LEXINGTON, Ky. — John Calipari received a mixed reception at Rupp Arena on Saturday night, then watched his Arkansas team upset No. 12 Kentucky 89-79.
Three former Wildcats — Adou Thiero (21 points), D.J. Wagner (17) and Zvonimir Ivisic (14 points) — had big nights against their former team as the Razorbacks (13-8, 2-6 SEC) got a win in Calipari’s first game back since leaving the Wildcats after last season.
“We played with more confidence because we played fearless,” he told ESPN after the game. “And I was coaching them that way.
“And so proud of them. Good win on the road. Hard game to win in this building. I’ve been here. So it’s a hard game to win.”
Calipari served as coach of the Wildcats for 15 seasons and compiled a 410-123 mark. He led Kentucky to its eighth national championship in 2012 before resigning last April for the Arkansas job.
There were definitely more boos at a jam-packed Rupp, but some applause and cheers as well in Calipari’s return.
Amari Williams had a season-high 22 points and 11 rebounds for Kentucky (15-6, 4-4). Jaxson Robinson also scored 20 as the Wildcats lost their second straight home game.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
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