Ansley Almonor Joins La Familia: First Mark Pope Era Wildcat to Suit Up for Kentucky’s TBT Alumni Team
Big Blue Nation has always prided itself on its deep-rooted basketball legacy where generations of players remain bonded by blue, whether they played under Adolph Rupp or John Calipari. Now, a new name is adding his story to that storied tradition. Just months removed from finishing his college career in Lexington, Ansley Almonor is set to suit up for La Familia, the Kentucky alumni team competing in The Basketball Tournament (TBT) this summer.
In doing so, Almonor becomes the first player from the Mark Pope era to join the Kentucky alumni ranks a significant milestone that symbolizes more than just a return to the hardwood. It’s a powerful message about the direction of Kentucky basketball under its new leader, and a preview of how Pope’s culture is already taking root.
From FDU to Lexington: Almonor’s Unforgettable Year
Almonor transferred to Kentucky after a breakout stint at Fairleigh Dickinson, where he gained national attention during the Knights’ historic NCAA Tournament upset of No. 1 Purdue in 2023. He brought that same underdog fire to Lexington as part of Mark Pope’s first wave of high-impact transfers, helping to establish a new tone for the Wildcats.
Though his tenure at UK was short, his time left a mark. A strong, versatile forward known for rebounding, hustle, and the ability to stretch the floor, Almonor quickly won the respect of coaches, teammates, and fans alike. In many ways, he embodied Pope’s basketball philosophy: toughness, spacing, and relentless effort.
Now, that same drive will be on full display in one of the summer’s most competitive and highly watched basketball showcases the TBT.
La Familia: More Than a Team, It’s a Movement
The name La Familia says it all this isn’t just a group of alumni hoopers looking to relive the glory days. It’s a brotherhood. It’s a rallying point for fans. It’s a continuation of Kentucky basketball long after players’ NCAA eligibility runs out.
La Familia is where legends like Brandon Knight, Doron Lamb, and Willie Cauley-Stein can suit up again and show they’ve still got it. It’s where BBN can pack gyms across the country in July, screaming just as loud as they do in Rupp Arena. And now, Ansley Almonor gets to join that lineage.
More importantly, his inclusion represents a bridge between eras the Calipari years that built La Familia’s foundation and the Pope years that are just beginning to blossom.
Pope’s Legacy Begins to Take Shape
One of the major storylines this offseason has been the rapid cultural transformation under new head coach Mark Pope. While Pope inherited the most high-pressure job in college basketball, he’s embraced the expectations with charisma, energy, and a deep reverence for Kentucky’s traditions.
Having one of his players already included in La Familia, before Pope has even coached a game in Rupp Arena, is more than symbolic it’s historic. It signals that Pope’s players are not just part of a season they’re part of a lifetime family.
This move sets a precedent. Fans can expect more Pope-era players to join La Familia in the years to come. The message? Playing for Kentucky under Mark Pope is about more than wins and stats it’s about brotherhood, legacy, and being part of something that stretches far beyond the college game.
TBT: A Summer Showcase for BBN Loyalty
The Basketball Tournament has grown into one of the premier summer basketball events a $1 million, winner-takes-all format packed with intensity and passion. For Kentucky fans, it’s the perfect fix between seasons, a way to reconnect with their favorite players and keep the spirit of the Wildcats alive all year long.
With Almonor joining the fray, La Familia becomes more exciting. He’s not just a fresh face he’s the future mixed with the past, a glimpse of what Pope’s player development looks like in action.
Expect Almonor to bring his rebounding prowess, defensive motor, and long-range ability to a roster full of seasoned pros and beloved Wildcats. And expect Big Blue Nation to rally behind him like they always do because once a Wildcat, always a Wildcat.
A New Chapter for Almonor — And Kentucky
For Ansley Almonor, this opportunity is more than a summer tournament. It’s a chance to prove he belongs among the greats who’ve worn Kentucky blue. For Mark Pope, it’s an early victory proof that his players want to remain part of the Kentucky brotherhood even after graduation.
And for Big Blue Nation, it’s another reason to cheer this summer not just for a win in the TBT, but for the beginning of something special.
So when La Familia takes the court this July, keep your eyes on No. 1 from the Pope era. Ansley Almonor is back and BBN wouldn’t have it any other way.
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