In this video, Mark Pope talks about the current sit-vs.-stand debate at Rupp Arena.

Kentucky basketball fans have strong feelings about the standing vs. sitting issue at Rupp Arena, which we’ve talked about here and here. Some people say that standing is the most passionate way to show your support, while others say that sitting quietly and cheering loudly is just as helpful as standing. Mark Pope, the head coach of Kentucky, recently spoke out with a surprisingly unified view:

Pope said, “Man, I just hope that everyone who goes to that arena has an amazing time.” “We care so much about it.”

Pope’s answer strikes a balance between the two sides by focusing on what really matters: making a loud, electric atmosphere that helps the Wildcats win. Pope doesn’t get too involved in the details of standing or sitting; instead, he focuses on the bigger picture, which is getting people excited about Rupp Arena and bringing the fans together.

There is no doubt that when the Big Blue Nation is loudest, a packed Rupp Arena has a lot of strength. That famous place has been one of the scariest places for college basketball teams for a long time, and Pope knows that the players enjoy that energy. A good home-court edge can turn into a great one when the fans make a lot of noise. We need a great SEC right now.

So what’s the answer? The answer is simple: show up, whether you’re sitting or standing. Make Rupp louder than it has ever been by clapping, yelling, stomping, and chanting. Fans who sit down shouldn’t feel less passionate, and fans who stand shouldn’t be seen as annoying. But the end goal is still the same: to support Kentucky basketball and make Rupp Arena a safe place to play. If you are blocking an elderly person, or those who can’t stand, do the right thing and stay sitting for most of the game.

Imagine Rupp filled with 20,000 fans, united not by their stance but by their love for the Wildcats at full throat for 40 minutes. That’s what Pope seems to want: fans who show up, turn up the music, and love and support the team with all their hearts.

Let’s do what Pope said and go to Rupp Arena. You can sit if you want to. You can stand if you wish. Be loud and proud no matter what you do. Let’s show everyone in the basketball world why Kentucky is the best in college basketball.