‘I’ve Got Hope in Pope’: La Familia Players Eager for Mark Pope Era at Kentucky
In Lexington, a bridging of two eras is currently underway. With La Familia — Kentucky’s alumni team for this week’s The Basketball Tournament — practicing at the Joe Craft Center, a unique situation has arisen for the program.
John Calipari, who coached nine of the 10 players on La Familia’s roster, is now at Arkansas after 15 seasons in Lexington. Mark Pope, a 1996 national champion with the Wildcats, has taken over and brought new energy to Kentucky men’s basketball. Although none of the La Familia players were coached by Pope, they are excited about his potential impact on the program.
During La Familia’s Media Day on Monday, players and staff spoke with reporters about TBT and other topics. A recurring theme in their conversations was their thoughts on Pope. Despite committing to and playing for Calipari, their connection to Kentucky makes them eager to see what the future holds under Pope’s leadership.
Eric Bledsoe: “In the NBA, nothing lasts forever; everything eventually comes to an end. I have nothing but respect for (Calipari), and I love him dearly. However, I’m also excited to see the new coach make his mark on Kentucky basketball. He has a lot of energy, which is exactly what’s needed.”
James Young: “I believe he’s going to accomplish great things here. I know the Kentucky fan base will support him, and he knows what he’s doing. I think he’s going to do wonderful things for this team.”
Andrew Harrison: “He greeted us as soon as we walked into the building. He seems like a great guy and is taller than I expected. He appears to be steering the program in a new, but positive, direction.”
Daniel Orton: “Adversity is different for everyone. Change is inevitable. I have faith in Pope and look forward to a bright future. I’m a big fan of Cal, but I committed to Kentucky, so I’m really looking forward to what the future holds.”
Kellan Grady: “I haven’t met him yet, but I’m excited to. I think Kentucky is in great hands with
Kellan Grady: “I haven’t met him yet, but I’m excited to. I think Kentucky is in great hands with Mark Pope. I’m really looking forward to meeting him.”
This week, the current Kentucky team will have the opportunity to practice with La Familia in preparation for TBT. This will give the alumni group a firsthand look at Pope and his coaching style.
