If there’s one thing we’ve learned about John Calipari over the last 15 years, it’s that he’s not afraid to zig when the rest of the sport zags. With the advent of the transfer portal and name, image, and likeness (NIL), college basketball is “older” than ever, with players electing to stay in school longer to maximize their playing time and earnings. For a few years, Calipari tried to adapt to the new model, using the portal to restock his roster with experienced veterans like Kellan Grady, CJ Fredrick, Sahvir Wheeler, Oscar Tshiebwe, Antonio Reeves, and most recently, Tre Mitchell.