Kentucky head coach Mark Pope is excited for his upcoming trip to Seattle, where he will face Gonzaga in a late-night showdown. Seattle holds deep personal significance for Pope, who grew up in Bellevue, Washington, just across Lake Washington from the city. It’s where his basketball journey began, leading Newport High School to the state playoffs and earning All-American honors. Pope spent his first two years of college basketball at the University of Washington before transferring to Kentucky, where he played under Rick Pitino.
This game marks a full-circle moment for Pope, as he brings his Kentucky team back to Seattle for the first time. “I don’t get to go back to Seattle much, so I’m excited,” Pope said. He anticipates seeing old high school teammates and reconnecting with Coach Richard Belcher, who was a major influence on his life and basketball career. Belcher, a Hall of Fame coach, mentored Pope during his high school years and helped shape him both on and off the court.
Pope often speaks about the impact Pitino had on him, but he credits Belcher for laying the foundation. “He was more than just a coach; he was a mentor and a father figure,” Pope explained. “He really understood each player individually.”
As Kentucky arrives in Seattle for the game, Pope is looking forward to the bonding time with his team. The extended road trip offers an opportunity for the players to spend time together and strengthen their chemistry. “I think this will be positive for us,” Pope shared. “Being together for a few days can really help us build connections off the court.”
While Pope is focused on the game, he’s also excited to share the experience with friends and family in the stands. When asked how many tickets he set aside for them, Pope playfully declined to reveal the details, saying only, “It’s just fun. It’s a blessing.”
