Mark Pope says Kentucky is 'really considering' international staff hire, recently met with 'high-profile' candidate

Mark Pope is currently evaluating potential additions to his coaching staff as he prepares for his third season leading Kentucky basketball. With one assistant spot remaining open, Pope recently confirmed he is actively interviewing candidates and has held discussions with a high-profile international coach.

The head coach acknowledged that the landscape of college basketball is changing. Overseas talent plays a significant role in modern roster construction, and Pope is weighing whether to bring on a staff member with a specific focus on that region. He pointed to programs like Illinois, Gonzaga, and Saint Mary’s as examples of teams that have found success by leveraging deep international connections.

Beyond simple recruitment, Pope is also monitoring how NCAA rules shift regarding eligibility for older players with professional experience. He noted that programs like LSU are testing the boundaries of existing regulations, which could force a change in strategy for schools across the country. If the rules permit experienced international players to join college rosters, having a staff member with relevant expertise becomes a priority.

For now, the team remains focused on current operations. Pope noted that his existing staff members are handling their responsibilities effectively, meaning he is not rushing into a decision. He is biding his time to ensure the next hire fits the long-term needs of the program, regardless of the final direction taken by the NCAA regarding international talent.