Mark Pope emphasizes that for Kentucky to succeed in the SEC Tournament, the team must become “lost” in the present moment.
“We are going to be lost, in our whole heart, in THIS possession.”
The Kentucky Wildcats’ recent struggles in the SEC Tournament are well-known by their fanbase, as they have advanced only once in the past four tournaments.
With Mark Pope bringing renewed energy and a team that has exceeded expectations, fans are once again heading to Nashville with hopes of reclaiming the tournament title, which the Wildcats have won 31 times—23 more than the next closest team, Alabama (8). Pope and the team are eager to deliver.
“There’s nothing my guys would want more than to give BBN an unforgettable week here,” Pope shared with the media in a Nashville hotel lobby on Wednesday. “That (SEC Tournament) means a lot to us. We’re fully committed to doing everything we can as a team to make that happen.”
So, what will it take for Kentucky to have a successful tournament? Pope says the key is getting “lost” in each possession.
“Our goal is to come here and win,” Pope said. “The way we’re going to win is by focusing solely on the present possession. We’ll be lost in it with our whole hearts. When the next possession arrives, we’ll be equally lost in that one.”
“If we want the best chance to succeed, though it doesn’t guarantee anything, the best chance for success comes when our whole heart, mind, and soul are focused on the possession we’re currently in. If we can do that consistently, success will follow.”
The Wildcats begin their postseason journey on Wednesday night, facing the Oklahoma Sooners at 9:30 PM ET on the SEC Network.