Aug. 23, 2012

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky head coach John Calipari is pleased to announce the addition of former UK forward Marquis Estill to the 2012-13 men’s basketball staff as an undergraduate student assistant coach.

Estill, who is currently finishing his undergraduate degree at UK, will assist pre-, during and post-practice and primarily focus on working with UK’s forwards.

“I’m really excited about joining the staff this season,” Estill said. “I’m very grateful that Coach Cal is giving me this opportunity. He is a great coach, and I look forward to working with him and this talented team.”

Per NCAA rules returning former players who are working toward their undergraduate degree can be used as on-court staff. With that opportunity Estill, who was a part of two Southeastern Conference title teams at UK, will join a list of former Wildcats and Calipari assistants and former players who have returned to their schools to finish their degrees.

Estill finished his career with 936 points, despite playing only three seasons. He was named Second Team All-SEC in 2003, his junior season while also earning All-NCAA Regional team honors as well as SEC All-Tournament team honors.

“I am so happy to bring back Marquis as an undergraduate assistant on our staff,” Calipari said. “One thing I always tell our players is that they are always welcome back here, especially to get their degree. This is a players-first program, and we will always be here for them in whatever capacity they need. I applaud Marquis for coming back to finish his degree, and I encourage all of our former players to do the same.

“It’s great that we get to help guys like Marquis or Wayne (Turner) or Tony Delk or Scott Padgett – all guys who are members of our family – to get a start in coaching and help them pursue their goals,” Calipari said.