Mark Pope is miles ahead of John Calipari in this key area: the Duke game proves it

Kentucky basketball fans have been treated to some unforgettable moments over the years, but Mark Pope’s latest victory over Duke offered more than a thrilling win; it showcased a game-changing approach that sets him apart from previous coach John Calipari.

Fans were constantly complaining about a lack of scouting and adjustments from Calipari. They said he was a roll-the-ball-out coach. On the other hand, Pope’s emphasis on opponent preparation and recognizing tendencies is a welcome change.

This change delivered one of the decisive moments against Duke:

The key play came late in the game, with Duke star Cooper Flagg driving into the lane, setting up for his signature spin move. This time, Oweh was ready for it, standing and waiting for Cooper to turn. Before the game, and again at halftime, Pope had drilled his team on Flagg’s tendency to spin, emphasizing the importance of anticipating it. He told his players he wanted someone waiting in the way when Flagg spun and to go in with two hands or have a body there to take the ball.

When the moment came, Oweh executed the plan perfectly, stripping Flagg cleanly as he spun around. The play not only stopped a critical Duke possession but also sent Oweh on a fast break; a foul on the layup attempt sent Otega to the free-throw line, where he calmly sank two clutch shots to give Kentucky the lead.

The preparation was in stark contrast to one of the most painful moments in Kentucky basketball history, the 2015 Final Four. That year, Calipari’s undefeated Wildcats were undone by Frank Kaminsky’s sweeping spin move. Kaminsky torched Kentucky repeatedly, including a critical spin against Willie Cauley-Stein with 25 seconds left. It led to free throws that put Wisconsin ahead for good, ending Kentucky’s dream season at 38-1.

You can also look into John Calipari's arch nemesis, zone defense:

Another example came just last year as Kentucky was again on the wrong side of an upset:

Kentucky will lose under Mark Pope—that's a given—but fans can feel confident knowing their team is now prepared for anything, even a spin move, three-point shooter, zone defense, or a change in basketballs.