Today is John Calipari’s birthday. Although he would lead you to believe he hasn’t aged since that one time he was wrong back in 1978, Kentucky’s head coach turns 63.
In addition to getting to coach one of his favorite teams ever in practice, Calipari has been showered with gifts today, including roses and lunch money from his roommate, Ellen:
As an aside, there’s a LOT going on in this picture. What other bathroom vanity includes a Rolex, championship rings, Gold Bond Medicated Powder, AND a phone charger?)
His staff also got him a cake designed by the talented Brandi Romines:
However, the best gift of all came in hour two of today’s KSR when Kentucky Joe dedicated an original song to Calipari. Entitled “Happy Birthday, Coach Cal,” it’s sure to go down as one of his best hits alongside “Big Blue Fan In The Morning” and “I’m A Willie Cauley-Stein Man.
No, Zvonimir I visit has not yet been cleared by the NCAA. Yes, John Calipari is frustrated. The good news, though? The 7-2 forward out of Croatia is expected to rejoin the team this week ahead of Kentucky‘s trip to Gainsville.
Beyond that, though, clarity is hard to come by regarding his eligibility situation.
Coach Cal struggled to come up with the right words to explain where things stand today, specifically when dealing with the NCAA.
Through it all, I visit dealt with real physical and mental adversities, which led to their decision to send him back home for the holidays.
“He’ll be back in town, but it’s got to be a total fight or — you know, I just don’t know how long,” Calipari said. “I mean, you can’t — it’s not working with, it’s like, ‘Hey man, let’s go.
’ I mean, I had to send him home. He’s 242, down to (219). Come on, man.
He wasn’t sleeping, eating. This stuff has gotten to him.”
