Author: Gabby Har

In a surprising turn of events, Coach Mark Pope has turned down a highly lucrative contract extension offered by the Kentucky Wildcats, citing growing concerns over his salary and bonus demands, which have skyrocketed in recent weeks. Pope, currently in his third year as the head coach of the Wildcats, had been in discussions with university officials to extend his tenure at the helm of the iconic basketball program.

Sources close to the negotiations suggest that Pope, who led the Wildcats to an impressive season last year, was offered a significant pay raise, in line with the rising salary trends of top-tier coaches in college basketball. However, Pope has expressed discomfort with the direction of the talks, particularly regarding performance-based incentives and bonus clauses that would tie a considerable portion of his compensation to the Wildcats’ postseason success.

In a statement, Pope acknowledged the generosity of the offer but revealed that he felt the contract’s stipulations placed undue pressure on him and the team. “While I greatly value the opportunity to coach at one of the premier programs in college basketball, I want to ensure that any future arrangement allows for a fair balance between success on the court and personal well-being,” Pope stated.

Pope’s decision to decline the extension has raised eyebrows across the sports world, as many had expected the coach to lock in a long-term deal. The Wildcats are now left with the challenge of securing a coach who aligns with their vision and meets the growing expectations of the program’s passionate fan base. As negotiations continue, all eyes will remain on Pope’s next move and whether he will reconsider his stance or explore other opportunities.

The Blue Devils could be lining up without the ACC Player of the Year for the first time this season

The Duke basketball team has not experienced playing without Cooper Flagg this season but that is becoming increasingly more likely for Friday night at the ACC Tournament.

Flagg sprained his ankle on Thursday late in the first half of the Blue Devils’ comeback victory against Georgia Tech and was put in a wheelchair near the locker room in order to be transported to the X-Ray room.

The superstar freshman would return to the bench despite being ruled out for the game but did not have any brace or walking boot on his left foot.

However, Jon Scheyer was not optimistic about Flagg’s status for the semifinals.

“Sprained his ankle, X-rays were negative, which is great,” he said. “We just have to understand there’s going to be swelling and see how he recovers and how he goes from there.”

Flagg struggled as Duke dug a 14-point hole prior to his injury, scoring just two points on 1-of-7 shooting.

“I would have to be convinced by everybody in the locker room when I go back there that he should play. It’s not worth it. It just isn’t,” Scheyer continued.

“He was swollen already. It’s not about being ready to go tomorrow. That’s not the most important thing for us. We’ve got to see if we can get him right for this run that we can make in the tournament.”

Duke will play North Carolina in the ACC Tournament Semifinals after the Tar Heels responded to a small deficit in the second half against Wake Forest.

Flagg, despite battling foul trouble in Chapel Hill, had 16 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and four blocks during the Blue Devil comeback victory over the Tar Heels last week.

He had 21 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, three steals, and two blocks when the teams met in February for the first time this season.

“I would have to be really convinced that we should even consider seeing if he can go tomorrow,” Scheyer added. “He may not be able to go anyway. He probably won’t be able to go anyway. But I think it’s a real long shot. A real long shot.”

Duke fans are currently holding their collective breath.

During the ACC tournament quarterfinals against Georgia Tech on Thursday, Blue Devils superstar freshman Cooper Flagg rolled his left ankle badly and had to leave the game.

He was later taken by wheelchair for further examination.

When he emerged from the locker room his ankle appeared to be badly swollen.

That is horrible news for Duke, as Flagg is the favorite to win National Player of the Year. The forward entered Thursday’s game averaging 19.4 points, 7.6 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game, while shooting 49.4% from the field and 37.7% from three-point range.

Even before Flagg’s injury, the game was not going well for the top-seeded Blue Devils. At one point they trailed the Yellow Jackets 26-12, though Duke was able to tighten the game up. Georgia Tech leads 31-26 at the half.

Flagg returned to the bench but was ruled out. Now attention will turn to his availability for next week’s NCAA tournament.

Miami received a commitment from four-star offensive tackle Ben Congdon on Monday.

Some major news has come in for the Miami Hurricanes and head coach Mario Cristobal. On Monday, four-star 2026 offensive tackle Ben Congdon became the fourth prospect to commit to Miami in the 2026 class. Congdon is the No. 318 ranked prospect nationally, No. 25 OT and No. 17 player in Ohio out of Tuscarawas Valley High in Mineral City. Congdon is the first OL to commit to Miami in the 2026 class.

Miami also holds commitments from linebacker Jordan Campbell, quarterback Dereon Coleman and cornerback Camdin Portis – all are four-star pledges. The 2026 Miami class is now 12th nationally and first in the ACC in the On3 Industry Rankings and 24th in the 247Sports composite.

Miami beat out Penn State, Indiana, Ohio State, Florida Arkansas, Kentucky and Maryland where Congdon also visited. Congdon took unofficial visits to Miami this past weekend, in January and last June. Congdon has unofficial visits set with Penn State the weekend of June 6 and Miami for June 20.

