"They are actually excited to make plays for each other": Mark Pope in awe of Kentucky's "DNA" of sharing ball during plays

Mark Pope's first year with the Kentucky Wildcats is off to a great start. Five games into the season and the Wildcats have won them all, including some with huge margins.

One of the areas the Kentucky players are excelling in is assisting, having totaled 109 assists in five games. Pope commented on this approach of his team after the 108-59 blowout win against Jackson State on Friday.

"I thought our guys did an unbelievable job making plays for each other, Pope said. "You know, 29 assists is a good number for us and I would take that any night, especially in a game like this where it is so easy to think, awe man, in this game I'm just going to get one for myself.

"We just have a DNA, these guys have built a DNA on this team where they are actually excited to make plays for each other and I'm telling you that bodes well and it's rare and it is important for the way we play and how this game is made up."

Pope also highlighted that out of the 12 players, 11 scored points, while the one who didn't, Kerr Kriisa, led the team in assists with 7. Pope said this is how basketball at Kentucky should function.

---

Mark Pope sets an example to his players in a unique way

Coaches kicking up a storm at the sidelines and arguing with officials is a usual scene at any college basketball game. However, during Kentucky's tip-off against Wright State earlier this month, Mark Pope maintained a calm demeanor and was composed throughout the game.

He later commented on it during the post-game press conference, saying:

"Sometimes, I lose my mind. I got a couple of T’s last year (at BYU), but for me I want our players to feel the same way that I do: The referees actually have no power over whether we win or lose the game. The calls are really hard.

"But if I can be disciplined and keep my focus on the game, I think it helps our players be disciplined and help their focus on the game, come what may from refs."

Mark Pope has heavy expectations of him as he leads his alma mater after years of missed chances under former coach John Calipari. With the current pace, the Wildcats are set for a great season with coach Pope.