Mark Pope Strengthens Kentucky’s 2025–26 Roster with Elite Sharpshooter Jacob Webber
As Mark Pope enters his second season at the helm of the Kentucky Wildcats men’s basketball program, he’s already signaling that the Cats are serious about upgrading their perimeter shooting. Building on a 24–12 record and a Sweet 16 appearance in 2024–25
Pope has tapped into the 2026 recruiting class with the commitment of a dynamic, long‑range threat: Jacob Webber, a 6‑foot‑6 wing known for his elite shooting and high basketball IQ.
Who is Jacob Webber?
Hailing from Kearney, Nebraska, and currently playing at La Lumiere Prep in Indiana, Webber has emerged as a high‑level 2026 recruit, currently ranked No. 95 in the class by 247Sports Composite
At Kearney High School, he set a school record by burying nine threes in a single game—and did it twice . Over his junior season, Webber averaged 21.7 points, shot 46% overall, 42% from deep, and maintained an impressive 90% free‑throw percent
Why Webber Fits Pope’s Vision
Pope’s system is built around pace, space, and precision—a template that places a premium on shooters who can stretch defenses and move off-ball. This was evident in his BYU tenure and carried over into his first season at Kentucky, where the Wildcats ranked seventh nationally in points per game and set a program record with 341 made three-pointers
Kentucky’s interest in Webber intensified during the July live period of AAU basketball, as assistant coach Cody Fueger personally reached out after being impressed by Webber’s performance
That initial contact reflects a clear strategy: Pope isn’t just chasing top‑10 talent; he’s also building a deep, versatile roster with role players who can consistently deliver from the perimeter.
Competing Offers and Rising Momentum
Webber has a growing list of offers that attests to his national appeal: Nebraska, Washington, Creighton, California, Iowa, Purdue, Creighton, Drake, St. Louis, and more have all extended invitation.
. Purdue offered most recently after his showing in Rock Hill, South Carolina—a testament to his consistency at major events . Even without an official Kentucky offer before July, several outlets reported that Wildcats scouts view him as an ideal fit
. Now, with Pope officially adding him to the class, expect that chase to ramp up.
What Webber Brings to Lexington
Elite perimeter shooting: Over two years, Webber knocked down 171 threes at a 42% clip
—a valuable weapon to complement Kentucky’s inside-out game.
Pure scorer: His junior-year averages (21.7 ppg, 3.1 rpg, 46% FG, 90% FT) reflect maturity in scoring, efficiency, and consistency.
Adaptability: Transitioning to La Lumiere’s national schedule demonstrates his readiness to perform under pressure and against top-tier prep competition
Exposure to big programs: Unofficial visits to Purdue and Kansas show that Webber isn’t just a mid‑major name—he is on the radar of national powerhouses
Impact on Kentucky’s Future
Under Pope, Kentucky is rebuilding a roster that blends athleticism, veteran savvy, and elite shooting. Webber isn’t the flashiest recruit on the board, but his shot profile and efficiency fit seamlessly into the high-octane, three‑point-heavy identity Pope wants to cement. As he continues to develop at La Lumiere and impress on the AAU stage, Webber’s presence on the 2025–26 roster offers Kentucky another lethal perimeter option—one that could stretch defenses, thaw late-game droughts, and elevate the team’s offensive ceiling.
His addition also reinforces Pope’s recruiting message: Kentucky isn’t just targeting five-star blue-chippers—it’s looking for the right pieces to build a championship-caliber team. Jacob Webber, with his sharpshooting, consistency, and intangibles, is exactly that kind of piece.
This addition could be a game-changer for Kentucky’s upcoming season. Keep an eye on Webber—it might not be long before he becomes one of Pope’s most reliable shooters.
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