John Calipari has been credited with putting the Memphis basketball program on the map, and his former employer plans to pay tribute to him for that during the upcoming season.
On Wednesday, University of Memphis president David Rudd announced that the Tigers have planned a ceremony to honor Calipari in December. UMass, the school that gave Calipari his first head coaching job, announced earlier this year that it will retire a jersey for Calipari. The Kentucky coach thanked both schools on Twitter.
I appreciate UMass and Memphis for deciding to honor what we were able to accomplish.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) September 10, 2015
UMass gave me my first opportunity and Memphis revived my career. I have a special place in my heart for both Amherst and Memphis.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) September 10, 2015
But not everyone appreciates what Calipari did for their team. More than a handful of Memphis fans are outraged that Calipari is going to be honored after the infamous Derrick Rose scandal that resulted in a vacated 2007-2008 season, including a Final Four appearance. Rudd said he is listening to all the feedback.
A good thing. Rest assured, I'll read each & every one. Tying to track down the guy that told me twitter was fun. pic.twitter.com/DoHreyHJrx
— Dr. M. David Rudd (@UofMemphisPres) September 9, 2015
Those are some strong feelings. Reading, but it may take a while. Rose Kennedy had a quote about these situations. pic.twitter.com/NCDGQMosIA
— Dr. M. David Rudd (@UofMemphisPres) September 10, 2015
Certainly getting the message that many have not. Appreciate the thoughts. Know I'm listening. pic.twitter.com/ZSo2T8sLGr
— Dr. M. David Rudd (@UofMemphisPres) September 10, 2015
Appreciate the feedback. Has been civil and appropriate. Thank you. Read 'em all. Will continue to listen to our fan base in the coming days
— Dr. M. David Rudd (@UofMemphisPres) September 10, 2015
It would be hard to imagine Memphis pulling back on its offer, but the last thing the school needs is Calipari getting booed during what is supposed to be an uplifting ceremony. Blunders like this one showed us that it took Memphis a while to get over Calipari, but a good portion of the Tigers fan base holds harsh feelings toward him.
