It’s clear that Mark Pope is making a conscious effort to connect with fans both digitally and in person over the past several weeks.
It’s fair to say that most fans were excited at the idea of seeing their Cats play this summer in a competitive environment, ideally with televised games. When no such international trip came together, Pope and his staff turned to social media to fill the void. The videos have provided glimpses of how his newly revamped roster is acclimating on and off the court.
Pope
and the social media team have used several tactics to engage with fans. We’ve now seen Q&As, ticket giveaways, and more exposure to the results of his team’s summer workouts. There was even the classic trip to the legendary Wheeler’s Pharmacy, where so many UK coaches before him have sat and listened to stories.
Recently, Coach Pope joined Maggie Davis on BBN Tonight and announced the first ever Media Madness.
“So, here’s the deal. On September 17th, we’re 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, all athletic gear. We’re going to put you through some drills and then get some 3-on-3 and 5-on-5 winners. We’ll finish it off with a post-game press conference where the guys get to ask media questions. The reason we’re doing this so far ahead is because I know, Meggie, not you, because you’re in elite-level shape, but I know a couple of your—a couple of your partners there are going to need these six weeks to get in shape. So, the challenge is this: I would like to hear a weekly report, video would be best, maybe some audio, on your training protocol uh that you guys have been doing so you guys can come in and show out and win this thing on September 17th. Come on, bring it!” Pope said.
It didn’t take the journalists, bloggers and news personalities long to hit the hardwood working to get their bodies in shape by the event on September 17th.
