Dink Pate Shines in Final G-League Game With Mark Pope in Attendance

Mark Pope made the trip to New York on Saturday to watch Dink Pate play in his last G-League game of the year, which turned into a very great performance for the Kentucky target. With Pope sitting courtside, the 6’7 wing finished with 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists. Pate also closed the game on a 12-0 run, taking over late. After that, he spoke with the media, making his mindset on the future very clear:

I feel like i’ve been maturing a lot the last three years. I’m ready for whatever’s coming at me. I want you to know I’m ready for y’all. You’re not ready for me. I’m applying all pressure on y’all all summer. Y’all were sleeping on me. I’m gonna show ya’ll what i’m gonna do. Thats what zone I’m in – I’m all gas no breaks.”

The timing of his season ending is very important for Kentucky. The transfer portal officially opens April 7, and Mark Pope is actively looking to reshape the roster. Over the last two seasons, one of the biggest concerns surrounding Kentucky basketball has been the lack of true superstar: Someone who can take over games and create offense when things break down.

Pate fits that mold.

Unlike most portal options, he brings professional experience. The former top-30 recruit skipped college entirely and went straight to the G-League Ignite when he was just 17, becoming one of the youngest players in the country. Since then, he has developed against professional competition.

With the G-League season now over for Pate and the transfer portal opening soon, decisions could begin to move quickly. Kentucky is expected to be heavily involved assuming Pate decides to play college basketball.

_{Photo Courtesy Cary Smith}