"Don't think coach was super happy about that": Mark Pope goes down memory lane to share a fun story playing under Rick Pitino
As No. 9 Kentucky prepares to take on Vanderbilt at Memorial Gymnasium this Saturday, Mark Pope is gearing up for his first visit back to the iconic venue since his days as a Wildcat. One particular moment from his playing days under Rick Pitino stands out—and it’s as entertaining as it is unique.
"I love that gym just because I have one great memory," he reminisced during a press conference. "We were playing Vandy in a tough game, and we’re racing down the floor in the second half. We’re kind of making a run that got us some separation, and someone—maybe Anthony [Epps] or [Tony Delk]—hit me with a trail pass. We’re in transition, and I ran in and dunked it. If I remember correctly, I barely got it over the rim and got fouled," he said. "Coach [Pitino] was standing right there, so I got to go chest bump him. And I don’t think Coach was super happy about that, but I’ve always loved the configuration of the gym since that moment."
Watch the full clip below.
Mark Pope talks about Memorial Gym
Memorial Gym’s quirky setup has made it one of the most unique venues in college basketball. While the NCAA has since adjusted coaching boxes to allow head coaches to roam the sideline up to the scorer’s table, Mark Pope fondly recalled how the old layout gave point guards an unusual advantage.
"Point guards loved it because they couldn’t hear what the coach was saying, so they didn’t have to pay attention," Pope said.
Despite the changes, he praised the gym’s atmosphere.
"It’s a great venue. It’s got a different vibe, and right now, the way [Vanderbilt] is playing, it’s going to be a fun place to coach and play."
Vanderbilt, under first-year head coach Mark Byington, is having a strong season with a 15-4 record (3-3 SEC). The Commodores recently stunned No. 6 Tennessee with a thrilling 76-75 victory in Nashville, reigniting the storied "Memorial Magic."
Saturday’s game is sold out, and ticket prices are surging on secondary markets, highlighting the matchup's excitement. Kentucky fans are expected to show up in force, as they often do in Nashville, but Vanderbilt fans have plenty to cheer for, making the atmosphere even more electric.
Mark Pope and his team will look to create more good memories as they go up against the Commodores.