Scott Drew will not be included in the search to replace Kentucky men's basketball coach John Calipari. The longtime Baylor coach has decided to remain with the Bears after discussions with the Wildcats, a person familiar with the situation told USA TODAY Sports. The people spoke on condition of anonymity because the decision has not been made public.
Drew posted a statement on social media Thursday, reaffirming his commitment to Baylor.
“In our program, we strive to put Jesus first, others second, and ourselves second,” the statement said. “I truly believe that God has called my family and I to continue our work here at Baylor, surrounded by the best people and community anyone could be blessed with. , (Athletic Director) Mac Rhoades, and (President Linda) for their support.'' Livingston and the entire Baylor family, and we look forward to working together to bring more championships to Waco. . ”
Drew was hired by Baylor in 2003 as the program was in turmoil following the firing of coach Dave Bliss, who was implicated in an NCAA investigation stemming from the killing of player Patrick Dennehy by teammate Carlton Dotson. Ta. Drew received sanctions that included a multi-year postseason ban, restrictions on his game schedule, and a significant reduction in his scholarship, forcing him to rebuild his program from the ground up.
Drew appeared in the NCAA Tournament 12 times at Baylor University, compiling a 446-244 record, but did not have a winning season until the Bears made the tournament in 2008. It was his first appearance for the Bears since 1988. They will be playing in the Elite Eight. Baylor advanced to the national semifinals in 2021, making it to the Final Four for the first time in 51 years. That season, the Bears defeated Gonzaga to win their first national title. They have been eliminated in the second round the past three seasons.
His decision to take over at Kentucky means the Wildcats still have work to do and uncertainty over their current roster. Decisions will be made by the current players and the best class of incoming players in the country. Rob Dillingham, who declared for the NBA Draft, and Aaron Bradshaw, who entered the transfer portal before Calipari announced his departure on Tuesday, have already left.
Calipari compiled a 410-123 record at Kentucky, winning a national title in 2012 and reaching the Final Four four times. He was introduced as the new coach at the University of Arkansas on Wednesday.