Calipari Denies Interest in Pelicans’ Job

Kentucky coach John Calipari denied that he is interested in reuniting with star center Anthony Davis and former guard Tyreke Evans as head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans.

“Even though Anthony and Tyreke are in New Orleans, I have no interest in coaching the Pelicans or any other coaching position,” Calipari said. “I have a great job and I’m happy at Kentucky.”

A report on NOLA.com said the two sides have had “exploratory conversations,” but that money could be a sticking point.

Calipari recently signed an extension at Kentucky that takes him through the 2021-22 season and pays him about $8 million annually, but the Pelicans are only willing to pay $4-$5 million annually, the report says.

Golden State Warriors lead assistant Alvin Gentry will get the first interview for the job, according to the report. The Pelicans are also interested in Chicago Bulls coach Tom Thibodeau, who appears to have coached his last game in the Windy City.

Calipari, who will earn a $1.6 million bonus if he remains the Kentucky coach on July 1, coached Davis to the NCAA championship in 2012.

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