When rumors that legendary head coach John Calipari was leaving Lexington for Fayetteville turned into reports and shook the college basketball world Sunday night, the conversation quickly turned to who would replace him at Kentucky.
Among the names left out was Alabama head coach Nate Oats, and it's easy to see why.
Oats is arguably the hottest player in the sport right now, having just led an Alabama team that was defenseless for most of the season to its first Final Four appearance in franchise history.
And Kentucky is arguably one of the best places to work in college basketball, with everything a coach could want.
But according to the coach himself, Alabama fans don't have to worry about losing their coach anymore.
— Nate Oats (@nate_oats) April 9, 2024
“I am fully committed to this team and university. We have already accomplished great things here and I want nothing more than for the University of Alabama to win its first ever national championship in men's basketball. Rest assured that no matter what rumors there are, I will continue to pursue that goal as head coach. Roll Tide!” Oats posted on X.
Athletic director Greg Byrne cited Oats' statement in his own post, promising to continue supporting Oats and the program through the NIL and hinting that they are still working toward building a new practice facility and arena.
https://t.co/2kEoHzdAU1 https://t.co/R3DIMHSfFp pic.twitter.com/lFw8WRFC77
— Greg Byrne (@Greg_Byrne) April 9, 2024
Before the start of the NCAA Tournament, Oats received a contract extension that included an $18 million buyout, the largest in the country.
The deal makes Oats one of the highest-paid coaches in sports.
When news broke that the Kentucky position was open, many suspected Oats could take advantage of the opportunity to land an even bigger contract even if he didn't head to the Bluegrass State.
but, Nick Kelly of Tuscaloosa NewsOats did not change his contract again before making his statement, further suggesting that Tuscaloosa is where Oats wants to be.
I'm hearing that Nate Oats didn't change his contract with Alabama amid all the Kentucky rumors, he wants to stay in Tuscaloosa.
— Nick Kelly (@_NickKelly) April 9, 2024
Michael Browner is a senior sports analyst and contributor to Yellow Hammer News. You can follow him on Twitter. translation:
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