Drew mentioned his Christian faith in a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, and stated that he believed "God has called my family and I to continue our work here at Baylor, surrounded by the best people and community anyone could be blessed to have.” He expressed gratitude for support from athletic director Mack Rhoades and Baylor President Linda Livingstone and added, "We look forward to working together to bring more championships to Waco (Texas).”
The 53-year-old Drew, who guided the Bears to the NCAA championship during the COVID-19-shortened 2020-21 season, quickly emerged as Kentucky's top target to follow Calipari after the Hall of Famer and 2012 title winner stepped down on Tuesday. Calipari, who said the Wildcats program he guided for 15 years ‘ needed to hear another voice, ’ was introduced as Arkansas' coach on Wednesday. Louisville had also considered Drew to replace the fired Kenny Payne.
Drew's announcement that he was staying follows one by Alabama's Nate Oats, who reiterated his commitment to the Crimson Tide on Monday amid speculation of Kentucky's possible interest. Chicago Bulls coach Billy Donovan said he was “flattered” to be mentioned for the job he once worked as an assistant but expressed his commitment to the NBA club.
UConn coach Dan Hurley was also in the discussion, an unlikely scenario considering he just led the Huskies to their second consecutive national title on Monday night.
Drew is 446-244 in 21 seasons at the Big 12 Conference school and has led Baylor to 10 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances.