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John Calipari’s time at Kentucky has officially ended. The longtime coach is on his way out of Lexington and onto SEC rival Arkansas. A number of people played a part in that decision, including Jerry Jones!
Jones is a former Razorback football player, and of course, the current owner of the Dallas Cowboys.
His ties and support of his alma mater have been on full display throughout the years. Not only is Jones a notable donor, but he’s also opened up opportunities for national exposure.
That includes an annual matchup with Texas A&M played at AT&T Stadium in Arlington that helps the Arkansas get in front of fans and prospective athletes in the Lone Star State.
Now, it seems Jones is making in impact on the hardwood.
According to Pro Football Talk, his status as a booster helped reel in the Razorbacks’ big fish.
Jones played college football at Arkansas and remains involved as a donor, and in the new world of college sports where so much success hinges on convincing players that wealthy donors will hook them up with lucrative NIL deals, a booster like Jones is attractive to players and coaches alike.
That NIL is crucial, but it shouldn’t come as a surprise to hear that the University of Arkansas has deep pockets. Jerry Jones is giving his support, as is Rob Walton – a Denver Broncos co-owner whose family owns Walmart.
And then, there’s frozen chicken billionaire John Tyson, who reportedly also opened up the checkbook to land his friend, Calipari.
Arkansas took a hit when Eric Musselman bolted for USC, taking with him a Sweet 16 appearance and two Elite Eights. That loss has all but been forgotten now that John Calipari is on board.