In what’s already being hailed as a promising start to a new era, Mark Pope’s first year at the helm of the Kentucky Wildcats ended with a strong Sweet 16 appearance — and now, an even stronger national ranking.
The final Associated Press (AP) Top 25 Poll placed the Wildcats at No. 12, while the USA Today Coaches Poll landed them at No. 14. That’s a significant jump from their pre-NCAA Tournament rankings of No. 18 (AP) and No. 21 (Coaches), and a clear reflection of how far the Cats came this season.
Kentucky’s impressive tournament performance capped off a year in which they secured four wins over top-10 opponents — including a huge victory over the eventual national champions, the Florida Gators. That kind of résumé helped boost the Wildcats into national prominence and signaled that Coach Pope has the program on an upward trajectory.
Meanwhile, the top 10 in both polls remained consistent, featuring national champion Florida at No. 1, followed by Houston, Duke, Auburn, Tennessee, Alabama, Michigan State, Texas Tech, and Maryland.
And just for a little added Bluegrass satisfaction — Kentucky’s rival Louisville, who was ranked notably higher than the Wildcats going into March Madness (No. 11 Coaches, No. 10 AP), suffered a brutal Round of 64 exit to Creighton and dropped all the way to No. 21 in both final polls.
With the season wrapped and the final rankings locked in, there’s a new energy in Lexington — one that suggests the Wildcats are back on the rise under Pope’s leadership. If this year’s performance is any indication, Big Blue Nation could be in for an exciting ride in the seasons to come.
