Cal embraces public role

Not that it’s any scoop, but John Calipari acknowledges by word and deed that being Kentucky coach has a public component.

His predecessor, Billy Gillispie, recoiled from the suggestion that being UK coach required a person willing to be a “celebrity.” Perhaps it was the word “celebrity” that ruffled Gillispie’s feathers.

But Calipari seems well suited for being a man of the people while also coaching UK’s (and Kentucky’s) signature team.

Calipari’s many travels and public appearances prove his willingness to be a public figure. He re-emphasized the point on Saturday during an appearance at the UK Student Center to promote his new book, Bounce Back.

“We’re all temporary in that seat,” he said of being UK coach. “Part of the job is to reach out to the community, let them touch you, let them see you. Because it’s the Commonwealth’s team.”

Calipari said he sensed a responsibility “not to cheat” the fans nor the job by withdrawing form the public.

“I like all the other stuff,” he said. “You have to enjoy it. You’ve got to shake the hands. You have to enjoy the interaction, and I do. But I love coaching the team.”