In an unexpected twist that has left college basketball fans in a frenzy, former Kentucky Wildcats star Tyler Ulis has joined John Calipari’s Arkansas Razorbacks coaching staff. For die-hard Kentucky fans, this move feels like a betrayal, as Ulis was once a beloved figure in Lexington. The news has sparked a wide array of emotions from Wildcats supporters, ranging from shock and disbelief to anger, as many can’t fathom seeing one of their own teaming up with a conference rival—especially under the leadership of the Wildcats’ former head coach, John Calipari. One fan captured the general sentiment perfectly, tweeting, “I hate seeing this more than Cal leaving.”
Tyler Ulis, a 5’9” point guard who played at Kentucky from 2014 to 2016, was known for his heart, leadership, and undeniable talent. He was the floor general for a Kentucky team that became a powerhouse in the SEC and on the national stage. His tenacity and basketball IQ made him a fan favorite, and his impressive career at Kentucky was punctuated by his All-American selection and SEC Player of the Year honors during his sophomore season.
However, Ulis’ new position with Arkansas is not just any assistant coaching gig; it comes with the emotional baggage of being alongside John Calipari, who led Kentucky from 2009 to 2023 before leaving to take over Arkansas. Calipari’s departure from Kentucky marked the end of an era, and many fans still have unresolved feelings about it. The thought of Calipari now working with one of their most revered Wildcats is tough to digest.
The immediate reaction from Kentucky fans has been loud and critical. Many took to social media to express their displeasure, with posts lamenting Ulis’ move to a rival program. “I’d rather see Ulis go anywhere but there,” one fan posted, while another said, “Seeing Tyler in Razorback red just doesn’t sit right.”
For some, the pain of seeing Calipari and Ulis together at Arkansas is even worse than when Calipari left Kentucky in the first place. While Calipari’s departure stung, it was somewhat expected after years of fluctuating results. Ulis, however, is a different story. He’s someone who bled blue and embodied the spirit of Kentucky basketball. To now see him wearing Arkansas colors and working under the same coach who once led the Wildcats to national prominence feels like a betrayal of the highest order.
The move also stokes the fire of what has become one of the fiercest rivalries in college basketball. Kentucky and Arkansas regularly battle for dominance in the SEC, and now, with Ulis joining Calipari in Fayetteville, that rivalry is likely to grow even more heated. Arkansas fans are thrilled at the idea of having someone like Ulis on their staff, knowing his connection to Kentucky will only fuel the competitive fire between the two programs.
For Wildcats fans, the sight of Ulis in Razorback red will be a bitter pill to swallow. But for Ulis, this move represents the next step in his post-playing career and a chance to learn from one of the best coaches in college basketball—albeit in a very different environment. Whether fans eventually come to terms with it remains to be seen, but for now, it’s clear that emotions are running high in Big Blue Nation.