Lakers Passed Over, Billions Earned: Calipari Reveals Karl-Anthony Towns’ Draft Day Decision and Kentucky’s $6 Billion NBA Legacy
In a stunning revelation that blends bold ambition with generational success, legendary college basketball coach John Calipari has peeled back the curtain on one of the most pivotal moments in recent NBA Draft history—Karl-Anthony Towns choosing Minnesota over Los Angeles. Yes, you read that right: the Kentucky star rejected the allure of the Lakers and Hollywood glam for the frosty air and No. 1 pick spotlight in Minnesota.
Appearing on the Pat McAfee Show, Calipari, who recently ended his iconic tenure at Kentucky, dropped several bombshells about his former players, their decisions, and the monumental financial legacy they’ve built in the NBA. As former Wildcat Shai Gilgeous-Alexander leads the OKC Thunder in a fierce NBA Finals clash against the Indiana Pacers, Coach Cal reminded the world just how deep Kentucky’s influence runs in professional basketball.
“When Karl Towns was getting drafted, the Lakers wanted him,” Calipari said. “And they were the No. 2 pick. I told him, ‘You may want to be the two pick and be in LA.’ But he said, ‘No, I’ll wear a coat. I want to be the number one pick.’ And he enjoyed his time there.”
That singular mindset — prioritizing legacy and leadership over lights and lifestyle — perfectly encapsulates the mentality Calipari has instilled in his players for years. While many would have jumped at the opportunity to join one of the NBA’s most storied franchises, Towns chose to carve his path, rewriting his story in Minnesota while anchoring the Timberwolves’ rebuild.
But the conversation didn’t stop there. Calipari also issued a bold humble brag — one backed up with facts. According to him, players coached by him at Kentucky have now earned a staggering $6 billion in NBA contracts.
“Let me throw a humble brag out there… my guys have made $6 billion in the NBA,” Calipari said. “So when I say that, if you’re willing to take an extra $800,000 to go somewhere else and you’re telling me you want to be a pro, have at it. But I’m telling you, pick the right school, and don’t trip over nickels trying to get to $200 million.”
Calipari also shared a moment of honesty with DeMarcus Cousins during his college days. When Cousins asked whether he should declare for the draft or stay longer, Cal replied, “If you want to do what’s right for you and your family, you put your name in that draft. If you want to do what’s right for me and my family, stay a few more years.”
These aren’t just nostalgic soundbites. Calipari’s track record proves his system works. The top five NBA contracts from Kentucky players he coached paint a clear picture:
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Karl-Anthony Towns – 4 years, $220.4 million
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Devin Booker – 4 years, $220.4 million
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Anthony Davis – 5 years, $189.9 million
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Shai Gilgeous-Alexander – 5 years, $179.3 million
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Tyrese Maxey – 5 years, $175 million
Each of these players didn’t just make it to the league—they dominated, got paid, and elevated their franchises. This is the Calipari blueprint in action.
Beyond player development and financial success, Calipari also touched on his views regarding the controversial NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) economy and the rampant player transfers in college basketball. He believes athletes should be allowed one or two transfers without penalty — especially if coaches mislead them — but slams the idea of players switching schools four or more times.
“If you’re a parent, wouldn’t you tell your son: ‘No, you’re staying. You’re going to fight this out’?”
His criticism isn’t just about basketball—it’s about character development, academic integrity, and long-term growth. According to Cal, the solution to the chaos in college basketball starts with better regulation of transfers and a healthy approach to NIL.
From player mentorship to financial foresight, Calipari’s legacy stretches far beyond the hardwood. And in the case of Karl-Anthony Towns, it shows that betting on yourself—even if it means leaving L.A. behind—can sometimes lead to billions.
As Kentucky basketball transitions into a new era, one thing remains clear: Coach Cal’s impact on the game, and on the bank accounts of his players, is unmatched.
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