Calipari's Gamble On One And Done Players Fails At Kentucky

John Calipari has always been known as a good recruiter. No matter where he has coached, Calipari has brought in some of the best prep talent in the nation. This year, however, that approach may have set Calipari and the Kentucky program back a few years.

On Wednesday, five Kentucky players declared for the NBA draft. Among them, is the likely number one pick in John Wall, and another likely lottery selection in DeMarcus Cousins. Junior Patrick Patterson, freshman Eric Bledsoe, and freshman Daniel Orton are the other three.

Kentucky went 35-3 this past season, but fell short of winning the national championship. The Wildcats were the number one seed in their region, but were upended by West Virginia after shooting miserably from beyond the three point line.

"Anytime in college basketball when you get that close, you want to be able to come back the next year and redeem yourselves, finish off the mission," said Analyst Brad Dawkins. "Unfortunately, Kentucky will not have that opportunity."

Calipari will now begin the process of reloading, something he has done well over the years. He already has locked down some of the best players in the nation, and with many starting spots up for grabs, Kentucky may be an attractive option for freshman looking for instant playing time.

Wall had said last week after the loss to West Virginia that there was no guarantee he would leave for the NBA. The star player indicated that he would have conversations with his teammates, and whatever decision they made it would be a group decision. Today, it was revealed that decision would be heading to the NBA.

April 7, 2010
Posted By Vincent Tapoglia III
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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