Kentucky Basketball: Mark Pope’s Return and the Projected Starting Five for 2024–25

In a dramatic and energizing shift for Kentucky basketball, Mark Pope has returned to Lexington—not as a player, but as the head coach entrusted with reviving a once-dominant program searching for its next championship run. With a flurry of transfers, strategic recruiting, and a renewed coaching philosophy, Pope is reshaping the Wildcats’ identity from the ground up.

At the heart of that rebuild is a fascinating and potentially explosive starting five. Each player brings something unique to the table—whether it’s veteran leadership, elite shooting, lockdown defense, or untapped upside. This team is Pope’s hand-picked blend of experience and potential, and Kentucky fans are buzzing to see it all in action.

Pope’s return isn’t just about nostalgia. A 1996 national champion under Rick Pitino, Pope understands the culture of Kentucky basketball. He knows the pressure, the expectations, the spotlight—and that’s exactly what makes him suited for this challenge.

His success at BYU showcased his tactical acumen and ability to develop players, often getting the most out of underrated talent. He’s analytically minded, favors modern spacing, and believes in tough, intelligent basketball. Now he brings that blueprint to one of the most storied programs in college basketball.

Unlike John Calipari’s usual “one-and-done” approach, Pope has built a roster with immediate contributors in mind—five transfers, two freshmen, and several key reserves with college experience. Here’s a closer look at the projected starting five.

1. Lamont Butler (PG, 6’2”, Grad Transfer – San Diego State)

The Floor General and Defensive Anchor

Butler isn’t flashy, but he’s a coach’s dream. A three-time All-Mountain West Defensive Team member, he brings grit, leadership, and calm under pressure. He’s the kind of player who knows how to manage a game and sets the tone on defense.

He’ll likely be Pope’s “on-court coach,” responsible for organizing the offense and applying constant pressure on opposing point guards. Though his offensive ceiling is modest, he’s a clutch shot-maker (remember the buzzer-beater in the 2023 Final Four?) and excels at making the right read.

Projected Role: Defensive stopper, primary ball-handler, clutch decision-maker.

Athleticism, Physicality, and Potential Breakout Star

Oweh is one of the most intriguing players on this roster. At Oklahoma, he was a high-energy slasher and tenacious defender who showed glimpses of scoring efficiency. His 11.4 PPG came on solid shooting, but his real impact lies in his motor and intensity.

In Pope’s system—one that values spacing and ball movement—Oweh could thrive as a cutter, transition threat, and spot-up shooter. If he can improve his handle and three-point percentage, Oweh may become Kentucky’s two-way X-factor.

Projected Role: Slashing wing, defensive specialist, breakout candidate.

Elite Shooting and Floor Spacing Weapon

Brea is, simply put, a sniper. The reigning nation’s leader in 3-point percentage at nearly 50%, he’s the best perimeter shooter Kentucky has had in years. At Dayton, he proved he could shoot off screens, spot-ups, and even create space for his own shot.

In Pope’s modern offense, Brea will stretch defenses and create driving lanes for Oweh and Butler. He may not be the most athletic defender, but his gravity alone forces teams to adjust.

Projected Role: Primary shooter, floor spacer, potential All-SEC selection.

The Modern Forward: Versatile, Skilled, Tough

Carr is a textbook “stretch-four” with a high IQ. At Wake Forest, he averaged over 13 PPG and 6 RPG while shooting respectably from beyond the arc. His offensive versatility allows him to post up smaller defenders or drag bigs out to the perimeter.

He’s also an underrated passer and communicator on defense, something Pope highly values. Think of Carr as a glue guy who does everything well—even if he doesn’t make highlight reels.

Projected Role: Stretch-four, secondary scorer, vocal defensive leader.

Youth, Upside, and Interior Defense

Garrison might be the youngest starter, but he could have the highest ceiling. A top-40 national recruit, Garrison is a natural shot-blocker with great timing, mobility, and rebounding instincts. His offensive game is still developing, but he finishes well around the rim and has flashed a reliable mid-range jumper.

In a lineup of experienced players, Garrison’s growth will be monitored closely. If he becomes a consistent interior presence, Kentucky’s defense will take a major step forward.

Projected Role: Rim protector, rebounder, developmental centerpiece.

Mark Pope has options beyond his starting five—and he’ll need them. Here are the most likely sixth and seventh men:

Kerr Kriisa (G, Grad Transfer – West Virginia/Arizona)

A fiery guard known for his shooting and passing, Kriisa can change a game with energy alone. He’s inconsistent but dangerous. Pope may bring him in to spell Butler or provide an offensive spark.

Ansley Almonor (F, Grad Transfer – Fairleigh Dickinson)

A stretch forward with range and size, Almonor can fill the Carr role if needed or serve as a matchup problem off the bench.

Jayden Quaintance (F, Freshman – Top-20 National Recruit)

Once healthy, Quaintance could push for major minutes. His size and raw athleticism make him a potential star, and he could finish the season as a starter.

Trent Noah (G, Freshman – Mr. Kentucky Basketball)

A scoring guard with swagger, Noah will need to adjust to the pace of SEC play, but Pope may use him in spot minutes to develop confidence.

Pope’s offensive philosophy is predicated on spacing, ball movement, and shot selection. Unlike Calipari’s dribble-drive heavy offense, Pope wants his players to move without the ball, screen for one another, and make the extra pass. His ideal offense resembles NBA-style movement—think the Utah Jazz or early Warriors—with an emphasis on:

• Four-out spacing
• Quick decision-making
• Trusting veterans to lead
• Playing inside-out through stretch bigs

On defense, Pope preaches help principles, discipline, and rotating smartly—not just gambling for steals.

The sentiment around Kentucky’s fanbase is one of cautious optimism. For years, many fans were frustrated with relying so heavily on freshmen who struggled in big moments. Now, Pope has given them what they asked for—a veteran, tough-minded group with clear roles and chemistry potential.

And with Oweh, Carr, and Brea having three years of experience apiece, this isn’t a team learning on the fly. They’re ready to compete from day one.

Here’s the honest truth: This Kentucky team won’t be preseason No. 1, and they might not dominate early polls. But they have all the ingredients of a deep tournament team:

• Defensive toughness ✅
• Elite shooting ✅
• Veteran leadership ✅
• Coaching stability ✅
• Balanced roster ✅

If Garrison and Quaintance progress quickly and Pope manages rotations well, this could be a Sweet 16 to Elite Eight caliber team—with upside for more if the chemistry clicks.

Expect bumps early in the season, especially as players adjust to new roles and styles, but by February and March, don’t be surprised if Kentucky becomes one of the most dangerous teams in the country.

Mark Pope’s first year at Kentucky may not be a fairytale, but it feels grounded and real—something fans can believe in. By targeting winners, leaders, and competitors rather than raw talent alone, Pope is building a culture shift that goes beyond wins and losses.

This roster is designed to fight. It’s built to defend. And most importantly, it’s built to represent Kentucky the way fans expect: tough, proud, and ready to compete for banners.