When Mark Pope took over as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, he didn’t just inherit a program. He inherited a legacy. And so far, he’s treated it like sacred ground—mending fences, rebuilding bonds, and reminding Big Blue Nation that the Kentucky brand isn’t just built on banners. It’s built on people.
From the first day on the job, Pope has operated with one mission: make every Wildcat—past, present, or future—feel like they belong. Whether they were stars, role players, transfers, or legends, if they’ve worn the blue and white, Pope’s going to make sure their connection to Kentucky never fades.
The return of Rick Pitino
The clearest symbol of Pope’s bridge-building came in his decision to bring Rick Pitino—yes, that Rick Pitino—back to Rupp Arena this past season. Once a divisive name in Lexington, Pitino was cheered as a conquering hero when he walked through the tunnel to a standing ovation. That moment wasn’t just about nostalgia. It was about healing. About acknowledging that greatness, even when complicated, is still greatness.
More importantly, it was a reminder of what Kentucky basketball is supposed to be: larger than one coach, bigger than one era.
The heartfelt farewell
That same spirit showed when Pope stopped this season’s seniors after their final home game. He didn’t rush them off the court or steer them toward a quick media session. He told them to pause—to soak it all in, to listen to the crowd, to let the Rupp Arena magic wash over them one last time.
That moment spoke volumes. Pope isn’t just coaching players. He’s shepherding memories. He understands the power of what it means to be a Wildcat.
Visiting the NBA Cats
And now, he’s extending that love to the league.
On Friday night, Pope made his way to Los Angeles to reconnect with three former Kentucky players suiting up in the NBA. First, he visited Jarred Vanderbilt, the do-it-all forward now with the Lakers. Vanderbilt, known for hustle and defense, has quietly built a respectable career—appearing in 309 games and averaging 6.2 rebounds and 5.9 points across stints with Denver, Minnesota, Utah, and L.A.
Then Pope crossed paths with two more Wildcats—Rob Dillingham and Julius Randle—as they prepared for a matchup between the Timberwolves and Knicks. Dillingham, fresh off his Kentucky season, has brought microwave scoring and playmaking off the bench in his rookie campaign, averaging 4.5 points and 2.0 assists in just 10.5 minutes per game. He’s still raw, but the potential is there.
As for Randle? He’s become a cornerstone in New York. A two-time All-Star and power forward powerhouse, Randle averaged 18.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 4.7 assists this season. He’s totaled over 700 career games, a testament to his longevity and evolution.
He was there for them.
The Kentucky way
In a world where coaching can be transactional and relationships fleeting, Mark Pope is proving that Kentucky can—and should—be different. He’s showing recruits that if you choose Lexington, the bond won’t end after one season or one contract. He’s reminding alumni that no matter where they go, home is still Rupp.
He doesn’t care whether you played for Calipari, Pitino, Tubby, or Rupp. He doesn’t care if you were one-and-done or four-year grinder. If you walked through those doors and put on that jersey, you’re part of his Kentucky family.
That’s what makes Pope special.
It’s not just the X’s and O’s. It’s the heart behind the program.
It’s building a team—but more than that, it’s building a community.