Kentucky coach John Calipari, AD Mitch Barnhart dismiss Lakers rumor
Ex-Kentucky player Rex Chapman tweeted that John Calipari was a "done deal" to coach the Lakers. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, Texas -- To believe a former program star's tweet shortly before tipoff Monday, John Calipari was coaching his final game on the Kentucky sideline before bolting to the Los Angeles Lakers.
To believe Calipari, he won't need change of address forms anytime soon.
"The Lakers have a coach," Calipari said after a 60-54 loss to Connecticut in the national title game. "Kentucky has a basketball coach. I got the best job in the country. I'm not going to even dignify that stuff."
It was former Wildcats star Rex Chapman who stirred the pot not long before the proceedings began at AT&T Stadium. "Was messin' 'round on Sat nite re: Cal," Chapman wrote. "But word is - win or lose 2nite - it's a #DoneDeal ...Cal 2 La-La-Land 2 coach Mamba's Lakers. #NoBS"
The Lakers reportedly denied any contact with Calipari. Kentucky athletic director Mitch Barnhart sounded unconcerned after the game.