"They're exactly what you want in a fan": Arkansas HC John Calipari does not hold fans accountable for "pushing" him to leave Kentucky job

Arkansas coach John Calipari talked about the process of leaving the Kentucky Wildcats on "The Dan Patrick Show" on Wednesday. He also used the platform to deny some narratives about him.

It's been over two months since Arkansas surprisingly hired Calipari from Kentucky after his 15-year tenure. He addressed the reasons behind the move, saying that the fans did not push him to leave the Kentucky job.

When asked if he jumped before he was pushed, the Hall of Fame coach replied:

"Kentucky fans are engaged. They are exactly what you want in a fan until you lose a game you're not supposed to lose. And they're still engaged, so it had nothing to do with that. For me to do what I am doing, I needed that tailwind, no headwinds.

"And, you know, as far as saying, 'Well, they pushed you out.' Now, I don't think that was the case, but again, let it be good for both. I mean, I had 15 great years there, let Mark Pope have 15 great years.

"Let me finish how I want to finish, let me build another program. Let me win another national championship. Let's help another 25 families. Let me do this."

Why did John Calipari choose Arkansas?

While John Calipari said he didn't plan the Arkansas move, the opportunity presented itself and he wanted to take advantage of it. Plus, the opportunity to hire his son was a major factor in his decision.

His son, Brad Calipari, joined Arkansas in May as an assistant coach and the director of on-court player development after two years at Vanderbilt.

Arkansas basketball is in the SEC and offers outstanding facilities, an amazing 20,000-seat arena and a great fanbase and support. In the next season, Arkansas will lock horns with Kentucky in a highly anticipated matchup.

Which team will win and how will John Calipari perform at Arkansas?