There was a time at the University of Kentucky when the basketball coach and the football coach did not get along. John Calipari and Mark Stoops had a public falling out that resulted in a very awkward time for the university.
Mark Pope and Mark Stoops seemed to have a much better relationship, with Stoops even appearing at Big Blue Madness in 2024. But for fans worried that Will Stein might reignite the old “football vs. basketball” tension, you can put those fears to bed.
Stein isn’t just a football
coach; he is a fan.
“I’m the biggest Kentucky basketball fan you will ever meet. So I went to Tubby Smith basketball camp like four times. I won the Hot Shot Award. I won the free-throw competition.
“Hey, I hope every single program wins. Basketball, baseball, football, women’s [sports], volleyball, gymnastics, you name it. Like, I want this to be the best athletic program in the country, which I believe it is and will continue to be. So, you’re not going to find me complaining about men’s basketball or any other sport here.
“That is the attitude every coach on campus should have. When you are all pushing for each other, pushing toward the goal of winning, you can accomplish special things. That is exactly what Kentucky is looking to do.“
Praise for Mitch Barnhart
When asked about Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart, who has been scrutinized by the public in recent years, Stein was effusive in his praise for the administration’s support.
“Yeah, I mean I work for the best president, best AD in the country. So these guys have done everything and more to support us and feel really good about the future, and making sure that we keep pushing the envelope.
“I can’t say enough good things about Mitch Barnhart and what he’s done for me so far. And, yeah, I mean, I feel like, are we completely there? I think everybody’s always trying to push every program across the country. So, it’s not just Kentucky. But they’ve resourced me definitely in a good way to feel like we can push the envelope with player acquisition, retention, and then building the best coaching staff possible.”
With all the chaos surrounding a new coach, juggling jobs, building a new staff, and navigating the portal, having complete alignment with the administration is the first step toward success. It sounds like they will be working together for at least the short term. Remember, Mitch can step down any time after the summer.
Drew Holbrook has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time, he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion
