May 13, 2010

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky men’s basketball department will undergo changes to its administrative staff for the upcoming 2010-11 season, head coach John Calipari announced Thursday.

At his request, assistant coach Rod Strickland will take on an administrative role in operations to reduce travel requirements. The search for a new assistant coach will begin immediately.

“Rod Strickland has been a vital part of our success here at Kentucky and helped set a foundation for our program,” Calipari said. “He will continue to be an integral part of our future successes in a non-coaching capacity. We expect other administrative staff changes as opposing schools fill their vacant basketball staff positions.”

In addition to his current role of chief operating officer, UK Deputy Athletics Director Rob Mullens will now serve as the day-to-day administrator for men’s basketball.

“As we continue to pursue the opportunities that go along with being the winningest program in the history of college basketball, it is important that our department provides the administrative support to help it run as efficiently as possible,” UK Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart said. “Rob Mullens has provided Kentucky Athletics with first-class, professional support in all areas during the last eight years. Working with Wildcat basketball on a daily basis will allow him to help us keep pace with the ever-changing world of college athletics.”