FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — “I’m Not Playing That Game”: Arkansas Razorbacks Coach John Calipari Explains Why He Refuses to Negotiate With Players Seeking More NIL Money….full details ⤵️
Here’s what Coach John Calipari said when asked about players requesting higher NIL (Name, Image & Likeness) deals during those offseason chatter on Golic & Golic:
**He won’t negotiate NIL for individuals midstream.**
Calipari insisted he won’t up the ante if a player comes asking for more money midseason. “I’m not going to, ‘Well, I’ll pay you more.’ I’ve got a locker room. I can’t have one guy making three times what everybody else in the locker room does.”
**He values commitment over cash.**
He’s built a culture based on unity and loyalty. “If it’s all about money, they won’t stay with us.” Four players returned and others joined because they wanted to be there—not due to lucrative deals .
**He distrusts the transactional side of NIL.**
Calipari criticized players staying into their late 20s, courting NIL for personal use. “There were 26-, 27‑year‑old players…using NIL for alimony.” He wants to return to college basketball’s traditional age and intent .
**Big money brings big expectations—and pressure.**
Calipari noted some now make $3–5M in NIL. But that puts a target on their back: “If you pay $4 million…you better win a national title.”
🧭 In summary:
Coach Calipari stands firm: Arkansas won’t chase NIL demands at the expense of team unity. He’s prioritizing group chemistry, loyalty, and player development—over individual deals—even in a high-stakes NIL economy.
