If you were a highly-rated recruit or portal candidate ??

[megablue]

Even if Mark Pope has adequate coaching skills, is he the type and style of coach that high-profile players want to play for ??
Could it actually be that his personality turns off potential players ?? Why aren't we getting better players ?? Why can't we pull them ?? Is it JMI ??
It seems like a fair question, since it appears he is having difficulty in recruiting talent, despite being a good guy that loves the program and having the NIL funds to compete with any program out there. It may be too early, but it seems we're not off to any kind of start for next year.
If it's not Pope's style and personality, then what is holding us back from getting top-tier talent ?? As some have questioned, is the KY brand losing its appeal ?? Is playing for Kentucky not a cool thing anymore ??

 

[preston-lemasterpiece]

Even if Mark Pope has adequate coaching skills, is he the type and style of coach that high-profile players want to play for ?? No. Proof is in the pudding
Could it actually be that his personality turns off potential players ?? Certainly appears that way. It turns me off and many people I know so I imagine players and their families feel the same way
Why aren't we getting better players ?? Why can't we pull them ?? Pope can't recruit and / or NIL issues due to Barnhart/JMI
It seems like a fair question, since it appears he is having difficulty in recruiting talent, despite being a good guy that loves the program and having the NIL funds to compete with any program out there. I'm not convinced that he is a "good guy". I think he's kinda an *sshole to be honest with ya.
If it's not Pope's style and personality, then what is holding us back from getting top-tier talent ?? As some have questioned, is the KY brand losing its appeal ?? No, the UK brand has not lost its appeal. We're in an age of greater parity so that brings us down a bit. But it's still UK, still one of the bluest of the blue bloods, and its standards are still way, way higher than Pope can reach. Cal got unmotivated his last few years here and Pope is...Pope. Get a legitimate, motivated coach in there and all this "is KY still a draw?" talk goes away. It's still UK.

 

[AllBall]

All he has to do is get out the chess board and put on some T Swift tunes.

 

[UKWildcats1987]

Even if Mark Pope has adequate coaching skills, is he the type and style of coach that high-profile players want to play for ?? No. Proof is in the pudding
Could it actually be that his personality turns off potential players ?? Certainly appears that way. It turns me off and many people I know so I imagine players and their families feel the same way
Why aren't we getting better players ?? Why can't we pull them ?? Pope can't recruit and / or NIL issues due to Barnhart/JMI
It seems like a fair question, since it appears he is having difficulty in recruiting talent, despite being a good guy that loves the program and having the NIL funds to compete with any program out there. I'm not convinced that he is a "good guy". I think he's kinda an *sshole to be honest with ya.
If it's not Pope's style and personality, then what is holding us back from getting top-tier talent ?? As some have questioned, is the KY brand losing its appeal ?? No, the UK brand has not lost its appeal. We're in an age of greater parity so that brings us down a bit. But it's still UK, still one of the bluest of the blue bloods, and its standards are still way, way higher than Pope can reach. Cal got unmotivated his last few years here and Pope is...Pope. Get a legitimate, motivated coach in there and all this "is KY still a draw?" talk goes away. It's still UK.

I agree with everything you said.

I also agree the nice guy thing seems almost forced to me and not genuine as people portraying themselves as super nice guys generally are.

 

[NociHTTP]

Voted yes because people are just trying to get their 2 cents in about this.

 

[megablue]

I agree with everything you said.

I also agree the nice guy thing seems almost forced to me and not genuine as people portraying themselves as super nice guys generally are.

For me, there is no way of telling unless you know him personally, but I can see how the "nice guy" image can appear to be be insincere and even contrived. I give him the benefit of the doubt on it, but also realize that it may not be conducive to successful coaching at the highest levels of the sport.
Having said that, for me, his communication style and delivery are a turnoff. They do not strike me as passionate and motivational, but he could be different at practice and in the locker room. Based on what I see, I will say that he is not the kind of coach that I would be drawn to play for. He is unrelatable for me. I relate much better to the stylings of Knute Rockne than Norman Vincent Peale.

