LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – Big Blue Nation could not hide its wildcat pride as thousands of fans made their way to Rupp Arena on Sunday.

“Its awesome, its a beautiful day here, and go cats,” said UK fan Connor Brooks.

Fans from across the Commonwealth came to witness Mark Pope’s official introduction as UK basketball’s new men’s head coach, but fans from outside the bluegrass were also there.

Brooks traveled from Arkansas to hear what Pope had to say.

“I was raised knowing this fan base is close and we care about the state. We care about the people here and this university, so for someone who’s been here, I mean what better person to get than someone who’s taken us to the promise land, now he can lead us to the promise land,” Brooks said.

The event brought in new fans and long-time ones, like George Camic, who shared his excitement about Pope.

“I think Cal had his own technique, Rupp had his, they all do,” Camic said. “I appreciate Cal and I’m not gonna downgrade him, but Pope is gonna bring the excitement back to the bluegrass. He’s blue blood through and through.”

As several fans expressed their excitement of having a former UK player now apart of the coaching staff, they said they are also excited to see some fresh takes when it comes to coaching out on the court.

“Enthusiasm is a given, but I would like to see some coaching on display. We love recruiting, but I think we’re all excited to see his offence,” said long-time fan Tammie Turner.

“Bringing Pope in, someone who cares about the name on the front and not the name on the back is what’s gonna make a difference in the BBN Nation,” added Carrie Jo Karrick, another long-time fan.

We will have to wait a few months for the season to begin, but fans have made it clear that they have hope for Mark Pope.

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