The list of head coaches on the Naismith Midseason Coach of the Year Watch List has dropped, and Kentucky fans are disgusted with Mark Pope's absence.

Kentucky basketball fell short against Alabama once again on Saturday in another high-scoring affair. Despite a strong start by Mark Pope and the Wildcats, the Crimson Tide rallied back late in the first half and ran away with the game in a 96-83 win in Tuscaloosa.

Jaxson Robinson, who had started all 23 games for Kentucky this season, didn't play Tuesday against Tennessee. What to know about the guard's status.

After Calipari's exit, Kentucky wasted no time and hired BYU head coach Mark Pope, who also played college basketball at Kentucky. Fast forward to February, and Pope is crushing it in his first season in Lexington. On Tuesday night, No. 15 Kentucky moved to 17-7 on the year and 6-5 in SC play with a 75-64 win over No. 5 Tennessee.

Kentucky men’s basketball coach Mark Pope talks to the media after the Wildcats’ 96-83 loss to Alabama on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2025, at Coleman Coliseum in Tuscaloosa.

Mark Pope was not included in the Naismith Midseason Coach of the Year Watch List, which is very surprising to see. For reference, fellow first year coach Pat Kelsey, who is at in-state rival Louisville,

After UK basketball’s home win against Tennessee, Mark Pope gave injury updates on guards Lamont Butler and Jaxson Robinson.