Kentucky Basketball Star Andrew Carr Announces Departure After Punishment by Mark Pope
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Kentucky basketball forward Andrew Carr announced his decision to leave the team on Monday, citing disciplinary actions imposed by head coach Mark Pope following the Wildcats’ devastating loss to Alabama earlier this week.
Carr, who transferred to Kentucky from Delaware this past offseason, had been a key player for the Wildcats, contributing solid minutes on both ends of the floor. However, following Kentucky’s 79-68 defeat to Alabama, Pope made the controversial decision to bench Carr for a portion of the team’s subsequent practices. The punishment, sources close to the program say, was due to an internal team issue that arose after the loss — one that involved Carr’s conduct during a post-game meeting.
While the exact details of the incident have not been publicly revealed, it is understood that Carr, frustrated with the team’s performance and internal tensions, expressed dissatisfaction with Pope’s coaching decisions. The clash reportedly led to Pope’s disciplinary action.
In his announcement, Carr expressed his disappointment with the situation but also thanked the University of Kentucky for the opportunity to be part of the program. “This was a difficult decision, but after careful consideration, I feel it is best for me to move on,” Carr said in a statement. “I’m grateful for the teammates, coaches, and fans who supported me during my time here.”
Carr’s departure comes at a crucial point in Kentucky’s season, as the team is in the middle of its SEC schedule and fighting for a higher seeding in the NCAA Tournament. The Wildcats will now have to adjust to life without Carr, who was averaging 9.2 points and 5.1 rebounds per game.
Coach Mark Pope, while not commenting directly on Carr’s exit, reiterated the program’s commitment to discipline and team unity as they move forward.
