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Since Mark Pope took over as head coach at Kentucky, Wildcats fans have been eager for more games against former coach Rick Pitino. That wish was granted last season with a matchup in the CBS Classic, and now it appears another meeting could be on the horizon.
According to a report from Jon Rothstein, Kentucky and St. John's are in discussions to start a series beginning next November at Arthur Ashe Stadium. Such an addition would give the Wildcats another high-profile non-conference opponent as they continue to strengthen what is already one of the nation's toughest schedules.
However, the situation remains fluid. No game has been finalized, but the report suggests that an agreement could be close. A return game at Rupp Arena would be particularly significant, as it would mark Pitino's return to Lexington and create one of the most anticipated matchups in college basketball.
Key Analysis
Pitino has publicly expressed his desire to play Kentucky both at Rupp Arena and at St. John's home venue. "I want to go back to Rupp (Arena) and play them, and I certainly want to play them here," Pitino said on Inside College Basketball Now. "But my captain keeps saying that, and I never see a contract." Those comments underscore the mutual interest, though the lack of a signed contract leaves the series uncertain. For now, fans and analysts alike will wait to see if the talks progress into a formal agreement.
Originally reported by yahoo.