When Kentucky’s Mark Pope was asked about the advantages of college basketball players staying with the same coach for multiple seasons—specifically referencing Johni Broome playing under Auburn’s Bruce Pearl for three years—he highlighted how rare that kind of continuity has become in today’s game.
“The beauty of longevity, which we don’t see much in college athletics anymore, is that you get to know each other so well,” Pope said. “It allows you to build on that familiarity. If I had an entire season ahead with this team, they’d already have a solid understanding of how we approach the game. Plus, I would know the specific situations where certain players thrive, and that opens the door for creativity and deeper exploration of the game, which makes it exciting.”
However, the Kentucky players stepping onto the Rupp Arena court for the last time Tuesday night didn’t have the benefit of such long-term relationships. Every one of them was playing their final home game just four months after their first. They were all new to UK basketball, and none had played under Pope before this season.
Despite the short timeline, this team delivered plenty of excitement. Whether their journey ends in the coming weeks or stretches into April, the season has felt far too short for the players. Some have even mentioned it themselves, while others have agreed when asked—the season has flown by.
From Pope’s hiring last April to the rush of player commitments, summer practices, and the whirlwind season itself, the seniors honored on Tuesday—before Kentucky’s final home game against LSU—joined something special, taking fans on an unforgettable ride.
The season has been marked by thrilling victories, including wins over Louisville, Florida, and Tennessee at Rupp Arena, but there have also been tough moments both on and off the court.
Senior Night served as a reminder of those challenges. Jaxson Robinson, one of the most anticipated transfer additions, was honored but couldn’t play due to a wrist injury that ended his season and college career prematurely. Meanwhile, Kerr Kriisa, who had the potential to become a fan favorite, hasn’t played since December 7 due to a foot injury. Pope revealed that Kriisa was not participating in Senior Night because he’s considering a medical redshirt season, which could allow him to return for another year.
For five other Wildcats, this was their final chapter. They committed to Pope nearly a year ago, knowing this would be their last college season and entrusting their final year to Kentucky’s new coach.
If they have any regrets, it’s that they didn’t have more time together.
