Kentucky head coach Mark Pope is pulling out all the stops to ensure legendary coach Rick Pitino returns to Rupp Arena, even if it means overcoming logistical challenges to make it happen. Pope has been vocal about his desire to schedule a home-and-home series between Kentucky and St. John’s, where Pitino now coaches. Since his arrival at Kentucky, Pope has emphasized the importance of honoring Pitino’s legacy by orchestrating this highly anticipated matchup, and while discussions are ongoing, he remains confident that a deal can still be reached.
The idea, which has sparked significant interest among college basketball fans, gained further momentum this week when CBS Sports’ Jon Rothstein reported Pope’s strong commitment to making the game a reality. “We desperately want to get Coach Pitino back to Rupp Arena because he’s so revered,” Pope told Rothstein. “If we get something done, it will be at the 11th hour.”
There’s a sense of urgency surrounding Pope’s push for this series, and for good reason. Next season marks the 30th anniversary of Kentucky’s iconic 1996 national championship team—a squad Pitino coached to glory and a moment etched in the program’s history. This milestone would be the perfect backdrop for Pitino to return to the arena where he once built his Hall of Fame legacy. Additionally, at 72 years old, Pitino’s coaching window is finite, and Pope recognizes that every passing season reduces the chances of seeing this special matchup materialize.
Despite the mutual interest, scheduling conflicts have complicated matters. Kentucky already has prior commitments that limit available openings, making it challenging to squeeze in a home-and-home series with St. John’s. However, the tentative plan Pope envisions would see Pitino and the Red Storm playing at Rupp Arena during the 2025-26 season, with the Wildcats making a return trip to New York in 2026-27.
Mark Pope tells me that Kentucky and St. John's are still going back and forth on a home-and-home series that would start in 2025.
Pope: "We desperately want to get Coach Pitino back to Rupp Arena because he's so revered. If we get something done, it will be at the 11th hour."
— Jon Rothstein (@JonRothstein) December 16, 2024
Pope’s enthusiasm for Pitino’s return stems not just from nostalgia, but also from a sense of respect for a coach who remains one of the most revered figures in Kentucky basketball history. Speaking to Just The Cats last month, Pope reiterated his commitment to honoring Pitino. “If there is anything right in the basketball world, Coach P should be in this gym next year to celebrate 30,” Pope said. “He just should be. We’re working on it.”
Pitino’s recent appearance at Kentucky’s Big Blue Madness event was a heartwarming moment that demonstrated the enduring respect the fanbase holds for him, as cheers erupted in recognition of his contributions to the program. However, the question remains: How would the passionate Big Blue Nation react to seeing Pitino return to Rupp Arena on the opposing bench for the first time since his Louisville days?
For Pope, the answer is clear—Pitino’s legacy transcends rivalries. Bringing him back to Rupp Arena would be a celebration of Kentucky basketball’s storied history and a fitting tribute to one of the architects of its success. As Pope continues to work behind the scenes to finalize the series, fans will eagerly await what could become one of the most compelling and emotional moments in recent college basketball history.
If Pope’s efforts are successful, Pitino’s return to Rupp Arena next season will not only honor the past but also remind everyone why his presence in the sport remains as significant as ever.