After taking over as head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, Mark Pope said his goal is to recruit the best high school players in the country while also utilizing the transfer portal.
Keeping the state's best talent locally and in Lexington is also important to Pope.
2025 combo guard Jasper Johnson fits into both categories, as the Lexington native is currently ranked as the No. 10 overall player in this class.
In an interview with Kentucky Sports Radio, Johnson spoke about his relationship with Pope, who has made Johnson a priority since taking over.
“It means a lot to me that the head coach really trusts me and believes I can contribute to the team from Day 1,” Johnson said. “He's got his sights on the portal kids, and that's what it takes to win at the next level, blending young talent with grit and experience. It's really good that he trusts and believes in me.”
One thing about Pope is that he understands what it means to put on a Kentucky uniform and play for the greatest team in college basketball history. A 1996 national champion, Pope understands what winning means to BBN.
“As a Kentucky native, there's always pride in playing at Kentucky,” Johnson said. “They bring out the best in everybody. He's in his first year and there are high expectations, but they've built a good roster and it'll be interesting to see how they play… He was in my position once and played there. I know he understands the game and believes in his players. I know it's different with the SEC, but I think they'll have a good season this year.”
Johnson has kept a completely open attitude when it comes to recruiting and understands that having coaches come to watch him play isn't just a good thing for him.
So far, schools that have attended his games include Kentucky, Baylor, Arkansas, North Carolina, Louisville, Auburn, Florida State and Ohio State.
It will be interesting to see how this recruiting unfolds, but Johnson will surely be Pope's top priority in the 2025 class.
You can see everything Johnson had to say here.
A Sea of Blue is packed with Kentucky Wildcats links, news, analysis and other fun content. Like our Facebook page! and Follow us on TwitterGood luck, CATS!
