For years, John Calipari made sure to get the finest recruits for the Kentucky Wildcats. More than that, he put the players in a position to showcase their skills and make their way to the pros.



Mark Pope, on the other hand, hasn’t had the same caliber of recruits on his team so far, which is perhaps why he’s taken more of a collective approach to his offensive system.



At least, that’s how former Wildcats star and NBA player Darius Miller feels. When asked about Coach Pope and how he stacked up with Coach Cal, he shared his honest assessment of both. 



<h2>Darius Miller explains the difference between Mark Pope and Coach Cal</h2>



“There was a lot of freedom inside of Cal’s system, and that allowed you to see some of the greatness of John Wall, Eric Bledsoe, Jamal Murray, the different guys that could express themselves on the court. Coach Pope, everything is down to the minor detail, but it puts you in a good position to showcase your game inside of a structured environment, you know what I mean? Two different approaches, but I would enjoy playing for them both,” Miller told Kentucky Sports Radio.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250702_BUS_430464_Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1024x576_1e1cdc68.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats reacts to a turnover during the 94-78 loss to the Auburn Tigers at Rupp Arena on March 01, 2025 in Lexington, Kentucky." class="wp-image-347069" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope, head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats </figcaption></figure>



At the end of the day, every coach has their own philosophy and style. You can have the same roster and assistant coaches and take an entirely different approach.



Pope knew that he was getting into a tricky road when he took the reins of the Wildcats, but so far, it seems like the early returns have been fairly encouraging in Lexington.

Former Kentucky star compares Mark Pope to John Calipari

Former Kentucky star compares Mark Pope to John Calipari - Bolavip US

miniaturas

It takes a whole lot to win at the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> level. Coaches also have to recruit players and make sure that every single thing marches accordingly within the program.



Needless to say, that doesn’t leave a lot of time on the table for them to focus on the lesser things. That’s why they inevitably have to prioritize and pick their own battles.



With that in mind, Kentucky coach Mark Pope admitted that he doesn’t even bother trying to fix a player’s shooting mechanics. If it’s not a matter of reps, he won’t even bother recruiting him.



<h2>Mark Pope thinks bad shooters can’t be fixed</h2>



“I will touch a guy who is a really good player and has got solid mechanics but is not making shots yet. Because I can rep that guy out,” Pope told Certified Kentucky. “So in terms of shooting, I spend zero time coaching mechanics, maybe little tiny tweaks, some balance stuff or some rhythm stuff, but I am just not a good enough coach. So that puts it on you guys, and I do not think that is completely universal at the college level, but I think it is pretty common.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250625_BUS_426176_Mark-Pope-1024x576_e0086804.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315500" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats </figcaption></figure>



Of course, this is quite a controversial and unpopular opinion, as we’ve seen players with broken mechanics thrive in the pros. Some don’t even need to fix those shots, like Shawn Marion.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


But at the end of the day, every coach has their ways and beliefs, and if Coach Pope doesn’t feel like he needs to spend time fixing what he feels cannot be fixed, so be it.

Mark Pope explains why he doesn’t want to train shooters

Mark Pope explains why he doesn't want to train shooters - Bolavip US

It takes a village to find success in team sports, and<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> isn’t the exception to that rule. If anything, it requires a bigger staff than what you’d see somewhere else.



Coaches have to be tacticians, recruiters, sports psychologists, and whatnot. They also have to be mentors, father figures, and prepare those young men not only for a game but also for life.



That’s why Kentucky Wildcats coach Mark Pope knows that he can’t do it all on his own. Recently, he admitted that he wasn’t good at one key aspect: Fixing broken shots.



