In a heartfelt demonstration of compassion and community spirit, the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball program presented a \$40,000 check to Southern Kentucky Tornado Relief on Friday. The initiative was a united effort, fully supported by the team’s players, coaches, and staff in response to the devastating tornadoes that swept through the region last month.
The storms left a trail of destruction across parts of southern Kentucky, with London and Somerset among the hardest-hit communities. In the aftermath, the Wildcats prioritized being on the ground to offer support and assistance.
Ahead of the check presentation, the team kicked off the first of two youth satellite basketball camps — providing local children with a fun, engaging opportunity to play, learn, and connect with Kentucky players. The second camp is set to take place Saturday morning at Russell County High School.
Head coach Mark Pope spoke emotionally after Friday’s camp concluded.
“The morning after the tornadoes hit, I reached out to Shep (Jeff Sheppard) — not even thinking about all this yet,” Pope said. “We had long talks about what the community truly needed. And once we started tossing out ideas, our guys immediately said, ‘This is it. Let’s do a camp. Let’s be there.’ Then they took it further and said, ‘We want to make a real financial impact, too.’”
More than a single act of charity, the camp and donation reflect a deep and ongoing commitment by Kentucky basketball to stand with and uplift fellow Kentuckians during their time of need.
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