In a recent announcement, it was revealed that former head coach of the Brigham Young University (BYU) basketball team, Mark Pope, will be departing for a new coaching position at Kentucky. While his departure may leave a void on the court, the memories he created with the BYU student body will continue to resonate for years to come.

During his time at BYU, Pope brought a contagious energy and enthusiasm that quickly captured the attention of the younger fans on campus. The Marriott Center in Provo, the home arena for the Cougars, became a hub of excitement and support under Pope's leadership. His emphasis on the power of the spirited student section, known as ROC, fostered a formidable home court advantage, resulting in an impressive 66-12 record over five seasons at the historic venue.

Pope wasted no time in establishing Midnight Madness, a late-night pep rally aimed at rallying younger fans to support the program. This event not only showcased Pope's magnetic personality but also allowed students to feel part of something bigger. He encouraged them to practice their court storming technique, an iconic moment that eventually played out after BYU's monumental upset victory over No. 2-ranked Gonzaga in February 2020. The thrilling sight of students flooding the Marriott Center floor became a cherished core college memory for many.

However, Pope's impact went beyond the basketball court. His actions off the court demonstrated his genuine connection with the fans. After the program-defining win against Gonzaga, Pope celebrated with the exhilarated students by picking up a $1,600 tab at a local restaurant, Cubby's, where they bonded and relished in the victory until the early hours of the morning. This gesture exemplified Pope's willingness to go above and beyond to create lasting memories for the BYU community.

For the students at BYU, Pope's tenure marked a turning point. As they idolized past basketball star Jimmer Fredette, they wondered if the days of such excitement were long gone. However, Pope's arrival injected a renewed sense of enthusiasm, forever changing the dynamic and atmosphere surrounding BYU basketball. The memories created under Pope's reign will be cherished by the student body for years to come, reminding them of a time when the Marriott Center seats were filled with energy and the spirit of camaraderie.

As Pope moves on to his new role at Kentucky, the legacy he leaves behind at BYU will not easily be forgotten. The impact he made on the students and the reinvigorated atmosphere he cultivated in the Marriott Center will continue to serve as a testament to his time in Provo. The university and its fans will eagerly await the next chapter, grateful for the memories and excitement that Pope brought to the program.