Kentucky men’s basketball head coach Mark Pope has been publicly reprimanded and fined $25,000 by the Southeastern Conference after comments he made about officiating following the Wildcats’ Feb. 21 loss to Auburn.
The SEC announced the discipline Tuesday, stating that Pope’s postgame remarks violated conference rules regarding the public criticism of officials
According to the league, SEC bylaws strictly prohibit coaches, players, and institutional staff members from publicly criticizing officials or revealing any officiating-related communications with the conference office.
An SEC regulation states:
“Coaches, players and support personnel shall refrain from all public criticism of officials, which shall include making public any specific communications with the Conference office and/or officiating coordinators related to officiating.”
The Commissioner’s Regulation on Public Criticism of Officials extends to comments made to the media and on social media. Prohibited conduct includes questioning officiating decisions, alleging bias, disclosing private communications with the conference, and even indirect or implied criticism of officials or the officiating program.
Conference officials emphasized that the bylaws and regulations are approved by SEC member institutions and enforced by the league office. Any proposed changes must go through the established governance process. Until then, all institutions and their personnel are expected to comply fully.
The fine comes at a pivotal moment in the season as Kentucky looks to regain momentum heading into the final stretch of conference play.
