Arkansas coach John Calipari met former Razorback Bobby Portis at the Target Center on Monday, rekindling their connection ahead of a crucial Western Conference Finals game. Portis, now a player for the Milwaukee Bucks, spent two seasons with the Razorbacks from 2013 to 2015, where he posted averages of 15.0 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks per game while shooting 52.6% in 70 contests. Their reunion took place as both observed Game 3 of the series between the Minnesota Timberwolves and Oklahoma City Thunder, spotlighting a moment of reflection amid high-stakes basketball.
During his college years, Portis played under coach Mike Anderson, whereas Calipari was leading the Kentucky Wildcats, fresh off a 2012 NCAA championship. After the meeting, Calipari shared a photo of their encounter on social media with the message:
“Great seeing former Razorback Bobby Portis tonight!” —John Calipari, Arkansas coach
A continuing mentorship between Calipari and his former players
Despite not coaching Portis directly at Arkansas, Calipari has maintained an ongoing relationship with the NBA big man, reaching out to him since assuming his coaching post last offseason. The event also provided Calipari with the opportunity to meet Julius Randle’s family, further connecting with athletes he has influenced beyond the court. Calipari posted on X:
“Loved seeing Julius Randles family! Kendra, Kyden and Jayce,” —John Calipari, Arkansas coach
Former college teammates now face off in the Western Conference Finals
Bobby Portis likely supported the Minnesota Timberwolves during the game, partly due to his friendship with forward Julius Randle, which dates back to high school and continued with shared time on the New York Knicks. This game highlighted the unique overlap of players Calipari coached in college who now compete against each other in the NBA playoffs.
Calipari has been an outspoken supporter of his former players, actively following their professional careers during the college basketball offseason. Earlier in the month, he attended Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals at Madison Square Garden, and now watched the Western Conference Finals unfold firsthand.
The influence of John Calipari across multiple NBA playoff teams
Both teams in the Western Conference Finals feature athletes coached by Calipari during their college careers. For Oklahoma City, guard Cason Wallace (2022) and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (2017) came through Kentucky, while Minnesota has Julius Randle (2013) and Rob Dillingham (2023) listed among their ranks. Each of these players earned All-SEC Freshman honors and made an immediate impact by entering the NBA after just one collegiate season.
This meeting at the Target Center underscores Calipari’s lasting impact on players’ development and the strong bonds that carry forward into professional arenas, enhancing the intensity and personal significance of tonight’s Timberwolves-Thunder matchup.