The work begins for real for Kentucky coach Mark Pope, who was hired from BYU and given the challenging task of following Hall of Famer John Calipari after his departure to Arkansas after 15 years.

The last time the Panthers were in Lexington was back in 2021, when Kentucky came away with a 95-72 exhibition win.

“It was a great visit,” Cenac said of his visit to UK. “Coach Pope and his coaching staff, they’re all great guys. … Had a great practice when I was in. That’s a school that I put in my top seven and I’m looking forward to seeing what they have to offer.”

Kentucky is expected to have a potent offense with an emphasis on 3-point shooting in Mark Pope’s first season as head coach. At least one school record is likely to fall.