Sources: mark pope and  Kentucky have agreed in principle to a new four-year contract, which will extend him through the 2028 season. Helton has led UK to bowl games in all six of his seasons at the school

If you’re referring to Kentucky football and the mention of “Helton,” you might be thinking of Clay Helton, who had a notable coaching career but is not currently associated with Kentucky. However, if the reference is about Kentucky’s football program under Mark Stoops, I’ll provide more context surrounding his contract.

Mark Stoops and Kentucky Football Contract Extension:

In December 2021, the University of Kentucky announced that head football coach Mark Stoops had agreed to a contract extension. This agreement, which was in principle, extended his contract through the 2028 season. Under Stoops’ leadership, Kentucky’s football program has seen remarkable success in recent years, including consistent bowl game appearances. In fact, Stoops has led the Wildcats to bowl games in all six seasons he has been at the helm. The extension signified a commitment to long-term stability and the continued growth of the football program at Kentucky.

Stoops’ Coaching Achievements:

Since arriving at Kentucky in 2013, Mark Stoops has completely transformed the Wildcats’ football team, establishing it as a competitive force in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). While Kentucky has traditionally been seen as an underdog in the powerhouse SEC, Stoops has built the program into a contender. Notably, Kentucky has reached bowl eligibility in nearly every season under Stoops, and his teams have regularly been ranked within the top 25 in national rankings.

His success has been highlighted by multiple bowl victories, including wins in high-profile games like the Citrus Bowl and the Belk Bowl. Stoops’ leadership has helped Kentucky surpass its historical expectations, and the program has increasingly become a destination for recruits looking to play in the SEC. Stoops has focused on developing a strong defense, building up Kentucky’s offensive line, and establishing a culture of toughness and resilience.

Mark Stoops’ Leadership and Legacy:

The extension for Stoops was important for Kentucky to maintain its momentum. Stoops is not only respected for his football acumen but also for his ability to develop players and manage a team over the long haul. Under his guidance, Kentucky has secured bowl berths in a conference filled with blue-chip programs, making it a noteworthy achievement. He has elevated Kentucky to a place where they are not just an afterthought in the SEC but a respected program with a growing reputation.

This new contract also comes with greater expectations as Kentucky looks to continue competing at a high level in one of the toughest football conferences in the country. With Stoops under contract through 2028, Kentucky is poised to solidify its place as one of the better football programs in the SEC.

Kentucky Basketball and Mark Pope:

On the basketball front, Kentucky is under the leadership of coach John Calipari, a Hall of Fame coach who has led the Wildcats to multiple national titles. Mark Pope is currently the head coach of the University of Utah’s men’s basketball team, not Kentucky.

In Conclusion:

It appears that there may be some confusion about the names and sports in your inquiry. Mark Stoops, Kentucky’s football coach, has indeed received a significant contract extension through the 2028 season. His leadership has brought Kentucky to bowl games in all six of his seasons, making his tenure at the school a highly successful one. If you were referring to a different coach or a different context, feel free to clarify, and I’d be happy to provide more details!