Mark Pope Returns to Kentucky: A New Era Begins with a Promising Starting Five

Mark Pope Returns to Kentucky: A New Era Begins with a Promising Starting Five

The University of Kentucky has officially welcomed back Mark Pope as the head coach of its men’s basketball team, marking a significant moment in the program’s storied history. Pope, a former Wildcats captain and member of the 1996 NCAA championship team, steps into the role following the departure of long-time coach John Calipari. With a blend of seasoned transfers and emerging talent, Pope’s inaugural starting lineup for the 2024-25 season is generating excitement among fans and analysts alike. ([Mark Pope: Kentucky starting lineup: Predicting Mark Pope’s starting five for 2024-25 season]

**Projected Starting Five:**

1. **Lamont Butler (Guard, Graduate Transfer)**
Butler arrives from San Diego State, bringing a reputation as a defensive stalwart. A three-time Mountain West All-Defense selection, he played a pivotal role in the Aztecs’ journey to the 2023 NCAA championship game. Known for his leadership and clutch performances, including a memorable game-winning shot in the Final Four, Butler is expected to anchor the Wildcats’ backcourt defense.

2. **Otega Oweh (Guard, Junior Transfer)**
Transferring from Oklahoma, Oweh is anticipated to be a key contributor on both ends of the floor. During his sophomore season, he averaged 11.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game, showcasing his versatility and defensive prowess. His ability to guard multiple positions makes him a valuable asset in Pope’s system.

3. **Koby Brea (Guard, Graduate Transfer)**
Brea, formerly of Dayton, led the nation in three-point shooting percentage at 49.8% last season. His sharpshooting skills align well with Pope’s offensive philosophy, which emphasizes perimeter scoring. Brea’s presence on the wing is expected to stretch defenses and create spacing for his teammates.

4. **Andrew Carr (Forward, Graduate Transfer)**
Carr joins from Wake Forest, where he averaged 13.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. Standing at 6-foot-11, he offers a combination of size and shooting ability, having connected on 37.1% of his three-point attempts. Pope has referred to Carr as Kentucky’s “most important piece,” highlighting his two-way impact.

5. **Brandon Garrison (Center, Sophomore)**
A McDonald’s All-American, Garrison had a solid freshman year at Oklahoma State, averaging 5.9 points and 3.9 rebounds per game. His development over the offseason has been notable, with improvements in physicality and shooting range. Garrison’s potential as a rim protector and inside scorer adds depth to the Wildcats’ frontcourt.

**Bench Depth and Additional Talent:**

Kentucky’s roster boasts considerable depth, with players like Jaxson Robinson, a graduate transfer from BYU who led his team in scoring off the bench, and Amari Williams, a three-time CAA Defensive Player of the Year from Drexel. Freshman Jasper Johnson has also turned heads with his scoring ability during offseason scrimmages. ([Kentucky basketball roster 2024-25: Starting lineup prediction, rotation, outlook for Mark Pope’s Wildcats – OKC Sports Radio](https://okcsportsradio.com/2024/08/13/kentucky-basketball-roster-2024-25-starting-lineup-prediction-rotation-outlook-for-mark-popes-wildcats/?utm_source=chatgpt.com), [Kentucky Basketball practice highlights](https://www.aseaofblue.com/2025/4/25/24417148/kentucky-basketball-practice-highlights?utm_source=chatgpt.com))

**Outlook for the Season:**

With a mix of experienced transfers and promising young talent, Coach Mark Pope’s first season at the helm is poised for success. The Wildcats aim to return to national prominence, leveraging a roster built for both offensive firepower and defensive resilience. As the season approaches, anticipation builds for what could be a transformative year for Kentucky basketball