In a shocking announcement that has sent ripples across the college basketball landscape and sparked an immediate firestorm on social  media, Kentucky Wildcats Head Coach Mark Pope revealed today that senior guard Lamont Butler has been named the starting point guard for the 2025–26 season.
The news came during what was initially expected to be a routine post-practice media session at the Joe Craft Center. Instead, it turned into a headline-grabbing moment that has ignited passionate reactions across the Commonwealth and beyond.
“We’ve had an incredibly competitive offseason so far,” Pope told reporters. “And after careful evaluation, Lamont Butler has stood out—not just in skill, but in leadership, communication, and composure. He’s earned the starting role.”
Butler, a transfer from San Diego State, was brought in during the offseason as a seasoned veteran known for his poise in pressure situations—most notably hitting the buzzer-beating game-winner in the 2023 Final Four. While fans and analysts expected him to play a key role, few anticipated he’d leapfrog highly-touted freshmen and returning talent to secure the starting point guard spot before the season even tips off.
A Surprising Choice Amid Elite Competition
Kentucky’s backcourt this season is arguably one of the deepest and most talented in recent memory. With incoming five-star freshman Jaylen Tyson, sophomore standout DJ Wagner, and combo guard Reed Sheppard returning, most speculated that the starting PG position would be up for grabs deep into the preseason.
Lamont Butler, known for his lockdown defense and unshakable demeanor, was considered a valuable addition—but not necessarily the frontrunner.
“This is a statement,” said ESPN analyst and former Kentucky star Tony Delk. “Coach Pope is sending a clear message: experience, leadership, and defense matter. Lamont’s not flashy, but he gets the job done.”
Butler himself appeared both humbled and ready for the challenge in a brief interview after the announcement.
“I came here to compete, to win, and to lead,” Butler said. “This is Kentucky. There’s no bigger stage. I’m grateful for the trust, and I’m going to give it everything I’ve got.”
Big Blue Nation Reacts: Shock, Excitement, and Debate
No fan base in college basketball is more passionate—or more scrutinizing—than Kentucky’s. Within minutes of Pope’s announcement, reactions poured in from fans, former players, analysts, and college hoops media personalities.
On social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the hashtag #LamontStarting began trending regionally, with mixed but mostly intrigued responses from fans.
Fan Reactions:
- @BBNBaller_22: “Lamont Butler? Over Wagner and Sheppard?? Wow. Didn’t expect that. Let’s see how this plays out.”
- @WildcatFaithful: “Defense wins titles. Butler’s a dog. I like it.”
- @HoopsHeritage: “Pope going with the vet. Smart move. Those freshmen will still eat, don’t worry.”
- @CatsBy90: “Sheppard off the bench? Or is DJ moving to the 2? So many questions now.”
The announcement has led to immediate speculation about how the starting five will shake out. Will DJ Wagner slide over to the shooting guard spot? Will Sheppard take on a sixth-man role as a high-octane bench scorer? And what does this mean for Tyson, whose freshman campaign was widely anticipated to be one of the biggest in recent UK memory?
Pope’s Philosophy: Defense First, Experience Matters
Mark Pope, who took the reins from John Calipari last season, has made it clear that his coaching philosophy prioritizes toughness, leadership, and defensive grit—qualities Butler is known for.
A former Kentucky player himself, Pope has spoken at length about building a team culture rooted in resilience and accountability. His decision to anoint Butler as the starting floor general appears to be a reflection of that approach.
“We’ve got guys with raw talent, and we’re excited about every single one of them,” Pope said. “But what Lamont brings to the table, especially in terms of composure, is exactly what this team needs to set the tone early in games.”
Indeed, Butler’s resume speaks volumes. In his junior season at San Diego State, he averaged 8.8 points, 3.2 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, while routinely guarding the opponent’s best perimeter player. He was named to the Mountain West All-Defensive Team multiple times and was the steady hand during SDSU’s run to the national title game.
How Will This Impact the Rotation?
With the announcement shaking up assumed depth chart predictions, basketball insiders are already adjusting their projected lineups.
Possible Starting Lineup:
- Lamont Butler – PG
- DJ Wagner – SG
- Justin Edwards – SF
- Aaron Bradshaw – PF
- Ugonna Onyenso – C
That would potentially push Reed Sheppard and Jaylen Tyson to the second unit—at least to start the season. However, Pope emphasized that “starting” is only one part of the equation.
“Everyone’s going to play. This is going to be a team where we ride the hot hand, where matchups matter. We’re going to need everyone to win in March.”
Analyst Perspective: A Calculated Gamble?
While most experts agree Butler is a steady presence, some are raising eyebrows at the idea of giving the reins to a newcomer with no prior SEC experience.
“Let’s not forget the talent Kentucky has in those younger guys,” said CBS Sports’ Matt Norlander. “But Pope is making a bet that poise and defensive intensity will win out—especially early in the season, where games can be chaotic. It’s a bold move, and it might just work.”
Others point to Butler’s tournament resume as proof that he can not only handle the pressure, but thrive in it.
“He’s been battle-tested in a way most of these kids haven’t,” said SEC Network’s Joe Tessitore. “He’s played in a Final Four. He’s hit game-winners. This is not a freshman learning on the job.”
Inside the Locker Room: Support and Competition
Sources close to the team say Butler has earned the respect of his teammates since arriving in Lexington. Described as vocal in practice and tireless in film sessions, he’s become a mentor to some of the younger guards while quietly leading by example.
“He just gets after it,” one assistant coach reportedly said. “He holds guys accountable, but he’s not arrogant. The team listens when he speaks.”
That leadership has apparently made a difference, especially in high-stakes intra-squad scrimmages. One unnamed player reportedly called him “the most intense guy in the gym every day.”
Looking Ahead: Can Butler Deliver?
Kentucky’s early schedule includes several high-profile non-conference matchups, including games against Kansas, Duke, and Gonzaga. Butler will be tested early—and often.
But Pope seems confident that his new floor general is ready.
“He’s been in the fire. He’s got ice in his veins. And he makes everyone around him better,” Pope said. “I don’t know what else you could ask for from a point guard.”
Time will tell whether this bold move pays off. But one thing is clear: the Mark Pope era at Kentucky is not going to be shy about making headlines.
And with Lamont Butler at the helm, the Wildcats might just have the steady hand they need to make a serious run next March.