Kentucky head coach Mark Pope is once again showing his commitment to Big Blue Nation, this time offering to help fans with gas money to get to Milwaukee for the Wildcats’ first-round matchup against Troy in the NCAA Tournament. The game, set to take place on Thursday, has Kentucky fans buzzing about making the roughly seven-hour drive to support their team.
During his call-in radio show on Monday night, Pope made it clear that he wants as many Kentucky fans as possible in Milwaukee to give the Wildcats a home-court advantage away from Rupp Arena. With his usual energy and enthusiasm, Pope joked about his willingness to help out with travel expenses.
“It’s only a 7-hour drive, so if you’re having trouble with gas money, hit me up. Let’s get all of BBN out there,” Pope said. “I’m not gonna tell you how to hit me up because I’m nervous about how many people are about to hit me up. I had this ridiculous notion one night after a game to buy everybody that was left in the arena ice cream. It cost me a little bit more than I anticipated, but it’s all in the family, baby. It’s family. Let’s go.”
Pope’s comments immediately caught the attention of Kentucky fans and local businesses, with many praising his dedication to making sure the Wildcats feel supported on the road. One business that stepped up in response was Paul Miller Ford, a local car dealership with deep ties to the Lexington community.
The dealership announced they would be giving away 100 gas cards, each loaded with $100, to help fans make the trip to Milwaukee. Fans lined up at Paul Miller Ford as word quickly spread on social media, with many expressing their gratitude for the unexpected but welcome support.
The Wildcats have built a reputation for having one of the most passionate fanbases in the country, and Pope clearly understands the importance of keeping that energy alive during March Madness. The combination of Pope’s offer and Paul Miller Ford’s generosity shows just how much the Kentucky basketball community rallies together when it counts.
Whether it’s gas money or ice cream, Pope’s willingness to go the extra mile to connect with the fanbase is part of what makes him such a beloved figure at Kentucky. Now, with BBN making their way to Milwaukee, the Wildcats are sure to have plenty of blue in the stands when they take on Troy in the first round.