<h2>Mark Pope admits he can’t fix broken shots</h2>



“So just so you know, in my recruiting, I cannot teach players to shoot,” Pope told Certified Kentucky. “By the time they get to me, I cannot fix mechanics. I will not even try. If a player does not have solid mechanics, I will not touch them. I just cannot. I just have had no success. I am not a good enough coach to do it. These guys, by the time they get to us, they have had hundreds and hundreds and hundreds of thousands of shots. And if they have practiced hundreds and hundreds of thousands of times with bad mechanics, then I cannot touch them. I really will not. Even a great athlete, I will not touch him if his mechanics are not OK.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250624_BUS_425418_Mark-Pope-1024x576_8f149f1d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-315500" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/01/17103750/Mark-Pope.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats </figcaption></figure>



Of course, that’s a big limitation. Some players thrive off their athleticism and instincts, and it takes them a little longer to develop a reliable jump shot. Some even have to wait until the pros.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


The Wildcats have one of the best coaching staffs in the nation, so perhaps Coach Pope should try to take a different approach and trust him and his trainers with this type of responsibility. It will open a lot of doors for more top-tier recruits.

Kentucky’s Mark Pope admits he’s still got a lot of work to do in one key aspect

Kentucky's Mark Pope admits he's still got a lot of work to do in one key aspect - Bolavip US

Most NBA prospects have known one another since they were kids. They grow up playing in the same circuits, and some of them are even teammates in AAU teams or Team USA’s youth squads.



However, going to college can be a life-changing experience for plenty of them. They get to work on their games under the guidance of some coaches with a long history of success in turning young men into pros.



That’s why, if you were to ask Devin Booker, you shouldn’t even hesitate. If the University of Kentucky happens to have an interest in you, you just have to accept and commit to them.



<h2>Devin Booker says Kentucky can change your life</h2>



“Devin Booker was asked by a recruit, his father, ‘What about Kentucky?’” former Wildcats coach John Calipari recalled in an interview with On3. “He looked at him and said, ‘Do you want to change your life? Well then go to Kentucky. Change your life. How could that make anybody nasty or mad? I don’t know.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250619_BUS_421072_devin-booker-2-1024x559_15d6b66a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="devin-booker" class="wp-image-360955" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21212104/devin-booker-2-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21212104/devin-booker-2-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21212104/devin-booker-2-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21212104/devin-booker-2-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/21212104/devin-booker-2.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Devin Booker #1 of the Phoenix Suns</figcaption></figure>



Of course, perhaps he might not feel the same way after watching his beloved coach and mentor, John Calipari, leave the program to join the Arkansas Razorbacks.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Even so, judging by Booker’s success in the NBA, especially given where he was taken in the draft, young players might want to take notice and listen to this piece of advice.

Devin Booker once shared a life-changing piece of advice about playing in Kentucky

Devin Booker once shared a life-changing piece of advice about playing in Kentucky - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College basketball</a> has come a long way. Back in the day, everybody knew that programs paid the players to play for them, even when it wasn’t allowed by the NCAA.



Now, with NIL, it’s all fair and square, and while that has leveled the field for everybody else to hop in and compete for the top-notch recruits, some think it has taken something away from the game.



Notably, that includes former Kentucky legend Anthony Davis. When asked about the state of college basketball, the NBA champion admitted that he wasn’t much of a fan. 



<h2>Anthony Davis shares his thoughts on the NIL era</h2>



“It’s tough because obviously, they didn’t have that when I was in college. It kinda takes away from the game a little bit because of—and I’m not hating—it takes away from the integrity in the sense of players are only going to certain schools because of the money,” Davis told Sports Illustrated. “Because one guy can leave the next year, transfer—it gets tough when you start talking about culture. That kind of goes out the window, in my opinion.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="559" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250612_BUS_416498_anthony-davis-1-1-1024x559_f807e6aa.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=559" alt="anthony-davis 1" class="wp-image-366173" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/29135237/anthony-davis-1-1-1024x559.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/29135237/anthony-davis-1-1-300x164.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/29135237/anthony-davis-1-1-768x419.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/29135237/anthony-davis-1-1-1536x838.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/29135237/anthony-davis-1-1.jpg 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Anthony Davis #3 of the Dallas Mavericks </figcaption></figure>



Of course, the players are entitled to getting paid for their talents, especially considering all the hard work they put in and all the revenue they generate for the NCAA and their programs.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Then again, from a player and character development standpoint, not growing through adversity and just leaving when you don’t get playing time might not be ideal.