 

[BlueBomb]

If still think Pope is a very nice guy. For those that are now saying he isn't: The dude is under a ton of well-deserved pressure, and he's responding to media through insecurity. It's human nature.

That said, here's my take. Pope probably has a cringe worthy dorkishness about him with recruits. If so, this will be completely different than any other coach.

Also, another thought: Can you name one other successful coach who never yells at a ref or player?

 

[BlueSince92]

It’s not his personality and it’s certainly not the results that kids signing last cycle were looking at——tying the NCAA record for top 15 wins in a fast-gunning wide open offense with both guards and bigs getting to run the show at times.

It was his dumb decision not to get into “bidding wars” for any of the kids we really needed.

And of course now that’s compounded by on-court results this year all being in the toilet as a result of him signing all B-team players that no rivals wanted to bid much for.

Pope is a little fun goofy but you’re crazy if you think that doesn’t appeal to kids and frankly the whole “dorky Pope” theme that’s proliferating lately is a combination of butthurt type C personalities feeling like they need to lash out at something since basketball outcomes are depressing lately and a whole lot of sheople who also need something to lash out at jumping on the bandwagon because Western Civilization is a fricking society of sheople lately.

 

[Tri-Countycat]

Even if Mark Pope has adequate coaching skills, is he the type and style of coach that high-profile players want to play for ?? No. Proof is in the pudding
Could it actually be that his personality turns off potential players ?? Certainly appears that way. It turns me off and many people I know so I imagine players and their families feel the same way
Why aren't we getting better players ?? Why can't we pull them ?? Pope can't recruit and / or NIL issues due to Barnhart/JMI
It seems like a fair question, since it appears he is having difficulty in recruiting talent, despite being a good guy that loves the program and having the NIL funds to compete with any program out there. I'm not convinced that he is a "good guy". I think he's kinda an *sshole to be honest with ya.
If it's not Pope's style and personality, then what is holding us back from getting top-tier talent ?? As some have questioned, is the KY brand losing its appeal ?? No, the UK brand has not lost its appeal. We're in an age of greater parity so that brings us down a bit. But it's still UK, still one of the bluest of the blue bloods, and its standards are still way, way higher than Pope can reach. Cal got unmotivated his last few years here and Pope is...Pope. Get a legitimate, motivated coach in there and all this "is KY still a draw?" talk goes away. It's still UK.

Couldn’t have answered this any better.

 

[megablue]

It’s not his personality and it’s certainly not the results that kids signing last cycle were looking at——tying the NCAA record for top 15 wins in a fast-gunning wide open offense with both guards and bigs getting to run the show at times.

It was his dumb decision not to get into “bidding wars” for any of the kids we really needed.

And of course now that’s compounded by on-court results this year all being in the toilet as a result of him signing all B-team players that no rivals wanted to bid much for.

Pope is a little fun goofy but you’re crazy if you think that doesn’t appeal to kids and frankly the whole “dorky Pope” theme that’s proliferating lately is a combination of butthurt type C personalities feeling like they need to lash out at something since basketball outcomes are depressing lately and a whole lot of sheople who also need something to lash out at jumping on the bandwagon because Western Civilization is a fricking society of sheople lately.

Thanks for the reply. You may well be right. Today's kids may gravitate toward his coaching style and I sure hope they do. I must say that I don't believe that many folks' perceptions of his personality are based on recent results. Anyone who listened to him ever since he arrived, at least publicly, quickly realized his communication style and vocabulary are not typical ... let's just leave it at that. Hopefully, AI's description of Mark Pope's personality is spot on and, rather than a negative trait, his personality is highly positive and attractive to the kinds of players we want and need here at KY. It needs to be.

------------------------------

Mark Pope's personality is characterized by infectious enthusiasm, charisma, and positivity, combined with a deep love for people, loyalty, and an intense, competitive drive, especially hating to lose, all wrapped in a folksy, genuine demeanor that connects with players, staff, and fans alike, focusing on culture, teamwork, and growth. He's known as a high-energy "hype man" who fosters an upbeat, demanding yet celebratory environment, emphasizing selflessness and building strong team bonds.

Key Personality Traits:

• Charismatic & Enthusiastic: Pope brings a vibrant, energetic presence, often described as having a personality "too big for his frame," revitalizing programs with his energy.
• People-Oriented: He genuinely loves people, showing care for everyone from players to janitorial staff, fostering a strong, inclusive team culture.
• Intensely Competitive: He admits to being a "terrible loser" with a deep hatred for losing, driving his passion and high standards.
• Positive & Upbeat: His public positivity mirrors his behind-the-scenes attitude, aiming to uplift and motivate.
• Demanding Yet Supportive: He creates intense practices with teasing and competition but balances it with celebration, focusing on growth and avoiding oppression.
• Humble & Focused on "We": He emphasizes selflessness, putting the program, fans, and team above himself, and stresses the importance of sacrifice.

In Action (Coaching Style):

• Builds Culture: Focuses on building strong foundations, teamwork, and shared belief, making the culture "contagious".
• Connects Deeply: Connects with players by understanding their backgrounds and fostering loyalty and leadership.
• High Expectations: Embraces high standards and expectations, motivating others to join the journey.

 

[BlueSince92]

Thanks for the reply. You may well be right. Today's kids may gravitate toward his coaching style and I sure hope they do. I must say that I don't believe that many folks' perceptions of his personality are based on recent results. Anyone who listened to him ever since he arrived, at least publicly, quickly realized his communication style and vocabulary are not typical ... let's just leave it at that. Hopefully, AI's description of Mark Pope's personality is spot on and, rather than a negative trait, his personality is highly positive and attractive to the kinds of players we want and need here at KY. It needs to be.

------------------------------

Mark Pope's personality is characterized by infectious enthusiasm, charisma, and positivity, combined with a deep love for people, loyalty, and an intense, competitive drive, especially hating to lose, all wrapped in a folksy, genuine demeanor that connects with players, staff, and fans alike, focusing on culture, teamwork, and growth. He's known as a high-energy "hype man" who fosters an upbeat, demanding yet celebratory environment, emphasizing selflessness and building strong team bonds.

Key Personality Traits:

• Charismatic & Enthusiastic: Pope brings a vibrant, energetic presence, often described as having a personality "too big for his frame," revitalizing programs with his energy.
• People-Oriented: He genuinely loves people, showing care for everyone from players to janitorial staff, fostering a strong, inclusive team culture.
• Intensely Competitive: He admits to being a "terrible loser" with a deep hatred for losing, driving his passion and high standards.
• Positive & Upbeat: His public positivity mirrors his behind-the-scenes attitude, aiming to uplift and motivate.
• Demanding Yet Supportive: He creates intense practices with teasing and competition but balances it with celebration, focusing on growth and avoiding oppression.
• Humble & Focused on "We": He emphasizes selflessness, putting the program, fans, and team above himself, and stresses the importance of sacrifice.

In Action (Coaching Style):

• Builds Culture: Focuses on building strong foundations, teamwork, and shared belief, making the culture "contagious".
• Connects Deeply: Connects with players by understanding their backgrounds and fostering loyalty and leadership.
• High Expectations: Embraces high standards and expectations, motivating others to join the journey.

Yeah his neuroscience babble definitely isn’t based on recent results but I think that’s a neutral factor. When he’s winning it looks like he’s winning because he’s ahead of the curve and that babble is proof of it. When he’s losing it looks like he’s behind the curve and that babble could definitely make it seem like he’s behind the curve because he’s so nerdy he can’t see the forest for the trees. I think either reaction is exclusively related to winning and losing though, and not related to how kids react to his core personality imo.

 

[megablue]

Yeah his neuroscience babble definitely isn’t based on recent results but I think that’s a neutral factor. When he’s winning it looks like he’s winning because he’s ahead of the curve and that babble is proof of it. When he’s losing it looks like he’s behind the curve and that babble could definitely make it seem like he’s behind the curve because he’s so nerdy he can’t see the forest for the trees. I think either reaction is exclusively related to winning and losing though, and not related to how kids react to his core personality imo.

Fair enough ... but, at least, we can agree there's some degree of "babble" going on.
When I hear Freshmen talk about "intentionality" ... I'll know they are connected and have bought in ...

 

[Jaime Chitwood]

My kid would go to the highest bidder. Every year.

 

[BlueBlood96Cat]

If you had a son say he had future nba skills but he wasn’t a one and done and needed college more than one year. He has his list down to five. Two coaches are HOFers two coaches are future hall of famers with final fours under their belt. Your last school is a guy nobody knew besides Kentucky fans. I barely knew him other than name alone just from being a die hard. Odd personality. No connections. Unproven play style. Unproven success. Proven to get blown out frequently. No fire. Super nice even when the ship is sinking.


my son might have a hard time picking between the first four but even as die hard UK fan I couldn’t send my kids to UK at the current moment and that’s just from the competitive fire standpoint alone. Yall say he’s just not that type of coach that’s ok. I just wouldn’t send my kids there and seems a lot of parent feel the same way for whatever reason. Yea ik it’s up to the kid but most of the time the whole camp is on the same page.

 

[Bill_the_cat]

 

[preston-lemasterpiece]

It’s not his personality and it’s certainly not the results that kids signing last cycle were looking at——tying the NCAA record for top 15 wins in a fast-gunning wide open offense with both guards and bigs getting to run the show at times.

It was his dumb decision not to get into “bidding wars” for any of the kids we really needed.

And of course now that’s compounded by on-court results this year all being in the toilet as a result of him signing all B-team players that no rivals wanted to bid much for.

Pope is a little fun goofy but you’re crazy if you think that doesn’t appeal to kids and frankly the whole “dorky Pope” theme that’s proliferating lately is a combination of butthurt type C personalities feeling like they need to lash out at something since basketball outcomes are depressing lately and a whole lot of sheople who also need something to lash out at jumping on the bandwagon because Western Civilization is a fricking society of sheople lately.

what a strange post

 

[BlueSince92]

what a strange post

Type C personality

 

[preston-lemasterpiece]

Type C personality

i'm just here to talk hoops and you're on about western civilization being overrun by sheeple. wtf

 

[preston-lemasterpiece]

Thanks for the reply. You may well be right. Today's kids may gravitate toward his coaching style and I sure hope they do. I must say that I don't believe that many folks' perceptions of his personality are based on recent results. Anyone who listened to him ever since he arrived, at least publicly, quickly realized his communication style and vocabulary are not typical ... let's just leave it at that. Hopefully, AI's description of Mark Pope's personality is spot on and, rather than a negative trait, his personality is highly positive and attractive to the kinds of players we want and need here at KY. It needs to be.

------------------------------

Mark Pope's personality is characterized by infectious enthusiasm, charisma, and positivity, combined with a deep love for people, loyalty, and an intense, competitive drive, especially hating to lose, all wrapped in a folksy, genuine demeanor that connects with players, staff, and fans alike, focusing on culture, teamwork, and growth. He's known as a high-energy "hype man" who fosters an upbeat, demanding yet celebratory environment, emphasizing selflessness and building strong team bonds.

Key Personality Traits:

• Charismatic & Enthusiastic: Pope brings a vibrant, energetic presence, often described as having a personality "too big for his frame," revitalizing programs with his energy.
• People-Oriented: He genuinely loves people, showing care for everyone from players to janitorial staff, fostering a strong, inclusive team culture.
• Intensely Competitive: He admits to being a "terrible loser" with a deep hatred for losing, driving his passion and high standards.
• Positive & Upbeat: His public positivity mirrors his behind-the-scenes attitude, aiming to uplift and motivate.
• Demanding Yet Supportive: He creates intense practices with teasing and competition but balances it with celebration, focusing on growth and avoiding oppression.
• Humble & Focused on "We": He emphasizes selflessness, putting the program, fans, and team above himself, and stresses the importance of sacrifice.

In Action (Coaching Style):

• Builds Culture: Focuses on building strong foundations, teamwork, and shared belief, making the culture "contagious".
• Connects Deeply: Connects with players by understanding their backgrounds and fostering loyalty and leadership.
• High Expectations: Embraces high standards and expectations, motivating others to join the journey.

with all due respect, that's all just a bunch of sh*t

 

[BlueSince92]

with all due respect, that's all just a bunch of sh*t

You’re here to get personal and look petty doing it

 

[mdluk1]

He was able to get some of the best portal recruits last year in a short amount of time. And if reports from the talking heads, he was in position to land 2 of the top 5 recruits this year, right up until the signing. Are you saying those guys, after months and months of Pope recruiting them, suddenly were turned off by his personality? Something is wrong but I’m not sure it is pope’s personality.

 

[BlueBlood96Cat]

He was able to get some of the best portal recruits last year in a short amount of time. And if reports from the talking heads, he was in position to land 2 of the top 5 recruits this year, right up until the signing. Are you saying those guys, after months and months of Pope recruiting them, suddenly were turned off by his personality? Something is wrong but I’m not sure it is pope’s personality.

Maybe all those months getting recruited everything was A+. Fans showed them attention we have the program facilities big home arena plenty of tv time here plenty of money…… in the end he didn’t sign them and maybe it was because they connected and trusted other coaches more. We all see what’s going on. If anyone thinks this is going to end well then it’s just because they are hoping it will like I am. I just don’t see it.

 

[Broker]

Couldn’t have answered this any better.

I also agree 100% with post but my question or concerns is how long being a mediocre program before we are no longer considered a blue blood program. Indiana and UCLA for an example. 2015, eleven years ago was our last FF. 2012 was last championship.

 

[preston-lemasterpiece]

I also agree 100% with post but my question or concerns is how long being a mediocre program before we are no longer considered a blue blood program. Indiana and UCLA for an example. 2015, eleven years ago was our last FF. 2012 was last championship.

just leave Pope in as head coach and we'll all get to find out the answer to that question together

 

[I’m The Village Idiot]

It would depend on the archetype. If I’m a unicorn big with elite playmaking, absolutely. Only problem there is there are more proven coaches to compete against for my services. As with most things, it isn’t as simple as “yes” or “no.”

 

[BlueSince92]

i'm just here to talk hoops and you're on about western civilization being overrun by sheeple. wtf

I wrote it just for you.

 

[Yardeth]

He is a Goober, and I think he talks over the heads of all these recruits and parents. He isn’t in touch with the kids that he is recruiting and IMO he needs to dumb it down and let them understand what he wants to do with them at UK. Kids want to talk about what he is going to do with them and not what they will do for the team. Plus $$$ helps a lot!

 

[preston-lemasterpiece]

He is a Goober, and I think he talks over the heads of all these recruits and parents. He isn’t in touch with the kids that he is recruiting and IMO he needs to dumb it down and let them understand what he wants to do with them at UK. Kids want to talk about what he is going to do with them and not what they will do for the team. Plus $$$ helps a lot!

totally unrelated to thread but i like the scott hall avatar. legend

 

[Stenchymouse]

I think that Pope is a great guy!

I DO think that he's actually too analytical.

Sometimes the correct answer is the simplest and most obvious answer, and I believe that he overthinks everything!!

 

[Anon1739778738]

Tom Izzo is a hardass and very demanding coach but his players will run through a wall for him.

 

[UKJenning]

No! He’s weird and geeky!