Former University of Kentucky head coach John Calipari has extended a helping hand to his successor, Mark Pope, offering guidance as the new era of Kentucky Wildcats basketball begins.
Calipari, who led the Wildcats for over a decade before departing for Arkansas earlier this year, recently shared that he reached out to Pope with words of encouragement and advice. “This program means everything to me,” Calipari said. “I want Mark to succeed, and I’m here if he ever needs insight or support.”
Mark Pope, a former Wildcat himself and national championship player under Rick Pitino in 1996, has expressed gratitude for Calipari’s openness. “Coach Cal built a powerhouse here,” Pope said. “I have deep respect for him and appreciate any advice that helps continue this program’s legacy.”
As Pope begins assembling his staff and shaping the roster, many Kentucky fans are watching closely. With Calipari’s support and his own deep roots in the program, Pope looks to chart a new but familiar course for the Wildcats.
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