Rick Pitino and John Calipari will square off for the fifth time in the NCAA tournament, a matchup steeped in mutual respect yet personal distance. Pitino acknowledged the competitive history, admitting that despite coaching against each other 23 times, they've never shared a meal. With Calipari holding a 13-10 edge overall, their rivalry continues to evolve. Both coaches are at important junctures in their careers, with Pitino in his second season at St. John's and Calipari at Arkansas, both vying for continued success in the tournament.
The fifth matchup between Pitino and Calipari ties for the second most between two head coaches in NCAA tournament history, highlighting their storied rivalry.
Rick Pitino expresses respect for John Calipari but emphasizes their lack of personal closeness, stating they've never shared a meal despite being rivals for years.
Calipari noted the evolving narratives of their coaching careers, stating they are both writing new stories in their respective seasons with St. John's and Arkansas.
As they approach their matchup, St. John's boasts the nation's top defense and has enjoyed an impressive season, further intensifying the NCAA tournament clash.
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