Mark Pope’s First Kentucky Schedule Adds More Depth, Drama, and Nostalgia
Mark Pope’s debut season as Kentucky’s head coach already features a tough non-conference lineup, including marquee matchups with Gonzaga, Michigan State, and Louisville. Now, five more opponents have been added and while some might not make national waves, each game adds intrigue and depth.
Biggest headline? Indiana. Sentimental favorite? John Pelphrey.
Each of these contests plays a part in preparing Pope’s team for the challenges of SEC play.
Newly added games:
Nov. 21 – Loyola (Md.)
Nov. 26 – Tennessee Tech (led by former UK star John Pelphrey)
Dec. 9 – North Carolina Central
Dec. 13 – Indiana
Dec. 23 – Bellarmine
These games join an already stacked non-conference schedule featuring:
Nov. 11 – at Louisville
Nov. 18 – Michigan State (Champions Classic, MSG)
Dec. 5 – Gonzaga (Nashville)
Dec. 20 – St. John’s (CBS Classic, Atlanta)
This mix of games provides a blend of rivalry matchups, showcase events, and emotional homecomings.
Indiana Returns to Lexington
The long-awaited return of Indiana to Kentucky’s regular-season schedule is finally here. This marks their first regular-season clash since 2011-12 the infamous “Watford shot” game. Indiana hasn’t played at Rupp Arena since 2010-11, and UK fans are eager to welcome back the rivalry. Coach Pope has expressed a desire for big-name games, and this one delivers.
Kentucky leads the all-time series, 32-25.
A Hero Comes Home: John Pelphrey
While Indiana brings the hype, John Pelphrey brings the heart. A beloved member of the “Unforgettables” and a UK Hall of Famer, Pelphrey returns to Rupp on Nov. 26 as head coach of Tennessee Tech. A standout from 1988 to 1992, his career numbers include:
* 114 games played
* 11.0 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.9 assists per game
* 45.6% FG, 37.0% 3PT, 76.5% FT
It will be the first meeting between Kentucky and Tennessee Tech since 2007-08. UK is 5-0 all-time in the matchup. While the game might not be competitive, expect a warm ovation from the Big Blue Nation.
What’s New on the Schedule?
Loyola (Md.), a team Kentucky beat during its 2012 title run, returns to Rupp on Nov. 21.
North Carolina Central visits for the first time on Dec. 9. Historically strong in the MEAC, this marks a fresh chapter for both schools.
Bellarmine, a savvy in-state team, returns Dec. 23. In their last meeting (2022-23), Bellarmine’s slow-paced offense tested Kentucky’s discipline in a 60-41 UK win.
These Games Matter
Though some matchups may appear to be routine “buy games,” they’re critical for evaluating team focus and growth. Programs like Loyola, Bellarmine, and NCCU challenge execution and concentration qualities every great team needs.
With many fresh faces on the roster, every opportunity to build chemistry counts.
More games will be announced soon, but even now, Pope’s first Kentucky schedule offers a well-rounded mix: marquee showdowns, cherished rivalries, and heartfelt reunions all adding to the Rupp Arena magic.
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