Mark Pope is currently looking to add another player to the 2026-27 season, potentially Mark Mitchell? The roster already features top transfer Milan Momcilovic. Additionally, one of the best returning freshman in the country Malachi Moreno.
The biggest news is the potential addition of Missouri transfer Mark Mitchell. He averaged 18.3 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.6 assists on 55/39/67 shooting spilts for the Tigers last season. He entered the transfer portal but would need an injunction in the Louisville Judicial court to become eligible for next season.
The latest news from the first hearing of Mark Mitchell
Mitchell entered the case late this week with other college football and basketball athletes in the state of Kentucky. Some have come from other universities and that may lead to them ultimately competing for a school in the bluegrass.
The real question is why an injunction in Kentucky? That question remains up in the air but Kentucky is expected to be the leader for Mitchell’s services if he is indeed ruled eligible. A return to Missouri is also not out of the question but less likely due to the injunction taking place in Kentucky and not in Missouri.
Fans will have to wait on a ruling as late as next weekend
The NCAA pushed back strongly against the plaintiffs during a hearing Friday involving eligibility rules that could impact several college athletes, including Kentucky’s Mark Mitchell.
The NCAA argued that under its interpretation of the ruling, once an athlete has been enrolled in college for four years, their eligibility is exhausted, with certain exceptions for injuries or other circumstances that may extend a player’s eligibility.
The NCAA also maintained that the players involved in the lawsuit have already used all of their remaining eligibility.
Attorneys for the plaintiffs argued that previous eligibility exceptions should be taken into consideration.
Players impacted by COVID-19 were granted an additional year of eligibility, while recent changes involving junior college athletes have also allowed some players an additional season.
The plaintiffs contend those circumstances, along with delays in the legal process, should allow the athletes involved in the case another year of eligibility to compete in college football or basketball.
Both sides presented arguments and evidence during Friday’s hearing, with a decision expected by the end of next week.
Jefferson County Circuit Judge Brian C. Edwards understands the time-sensitive nature of the case, noting the value of reaching a “quick decision” with seasons approaching, scholarship opportunities closing and programs needing to make final roster decisions.
Before issuing a ruling, the judge has asked both sides to submit additional information by Tuesday.
For Kentucky, the decision could have a direct impact on Mark Mitchell, whose eligibility for the upcoming season remains uncertain while the court considers the case.
Will the Cats add Mark Mitchell?
Right now that question remain to be seen, but if the pieces fall in the right direction within the next week, Mark Pope could land a Preseason SEC player of the year. That would easily make Kentucky a top contender in the SEC and country.
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