Enes Kanter (Boston Celtics Photo)
It might surprise you to know what has made Kentucky coach John Calipari the most proud during the NBA playoffs where he’s had so many players shine and even has three of his former players — Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro and Anthony Davis — playing in the Finals.
“I’m most proud of Enes Kanter’s attitude throughout the tournament, throughout the playoffs,” Calipari said.
You remember Kanter? He was originally selected as the third overall pick of the 2011 NBA draft by the Utah Jazz even though he was never allowed to play at UK during the 2010-11 season. The NCAA simply would not grant his eligibility because of a payment it said he took from a Turkish pro team.
Now Kanter is a backup with the Boston Celtics and played against the Miami Heat in the conference final.
“He and I were in touch and I watched him, he didn’t get many minutes. But when he did, he had a great attitude. He was a great teammate,” Calipari said.
Kanter is part of that group of UK players in the NBA who apparently Kentucky fans appreciate more than they indicate due to the one-and-done approach based on TV ratings in the state for the NBA playoffs.
“The reason is those players stay connected with us, the BBN and our team. They leave because it’s what’s right for their families and themselves, but they stay connected,” Calipari said.
“They’re always part of this. Enes Kanter, who the NCAA did not allow to play said, ‘I am a part of Kentucky. I am a part of that program.'”
