John Calipari, the new head coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, has expressed his intention to limit his roster size to eight or nine players for the upcoming season. This decision reflects his adaptation to the evolving landscape of college basketball, influenced by the transfer portal and Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities.
Calipari’s approach marks a departure from his previous strategy at Kentucky, where he often assembled large, talent-rich rosters. He now aims to focus on developing a smaller, more cohesive team. In a recent podcast, Calipari explained, “You may think I’m crazy, but I told my staff I only want to have eight or nine guys… They’re leaving anyway, and why would I develop a kid for someone else?”This philosophy aligns with the current trends in college basketball, where many programs are opting for smaller rosters to maintain stability and continuity. Calipari noted that teams like Purdue and Connecticut have found success with players who have remained in their programs for multiple years, contrasting with the frequent roster turnover seen else whereTo supplement his roster, Calipari is considering utilizing graduate assistants who have recent playing experience, potentially filling practice roles to ensure the team maintains competitive intensity. As Arkansas prepares for the 2024–25 season, Calipari’s strategic shift aims to build a team characterized by physical toughness and a strong work ethic, aligning with his vision for the program’s future.