Report: Kentucky's John Calipari 'desperately wants' to make NBA return

John Calipari might soon be reuniting with many players he's sent to the professional ranks.

The Kentucky coach - in the midst of a perfect season - is reportedly itching to get another chance at the NBA, according to Steve Popper of the Bergen Record. Thus far, Calipari's only foray into the NBA was when coached the New Jersey Nets from 1996-99.

Calipari reportedly wants to make up for his NBA failures, where he finished with an overall record of 72-112 record. His tenure featured just one playoff appearance, when he was swept out of the first round by the Chicago Bulls in 1998.

"He desperately wants it. He won’t say it out loud. The NBA is the only place he’s ever failed and it drives him nuts. He’s not the same guy he was then. He came to the NBA and he wasn't ready. He’s ready now," said an unnamed league front office official.

Calipari might be the man to return and revive the Brooklyn Nets, who currently sit at 29-40, and will likely miss the playoffs for the first time in three seasons.

A person close to Calipari believes the coach's influence with a number of prominent NBA players - who he may or may not have coached - could be advantageous for him in a return.

"All these kids, if you look at a free agent list and check off the ones who he’s got a relationship with you could build an All-Star team. Start with LeBron James."