Kentucky Fans Revolt After Reported Coaching Target: REACTIONS

Kentucky fans sound ready to grab some pitchforks and take to the streets.

The Wildcats reportedly are nearing a deal to hire BYU head coach and former UK player Mark Pope to replace John Calipari.

Pope has had some serious success with the Cougars with a 110-52 record and two NCAA Tournament appearances. The fact he was a standout for the Wildcats probably also makes the decision easier for the UK administration.

Kentucky reportedly targeting BYU coach Mark Pope. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Kentucky fans flip out over reported targeting of Mark Pope.

However, fans were expecting a bigger name and social media is nothing short of absolutely hilarious as of Friday morning.

Fans are either seething with rage or seem to have just thrown their arms up and don't care. Check out some of the reactions and let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.

Kentucky fans really convinced themselves Nate Oats, Dan Hurley or Rick Pitino (again) was coming to Lexington. Instead, they are likely going to end up with Mark Pope.

Will he be a success? Will he be a failure? I have no idea, but it's obvious fans are *NOT* excited at all. There are few things more entertaining in sports than fans revolting against a coaching hire.

It's a tale as old as time. Fans get their hopes up, get disappointed and then flip out. It's never not entertaining, and it seems like Kentucky fans are going through the five stages of grief. I believe this is the anger stage before they get to bargaining and eventually acceptance.

Will Kentucky hire Mark Pope? (Photo by Chris Gardner/Getty Images)

Best of luck to Kentucky fans as they continue to consume the news. I'm sure they're full of joy. Let me know your thoughts at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.