As per a report by Matt Norlander of CBS Sports, the new head coach of Kentucky basketball, Mark Pope, has arranged the team’s first non-conference match. The Wildcats are nearing a deal to host their intrastate rival, Western Kentucky, at Rupp Arena next season, forming part of a 3-game multi-team event. This event is expected to feature matchups against mid-major schools, with one likely against an HBCU program.
Kentucky has clashed with Western Kentucky only seven times since 1971, with Kentucky leading the series 5-2. Their most recent encounter was during the 2021-22 season when Western Kentucky replaced Louisville due to COVID restrictions. In that game, Oscar Tshiebwe set a Rupp Arena record with 28 rebounds, contributing to Kentucky’s 95-60 victory.
Under coach Steve Lutz in the 2023-24 season, Western Kentucky finished with a 22-12 overall record and secured a spot in the NCAA Tournament by winning the Conference USA Tournament. Despite entering as a No. 15 seed, they lost to No. 2 Marquette in the first round. Following this season, Lutz moved to Oklahoma State, and Hank Plona took over as head coach.
Mark Pope expressed Kentucky’s desire to participate in multi-team events like the Maui Invitational, which they have been part of since 2010. However, logistical challenges such as ticket packages and financing home games need to be addressed. Pope emphasized the importance of such events to the Kentucky basketball community.
In addition to Western Kentucky, Kentucky’s upcoming schedule includes games against Duke (Champions Classic), Ohio State (CBS Sports Classic), Louisville at Rupp Arena, Gonzaga in Seattle, and an opponent to be named in the ACC-SEC Challenge. Pope is also discussing a home-and-home series with St. John’s under the guidance of former Kentucky coach Rick Pitino, acknowledging the significant interest from Kentucky fans in such matchups. However, scheduling complexities and financial considerations need to be addressed for such games to take place.
