At the 2025 SEC Spring Meetings in Destin, Kentucky Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart reflected on a pivotal moment in UK basketball history: the hiring of Mark Pope and Kenny Brooks as head coaches for the men’s and women’s programs, respectively. Speaking on The Paul Finebaum Show, Barnhart expressed pride in the decisions made just over a year ago, calling both hires “home runs.”
Pope and Brooks were brought in during a three-week coaching search in spring 2024, only 17 days apart, following significant program resets. Pope succeeded Hall of Famer John Calipari in a polarizing move, while Brooks took over the women’s team with high expectations. Despite inheriting bare rosters and no staff, both coaches quickly adapted to the new landscape of college athletics, where the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) can enable rapid team-building.
Barnhart praised their intelligence, character, and approach, noting how each quickly established rosters that reflected their coaching philosophies. Brooks notably brought in standout Georgia Amoore, who elevated the play of those around her. Pope constructed a cohesive team aligned with his vision and style. Barnhart highlighted the synergy between the two coaches, describing how they supported each other and helped reshape UK basketball during a transformative period.
Finebaum joked that a book should be written about that hectic time, especially considering the scrutiny around replacing Calipari. Barnhart agreed, saying it likely deserves multiple chapters and credited the success to the exceptional quality of the people involved.
As anticipation builds for year two under Pope and Brooks, Barnhart expressed full confidence in their continued success and leadership, emphasizing how they’ve already made significant, positive impacts on their programs. Their quick and effective work has given UK fans reason to be excited about the future of basketball in Lexington.
