Mark Pope has been clear that this team's identity must be built on defense. He has praised the roster's length, athleticism, and potential. But after three inconsistent games, he is done waiting for that potential to show up.
After the Eastern Illinois win, Pope was asked about Mouhamed Dioubate's 20-point, 11-rebound double-double. Pope said he was "proud of his focus" but then quickly pivoted to a stunning and direct challenge to Dioubate and another key starter.
“I think we are leaving a lot on the table in terms of how disruptive we can be... Him and Otega should be buying for the best defensive players in the country right now. So far, they haven’t been close.”
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That is a direct, public call-out. Pope is essentially saying his two most important and athletic defenders are not performing anywhere near their capability.
“And that’s ok. But for us to be great, they got to get there. And I thought we saw some good signs from Mo in that respect.”
This blunt challenge was part of a larger theme. Pope confessed his own frustration with the team's progress, admitting he hasn't gotten through to them yet.
“I will be really bluntly honest with you guys. I wish I was further ahead right now. I wish that I was further ahead with this group... I’m trying to figure out why I’m not further ahead with this group in terms of just this group’s identity.”
That doesn't sound like a coach that knows his message is getting through to his players. He feels they should be much further along in the process, and quiet frankly they should. This a team with immense potential that should be playing better right now.
He is putting the pressure on himself as a coach, and in turn, putting it on his veterans to lead. It is time for them to step up.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion