LEXINGTON, Ky. — Former BYU coach Mark Pope is a Kentucky Wildcat once again, replacing John Calipari as men's basketball head coach. 

What You Need To Know

  • For the first time in 15 years, Kentucky men's basketball will have a new head coach

  • Former BYU coach Mark Pope will take over for John Calipari 

  • Pope spent two years (1994-96) as a Wildcat, earning an NCAA title

  • He will be the 23rd coach in program history 

Fans said now's the time for a change. 

“It's time for a new era," student Roy McChrystal said. 

“We don't need a big name. We want somebody who has just come on the scene ... a lot of people are saying, 'I don't know about this guy.' I didn't do anything for his other teams, but I'm hyped.” 

Like many fans, student Nick Osbourne said he still has questions and concerns about what may happen next. 

“I think a lot of people are doubting him because he doesn't have the record that maybe (Scott) Drew or Dan Hurley has,” Osbourne said. 

However, he added a fresh start could lead to success. 

“People are being a little too harsh with him ... I mean, hopefully, he'll get us out of the first weekend of March Madness at least," he said. 

Osbourne said he's looking forward to Calipari and the Arkansas Razorbacks' first appearance at Rupp Arena next season.

“I think the fans will be supportive, no matter what." Osbourne said. 

Pope will be formally introduced in a press conference Sunday, April 14 at 4:30 p.m. at Rupp Arena. 

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