Ep 6. One and Not Done

The 30 For 30 series is a collection of documentary films that outline some of the most significant sporting moments of the past few decades. Season 4, episode 6, titled "One and Not Done," takes a close look at the life and career of basketball coach John Calipari.

John Calipari has been one of the most controversial figures in college basketball for almost three decades now. His methods, persona, and coaching philosophy have been subject to much criticism, but his ability to win and produce some of the best-playing teams in the country has earned him a league of devoted supporters. One and Not Done explores these traits in detail.

The film takes us through Calipari's journey from his early days coaching high school ball to his first college gig at UMass, where he transformed a backwater team into a national powerhouse. From there, we see his time at Memphis, where he became a symbol of the rebuilding of a city, and his current stint with the University of Kentucky.

Throughout the documentary, Calipari's relationship with NCAA regulations is a running theme. The quirky coach has never been far from NCAA trouble; he's been through various investigations and legal battles on his way to the top. The episode examines how Calipari's approach to recruiting and player management has been central to his success and how he navigates the tangle of NCAA rules and regulations.

One of the high points of the film is its focus on the players that Calipari has worked with over the years. We get to see and hear from some of the greats who have played for him, such as Marcus Camby, Derrick Rose, and Anthony Davis, to mention a few. Each player's recollections give us great insight into what makes Calipari such an effective leader and motivator. It highlights his ability to connect with athletes and instill in them a sense of loyalty and pride.

The documentary also takes on the question of Calipari's biggest detractors: his constant transfers of players from college to the NBA. Calipari has been the most successful college coach in moving players on to the next level, and the episode analyses this aspect of his job in great detail. We hear from industry experts who offer their thoughts on the pros and cons of Calipari's player management approach, and we see the impact that his methods have had on particular players.

Another part of Calipari's story that the documentary focuses on is his philanthropic efforts. We see how he and his wife have been instrumental in helping people in need and giving back to the community. As with everything he does, Calipari's philanthropy comes with its bag of challenges, and the episode shows us how he navigates those too.

Overall, One and Not Done is a fascinating examination of one of the most interesting figures in college sports. It offers an unprecedented look into the thought processes and daily practices of someone who has been relentlessly successful in an industry where even the slightest disadvantage can mean the difference between triumph or defeat. It's an exploration of what makes John Calipari tick, what drives him, and how he's changed the face of college basketball over the past decades.