Calipari: Kentucky assistant Jai Lucas leaving for Duke

Updated Apr. 29, 2022 6:05 p.m. ET

Associated Press

LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) — Kentucky basketball coach John Calipari tweeted that assistant Jai Lucas is leaving the Wildcats to join the staff of first-year Duke coach Jon Scheyer.

Duke hasn’t commented publicly on its assistant coach vacancy. But in

“He’s been loyal, terrific on the road and great for our players,” Calipari added, “and I want what’s best for him, so I’m good with it.

“This year, all of our assistants have been approached about other opportunities. When you have a great staff, that’s what happens!”

Lucas was a Kentucky assistant last season after arriving in August 2020 as recruiting coordinator. He is credited with attracting players such as standout guard TyTy Washington Jr. for last year’s 26-8 squad.

Scheyer, who has

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