Mark Pope knows how impactful and energetic the Kentucky student fanbase can be and he wasted no time to address that, and their importance in the next phase of Wildcats’ basketball.
On Saturday, it was released that Pope actually addressed the students directly … with a pre-recorded voicemail.
A current student at Kentucky tweeted out the recording and it was confirmed by KSR’s Matt Jones.
Here is what the full recording says:
“UK students, this is your new head men’s basketball coach Mark Pope. I’m a proud alumnus. I love this school to the depths of my soul. I’m class of ’96, so I’m way older than your parents and your grandparents. This place changed my life and I’m honored to be here and lead this program. I can’t wait to get around campus to meet you. Your energy will matter to this team. Help us out, let’s go.”
Pope was part of the 1996 National Championship team for Kentucky after spending two years in Lexington.
Already, Pope has expressed his ultimate understanding of the Kentucky tradition and what it means to play inside Rupp Arena.
“The University of Kentucky is the pinnacle of coaching in college basketball,” Pope said in his first statement as new head coach. “It’s the definition of blueblood program where hanging a banner is the expectation ever year.”
While there seemed to be some concerns over Pope’s hire when the news officially broke late last week, the public support from many former Kentucky players and national maedia has definitely helped the navigation of the coaching change for the entire fan base.
Pope has a five-year deal in place at Kentucky.
If Pope has done anything in the first 48 hours on the job, he’s brought new energy and a charasmatic approach to the program. Something Kentucky hasn’t had in quite some time.
Pope will be offiically introduced on Sunday afternoon.
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