John Calipari, the head coach of the University of Kentucky men’s basketball team, has recently stirred up the college basketball world by naming Gonzaga’s Mark Few as his top choice among all college basketball coaches. Calipari provided five compelling reasons for his preference, each reflecting his deep respect and admiration for Few’s coaching style and accomplishments.

Firstly, Calipari highlighted Few’s remarkable consistency in building a winning program. Over the years, Gonzaga has evolved from a small mid-major program to a perennial powerhouse, consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation. Few’s ability to sustain this level of excellence without the same recruiting resources as larger programs like Kentucky or Duke demonstrates his exceptional coaching prowess.

Secondly, Calipari praised Few’s player development skills. Unlike many top programs that rely heavily on one-and-done talent, Gonzaga has a reputation for developing players over several years. Few’s coaching style emphasizes growth, skill development, and a deep understanding of the game, which has led to many of his players exceeding expectations both in college and at the professional level.

The third reason Calipari gave was Few’s adaptability and innovative approach to the game. Few has consistently adjusted his strategies and game plans to suit his players’ strengths, making him one of the most versatile coaches in the game. This flexibility has been crucial in navigating the ever-changing landscape of college basketball.

Fourthly, Calipari admired Few’s ability to maintain a positive team culture. Gonzaga’s success has not just been about wins and losses but also about the strong, cohesive culture Few has fostered. This environment has been instrumental in attracting high-character players who buy into the program’s values.

Lastly, Calipari acknowledged Few’s integrity and commitment to the sport. Few is widely respected not only for his coaching success but also for his ethical approach to recruiting and player management, making him a role model for aspiring coaches. For these reasons, John Calipari regards Mark Few as the pinnacle of college basketball coaching.