By: Casey Madison (X/BleedBlueCasey) | Photo Credit @AustinPope_
Austin Pope is leaving his role as a graduate assistant with the University of Kentucky men’s basketball team to become the Head Video Coordinator for the South Bay Lakers, the NBA G-League affiliate of the Los Angeles Lakers. Pope joined Kentucky’s staff in the spring of 2024 and helped play a key role in the Wildcats’ 24-12 season, and Sweet 16 NCAA Tournament run, providing film analysis, and player development support, often working with players individually.
I recently had the chance to speak with Austin, and he shared how much Kentucky means to him: “It’s very sad to be leaving, but i’ll be back for sure. Maybe down the road I will be an assistant and come back[.]” His words helped reflect the deep bond and love he formed with the program in a short amount of time.
Before Kentucky, Pope had a standout playing career at Chaminade University and coaching experience at the high school level in California. Now, he’ll look to apply those lessons in the professional leagues with the South Bay Lakers and Los Angeles lakers as he continues to build his coaching career.
Discover more from Bleed Blue Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
