The enduring impact Coach Calipari left on one Kentucky Rabbi.
In his 15-year tenure at Kentucky, John Calipari left a significant mark not only on the basketball program but also on the Lexington community. One individual profoundly influenced by him was Rabbi Shlomo Litvin, the Director of Chabad of the Bluegrass & the UK Jewish Student Center.
Following Calipari’s announcement of leaving Kentucky, Rabbi Litvin expressed on X how Arkansas was not only gaining a remarkable coach but also a remarkable individual.
Their encounters often took place at the Dunkin’ Donuts near campus, where they exchanged greetings as both were well-known figures on campus, albeit Calipari slightly more so.
However, their interaction took a different turn in October 2018 after the tragic incident at a Pittsburgh synagogue where 11 people lost their lives. Calipari approached Rabbi Litvin, expressing his personal distress over the event, being a native of Pennsylvania himself. He then asked, “Rabbi, how can I help?”
This unexpected question prompted Rabbi Litvin to propose Calipari’s involvement in the upcoming Hanukkah festival by lighting the menorah for their students, despite the demands of the basketball season. Calipari readily agreed, defying expectations and demonstrating his commitment beyond basketball.
His support during that chilly evening left a lasting impact on the Jewish community, illustrating Calipari’s character as a mensch—a term signifying an exemplary person. Despite being a practicing Catholic, Calipari’s actions reflected his integrity and genuine concern for others, transcending religious boundaries.
