Two months into the season, Kentucky coach Mark Pope and his Wildcats are still navigating growing pains. Monday offered a crucial moment for reflection as the team worked to reset after Saturday’s 89-74 SEC opener loss to Alabama.
During a film session, Pope led an honest and intense discussion about communication and expectations. “The biggest failure in communication is assuming you’ve done it,” he said. “Everybody is telling themselves a story. This session was about reaching a point of truth and a shared understanding of our shortcomings and pitfalls.
Pope emphasized that these talks help players filter out the constant noise from friends, family, agents, and social media. “It’s really instructive and powerful when you can bring a group together to find common ground and understand how they should be telling themselves their story,” he said.
Despite outside perceptions, Pope insisted his team is close-knit. “This is not a group that doesn’t get along,” he said. “Kentucky basketball is something we all care about deeply. This team is as close and invested in each other as any I’ve ever coached.”
Managing Key Players
Pope also addressed the progress of Jaland Lowe, who came off the bench to score 21 points against Alabama.
Recovering from a second shoulder injury this season, Lowe has played seven games, averaging nine points and 20 assists, while missing seven others.
“We’re trying to nurse JLo through this as smartly as we can,” Pope said. “Starting is in his future. He’s getting stronger every day, and as he regains full strength, we’ll be more daring with how we use him. He makes a big difference for us.
Kentucky hosts Missouri on Wednesday at 7 p.m. Coverage will be available on ESPN2 and the UK Radio Network.