Kentucky legend Anthony Davis isn’t a fan of today’s college basketball

Kentucky legend Anthony Davis isn't a fan of today's college basketball - Bolavip US

Even though he’s not there anymore, John Calipari will always be a big part of Kentucky history. As such, his game against the Wildcats will always be a subject of debate.



His highly anticipated return to Rupp Arena was one of the most talked-about games of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> season. Now, everybody’s looking forward to watching the Razorbacks take on the Wildcats again.



Calipari’s team got the last laugh in their first encounter in front of a sold-out arena. Unfortunately, that won’t be the case again next season, as they will only meet once, and it won’t be at Rupp Arena.



<h2>Kentucky and Arkansas won’t meet at Rupp Arena</h2>



“Big Blue Nation was hoping these two teams would play twice this season to get revenge against Calipari in Rupp Arena, but they will only meet once in Bud Walton Arena. Coach Pope has been very outspoken about his respect for Coach Calipari, but despite this, he wants to beat him,” reported Sports Illustrated.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250611_BUS_416510_Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1024x576_8e092e17.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats reacts to a turnover during the 94-78 loss to the Auburn Tigers at Rupp Arena on March 01, 2025 in Lexington, Kentucky." class="wp-image-347069" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/02150102/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-to-a-turnover-during-the-94-78-loss-to-the.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope, head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats </figcaption></figure>



Both of these teams are firmly expected to be in the race for the top of the SEC, and this matchup, hopefully, will be another instant classic to spark up a new rivalry.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Whether Mark Pope will be able to get back at Calipari remains to be seen, as the Razorbacks look like a much-improved team after their up-and-down campaign in 2024-25.

Arkansas and Kentucky will meet again this season, but there’s a major catch

Arkansas and Kentucky will meet again this season, but there's a major catch - Bolavip US

It seems like it was just a couple of years ago when DeMarcus Cousins and John Wall wreaked havoc together in college. The superstar duo led the team to the Elite Eight before turning pro.



Wall was the first-overall pick in the 2010 NBA Draft, with Cousins being taken just four picks later. That speaks volumes about the caliber of talent John Calipari had at his disposal.



That’s why, even though they didn’t finish the deal and won the National Championship, Cousins still cherishes the memories from his days on campus at Lexington.



<h2>DeMarcus Cousins loved his days in college</h2>



“That’s the most fun I have ever had playing basketball,” the former All-Star told Kevin Garnett. “It was about basketball. There wasn’t no politics. There wasn’t no bulls***. The team, it was a vibe, it was a brotherhood. I knew my guy had my back, he knew I had his back. It was never cloudy. There was never, no grey area. It was always black and white.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="572" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250610_BUS_414962_demarcus-cousins-1024x572_5bb27023.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=572" alt="" class="wp-image-40535" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/28105258/demarcus-cousins-1024x572.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/28105258/demarcus-cousins-300x168.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/28105258/demarcus-cousins-768x429.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/08/28105258/demarcus-cousins.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>DeMarcus Cousins</figcaption></figure>



Cousins went on to be one of the most dominant big men in the league in his prime. He’s still trying to work his way back to the NBA after a successful tenure overseas.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Looking back, it’s crazy to see that this team couldn’t win a championship together despite clearly having the best players in all of<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball,</a> but that’s just the way things go at times.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6847262a9a59e2e0ea8f7096" data-title="Were they the most talented duo in NCAA history?" data-options="2"></div>

Former NBA star DeMarcus Cousins gets real on his days at Kentucky

Former NBA star DeMarcus Cousins gets real on his days at Kentucky - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats just caught a big break. One of their NBA Draft hopefuls, Otega Oweh, shockingly chose to withdraw from consideration and return to college instead.



Oweh is coming off posting All-SEC honors, and he averaged a whopping 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game in 36 appearances for Mark Pope’s team.



That’s why, when he tried to get Coach Pope on the phone, he didn’t hesitate to pick up, even though he was literally on a plane and wasn’t even allowed to have his phone turned on.



