Kentucky Basketball’s Surprising Move That’s Changing Eastern Kentucky Forever

Kentucky Sports Radio has expanded its coverage of the Wildcats in the most ridiculous manner possible on our YouTube Channel. Here you will be able to find interviews with coaches and players, as well as commentary from the KSR crew. From Rapid Reactions following big events to our lengthy lineup of live shows, subscribe to the KSR YouTube Channel to stay up to date on everything happening around the Big Blue Nation.The Wildcats’ trip to Appalachia wasn’t just to test out the Red River Gorge zip lines. Mark Pope’s Kentucky basketball team is spending the weekend with BBN in Eastern Kentucky.

There’s an old saying in politics about “shaking hands and kissing babies.” As Pope is learning, that also applies to the head basketball coach at Kentucky.

The Wildcats have dreams of winning in March. The roots are planted in the offseason. After spending months in the gym, Kentucky is kicking off the fall semester together. One can only hope the relationships built now withstand the inevitable adversity that will arrive this season.

The team made the trek from Powell County down to Hazard, where they got a chance to meet fans at Perry County Park. Even though it’s still more than an hour away from Trent Noah‘s hometown of Harlan, there are still plenty of Mountain Mamba fans in Hazard.

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The Kentucky Wildcats didn’t just head to Appalachia for a little outdoor adventure on the Red River Gorge zip lines. Nope, Mark Pope and his squad took a meaningful detour this weekend, diving deep into Eastern Kentucky’s heartland alongside Big Blue Nation fans. Their journey from Powell County down to Hazard offered more than just a change of scenery—it was about connecting, shaking hands, and meeting the passionate supporters at Perry County Park. Even though Hazard sits over an hour away from Trent Noah’s hometown of Harlan, the enthusiasm for the Mountain Mamba runs strong here. It’s that old-school charm of basketball camaraderie mixed with genuine Appalachian spirit that sets this trip apart. As the Wildcats gear up for a big push in March, weekends like this lay the groundwork for tough bonds that’ll be tested on the court later. Curious to see the buzz and the faces behind this trip? LEARN MORE