Kentucky coaching candidate turns job down

Kentucky's search for a new head basketball coach continues.

Mar 21, 2024; Memphis, TN, USA; Baylor Bears head coach Scott Drew speaks with the media during a / John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports

All day yesterday, it seemed like Scott Drew would be Kentucky's next head basketball coach, but he just turned the job down to stay in Waco, caching the Baylor Bears.

Drew's family was in Lexington yesterday to get a feel for the city and ultimately decided they wanted to stay put as they have been there for a very long time.

Where Kentucky goes from here is going to be very interesting because, with Drew and Nate Oats out, new names will have to be discussed. It sounds like Dan Hurley isn't all that interested in the job despite a pay raise, so now Mitch Barnhart is going to have to figure something out.

The last few years under John Calipari weren't all that exciting, thanks to multiple early exits from the NCAA Tournament, and Big Blue Nation is in need of some excitement.

Drew would have been an excellent coach in Lexington, but now the athletic department will have to go back to the drawing board when it comes to finding their next head basketball coach.

The Baylor coach just released this statement, "In our program, we strive to put Jesus first, then others, then ourselves. We truly believe God has called my family and I to continue our work here at Baylor, surrounded by the best people and community anyone could be blessed to have. We are grateful for the support of Mark Rhoades, President Livingstone, and the entire Baylor Family, and we look forward to working together to bring more championships to Waco. #JOY"