<h2>Mark Pope reveals how he found out that Otega Oweh was returning</h2>



“First off, I was on a plane, and I don’t understand why or how, but the call actually came through. Otega called me and said coach let’s do this I’m coming back. I was looking around and thinking the pilot was about to throw me out of the plane right now, so I was like, Otega, I got to call you back later but just hold that thought. Fifteen minutes later, I called him back. He said he was coming back, and tears went down my face,“ Pope revealed.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250609_BUS_414948_Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-1024x576_05680100.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats gives instructions to his team against the Oklahoma Sooners during the SEC Men&apos;s Basketball Tournament - First Round at Bridgestone Arena on March 12, 2025 in Nashville, Tennessee." class="wp-image-405301" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26134907/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Oklahom.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope</figcaption></figure>



Needless to say, this goes to show just how important Oweh is to this team. It also shows the impressive level of commitment Coach Pope has poured into the program.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


The Wildcats have one of the best rosters in all of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, and Oweh will be one of the leading candidates to win conference player of the year in his second season in Kentucky.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6847239c9a59e2e0ea8f7093" data-title="Will they win the national championship?" data-options="2"></div>

Kentucky’s Mark Pope tells hilarious story of Otega Oweh’s shocking decision to return to college

Kentucky's Mark Pope tells hilarious story of Otega Oweh's shocking decision to return to college - Bolavip US

The Kentucky Wildcats made a big gamble when they chose Mark Pope to be John Calipari’s successor in charge of the program. So far, that gamble has paid off.



Needless to say, the team has yet to reach the heights it reached in the past, and they’re no longer the program to beat for the top-notch commits. Even so, they’re still a powerhouse.



That’s why, after assessing their roster and the recent moves they made, <a href="http://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> legend Dick Vitale had some good news for Coach Pope and company. He listed them No. 11 ahead of next season. 



<h2>Dick Vitale ranks Kentucky in the top 15</h2>



“Mark Pope reloads again, folks. Otega Oweh and Brandon Garrison will be looking to lead an incredible group of transfers, including Jayden Quaintance, Jaland Lowe, and Mouhamed Dioubate. The Wildcats are roaring loud in Lexington,” he wrote.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250604_BUS_411219_Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-1024x576_0bd099ff.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats talks to the media following practice for the NCAA Men&apos;s Basketball Tournament - Midwest Regional at Lucas Oil Stadium on March 27, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana." class="wp-image-397076" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13161931/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-talks-to-the-media-following-practice-for-the-NCAA.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats </figcaption></figure>



This means that the Wildcats enter the season in third place among SEC teams, trailing only the reigning national champions Florida Gators, and the Arkansas Razorbacks.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id=""></div>


Of course, anything can happen from now until March Madness, but even if they don’t have the most talented roster in <a href="http://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> anymore, the Wildcats are still a force to be reckoned with. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68408ebf9a59e2e0ea8f6f26" data-title="Will they win the title this season?" data-options="2"></div>

NCAAB expert gives Kentucky high props ahead of 2025-26 season

NCAAB expert gives Kentucky high props ahead of 2025-26 season - Bolavip US

For years, John Calipari was in charge of taking the Kentucky Wildcats all the way. He had nothing but the finest recruits, several of whom ended up being high lottery picks.



That’s why some people were so worried about the future of the program once he left to join the Arkansas Razorbacks, thinking they would lose their magic and recruiting pedigree.



However, as much as things are tough in transition years, Mark Pope did a solid job in his first year in charge. That’s why former NBA star John Wall, one of Calipari’s top recruits, had to give him his flowers. 



<h2>John Wall gives Mark Pope his stamp of approval </h2>



“I’m happy for Mark Pope. I got an opportunity to meet him this past summer, or last summer, in Indiana when it was an EYBL tournament going on. Talked to him for a little bit. He got off to a hot start, I think a couple of injuries kind of slowed their team down. But for your first year to go that far that’s great. They got a lot of great pieces coming in this year with some good pieces coming back,” Wall told Matt Jones of KSR.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250602_BUS_409787_Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-1024x576_31c29aee.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats gives instructions to his team against the Texas A&amp;M Aggies at Rupp Arena on January 14, 2025 in Lexington, Kentucky." class="wp-image-349370" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/05162415/Mark-Pope-the-head-coach-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-gives-instructions-to-his-team-against-the-Texas-A.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope the head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats </figcaption></figure>



