Mark Pope embodies Big Blue Nation (BBN) and vice versa. This isn’t to say his voice is more significant than any other fan or that he represents them officially. Rather, Kentucky’s new head coach wants to emphasize that his passion for the Wildcats and the daily happenings in Lexington mirrors that of the fans.
Pope is as deeply invested in recruiting, transfers, coaching decisions, and game outcomes as any diehard fan. “I am BBN—though that might sound arrogant. What I mean is, I’m just like the person whose hat I just signed. I love this place and cheering for Kentucky,” Pope said at the Club Blue’s NEW ERA event on Saturday. “I live and die by every recruit we sign, every play we make, and every practice we have, just like every other member of BBN.”
During the fan Q&A session at the event, Pope’s responses reflected his deep connection to the fan base. When asked which game was most important in his first year, aside from Coach Cal’s return to Rupp Arena with the Arkansas Razorbacks, Pope replied, “They’re all big here, man.”
Another question touched on the importance of winning postseason games and prioritizing high-profile regular-season matchups, hinting at past non-conference losses and a lack of emphasis on the SEC Tournament. Pope maintained a consistent message, saying, “We will treat each game exactly the same.”
Pope reiterated his commitment to winning every game, every year, aligning with Kentucky’s high expectations. “We’re all in this together. We all love this place and are trying to compete together,” Pope said. “Kentucky is different from everywhere else in sports. Some professional sports might come close, but no one compares at the college level. Being a part of that is special.”
When will it truly sink in that he is the head coach at his alma mater, a place known for its excellence? Pope isn’t sure, but until then, he plans to enjoy every moment representing the program and meeting recruits as Kentucky’s coach.
“I get more joy every time I talk to recruits about the University of Kentucky—I just love saying the words. It gives me a thrill every time,” Pope said. “That feeling will never become normal for me. We remain incredibly grateful for this opportunity to be affiliated with this university.”
“Just like every member of BBN, every student-athlete, and every team member, nobody else gets to do this but us. We’re the blessed ones who get to do this, and that’s never going to fade.”
