The Kentucky Wildcats basketball program has turned its attention to a familiar face, BYU head coach Mark Pope. This revelation comes amidst a string of high-profile coaches withdrawing their names from consideration for the coveted position.
A pivotal member of the University of Washington’s team before transferring, Pope was part of the 1996 Kentucky squad that clinched the national championship. Following a stint in the NBA, he transitioned to coaching, starting as an assistant at Georgia in 2006.
REPORT: BYU coach Mark Pope has emerged as a candidate for the Kentucky head coaching job, per @JonRothstein. https://t.co/eTMVoOBQt6 pic.twitter.com/lvH4ksU5Ij
— On3 (@On3sports) April 11, 2024
Pope’s coaching tenure at BYU has been marked by success, with the Cougars tallying a commendable 110-52 record since his appointment in 2019. Most recently, BYU capped off the season with a 23-11 overall record, including a solid 10-8 performance in their inaugural season in the Big 12 conference.
Kentucky’s coaching search has seen several twists and turns. Initially, Baylor head coach Scott Drew was a prime contender, but he opted to remain at Baylor. Subsequently, attention turned to Dan Hurley of UConn fame, but he too expressed his commitment to his current program after securing consecutive titles.
Now, Kentucky could be eyeing a leap to the NBA ranks, with former assistant and two-time NCAA champion Billy Donovan emerging as a potential candidate.
Currently coaching the Chicago Bulls, Donovan’s future with the franchise remains uncertain as Kentucky weighs its options. However, Donovan’s recent extension with the Bulls underscores the complexities of any potential move.
Despite his success in the NBA, Donovan’s ties to the college game, coupled with the allure of a program like Kentucky, present an intriguing opportunity. Despite his ongoing commitments in Chicago, roster control and the unique appeal of the Wildcats’ coaching position could sway Donovan’s decision.