Of course, Pope will have some big shoes to fill, and it will be easier said than done, but he knew that when he took the job, so that shouldn’t come as a surprise.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Even so, while the team didn’t go the distance this season, he did a great job with the hand he was given, and there are reasons to have some faith about this program in the future. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="683de99e9a59e2e0ea8f6e6a" data-title="Will Kentucky win the title next season?" data-options="2"></div>

John Wall gets brutally honest on Mark Pope’s first season with Kentucky

John Wall gets brutally honest on Mark Pope's first season with Kentucky - Bolavip US

Following the heartbreaking elimination in the Sweet Sixteen round of the NCAA Tournament, Mark Pope and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kentucky">Kentucky Wildcats</a> are gearing up to do it all over again in the 2025–26 college basketball season. However, in order to witness better results than this past campaign, they will need some players to step up and fill in for key departures from several senior leaders. That’s the case for Brandon Garrison, who has big expectations set by Pope.



The Wildcats are determined to avenge their disheartening 78-65 defeat against the Tennessee Volunteers in the Sweet Sixteen stage of March Madness. Of course, it will be a tall order for Pope’s Kentucky, and one that’s way easier said than accomplished in such a competitive <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> environment.



Regardless, the Wildcats are riding high spirits as they prepare for the upcoming college basketball season, in which they’ll be put through a litmus test in the SEC night in and night out.



Otega Oweh and Koby Brea are the top players Pope and Kentucky will probably miss the most in the 2025–26 campaign. However, they have exciting talents ready to take over in bigger roles. Garrison is one of the most promising players in Lexington and could become a star in the upcoming <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250526_BUS_405298_Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-1024x576_a8d55e2f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-405335" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/26142348/Brandon-Garrison-10-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-reacts-after-a-three-point-basket-during-the-first-hal.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Brandon Garrison #10 of the Kentucky Wildcats reacts after a three point basket during the first half against the LSU Tigers at Rupp Arena on March 4, 2025 in Lexington, Kentucky.</figcaption></figure>



Pope certainly believes so, as he voiced a firm six-word statement to the junior guard, who is entering his second year in Kentucky after transferring from Oklahoma State.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/kentucky-gives-shai-gilgeous-alexander-an-epic-old-school-shoutout-after-making-program-history"></div>


“He needs to be a leader,” Mark Pope said about Garrison, per On3. “I’m really proud of him, how he’s approached this offseason. He’s been really hungry. He’s been working really hard, and his job now as a returning player is to come teach all the other guys — whether they’re more senior than him or not, he’s one of our few returning guys that knows what we do, knows how we do it, knows the expectation, knows the standard.“



<h2>Gaining confidence</h2>



Garrison appeared in 35 games during his first season in Lexington, and as he slowly acclimated to Pope’s system in the Bluegrass State, he showed great signs of growth and leadership, which the 52-year-old bench boss found commendable.



“It was really fun in the last month of the season to see him start to take on some leadership role, even with the veteran-laden team that we had last year. You started to hear his voice more,” Pope admitted. “You started to feel his intensity a little bit more. He’s changed, like he’s grown. It’s been awesome.”


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6834b21b9a59e2e0ea8f6c8b" data-title="Who will win the SEC tournament next season?" data-options="7"></div>


Garrison finished the season with an average of 17.3 minutes played every night, registering 5.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists. His field goal percentage was of 50.9, which ranked third-best on the team.

Kentucky HC Mark Pope makes something clear to Brandon Garrison with powerful 6-word statement

NCAAB News: Mark Pope delivers bold 6-word instruction to Kentucky forward Brandon Garrison ahead of 2025-26 season - Bolavip US

Mark Pope delivers bold 6-word instruction to Kentucky forward Brandon Garrison ahead of 2025-26 season

NCAAB News: Mark Pope delivers bold 6-word instruction to Kentucky forward Brandon Garrison ahead of 2025-26 season

Following the Sweet Sixteen elimination against the Tennessee Volunteers in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, Mark Pope and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/kentucky">Kentucky Wildcats</a> learned discouraging news as promising talent Travis Perry entered the transfer portal, prior to signing with the Ole Miss Rebels in the SEC.



