Mark Pope proves he can close.
It’s no secret that now former Kentucky Basketball head coach John Calipari is one of the best recruiters in all of college basketball.
While new HC Mark Pope was thought to be a much better “coach” instead of a recruiter, he’s surprised several Kentucky fans by landing high-end veteran players in the transfer portal.
One of those players is Drexel’s Amari Williams — a fifth-year senior who signed with Kentucky early last week. He’s a standout defender and is expected to bring a lot of leadership to the Wildcats for the upcoming season.
Though Big Blue Nation doesn’t need to worry, there was a bit of last-minute drama before the transfer portal closed at midnight going into Thursday morning.
There was speculation that Williams would back off his commitment to Kentucky and explore his options before the portal closed. However, Pope reportedly flew to Philadelphia to meet with Williams and made sure the two were on the same page.
If you were worried about Amari Williams and his status with Kentucky, don’t be. The Drexel transfer is locked in with Mark Pope and the Wildcats.
https://t.co/129GNNafCs pic.twitter.com/47jvmnFHCD
— KSR (@KSRonX) May 2, 2024
So, Williams will be a Wildcat this upcoming season.
Pope needing to fly to Philly last night to convince Amari Williams to stay at Kentucky isn’t abnormal, unfortunately. I’ve talked to some coaches this week who are “re-recruiting” their recently acquired transfers because of wandering eyes. Tampering season remains in effect. https://t.co/aaYjzX534V
— Matt Norlander (@MattNorlander) May 2, 2024
Matt Norlander, analyst for CBS Sports, says this shouldn’t be a surprise as some coaches have had to “re-recruit” players they’ve added in the transfer portal due to “wandering eyes” and “tampering season” still being in full effect.
On top of Williams wearing the Kentucky jersey next season, another good thing here is knowing that Pope clearly has a grip on recruiting. He’s built what appears to be a terrific roster that’s mostly full of veteran players with lots of experience and a diverse skill set.
Basketball season simply can’t come fast enough.
Tweet of the Day
We are still collecting ️ for @KCHKids so please, if you are able, bring a new stuffed bear with you this weekend and deliver it to the Promo Zone.
https://t.co/xAeFy132nd pic.twitter.com/3LtJHf1oeW
— Kentucky Baseball (@UKBaseball) May 1, 2024
Such a cool thing UK Baseball is doing.
Headlines
Jordan Obi Adds Versatility, Experience to UK – Vaught’s Views
She gives Brooks a veteran piece for his first UK team.
Steelers coordinator eyed Justin Fields for returns – ESPN
No way this is serious.
Three Significant Kentucky Derby Storylines – KSR
What are your weekend plans?
Knicks vs. 76ers: Nothing mattered until the final seconds – CBS Sports
Sad to see Tyrese Maxey sent home.
Caleb Wilson ‘definitely still interested’ in Kentucky – KSR
Not phased by Cal University.
Georgia approves contract for Kirby Smart – USA Today
$13 million per year.
Kentucky baseball’s pitching concerns are real – KSR
Big weekend of baseball starts tonight.
Woods receives exemption to play in 2024 U.S. Open – USA Today
Hoping his body will hold up.