Mark Edward Pope (born September 11, 1972) is an American collegiate basketball coach and former player who is head men's basketball coach at the University of Kentucky, his alma mater.

Mark Pope, a captain of the University of Kentucky’s 1996 National Championship team, returned to Lexington as the 23rd head coach of Kentucky’s storied men’s basketball program in April of 2024.

3 days ago · The entertainment didn't stop at the buzzer after Kentucky's win at Tennessee, with Mark Pope breaking up a fight and getting drenched in water.

Jan 3, 2026 · Fans are done with Mark Pope. "I love Mark Pope, want him succeed at the highest level," a Kentucky fan wrote on social media. "He's just not the guy for Kentucky."

Jan 9, 2026 · Pope is the head coach at Kentucky in large part because he understands Big Blue Nation and what it means to put on a Kentucky uniform more than just about anyone.

Kentucky coach Mark Pope had a lot to say in his post-game comments. Read all about what he told Tom Leach.

Dec 24, 2024 · Mark Pope has stepped down from his position as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats basketball team, a move that has sent shockwaves through the college basketball community.

Apr 13, 2024 · Kentucky announces Mark Pope, captain of its 1996 national championship team, as the school's new men's basketball coach, replacing John Calipari.

Dec 20, 2025 · It was certainly striking how much wiser Mark Pope’s coaching looked Saturday in the second half — when he finally had all his most talented players on the court together.

Dec 20, 2025 · It was certainly striking how much wiser Mark Pope’s coaching looked Saturday in the second half — when he finally had all his most talented players on the court together.