Perry’s departure was already a significant loss in itself, but his decision to join a rival program in the Southeastern Conference adds another painful layer for the school in Lexington.



The Wildcats will vie to make the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ncaa">NCAA</a> Tournament again in the 2024-25 college basketball season, hopefully finally cutting down the nets in March Madness for the first time since the 2011-12 campaign. 



Perry was the only 2024 commit who didn’t waver in his commitment to the Wildcats after John Calipari left and Mark Pope took over on the sideline at Rupp Arena. However, he decided to set for new horizons after his first year in Lexington, breaking Pope’s heart with his surprising decision.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250513_BUS_397059_Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-1024x576_fe833970.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-397123" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/13165235/Travis-Perry-11-of-the-Kentucky-Wildcats-in-action-against-the-Ohio-State-Buckeyes-at-Madison-Squar.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Travis Perry #11 of the Kentucky Wildcats in action against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Madison Square Garden on December 21, 2024 in New York City.</figcaption></figure>



“I was devastated when Travis [Perry] left, mostly because I think he is such a special young man,” Mark Pope said, per KSR’s Mario Maitland. “It was devastating to me, personally, because I enjoyed coaching him so much, and I think he has a brilliant upside. I think he was on his way to becoming a legend here at Kentucky.”


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


<h2>Oxford-bound</h2>



Perry entered the program with sky-high expectations. He attended high school in Lyon County, Kentucky, where he became the all-time leading high school basketball scorer in The Bluegrass State.



Although he was expected to play limited minutes during his freshman year, injuries led to Perry seeing a bigger role in his first <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball">college basketball</a> season under Pope’s guidance.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6823b1c5d90c74f53c9fd5f4" data-title="Do you believe Perry made the right decision?" data-options="3"></div>


The 20-year-old, then 19, finished the year with 31 appearances, including four starts. Moreover, he averaged 2.7 points, 0.8 rebounds and 0.6 assists per game, according to On3. The fans, players, and coaches were all excited for Perry’s sophomore year, but the latter opted to enroll at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ole-miss">Ole Miss</a>, where Chris Beard will more than gladly have him on board.

NCAAB News: Mark Pope drops heartbroken admission about Kentucky rising star Travis Perry’s transfer to Ole Miss

NCAAB News: Mark Pope drops heartbroken admission about Kentucky rising star Travis Perry's transfer to Ole Miss - Bolavip US

Mark Pope drops heartbroken admission about Kentucky star Travis Perry's transfer to Ole Miss

After a first season with the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball team that ended with a Sweet 16 elimination at the hands of the Tennessee Volunteers, Mark Pope has gotten major news ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, his second in front of the Wildcats.&nbsp;



7-foot-1 center from the Miami Redhawks, Reece Potter, has reportedly committed to Kentucky. Before joining the Redhawks, Potter played high school basketball at Lexington Catholic, averaging 17.9 points and 8.7 rebounds in his senior season.&nbsp;



His numbers decreased once he made it to Miami, as he put up 6.5 points and 3.7 rebounds in 17 minutes per game. Going to an iconic program such as Kentucky and playing for a coach like Mark Pope should help Potter develop his game.&nbsp;



<h2>Kentucky gets a big boost in the paint</h2>



Reece Potter becomes the sixth player the Wildcats have added to their roster this offseason after Kam Williams joined from Tulane, Jalan Lowe from Pittsburgh, Denzel Aberdeen from Florida, Mouhamad Dioubate from Alabama and Jayden Quaintance from Arizona State.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250507_BUS_393159_Mark-Pope1-1024x576_113b3157.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Mark Pope" class="wp-image-285801" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/Mark-Pope1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Kentucky basketball coach Mark Pope </figcaption></figure>



Pope announced last week on a podcast with Jon Rothstein that the Wildcats were actively trying to add new players to the roster, although the 12 players on the sheet will play the majority of minutes.



<h2>Kentucky wants to add more talent</h2>



“I’m actually scouring the planet right now for guys that would fit in, as maybe a red-shirt guy that would kill it in practice,” Pope said. “Maybe a last year of your career guy that wants to come here and put on this one of one jersey and be a part of this.”



