Following Kentucky’s hiring of Mark Pope, Jeff Sheppard provides an update on Reed Sheppard.

Mark Pope has been appointed as the Kentucky Wildcats’ new head coach, marking his return to the school where he played a pivotal role in securing the 1996 National Championship. Notably, Pope was roommates with Jeff Sheppard during his time at Kentucky, raising speculation about whether this connection could influence Reed Sheppard’s decision to join Kentucky.

In an interview with Ben Roberts of the Lexington Herald-Leader, Jeff Sheppard provided an update on his son’s decision-making process and the potential impact of Pope’s hiring on Reed’s choice. Sheppard emphasized the importance of gathering concrete information and going through the decision-making process at the right pace. While acknowledging the longstanding friendship between Pope and the Sheppard family, Jeff stated that they are proceeding with caution and will make the decision as a family when the time is right.

During a radio appearance on Alan Cutler’s show, Jeff Sheppard mentioned that he has now spoken with Mark Pope regarding Reed. The Sheppard family is still in the process of collecting information to determine the best course of action for Reed’s decision.

While Pope’s hiring probably helps Kentucky retain Reed, I still think he ends up going pro if his family believes he’ll be a top-10 pick when he passes the testing phase, which includes the NBA Combine on May 13–19. April 27 is the date for entering the draft, and I would be shocked if Reed didn’t at least give it a shot.

Kentucky might make Reed an enormous offer of NIL. As we already know, two benefactors have committed NIL to giving the school $4 million. If Reed returns for Year 2, I venture more large-scale offers will be made to him.

Fans may, however, anticipate Reed Sheppard playing in the NBA the next season.