"Devotion increases with investment": Kentucky HC Mark Pope aims to deepen connections between Wildcats basketball and Big Blue Nation with NIL boost

Mark Pope became the new head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team on April 12, succeeding John Calipari.

With the advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) legislation, Pope sees a great chance to strengthen the connection between the Wildcats basketball team and their passionate fans, known as the Big Blue Nation (BBN).

Coach Mark Pope spoke to the media on Monday and shared his thoughts on NIL, stating that he believes it is beneficial.

"C'mon! We get to come and do this here at the University of Kentucky. This is another way where we get to connect with BBN. It's another real, tangible way that we get to build and forge connections," Pope said.

"I'm telling you, like, devotion increases with investment also. It is certainly a new wrinkle and a new challenge associated with college athletics but anything that gives us an opportunity to connect with, touch, reach out, and build relationships with every single fan of Kentucky Basketball and every single member of BBN is beautiful." [Time Stamp - 1:48]

As NIL continues to shape the future of college sports, Kentucky stands at the forefront, embracing change with open arms. Pope elaborated that the NIL impact extends beyond endorsements, it is about fostering shared experiences and memories that resonate with every member of BBN.

Fans get a closer look into the lives and personalities of their beloved athletes with NIL. This transparency and accessibility are what Pope believes will solidify an already passionate fan base.

Mark Pope's era begins at Kentucky: Quest for Title no. 9

The Kentucky Wildcats last won the national championship over a decade ago in 2012, under the leadership of former head coach John Calipari, earning their 8th NCAA title.

Kentucky fans have been waiting a long time for their ninth championship, and Mark Pope understands the job that awaits him. Ever since he was hired as the new Kentucky coach he has repeatedly said he knows what is expected of him.

"We have one assignment and that's to get No. 9. Everywhere I turn I see the No. 9. That's all I see," Mark Pope stated. "So, we're pretty obsessed with that and we're going to chase it with everything we have. That's the standard here."

Pope has brought on 12 new players for the upcoming season after all 13 scholarship players from last season left the team. The Wildcats players arrived at the college on the second week of June. On Monday, they started their mission to win the 2025 national championship with their first official practice.