# **How Mark Pope Is Building Next Year’s Roster While Competing at th Sweet 16**
**March 29, 2025 – Louisville, KY**
As **Mark Pope** and his team prepare for their **Sweet 16** matchup, the Kentucky head coach is juggling more than just game plans and scouting reports. While leading the Wildcats deep into the NCAA Tournament, Pope is simultaneously laying the groundwork for next year’s roster, navigating the complexities of the **transfer portal**, high school recruiting, and the potential return of key players.
With the **landscape of college basketball evolving rapidly**, successful programs must **recruit and rebuild year-round**, even in the midst of a deep tournament run. Pope, who has embraced a **modern, aggressive approach to roster management**, is proving he can do both—win now and plan for the future.
## **Navigating the Transfer Portal**
The **transfer portal** has become a vital tool for roster construction, and Pope has wasted no time identifying potential additions for the 2025-26 season. Even as Kentucky chases a national championship, his staff is actively scouting and reaching out to **experienced players who can make an immediate impact** next year.
Sources indicate that Pope has already **contacted several high-profile transfers**, including former **Big Ten and Big 12 standouts**. The Wildcats are looking to reinforce their **frontcourt and perimeter shooting**, knowing that some of their current stars could leave for the NBA Draft or transfer out themselves.
One name frequently linked to Kentucky is **Jordan Williams**, a versatile 6’8” forward who averaged **14.2 points and 7.1 rebounds** for his previous school. Williams is reportedly considering a move to Lexington after entering the portal earlier this month. Another target is **Ryan Carter**, a sharpshooter who hit **42% of his three-pointers** last season.
“Mark Pope has a clear vision for what he wants in the transfer portal,” said a recruiting analyst. “He’s targeting **experienced, skilled players** who can step in and contribute right away.”
## **Balancing Roster Retention and NBA Departures**
Another key factor in Pope’s roster-building strategy is **convincing current players to return** rather than declaring for the NBA Draft or transferring. Kentucky’s **roster turnover has been significant** in recent years, with top recruits leaving after one season and veterans transferring in search of larger roles.
This offseason, Pope faces critical decisions regarding **two of his top players**, **point guard Jaylen Harrington** and **forward Isaiah Thompson**. Both have NBA potential but could benefit from another year in college. The Kentucky staff is making its pitch, emphasizing **how another season could improve their draft stock** while allowing them to develop in Pope’s system.
Additionally, Pope is focused on **retaining key role players** who might otherwise explore transfer options. Players like **Cam Johnson and Tyler Reed**, who provided valuable depth this season, could be crucial in next year’s rotation if they decide to stay.
## **High School Recruiting: Securing Future Stars**
While the transfer portal dominates modern roster building, **high school recruiting remains essential**, and Pope has been actively pursuing some of the nation’s top prospects. Kentucky has already secured commitments from **two five-star recruits** in the 2025 class—**guard Jalen Rivers** and **forward Marcus Brooks**—but Pope isn’t done yet.
Reports suggest that he is making a strong push for **center Elijah Carter**, a **7-foot defensive anchor** ranked among the top ten players in the country. Carter recently visited Lexington and spoke highly of Pope’s **player development and up-tempo system**.
“The coaching staff has been in constant communication with me,” Carter said in a recent interview. “They believe in my potential and think I can be a big part of their success.”
Another target is **combo guard Tre Mason**, who has narrowed his choices down to Kentucky, Duke, and Kansas. If Pope can land **one or both of these elite prospects**, it would solidify **Kentucky’s recruiting class as one of the best in the nation**.
## **The Challenge of Multi-Tasking in March**
Building next year’s team while leading a **Sweet 16 run** presents a unique challenge, but Pope has fully embraced the **dual responsibility**. His experience as both a coach and a former player has prepared him for the fast-paced nature of modern college basketball, where **roster management never stops**.
Behind the scenes, Kentucky’s **assistant coaches and support staff** play a crucial role in keeping the recruiting process moving forward. While Pope is focused on game preparation, his staff is in constant communication with recruits, transfers, and current players weighing their future options.
“Recruiting never takes a back seat,” said an anonymous Kentucky assistant. “Even while we’re preparing for the Sweet 16, we’re making calls, sending messages, and keeping up with prospects. That’s just how the game works now.”
## **What’s Next for Kentucky?**
As Kentucky battles for a spot in the **Elite Eight**, Pope’s ability to balance **on-court success and off-court roster planning** will be tested. His approach—**leveraging the transfer portal, securing top recruits, and retaining key players**—could determine whether the Wildcats remain championship contenders next season.
If Pope can successfully **win in March while simultaneously building for the future**, he will cement himself as one of college basketball’s most forward-thinking coaches. With his **fast-paced offense, strong recruiting tactics, and modern roster-building strategy**, the Wildcats appear to be in **good hands**—not just for this season, but for years to come.
