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Has the ripple effect already begun? Following the earth-shattering news that John Calipari is leaving Kentucky basketball to become the new head coach for Arkansas, former McDonald's All-American Aaron Bradshaw is entering the transfer portal, per ESPN's Jeff Borzello.
Big Blue Nation knows that sweeping changes are coming, but its patience might be tested in the immediate aftermath of this major coaching departure. Although fans were growing tired of the Wildcats' March melancholy, they will likely miss the plethora of five-star recruits and future NBA lottery picks who flocked to Lexington to play for Calipari.
Perhaps the new man in charge, whoever that may be, can stockpile premier talent in short order. Until that day comes, however, more highly-touted prospects are probably going to enter the portal, possibly to follow Coach Cal to Fayetteville. Irrespective of the 2012 national champion's exit, there was always a chance Bradshaw would transfer.
The big man averaged just 4.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in 26 games during his freshman season. A foot injury prevented him from getting off to a good start, and the struggles only persisted. The possibility of him seeking a bigger role elsewhere existed with or without Calipari manning the sidelines.
Assuming he chooses wisely, Bradshaw should have the opportunity to showcase his ample potential and revive his future NBA Draft stock. Regardless of his own decision-making process, Kentucky must prepare for a mass exodus. A new day has dawned in the Bluegrass State, one that brings hope to some, and dread to others.
As the John Calipari era ends, Kentucky braces for roster turnover
Many people were calling for Calipari to be removed after another early NCAA Tournament elimination, as the great-on-paper Wildcats fell to No. 14 seed Oakland in the Round of 64. One can only bust so many brackets before the murmurs turn to emphatic pleas. Despite all the noise, a split seemed improbable at this time.
Firing Calipari would force the university to suffer through a $33 million buyout. Hence, the Wildcats opted to keep him. But he had his own ideas.
This stunning move within the SEC was part of a chain reaction sequence first triggered by Andy Enfield's decision to join SMU. Eric Musselman fills the USC vacancy, and now John Calipari is committing to the Razorbacks. The seismic waves still reverberating throughout the NCAA are only going to increase once Kentucky basketball plugs in their own open slot.
The job still carries prestige and appeal, but it also comes with immense pressure. Whether it is Nate Oats, Billy Donovan or another candidate, success in March will be demanded. Ironically, the best way to meet those lofty expectations is by thriving in the same area that has long been Calipari's bread and butter– recruiting.
It is not just about adding star power, however. The Wildcats need to construct a team that fits together nicely and is well-equipped to do damage in the NCAA Tournament. The landscape has changed, and so too has the pathway to a Final Four.
Kentucky basketball looks to reshape their identity
John Calipari incredibly found a balance between getting guys ready for the NBA and building a perennial title contender. But the scale has heavily tipped toward one direction in the last few years, with Kentucky going four-straight years without a Sweet Sixteen appearance.
Players like Aaron Bradshaw are essential for competing in a rising SEC, and generating national interest, but the value of chemistry cannot be overstated, either.
While it is difficult to imagine anyone replicating Calipari's brand of basketball, especially given all he has achieved in this sport, top-tier recruits will still come to Kentucky if the program can maintain a high standard of excellence. That begins in this pivotal hiring process.
