As Mark Pope enters year two at the helm of Kentucky basketball, the Wildcats’ non-conference schedule packs a punch—and a few early challenges could shape the narrative for the season ahead. From storied rivalries to national spotlight showcases, here are the top three regular-season matchups that BBN won’t want to miss before the SEC gauntlet begins.
1. Michigan State (November 18, Champions Classic – Madison Square Garden)
Why It’s #1:
When Kentucky and Michigan State clash under the bright lights of Madison Square Garden, it’s more than just another game—it’s must see TV. This year’s Champions Classic matchup puts Mark Pope head-to-head with Tom Izzo in a true early-season measuring stick.
Playing in the world’s most iconic arena, with the entire college basketball world watching, gives this game added weight. It’s a chance for Kentucky’s reloaded roster to show what it’s made of, and for Pope to prove that the Cats are contenders in his second year. This game could set the tone not just for November—but for March.
2. Louisville (November 11 – KFC Yum! Center)
Why It’s #2:
Rivalry games are different. They just are.
It may be early in the season, something neither fanbase is happy with; but the tension will be thick when Kentucky heads into a raucous KFC Yum! Center for the first true test of the year. Both programs are trying to establish momentum early, and neither coach wants to lose the battle for in-state bragging rights.
Mark Pope handled the rivalry well last year—but can he do it again on the road with a new-look roster? This one is personal for the fans, and emotional for the players. Regardless of record or ranking, or time of year, Louisville-Kentucky always matters.
3. Gonzaga (December 5 – Nashville)
Why It’s #3:
This neutral-site showdown in Nashville features two respected head coaches and two elite programs looking to build March-ready résumés. Mark Few’s teams are always disciplined, skilled, and ready to punish mistakes—making this an invaluable test for a developing Kentucky squad.
This game is part of a budding series that BBN has grown to appreciate, and while it lacks the rivalry fire of Louisville or the spotlight of the Champions Classic, it could quietly be the most revealing test of all.
Honorable mention
Rick Pitino and St. John's will replace UCLA in the CBS Classic and while Pitino vs. Pope and the whole Pitino against Kentucky thing is huge, it's a bigger storyline than it is game.
Final thoughts:
These three games—Louisville, Michigan State, and Gonzaga—will provide early insight into what Mark Pope’s second Kentucky team is capable of. Winning all three? That would send a message. Dropping all of them? Not the end of the world, but it would leave questions heading into SEC play.
So which matchup are you circling on the calendar? Is it the heated rivalry in Louisville, the bright lights of MSG, or the chess match with Gonzaga in Nashville?
Let us know—what game are you looking forward to the most in Year 2 of the Pope era?