MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- Memphis coach John Calipari, mentioned as a candidate for several job openings, issued a statement Wednesday insisting that he isn't leaving the Tigers.

"I came to the University of Memphis to rebuild a winning basketball program, and it is my intention to stay here until we get the job done," Calipari said. "I view the task at the University of Memphis as much the same as we did at UMass. I stayed there for the long term."

Calipari went 193-71 in eight seasons at Massachusetts and led the Minutemen to five straight trips to the NCAA Tournament. The Tigers are 71-31 in his three seasons, which included this season's NCAA berth, the program's first since 1996.

The coach, who issued his statement through the school while attending a tournament in Virginia, also warned fans that such success is why his name will be mentioned when jobs are open. He had been mentioned as a possible candidate for the Pittsburgh opening.

"I want Tiger fans to understand I am happy right where I am and there is still much work to be done," Calipari said.

Calipari earns $1 million a year at Memphis, and his contract was extended last year through the 2006-07 season.

"We are still on a mission because I firmly believe we can compete for national championships here," he said.