John Calipari wishes father happy birthday ahead of Rupp Arena return

John Calipari is making his long-awaited return to Rupp Arena, taking Arkansas into Lexington for a showdown against Kentucky. Before tip-off, there was a celebration in order for the Calipari family. His father is turning 92 years old on Saturday.

Before turning full attention to the game, Calipari took some time to wish his Dad a happy birthday on social media. He laid out all of the lessons learned while growing up while also expressing gratitude for the sacrifices made along the way.

“My Dad turns 92 today,” Calipari said via X. “He and my mom put 3 children through college and gave us a great start in life. He showed us what hard work was, working in the mill and as a baggage handler into his 70s. Double shifts and overtime was common. A gatherer that drew people to him because he would give the shirt off his back. So many lessons!! Love you dad. HAPPY BIRTHDAY!”

As of now, there is no word on whether or not Calipari’s Dad will be in attendance. There are not going to be too many people thrilled with his return but family would be wearing a different color in a familiar place.

Tip-off from Rupp Arena is scheduled for 8 p.m. but the game’s most interesting moment might take place pregame when Calipari walks onto the court.

John Calipari reflects on lessons learned while at Kentucky

John Calipari spent 15 seasons at Kentucky, and during that time sent the Wildcats to seven Elite Eight appearances, four Final Four’s, two national title appearances and one NCAA Championship.

Calipari learned a lot of lessons during his time leading the Wildcats. However, none were more important than learning how to be fearless, he told ESPN’s Jimmy Dykes during an exclusive interview inside Rupp Arena head of Arkansas vs. Kentucky on Saturday.

“None of it scared me,” Calipari said. “That’s good because I’m going through what I’m going through now, and it doesn’t scare me. I’ve been through the ups and downs of this stuff. I don’t see myself — I’ve got to win every game to prove I can coach. No, okay. This is about the kids. And here [at Kentucky], winning and losing can’t be life or death or you die at ton. But you learn that. You learn to keep changing and figuring out because I was bringing in a new team every year.

“That meant we’ve got to figure out how we’re going to do this, and that’s why it took ’till the end of the year … But you learn here, winning matters.”

On3’s Barkley Truax contributed to this report

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