The stress of the Kentucky job may be getting to Mark Pope. His "bluntly honest" confession that he is "further behind" than he expected with this team is a major red flag for fans.
When Kentucky hired Mark Pope, it was a breath of fresh air. He rejuvenated the fanbase and Rupp Arena. Cal's message and schtick had gotten old, only because the wins had started to dry up. A change was good for Cal and Kentucky.
After the coaching search circus: Danny Hurley said no, Scott Drew's wife said no, Billy Donovan flirted, Mitch Barnhart landed on Pope, the 1996 title-winning captain.