Mark Pope recalls the time when Koby Brea was "more excited about Rupp Arena" than for a Drake concert

Before fifth-year guard Koby Brea became known for his deep shooting with Kentucky in the 2024-2025 season, he played four years for Dayton. On Saturday, coach Mark Pope remembered a story from March, where Brea first visited Rupp Arena, the Wildcats' home court, and was more interested in being in the historic court than the Drake and J. Cole concert happening there.

"He was like, ‘Man, this is Kentucky,’ " Pope said, via SB Nation. "And his girlfriend asked, ‘Are you more excited about Drake or Rupp?’ He said, ‘I’m more excited about Rupp.'"

Perhaps it's that excitement to play in Rupp that has led to Brea's outstanding performances for Kentucky thus far. Through five home games, the sharpshooter is averaging 16 points on a blistering hot 80.0% shooting from beyond the arc. He has also added an average of 4.4 rebounds per game, contributing to Kentucky's unbeaten 5-0 start to the season.

Koby Brea's best outing came in the Kentucky Wildcats' 108-59 drubbing of Jackson State on Saturday. Brea was on fire for the fixture, finishing with 22 points on 8-for-11 shooting—good for 72.7%.

Pope is surely enjoying the services of his transferee swingman, as his team is now third in the Southeastern division. Next, the Wildcats will take on Western Kentucky on Tuesday, back in what seems to be Brea's favorite court: Rupp Arena.

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Koby Brea on his shooting confidence

In the post-game presser of their win over the Bucknell Bison two weeks ago, the 6-foot-6 standout disclosed how much his team has helped him shoot freely:

"I get confidence from the team and coaching staff. They do a good job of pouring confidence into me. It means a lot how much they trust me, and everything becomes easier. On the floor, being able to move, everything flows and comes to you. I take my time and stay patient, and I know it is going to be good."

If Koby Brea keeps his consistent shooting afloat, he could be looking at potentially getting his name called up in the 2025 NBA draft.