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Provo, UT – The Brigham Young University men’s basketball program is reeling after the sudden departure of head coach Mark Pope, who left to take the reins at the University of Kentucky. The Cougars are now scrambling to find a suitable replacement, with the 2025-2026 season looming large.

Pope’s departure sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, with many experts considering him one of the top young coaches in the game. During his five-year tenure at BYU, Pope led the Cougars to two NCAA Tournament appearances and compiled a 111-54 overall record.

“Mark Pope is an exceptional coach and an even better person,” said BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe. “We’re grateful for the time he spent at BYU and wish him all the best at Kentucky.”

With Pope gone, the Cougars are facing a daunting task in finding a replacement. The program has a rich tradition of success, with 27 NCAA Tournament appearances and 13 conference championships.

“We’re looking for a coach who can build on the success we’ve had here at BYU,” said Holmoe. “We want someone who can lead our program to championships and develop our student-athletes into outstanding young men.”

The search for a new head coach is already underway, with several top candidates emerging. BYU has reportedly reached out to coaches with ties to the program, as well as those with experience in the Mountain West Conference.

Among the names being mentioned as potential replacements are:

– Kevin Young, a former BYU assistant coach who is currently serving as the interim head coach.
– Dave Rose, a former BYU head coach who led the program to several NCAA Tournament appearances.
– Craig Smith, a former Utah State head coach who has ties to the Mountain West Conference.

While the search for a new head coach is ongoing, the Cougars are also dealing with the potential loss of several key players. BYU has already seen several players enter the transfer portal, including guards Trevin Knell and Richie Saunders.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the program, Holmoe remains optimistic about the future of BYU basketball.

“We’re confident that we’ll find the right coach to lead our program,” said Holmoe. “We’re excited about the possibilities and look forward to seeing what the future holds for BYU basketball.”

The Cougars are expected to announce their new head coach in the coming weeks. Until then, the program will continue to operate under the guidance of interim head coach Kevin Young.