Kentucky’s Mark Pope Pays for Fans’ Gas to NCAA Tournament Game in Milwaukee
In an incredible show of support for the Big Blue Nation, University of Kentucky head coach Mark Pope has offered to cover the cost of gas for fans traveling to Milwaukee for the Wildcats’ opening-round game in the NCAA Tournament. This gesture has quickly gained traction among the fanbase and has even inspired local businesses to contribute to the cause.
During his weekly radio show on March 17, Pope addressed the difficulties of long-distance travel for fans eager to watch their team compete in the tournament. He urged any Wildcats fans who needed assistance with gas money to reach out, emphasizing his desire to make sure that as many members of the Big Blue Nation as possible could make the trip. The drive from Lexington, Kentucky, to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, spans roughly seven hours, making travel expenses a concern for many fans. Pope’s willingness to assist has reinforced his reputation as a coach who truly values the support of his team’s followers.
The response from the Kentucky community was immediate and overwhelmingly positive. One University of Kentucky student, Jack Hughes, emailed Pope’s staff, inquiring about potential assistance for either gas money or a game ticket. To his surprise, Hughes received a $100 Visa gift card, courtesy of Pope’s team, to help cover travel expenses. This act of generosity was met with widespread appreciation, with many fans praising Pope for his dedication to the program’s loyal supporters.
Pope’s initiative didn’t just stop with personal contributions. Local businesses in Lexington also stepped up to help Kentucky fans reach Milwaukee. Paul Miller Ford, a well-known car dealership in the city, announced that they would provide $100 in gas money to the first 100 fans who presented a ticket to Kentucky’s first-round matchup against Troy. The dealership’s move added to the growing wave of support for Wildcat fans, ensuring that many could make the journey to cheer on their team in person.
The excitement surrounding Kentucky’s tournament appearance is palpable. The Wildcats, who secured a No. 3 seed in the Midwest Region after finishing the season with a 22-11 record, are set to take on the 14th-seeded Troy Trojans on March 21 at Milwaukee’s Fiserv Forum. As anticipation builds for the game, Pope’s decision to assist fans in making the trip has only added to the positive energy surrounding the program.
For Kentucky fans, this gesture is more than just a financial boost—it’s a reflection of the culture Pope is building within the program. College basketball is deeply rooted in fan passion, and ensuring that the Big Blue Nation has a strong presence in Milwaukee could provide the Wildcats with an added edge. Many fans have expressed their gratitude on social media, with some even calling it one of the most memorable moments of the team’s season so far.
Pope’s actions exemplify the deep bond between the Kentucky basketball program and its supporters. His willingness to personally invest in ensuring fans can be part of the team’s journey showcases his dedication to both the players and the Wildcat faithful. As Kentucky prepares to take on Troy, the energy from the stands—bolstered by the fans Pope helped get there—could play a key role in the team’s tournament run.