The Kentucky Wildcats are coming off a solid season with Mark Pope on the sidelines. They finished the regular season with a 21-10 record before beating the Oklahoma Sooners in the second round of the SEC Tournament, but were unable to move past the Alabama Crimson Tide, who dominated them with a 99-70 win in the quarterfinals.&nbsp;


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


They went on to play in the national tournament, beating Troy in the first round and Illinois in the second before the Volunteers stopped them in the Sweet 16.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="681ba23bd90c74f53c9fd402" data-title="Will Kentucky win the title next season?" data-options="2"></div>

Kentucky Get Miami's Reece Potter In Transfer Portal

NCAAB News: Mark Pope, Kentucky get huge boost with new center

NCAAB News: Mark Pope, Kentucky get huge boost with new center - Bolavip US

This was a bit of a transition year for the Kentucky Wildcats. Needless to say, that doesn’t mean they weren’t expected to compete at a high level, not even after John Calipari left.



The SEC was an absolute bloodbath from start to finish, with 14 of 16 teams earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament, with seven of them even moving on past the first round.



The Wildcats were the No. 12 team in the nation after getting a 10-8 record in the conference. Looking back, it was quite a positive first season to start the Mark Pope era.



<h2>Mark Pope opens up on first year in Kentucky</h2>



“It was the greatest experience of my basketball coaching career, by far,” he said. “Last year, I was blessed to coach in the Big 12. That was an incredible league. But I don’t think <a href="http://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>has ever seen a league like the SEC last season.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250506_BUS_391605_Mark-Pope-1-1024x576_095d0dc2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-289786" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope</figcaption></figure>



Pope knew that he would be in for a massive challenge. He had some big shoes to fill, and while he was a former Wildcat, he didn’t have any experience with a powerhouse.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id=""></div>


The former BYU coach has a bright future ahead of him, and while it won’t be easy to get back to the mountaintop, the early results were most definitely encouraging, all things considered. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68191269d90c74f53c9fd34b" data-title="Will Kentucky win a title with Mark Pope?" data-options="2"></div>

Kentucky's Mark Pope Opens Up On His First Season With The Team

Mark Pope gets brutally honest on his first season in Kentucky

Mark Pope gets brutally honest on his first season in Kentucky - Bolavip US

With John Calipari no longer in the picture, the Kentucky Wildcats transitioned into a new era, this time with Mark Pope taking the reins of the program for the 2024-25 season.



They managed to make it to the NCAA Tournament and even reached the Sweet 16 stage during March Madness before eventually losing to the Tennessee Volunteers.



Now, with the roster taking shape and some old faces in new places, Max Escarpio of Athlon Sports reports that they’re about to lose a former Calipari commit to Ole Miss.



<h2>Kentucky’s Travis Perry to transfer to Ole Miss</h2>



“On Sunday, Travis Perry, a former blue-chip recruit who committed to Kentucky while John Calipari was the head coach, announced his decision to transfer to Ole Miss,” wrote Escarpio.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250505_BUS_391604_Mark-Pope-1-1024x576_a4f6123e.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-289786" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/10080916/Mark-Pope-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mark Pope</figcaption></figure>



Perry committed to play for the Wildcats in 2023. He was a former four-star recruit and the No. 78 player in his class, and he fielded offers from Michigan, Purdue, Indiana, Cincinnati, Missouri, and Ole Miss.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id=""></div>


Unfortunately, with just 9.8 minutes per game, he didn’t get much of a chance to showcase his skills, averaging just 2.7 points per game. Now, he will try his luck with another SEC program.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="68191269d90c74f53c9fd34b" data-title="Will Kentucky win a title with Mark Pope?" data-options="2"></div>

Kentucky Loses John Calipari Commit To Ole Mis

Former John Calipari commit ditches Mark Pope and Kentucky with transfer portal move

Former John Calipari commit ditches Mark Pope and Kentucky with transfer portal move - Bolavip US

Latest news from Kentucky. Find out about all the news related to Kentucky on bolavip.com/en

Kentucky - Page 2