Overview

• Rick Pitino endorses Mark Pope, predicting greatness and a potential national title for Kentucky.
• Mark Pope, previously at BYU, faces scrutiny over his lack of NCAA tournament wins and conference titles.
• Kentucky's rapid hiring decision follows declines from other top coaching candidates like Scott Drew and Dan Hurley.
• Critics question if Pope can match the high standards and success of his predecessor, Calipari, at Kentucky.
• Kentucky fans and administration express both concern and support as Pope begins his tenure with high expectations.