Coach Mark Pope, Jasper Johnson, and Malachi Moreno Invited to USA Basketball U19 Training Camp This Summer
In a major honor for Kentucky basketball, head coach Mark Pope will accompany rising stars Jasper Johnson and Malachi Moreno to the USA Basketball U19 Training Camp this summer, adding another prestigious milestone to the Wildcats’ offseason.
The camp, set to take place in late June, serves as the selection process for the FIBA U19 World Cup team. It’s an incredible opportunity for the young players to showcase their skills on a national stage and compete for a spot on Team USA’s final roster.
Jasper Johnson, a top-tier guard prospect known for his elite scoring and versatility, is considered one of the most dynamic backcourt players in his class. His invitation comes as no surprise to those who’ve followed his explosive high school and AAU performances.
Malachi Moreno, the towering center out of Kentucky, has rapidly climbed the national rankings with his shot-blocking, rebounding, and growing offensive game. His presence at the training camp further confirms his trajectory as a premier big man in the country.
Coach Mark Pope’s inclusion in the camp as part of the coaching and evaluation group reflects the respect he commands nationally—not only as Kentucky’s head coach but also as a mentor committed to developing elite young talent.
This summer stint with USA Basketball offers a rare blend of growth, exposure, and patriotism for all involved. For Johnson and Moreno, it’s a chance to don the red, white, and blue while elevating their profiles before the college season. For Pope, it’s another step in shaping the future of basketball — both in Lexington and across the country.
Stay tuned as the camp unfolds and Team USA’s final U19 roster