Congdon decided to shut down his recruitment and commit to Miami after watching the first day of spring practice on Monday per Gaby Urrutia of Inside the U. Congdon told Urrutia he likes the way that Cristobal and offensive line coach Alex Mirabal develop people like him.

Congdon is the latest player from the Midwest that Miami has gained a commitment from. Urrutia quoted his 247Sports colleague Allen Trieu stating,

Congdon is the first pledge for Miami since Portis committed in October. March has frequently started a run of commitments for Miami since Cristobal was hired in December 2021. Miami has signed a top 15 class in each of Cristobal’s first four recruiting cycles. That includes top 10 classes in 2022 and 2023.

Miami signed the 13th-ranked 2025 class per the On3 rankings. Expect the foundation Miami is setting with Campbell, Coleman, Congdon and Portis in the 2026 class to begin to gain commitments less than three months out before official visits begin at the end of May.

The headlines for the Georgia Bulldogs from a recruiting perspective on Wednesday were focused on the visit of five-star quarterback Jared Curtis as they compete with the Oregon Ducks for his services.

But the Bulldogs also appear to be making progress in their bid to poach another signal-caller from one of the recent converts to the SEC.

Jaden O’Neal (Long Beach, Calif.) has already committed to the Oklahoma Sooners. However, the four-star quarterback spent Monday to Wednesday on campus in Athens, and the Bulldogs certainly cannot be discounted from a race that is a long way from over.

Per On3’s Steve Wiltfong, Georgia is in the process of finalizing an official visit with O’Neal. Wiltfong wrote of O’Neal’s visit to Georgia:

“Look for O’Neal to visit a couple other programs in the near future but, after spending time with [Kirby] Smart, offensive coordinator Mike Bobo and assistant quarterbacks coach Montgomery VanGorder, the defending SEC champs are making a big impression.”

O’Neal is the No. 11 quarterback by On3’s industry rankings. Rivals has him ninth at the position and ESPN seventh.

He is, therefore, clearly seen as being a level below Curtis, who is the big fish that Georgia is desperate to land. But they are obviously putting a lot of effort in attempt to sway O’Neal away from the Sooners.

Should the Bulldogs succeed, they’ll have an exciting future at the quarterback position regardless of whether they secure Curtis’ commitment.

In an emotional farewell earlier today, Kentucky Wildcat veteran star player, Lamont Butler, shared a heartfelt goodbye with the team and fans after what has been a remarkable journey with the Wildcats. With tears in his eyes, Butler, one of the most cherished players in recent years, addressed the team and the Wildcats’ community, marking the end of an era for both him and the club.

Butler, who has been a key player for Kentucky, rose to prominence due to his incredible work ethic, leadership, and undeniable skills on the court. His contributions helped elevate the Wildcats’ competitive edge in several crucial games over the years. Known for his defensive prowess and clutch performances, Lamont Butler has cemented his place in the hearts of Kentucky fans, leaving a legacy that will not be forgotten.

During his farewell speech, Butler expressed immense gratitude towards the team, the coaching staff, and the loyal Wildcats fans who supported him throughout his career. “This team, this family, has meant everything to me. I’ve grown so much both as a player and as a person. I’m thankful for every moment, every game, and every challenge,” Butler said, struggling to hold back tears.

While the specifics behind Butler’s departure remain unclear, rumors indicate he may be transitioning to a new chapter in his life, whether in the professional league or pursuing new opportunities. Fans flooded social media, expressing their admiration and best wishes for the veteran player as he embarks on this next step in his journey.

Butler’s departure marks the end of a memorable era for Kentucky basketball, but his impact will resonate for years to come. As the Wildcats look to the future, Butler’s legacy remains a benchmark of excellence, hard work, and dedication.

Vanessa de Jesus, a highly sought-after guard from the class of 2025, has officially committed to the University of South Carolina’s women’s basketball program, adding a major boost to the Gamecocks’ recruiting class. The 5-foot-9 standout, hailing from the prestigious Rutgers Prep in New Jersey, is recognized for her exceptional skill set, strong court vision, and dynamic scoring ability.

De Jesus had an impressive high school career, leading her team to multiple championships while earning accolades for her playmaking and leadership. Her decision to join South Carolina comes after extensive recruitment, with numerous top programs vying for her commitment. Known for her high basketball IQ and all-around game, she is expected to make an immediate impact on the Gamecocks’ roster.

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley expressed excitement about adding de Jesus to the team, calling her a perfect fit for the Gamecocks’ up-tempo and aggressive style of play. “Vanessa is exactly the kind of player we want in our program—one who brings both the scoring and playmaking abilities to elevate our team,” Staley said in a statement. “Her competitive edge and commitment to winning align perfectly with our goals.”

De Jesus’ commitment strengthens South Carolina’s already impressive recruiting class, which includes several other top-tier prospects. With a strong mix of returning talent and incoming freshmen like de Jesus, the Gamecocks are positioned to remain a dominant force in women’s college basketball for years to come.

