Knicks' Jalen Brunson was in disbelief at the news about John Calipari

College basketball

by Christian Arnold

Knicks star Jalen Brunson had a short but relatable reaction to the news that John Calipari was on his way to Arkansas.

News of Calipari's potential departure came late Sunday night — less than 24 hours before the NCAA national championship game at Arizona — and stunned the college basketball world.

Among those shocked by the reports was Bronson.

“What” Bronson Published on X While responding to the news published by The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Brunson played three years of college basketball at Villanova, which is well-documented given his close friendships with former Wildcats teammates — and current Knicks — Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo.

Knicks teammate Julius Randle is a Kentucky alumnus who played one season with Calipari in Lexington.

Many fans responded to Bronson's tweet and asked him if he knew how Randle was taking the news.

Others asked Brunson to pressure former Villanova coach Jay Wright to take the job at Kentucky next.

Wright is not expected to be a candidate for the position, although UConn's Dan Hurley, Alabama's Nate Oats and Baylor's Scott Drew could emerge as options.

News of Calipari's pending departure gained momentum late Sunday night after CBS Sports reported that he and Arkansas were in “serious talks” about the job, and shortly after, ESPN reported that the two sides had finalized a five-year, salaried contract. A base of just under $8.5 million.

As of Monday night, no deal has been announced, and there have been no additional reports of a deal being signed.

Calipari led the Wildcats to a 410-123 record over 15 seasons and helped them win a national title in 2012.

He will replace former Arkansas coach Eric Musselman, who resigned to take the head coaching position at USC.

Arkansas reached three NCAA Tournaments and advanced to the Elite Eight twice during five seasons under Musselman.