On his second radio show of the season, Kentucky head coach Mark Pope didn't shy away from the magnitude of Tuesday night’s showdown. The Wildcats are set to host No. 16 North Carolina in the ACC/SEC Challenge, a game that serves as a massive barometer for Pope's second season.
Pope covered everything from offensive identity to a touching moment with a departing legend. Here are the biggest takeaways.
Ball movement is non-negotiable in Wildcats offense
Kentucky has looked mortal when opponents drag them into physical, isolation-heavy basketball. Pope knows UNC will try to do exactly that with their length and pressure. His solution? Move the rock.
"On the offensive end, our answer is more decisive, forceful ball movement out of our actions," Pope said. "Our success on the offensive end is going to be very, very much determined by how willing we are."
He admitted it’s a work in progress, noting, "I think we’re making progress. We’ll see tomorrow."
Not sure if that inspires as much confidence as I think it was intended to.
Pressure is a privilege at Kentucky
When asked if the players feel the weight of these blue-blood clashes, Pope offered a perspective that should fire up the fanbase.
"Yes, I'm sure they do, but the pressure is a privilege," Pope said. "It’s one of the blessings of putting on this jersey. You have pressure when you really care."
To drive that point home, Pope started Monday’s practice with a history lesson in the film room.
"It was fun to sit down and remind the guys of who the winningest program in the history of college basketball is," he shared.
Now they have to go out and play like it.
A moment with Mark Stoops
Pope also took time to address the major news on the football side of campus. He shared a private conversation he had with former head coach Mark Stoops on Monday.
"He talked to me today about how much he loves Lexington and how he hopes to spend the rest of his life here," Pope said. "We’re so grateful for him."
Injury updates on Mo Dioubate and Jaland Lowe
Don't expect a fully healthy roster on Tuesday. Regarding Jaland Lowe and Mo Dioubate, Pope tempered expectations.
"I'm not sure they'll be available tomorrow, but they're making progress," he noted.
Who you got BBN?