstered by a substantial Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) budget reportedly at least $5 million annually.
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