LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Bluegrass State is beaming with pride, and it’s not just #BBN feeling the excitement. Legendary coach Rick Pitino has voiced his admiration for Mark Pope, the former Kentucky player now leading the Wildcats as head coach in his first season — and doing it with undeniable passion and poise.
“We are all so proud of our Captain,” Pitino said in a heartfelt statement, referencing Pope’s role as team captain during the Wildcats’ 1996 National Championship run under Pitino’s leadership. “Mark has always had an elite basketball mind, and now he’s showing the world he’s just as brilliant from the sidelines as he was on the floor.”
Pope’s return to Kentucky has injected fresh energy into the program. With a focus on toughness, unity, and a championship mentality, he’s quickly gained the trust of his players and the respect of the fanbase. The Wildcats have looked sharp in summer workouts, with reports noting their cohesion, energy, and high-tempo style that reflects Pope’s fiery coaching philosophy.
So far, Pope’s recruiting success has also caught national attention. His ability to attract top-tier talent from both the high school ranks and transfer portal has impressed former Kentucky greats, with many noting the roster looks “more complete” than some of John Calipari’s recent classes.
Pitino, who now coaches at St. John’s, added that Pope’s leadership style reflects the same determination and integrity he showed as a player. “He’s building more than a team. He’s restoring a culture,” Pitino noted. “There’s no doubt in my mind Kentucky basketball is in excellent hands.”
With the 2025–26 season looming, expectations are sky-high. Pope has not shied away from the pressure, instead declaring, “My number one goal is to put Kentucky back on the map and win a championship.”
And with the backing of Big Blue Nation — and a legendary coach like Pitino — that mission seems more possible than ever.
The new era of Kentucky basketball has arrived. And according to Rick Pitino, it’s being led by the right man: Captain Mark Pope.
#BBN #KentuckyBasketball #MarkPope #RickPitino #WildcatPride #ChampionshipVision #KentuckyReturns
