Coach Pope is bringing the heat!
Kentucky head coach Mark Pope did not hide his frustration following the Wildcats’ 98-84 loss to Ole Miss on Tuesday night.
During his Wednesday radio segment, Pope was candid about the emotions running high within the team after suffering their fourth loss in five games.
A fan called into the show and asked about the blood seen on Pope’s hand and shirt as he emerged from the locker room after the game. While he did not go into specifics, Pope acknowledged the intensity of the postgame atmosphere, emphasizing the high expectations that come with playing at Kentucky.
“We have a really high standard at the University of Kentucky, and we’re not playing to that standard,” Pope said.
The loss to Ole Miss was a tough one for the Wildcats, who struggled on both ends of the floor. Kentucky’s defense allowed the Rebels to dictate the pace, and their inability to force turnovers contributed to an early deficit that proved insurmountable.
At halftime, Ole Miss led 54-31, putting Kentucky in a nearly impossible position to mount a comeback.
Pope also revealed just how he was following the game.
“There may have been some completely destroyed furniture in the locker room,” Pope admitted.
The Wildcats now find themselves at a critical point in their season. Sitting at 15-7 overall and 4-5 in SEC play, Kentucky needs to find a way to bounce back quickly. Pope’s passion and intensity reflect the urgency surrounding the team as they look to regain their footing in conference play.