Mark Pope is still working on the transfer site in an attempt to complete his roster for 2025–2026. Use KSR’s transfer portal tracker to be informed about the most recent developments.

Mark Pope and the Transfer Portal: Building the 2025-26 Roster

The ever-evolving world of college basketball is always influenced by the transfer portal. With the rapid changes in player movement, it’s become a pivotal part of constructing a successful team. For Mark Pope, the head coach of the University of Utah basketball team, the transfer portal has become an essential avenue to build his 2025-26 roster. Pope has established a reputation for aggressively seeking talented players from the portal to fill gaps in his roster, and this year is no different. As the portal continues to shake up college basketball, Pope’s strategic moves will determine the future success of the Utah Utes.

Understanding Mark Pope’s Philosophy

Before diving into the specifics of the current transfer portal news, it’s important to understand Mark Pope’s philosophy as a coach. When Pope took over as the head coach of Utah in 2020, he inherited a program that had seen mixed results over the years. Since then, he’s worked tirelessly to elevate the Utes’ program, focusing on not only recruiting elite high school talent but also supplementing the roster with experienced players who can step in and contribute immediately. Pope has been particularly adept at finding players from the transfer portal who fit his system—one that emphasizes toughness, defensive discipline, and up-tempo offense.

One of Pope’s trademarks is his ability to identify key players who can plug immediate holes. Unlike some programs that rely solely on high school recruiting, Pope has shown an affinity for filling gaps with experienced players who bring leadership, maturity, and a high level of skill. This approach not only helps in securing victories right away but also provides valuable depth in an era where depth is key to managing the grueling college basketball season.

The Transfer Portal’s Impact on College Basketball

The transfer portal has significantly altered the landscape of college basketball. The NCAA’s decision to allow athletes to transfer without sitting out a year, coupled with the COVID-19 era’s extra eligibility season, has created an environment where teams can make immediate improvements by adding experienced players to their rosters.

For a program like Utah, the portal has provided Pope with an avenue to rapidly rebuild and reinforce the roster with experienced players who have already played at the college level. For example, a team that is struggling with a specific position can look to the portal to find a player who fits their needs, whether that’s a sharpshooter, a defensive specialist, or a veteran point guard who can help lead the offense.

The beauty of the portal is that it provides a quick-fix for teams that may not have been able to recruit the exact players they wanted in high school. For Pope, who is looking to put together a competitive squad for the 2025-26 season, this represents an opportunity to add players who can make an immediate impact.

Pope’s Strategy in the 2025-26 Portal

As of the latest updates, Mark Pope has been working tirelessly to fill in the gaps in the 2025-26 roster. As Utah looks to build on its recent successes and take the next step in the Pac-12 Conference, Pope has been particularly active in the portal.

One of Pope’s main objectives is to address areas where Utah may be thin. For instance, if the team is losing a key player to the NBA draft or graduation, the transfer portal is a great way to quickly replace that production. The portal also provides an opportunity to add depth to positions that were previously weaker or where the team simply didn’t have enough bodies to rotate through the season.

Pope has been especially focused on two areas: backcourt and frontcourt depth. The Utes have had solid performances in the backcourt in recent years, but as seniors depart and with the evolving demands of the college basketball game, Pope is keen on ensuring that the Utes don’t lose any momentum. As such, he’s looking for a reliable playmaker at the guard position, someone who can contribute immediately.

Evaluating Incoming Transfers

Several key players have been identified in the transfer portal, and Pope has already begun reaching out to a select group of high-level prospects. Some of the names making the rounds are:

• Jaden Ivey (Guard): A former top-50 recruit, Ivey made an early impact at his previous school. A dynamic guard who excels in transition, Ivey would immediately give Utah a boost in its perimeter game. Known for his explosive athleticism, Ivey could help diversify the Utes’ offensive attack.
• Nashon Green (Forward): After an impressive season at his previous school, Green brings versatility to the frontcourt. Standing at 6’8”, Green is an excellent rebounder and shot blocker, and his ability to stretch the floor would provide Utah with a much-needed offensive threat. His experience as a starter at his previous school would allow him to step into a leadership role with the Utes.
• Ethan Matthews (Point Guard): A savvy floor general, Matthews has shown the ability to lead an offense and distribute the basketball at a high level. His experience playing in a fast-paced offense would mesh well with Pope’s system, and he could help elevate Utah’s overall ball movement.

Key Areas of Focus for the 2025-26 Season

As Pope continues to refine his 2025-26 roster, there are a few key areas where the Utes need immediate help:

1. Perimeter Shooting: The Utes have struggled in recent years to consistently knock down shots from beyond the arc. Adding a proven perimeter shooter would take the pressure off the inside game and help Utah stretch the defense.
2. Defensive Versatility: Utah has been known for its strong defense under Pope, but the Utes can improve by adding players who can defend multiple positions. Whether it’s a 3-and-D wing or a versatile forward, Pope is likely searching for players who can lock down opponents and disrupt their offensive flow.
3. Frontcourt Depth: With the loss of key players in the frontcourt, Pope is focused on bolstering the Utes’ interior presence. Adding a skilled big man who can score in the post, grab rebounds, and protect the rim would provide Utah with the inside presence necessary for a deep run in the Pac-12 tournament and beyond.

The Importance of Chemistry

In the era of the transfer portal, one of the biggest challenges for coaches like Mark Pope is ensuring that the new players mesh with the returning roster. While bringing in talented transfers is key, it’s just as important to create chemistry among players. Pope has been intentional about creating an environment where players can come together quickly, and he’s worked hard to foster a team-first mentality. This will be a critical component for the Utes as they attempt to build a cohesive unit for the 2025-26 season.

Looking Ahead: Will the Utes Compete for the Pac-12 Title?

While much of the attention has been focused on the transfer portal, Mark Pope is also working diligently to develop the talent he already has on the roster. As the Utes look to take the next step and compete for a Pac-12 title in 2025-26, Pope’s mix of experienced transfers and homegrown talent could give Utah the depth and firepower needed to make a deep run.

The Pac-12 is one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, and with teams like Arizona, UCLA, and USC consistently near the top of the standings, Utah will need all the help it can get. If Pope can successfully land a few more key transfers and develop the returning players on the roster, the Utes could be a force to be reckoned with in the coming season.