Kentucky coach Mark Pope reprimanded, fined $25,000 for comments on officiating in loss to Auburn
On3 • • sports
Key Points:
- Kentucky head coach Mark Pope received a public reprimand and a $25,000 fine from the SEC for publicly criticizing officiating following Kentucky’s 75-74 loss to Auburn.
- Pope’s comments centered on a controversial offensive foul called on Collin Chandler in the final seconds, which led to Auburn’s game-winning shot.
- The SEC cited violations of Bylaw 10.5.3 and the Commissioner’s Regulation prohibiting public criticism of officials, including comments about officiating quality, bias, or related communications.
- Despite initially refraining from direct criticism during the press conference, Pope later made explicit remarks criticizing the referees and challenging potential fines.
- The loss marked Kentucky’s third consecutive SEC defeat, ending a