As South Carolina continues to build on its legacy under Coach Staley, de Jesus’ commitment signals a bright future for the program, with the guard expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s championship aspirations.

Asked on the eve of his first SEC Tournament appearance as the Kentucky Wildcats head coach if he had any favorite memories of the event from his playing days, Mark Pope said there were “so many” to look back on.

But one, in particular, stands out. And anyone who was a UK fan at the time surely remembers it fondly, too.

“We played in a championship game against Arkansas my junior year that will forever be one of the most special games in my life,” Pope said.

Mark Pope, the head coach of the University of Utah men’s basketball team, recently shared one of his most cherished memories from his time as an assistant coach in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Reflecting on his career, Pope spoke fondly of a particular SEC Tournament game that left a lasting impact on him both professionally and personally.

Pope described the game as “one of the most special games” of his life, crediting it for shaping his views on teamwork, resilience, and the unpredictable nature of postseason basketball. Though he didn’t mention the specific teams or year, Pope’s emotions were clear as he spoke about the fierce competition and the determination of the players during that game.

The SEC Tournament has long been known for its high-stakes atmosphere and incredible performances, but for Pope, this particular game stood out. It was a moment when everything came together—strategy, execution, and heart. The win, which was significant in its own right, was made even more special by the bond that developed between the players and coaches as they battled against adversity.

As Pope continues his coaching career, these kinds of memories serve as a reminder of the power of sports to create lasting relationships and memories. He expressed that such moments, particularly those in tournament play, are what make coaching so rewarding. His reflections highlight the passion he has for basketball and the deep connections he forms with his teams, making his journey in the sport all the more meaningful.

Though Pope is now focused on leading Utah to new heights, the echoes of his time in the SEC remain a cherished part of his coaching journey.

The Washington Commanders have secured a major commitment to their 2025 recruiting class, as highly-touted running back Brian Robinson has officially announced his decision to join the franchise. Robinson, a standout prospect from Alabama, is widely regarded as one of the top running back recruits of his class, making his commitment a significant win for Washington’s future.

Robinson’s decision comes after an impressive high school career that has drawn attention from top college and NFL scouts. Known for his combination of speed, vision, and power, Robinson has the potential to make an immediate impact at the professional level. During his time at Alabama, Robinson established himself as a versatile and dynamic force on the field, excelling in both the rushing game and as a receiving option out of the backfield.

The Commanders’ front office, including head coach Ron Rivera, expressed excitement about Robinson’s addition, highlighting his work ethic, high football IQ, and leadership qualities. Robinson is expected to play a pivotal role in Washington’s offense in the coming years, as the team looks to build a new foundation around promising young talent.

In addition to his on-field abilities, Robinson’s character and commitment to community engagement have made him a fan favorite even before stepping onto an NFL field. His strong family values and work ethic have been recognized by coaches and teammates alike, earning him respect across the league.

With Robinson’s commitment, the Washington Commanders have added a powerful weapon to their 2025 recruiting class. His skills and potential position him as a cornerstone player who could help lead the team to future success.

In a thrilling announcement, high school basketball sensation Cooper Flagg has officially committed to play for the Duke Blue Devils, sending waves of excitement through the college basketball world. Flagg, one of the most highly coveted prospects in the country, confirmed his decision during a press conference earlier today, expressing his unwavering dedication to the storied program.

Flagg, a 6’8” forward from Maine, has been regarded as one of the top talents in the Class of 2025. With his remarkable blend of size, skill, and athleticism, he has drawn comparisons to some of the best players to ever play the game. His versatility, basketball IQ, and defensive prowess have made him a top target for virtually every powerhouse program in college basketball, but it was Duke who ultimately secured his commitment.

Speaking to a packed room of reporters, Flagg shared his excitement about the decision. “I will stay,” he said, referring to his commitment to play for Coach Jon Scheyer and the Blue Devils. “Duke is where I feel I can grow the most as a player and a person. The program’s rich history, the coaching staff, and the team environment all played a big role in my decision.”

Flagg’s commitment is a major coup for Duke, who has been actively recruiting the young star for months. Coach Jon Scheyer, who took over the Blue Devils’ program in 2022, has been focused on building a roster that can contend for national championships, and landing a player of Flagg’s caliber is a huge step forward in achieving that goal.

The decision comes at a time when Duke is looking to reassert its dominance in the college basketball landscape. With Flagg’s commitment, the Blue Devils now have a cornerstone player to build around for the upcoming seasons. His ability to impact both ends of the floor – from scoring to defense – makes him an ideal fit for the program’s up-tempo style of play.

For Flagg, the commitment to Duke signals a strong desire to develop further under the guidance of Scheyer and the coaching staff, with the goal of one day making the leap to the NBA. He is expected to be an immediate contributor to the Blue Devils, and his arrival is sure to raise the expectations for the program in the coming years.

Duke fans can now look forward to watching one of the nation’s top prospects suit up for their team, as Flagg’s commitment solidifies the Blue Devils as one of the premier teams in college basketball for the future.