Official announcements from the University of Kentucky or major sports news outlets

Mark Pope, with 1996 NCAA Champs, Vows to Win Banners as Kentucky Coach

Apr 14, 2024, 09:09 PM

The University of Kentucky's recent hiring of Mark Pope as the head basketball coach has generated significant attention and excitement among fans and the college basketball community. Pope, a former Kentucky player and member of the 1996 NCAA championship team, was introduced in a grand manner at Rupp Arena, drawing a packed house for his introductory press conference. His arrival was marked by a dramatic entrance with his 1996 championship teammates and the championship trophy. Pope's coaching philosophy emphasizes analytics, aggressive offense, and a strong defensive strategy. He has also expressed a commitment to winning, setting high expectations for his tenure at Kentucky, stating, 'Entitlement leads to sorrow and depression. And gratitude leads to joy.' and emphasizing that 'our job is to be shepherds'. Pope boldly declared, 'We are here to WIN BANNERS!!!!!' Kentucky AD Mitch Barnhart's decision to hire Pope was highlighted, with Pope noting, 'I would walk to this job', underscoring his eagerness and dedication. The event underscored Kentucky basketball's enduring appeal and the high hopes resting on Pope to connect the program's storied past with a successful future.