Kentucky Basketball Coach Mark Pope Purchases Luxurious Home in Lexington’s Exclusive Gated Estate
Kentucky men’s basketball head coach Mark Pope has made a significant investment in his future with the Wildcats, purchasing a stunning new home in one of Lexington’s most prestigious gated communities. Pope and his family recently acquired a sprawling 10,492-square-foot estate in The Grange Estates, a highly sought-after neighborhood known for its privacy, luxury, and proximity to the heart of Kentucky basketball.
The impressive home, built in 2002, boasts six bedrooms, six full bathrooms, and three half-bathrooms. Designed with elegance and comfort in mind, the property offers a perfect balance of sophistication and functionality, making it an ideal space for both family living and entertaining. The estate sits on an expansive 11.61-acre lot, providing ample privacy and scenic beauty just minutes away from downtown Lexington.
One of the property’s standout features is its resort-style outdoor space, complete with a large swimming pool surrounded by meticulously landscaped grounds. The estate also includes a detached three-car garage, adding both convenience and additional storage. Inside, the home offers high-end finishes, spacious rooms, and a layout designed to accommodate a modern lifestyle while maintaining a sense of classic charm.
The purchase price for this luxurious home was $4.75 million, making it one of the more notable real estate transactions in the Lexington area this year. The seller, Melanie Glasscock Simpson Conley — a former Lexington TV journalist and Miss Kentucky — had previously owned and maintained the property, ensuring it remained in pristine condition.
The Grange Estates is known for its exclusivity and serene atmosphere, with only about ten homes in the subdivision. Each home sits on expansive lots, providing residents with both privacy and breathtaking views of Kentucky’s picturesque countryside. Despite its tranquil setting, the estate’s location offers easy access to key facilities associated with Kentucky basketball. Rupp Arena, the Wildcats’ iconic home court, is just a 13-minute drive away, while the Joe Craft Center — where the team trains and practices — is approximately 16 minutes from the estate.
For Pope, who took over as Kentucky’s head coach in 2024, this purchase signals a long-term commitment to the program and the Lexington community. A former Kentucky player himself, Pope has been vocal about his excitement in leading the Wildcats and building on the program’s storied history. By settling into one of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods, he and his family are clearly embracing life in Lexington both on and off the court.
Fans and real estate enthusiasts alike have taken note of the purchase, with many seeing it as a positive sign of Pope’s dedication to his role at Kentucky. As he works to lead the Wildcats to new heights, his stunning new home offers a fitting backdrop for this next chapter — one of ambition, excellence, and a deep connection to the Bluegrass State.
With basketball season on the horizon and excitement building around the program, Pope’s investment in Lexington real estate reflects his belief in the community and his vision for the future of Kentucky basketball. This beautiful estate will no doubt serve as a sanctuary amid the pressures and expectations of leading one of college basketball’s most celebrated programs.
