LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky head coach John Calipari reacted on Twitter to his disappointment that Cameron County graduate Nate Sestina (other winter-sport seniors) won’t get an extra year of eligibility like spring-sport athletes will because of COVID-19 cancelations.
“I’m so disappointed that I’m not going to have another year to coach Nate Sestina and have him in our program,” Calipari Tweeted out. “I know he’s disappointed and wanted to come back. He knew the chances weren’t great, but that doesn’t make this hurt any less for him.”
I’m so disappointed that I’m not going to have another year to coach @NateSestina23 and have him in our program. I know he’s disappointed and wanted to come back. He knew the chances weren’t great but that doesn’t make this hurt any less for him.
— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) March 31, 2020
Sestina averaged 5.8 points and 3.8 rebounds per game in 28 games, seven starts, in his only season for the Wildcats after being a graduate transfer from Bucknell. Kentucky went 25-6 this season including 15-6 in the SEC and were NCAA Tournament-bound before COVID-19 shut down the season.
“Nate had an unbelievable season and helped us achieve the level of success that we did,” Calipari Tweeted. “He improved in so many areas and showed great veteran leadership through actions and performance. Our guys absolutely loved him.”
Calipari Tweeted out that Sestina has handled the entire situation well and believes there is more basketball in store for him.
“I’m proud of how Nate has handled the whole thing,” Calipari said. “He was hopeful, but he has had a great attitude on what the next step will be for him.”
Calipari said he is going to miss Sestina in the gym every day, but he believes Sestina will have an opportunity to play professionally if he chooses.
“I’m sure Nate can play overseas for a couple of years then who knows, NBA could be in his future,” Calipari Tweeted.
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