College basketball fans are in for a throwback-filled showdown this December, as Saint John’s head coach Rick Pitino prepares to face off against his former program, the University of Kentucky. The Wildcats are now led by his longtime mentee, Mark Pope.
The highly anticipated matchup will be part of the CBS Sports Classic, scheduled for December 20, 2025, in Atlanta. It promises to be a contest rich in storylines, blending history, mentorship, and top-level competition. Pitino, who famously guided Kentucky to the 1996 NCAA championship, now leads Saint John’s into battle against a man who once captained that very same title-winning team.
Speaking about the emotions surrounding the game, Pitino likened coaching against Pope to competing against his own son. “It’s no different than coaching against your son. Obviously, it stirs different emotions,” he said. He also praised Kentucky, calling it “the Roman Empire of college basketball,” and described Pope as “one of the bright young coaches in the game” with a “great offensive mind.”
Their shared history runs deep. Pope was the Wildcats’ captain during that 1996 championship run and quickly transitioned into a successful coaching career, with notable stints at Utah Valley and BYU before returning to Lexington as head coach. Pitino has consistently spoken of Pope in glowing terms, once calling him “the most selfless, humble young man I’ve ever coached” and expressing full confidence in his leadership.
In his first season back at Kentucky, Pope led the Wildcats to the Sweet Sixteen for the first time since 2019, rekindling hope among Big Blue Nation. His leadership style, offensive creativity, and emphasis on teamwork have drawn praise from analysts and fans alike.
Pitino, never one to shy away from giving credit, has made it clear he admires the way Pope’s team plays. “I loved the way his guys play. I loved the offenses he runs. I loved the way they moved the ball and shared the basketball. Kentucky hired the right man,” he said.
As the date draws near, anticipation continues to build. This December’s clash is more than just another high-profile game—it’s a full-circle moment that brings together past glory, present ambition, and the unshakable bond between a legendary coach and his former player. When the ball tips in Atlanta, the emotions, history, and competitive fire on display will make it a game to remember.
