Mark Pope Named 23rd Head Coach of Kentucky Wildcats

Former BYU Head Coach Returns to Lexington

Pope Led Cougars to Three NCAA Tournaments and Big 12 Title

Mark Pope, the former head coach of Brigham Young University (BYU), has been named the 23rd head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team.

Pope, who played for Kentucky from 1992 to 1996, replaces John Calipari, who left the Wildcats to become the head coach at the University of Arkansas.

• Pope led BYU to three NCAA Tournament appearances and the Big 12 Tournament championship in 2021.
• He was named the Big 12 Coach of the Year in 2021 and 2022.
• Pope has a career record of 152-72 as a head coach.

Pope is known for his up-tempo style of play and his ability to develop players.

He is expected to bring a similar style of play to Kentucky, which has been known for its fast-paced, high-scoring offense under Calipari.

Pope is also expected to make a strong commitment to recruiting, which has been a key factor in Kentucky's success under Calipari.

He is expected to target top recruits from across the country, including Kentucky's own backyard.

Pope's hiring is a major coup for Kentucky, which is one of the most prestigious basketball programs in the country.

He is expected to lead the Wildcats back to the top of the college basketball world.

Pope's hiring is also a sign that Kentucky is committed to winning at the highest level.

The Wildcats have won eight national championships, more than any other school in college basketball history.

Pope is expected to add to that legacy and help Kentucky continue to be one of the most successful programs in the country.