Kentucky extends ex-Georgia coach for another year
In the high-stakes world of college basketball, assistant coaches often come and go quickly. But Kentucky secured one of its most valuable pieces of stability this week by locking down associate head coach Mark Fox for another year—sweetened with a well-earned raise.
The new deal extends Fox through the 2025–26 season and boosts his salary from $200,000 to $500,000, a jump that places him among the nation’s better-compensated assistants. More than dollars, though, it reflects Pope’s recognition of Fox’s immense value to the program.
Fox arrived in Lexington last season with a résumé few assistants can match. A former head coach at both Georgia and Cal, he brought a depth of experience and steady hand to Pope’s first-year staff. After Mark Pope quit medical school, it was Fox who gave him his first coaching job at Georgia. Last year, Fox became both strategist and mentor, guiding a roster and staff through the turbulence of expectations that come with the Kentucky job. And helping Pope get his first 2 tournament wins, though the Sweet 16 was not so sweet for the Cats.
Retaining him wasn’t just smart—it was essential. His presence provides continuity for a roster still finding its chemistry and ensures Pope has a trusted sounding board while implementing his fast-paced offensive system. The one-year term also leaves Fox flexibility should the right head coaching job emerge, making it a win-win deal.
For Kentucky, the raise is an investment in foundation. Championships are built on more than just star recruits—they’re built on staffs that can manage pressure, develop talent, and steer programs through stormy waters. By keeping Fox in blue and white, Pope secured more than an assistant. He secured stability, wisdom, and credibility. It also keeps the players getting a consistent message from year to year.
At Kentucky, expectations are always sky-high. With Fox locked in, the program reinforced a critical truth: building a championship team starts with building a championship staff.