Lexington, Kentucky – When his old mater called, Mark Pope realised there was no place like home.
Pope, a captain on the University of Kentucky’s 1996 National Championship team, has returned to Lexington as the 23rd head coach of the famous men’s basketball programme, UK Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart said Friday.
Pope has nine years of head coaching experience, including stays at BYU and Utah Valley, and a career record of 187-108. His teams have won 20 or more games in six of the last seven seasons, and he has made six postseason berths.
“Mark Pope not only brings an impressive record in nine years as a head coach, but also a love of the University of Kentucky and a complete understanding of what our programme means to the people of our state,” Barnhart stated in a press release. “As captain of the 1996 championship team, Mark was a valued and respected teammate. As a head coach, he is well regarded as an innovator across the country. His teams play a distinctive and dynamic up-tempo offence, as well as aggressive defence. He is an effective recruiter with global connections and a person of integrity.
“He completely accepts our high goals and values, and I know that when our fans get reacquainted with Mark, they will be eager to join him on what
Pope returns to the United Kingdom from Provo, Utah, where he coached BYU to a 110-52 (.679) record over five seasons. He guided the Cougars to three playoff berths, including two trips to the NCAA Tournament, but lost another bid when the 2020 event was cancelled due to the COVID-19 epidemic. Three of his five BYU teams finished the season in the top 20 of Ken Pomeroy’s efficiency rankings.
“The University of Kentucky represents the zenith of coaching in collegiate basketball. “It’s the definition of a blueblood programme where hanging a banner is expected every year,” Pope explained. “Equally essential, the United Kingdom changed my life permanently as a human being. I have a deep love and passion for this programme, this university, and the people of the Commonwealth.
“I’m grateful to Dr. Eli Capilouto and Mitch Barnhart for this chance. I’m proud to be your future head coach, and I can’t wait to work with you!”
