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Calipari ahead of the curve again with D.R. coaching job

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In the never-ending quest to open new college basketball recruiting outlets, John Calipari now has the upper hand on Rick Pitino. In the Dominican Republic.

The Kentucky coach will lead the D.R. national team in its quest to qualify for the 2012 London Olympics. He’ll spend about six weeks with the team from August through mid-September in preparation for the Tournament of the Americas.

Yes, that’s not long before the college hoops season starts, but the ability open roads into the Caribbean for recruiting will be huge. Why do you think Louisville’s Pitino wanted to coach the Puerto Rican national team? It’s a smart move for Calipari.

“I see no downside in this,” Calipari said on his website. We’re helping another nation spread the love of basketball and feel what the Big Blue Nation feels 12 months a year.”

That right there is why he makes the move. Spreading the Kentucky brand – and potentially luring in new recruits. Ask Coach K how that worked for him with Team USA.

You also can follow me on Twitter @MikeMillerNBC.