Clinton calls Kentucky coach before game

Former President Bill Clinton gave the University of Kentucky basketball coach a pep talk before the team’s 79-65 win over Providence on Sunday night in New York.

John Calipari, who heads the No. 3-ranked Kentucky team, said he spoke with Clinton for 20 minutes on Sunday and the former president expressed interest in attending a game this season.

I got a great call at 3 o’clock on game day yesterday from @billclinton. We spoke for about 20 minutes.

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) December 2, 2013

He knows our team, he knows our ups and downs, and he knows where we’ve got to go. He really tried hard to make our game, which I appreciate

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) December 2, 2013

. @billclinton also told me he wants to come to a game in Lexington. I hope he does so he can talk to my young team.

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) December 2, 2013

It’s always good hearing @billclinton's voice. I appreciate him reaching out to say hello.

— John Calipari (@UKCoachCalipari) December 2, 2013

Clinton met with the Kentucky basketball team in 2012, and Calipari has spoken at the Clinton Global Initiative before. Earlier this year, Calipari invited Clinton to attend his fantasy basketball camp.