Kentucky Wildcats’ John Calipari Publicly Shames His Player Following Emotional Outburst Against UNC Tar Heels

Published 12/22/2020, 5:47 AM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

The Kentucky Wildcats lost their fifth game in a row on Sunday. During the second half of the game, freshman Cam’Ron Fletcher was crying on the bench. He later stormed out into the locker room before the game ended.

The next day, Fletcher issued an apology on Twitter with a long and mellow message. He wrote that it was an outburst of emotions, considering their team form, and probably his playing minutes as well. He took responsibility of his actions and vowed to not repeat it.

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But almost 24 hours later, in a completely uncalled for message, Coach John Calipari publically shamed Fletcher for his actions. It was surprising to see a coach call out a young player in that manner on a public forum, despite him already apologizing.

Did Coach Calipari go too far?

Calipari has been under fire from the start of the season for the team’s poor form. The Wildcats are currently 1-5, in what is their worst start to a season since 1926-27. So these actions will further hurt team chemistry.

During the press conference after the UNC game, Calipari was asked about Fletcher’s actions. At that time he mentioned that Fletcher had already apologized. “You’ve got to accept your position on this team,” Calipari said. “Cam was mad he didn’t play more. I said, ‘The guys in front of you are playing.’ Cam came in and apologized after.”

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So it is surprising how a matter that was supposedly dealt with internally reared its ugly head on social media in such a fashion.

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Is there a light at the end of the tunnel for the Kentucky Wildcats?

After coming off a big game against UNC, Kentucky is once again going to be tested in their next game. They have a big matchup against Louisville next, with the team morale at an all-time low. They just had six losses last season, and they are at five already now.

If they can somehow manage a win against the Cardinals, they have a few easier fixtures ahead of them. They can build some momentum and try to end the season with the best record possible.

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USA Today via Reuters

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Written by:

Aaron Mathew

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Aaron Mathew is a sports analyst at EssentiallySports. A graduate in Mass Media from Xavier’s College, Aaron has been a part of EssentiallySports since May 2020 where he covers both NBA and NCAA basketball news, and has also covered NBA 2K. In the past, Aaron has worked at the Sports Desk of Mumbai Mirror.
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