Rick Pitino accepts Mark Pope's offer for a Kentucky-St. John's home-and-home series, marking a significant reunion between the two influential basketball figures.

By the Numbers
  • Pitino responds to Pope's invitation for a game versus St. John's, with games scheduled for this year in Kentucky and next year in Madison Square Garden.
  • Pitino expresses excitement about the series, highlighting the significance of saying goodbye to Kentucky, a place he has cherished and challenged.
Yes, But

While the series appears likely to happen, final confirmation depends on Pope's preferences and decisions as the new head coach.

State of Play
  • Mark Pope, as the current Wildcats head coach, is focused on designing the program in his vision, potentially including tournaments like the Maui Invitational.
  • The anticipated series signifies an important moment for Pope to honor Pitino's influence on his life and coaching career.
What's Next

The upcoming games between Kentucky and St. John's may serve as a poignant reunion and a fitting tribute to Pitino's impact on the basketball community.

Bottom Line

The agreement for the Kentucky-St. John's series symbolizes a bridge between past and present in college basketball, highlighting the lasting influence of pivotal coaching figures.