After a 91-77 home win in what was likely Kentucky basketball’s most complete performance of the season, Mark Pope didn't bother hiding his emotions. When asked if that was fun, he simply said, "Yes, it was," with a grin.
Yes, it certainly was.
From freshman phenoms responding to adversity to players using their coach's jacket as a towel, here is everything Mark Pope had to say after the Wildcats dismantled No. 25 Vanderbilt.
Malachi Moreno's response
It all started on the very first possession when Malachi Moreno muscled his way to a put-back dunk. After a rough outing in Nashville earlier this year, Pope was thrilled with how his freshman big man responded to the challenge.
"Malachi is really special. He is Kentucky born and raised," Pope said. "Every time there has been a challenge as a young freshman big, he has responded. All week long, he was so physical in practice... that’s how he responds when things don’t go right."
Sizzling 59% shooting
Despite Vanderbilt entering the game ranked 21st nationally in defensive efficiency, Kentucky carved them up for 59% shooting. Pope credited the "unselfish" movement of the ball, but also gave a nod to his hottest hand.
"Well, I tell you what, it helps when Collin Chandler goes 6-for-8," Pope joked. "He has been the number one three-point shooter in the SEC percentage-wise."
Pope also went out of his way to praise Denzel Aberdeen, who finished 3-of-7 from deep while handling one of the best "steals" backcourts in the league. DA had 15, 4, 4, and 0 turnovers. That is exactly what you need from your point guard.
Kentucky basketball has got to have 'initiator' mentality
The most telling part of Pope's breakdown was his focus on the "confrontation" off the ball.
"Away from the ball, trying to get to where you want to get on the court, there was a ton of confrontation. This is a confrontational game," Pope explained. "We were the initiator tonight... We have to reproduce it."
The Otega Oweh Moment
Perhaps the funniest moment of the night involved Otega Oweh. After a "back 3-step reject" play that resulted in an and-one, Oweh got a little anxious on the court.
"I called him over and he didn’t listen to a word of it," Pope laughed. "All he did was wipe his hands on my jacket and make free throws. What he is doing is really, really special. I couldn’t be more proud of him."
Mo Dioubate's sacrifice and March Prep
Finally, Pope addressed the discipline of Mo Dioubate, who is currently performing at an elite level while observing Ramadan.
"How many people drove to the gym, sat through the game, and are still here and haven’t drank or ate anything?" Pope asked. "For him to perform at this level, I am proud of him. He is sacrificing for something he believes in."
Pope closed by looking toward the postseason, noting that while the veterans led the way today, the future remains bright. "Jasper Johnson is going to win us some games in March. Trent Noah is going to win us some games."
If Saturday was any indication, this "test of will" is exactly where the Wildcats want to be.