Mark Pope to host Media Madness ahead of Kentucky season

We interrupt your Friday afternoon to let you know Mark Pope has called upon the media to hit the treadmill and get some shots up — because we’re lacing ’em up in front of the Kentucky Wildcats. No, seriously. UK has announced its first-ever Media Madness on September 17, bringing together all of the gasbags and mediocre writers for a taste of their own medicine. That’s right, drills and full-court hoops, run by the coaches and judged by the players, just ahead of the 2026-27 season. The program sent an email to media members regarding potential interest before Pope himself called into BBN Tonight with Maggie Davis to tell everyone they had six weeks to prepare. “Here’s the deal. On September 17, we are going to have the first-ever Kentucky Men’s Basketball Media Madness, where our guys will finish practice, and then we’re going to get you guys all suited up in athletic gear,” Pope said. “We’re gonna put you through some drills and then get some 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 winners. We’ll finish it off with a postgame press conference, where the guys get to ask media the questions. “The reason we’re doing this so far ahead is because — Maggie, not you, because you’re in elite-level shape, but I know some of your partners there are going to need these six weeks to get in shape.” So, what I’m hearing is, Milan Momcilovic gets to watch me brick threes at Rupp Arena, and then tell me I stink? That sounds freaking awesome. Training begins Monday, six weeks to get in the best shape of my life — and do whatever it takes to avoid injury. We can’t get hurt right before basketball season. There is too much on the line with the chase for No. 9 underway. “I would like to hear a weekly report — visual would be best, maybe some audio — on the training protocol that you guys are doing so you can come in here and show out and win this thing on September 17,” Pope continued. “Come on and bring it!” The KSR crew will be there and we will be ready. It’s showtime.