Kentucky head coach Mark Pope was asked about Travis Perry’s recent decision to transfer out of the program. Speaking during Tuesday’s press conference, Pope expressed deep admiration for the in-state standout and disappointment at his departure.

“Devastated when Travis left,” Pope said. “He’s a special person, a terrific young man, an old soul, full of wisdom. Everything you want in a player.”

Perry, a former Mr. Kentucky Basketball and one of the most celebrated high school players in the state’s history. He had a more intense role than what was expected this season due to injuries but had an up and down time at Kentucky. He will be most fondly remembered for stepping up as PG1 at #4 Alabama and dropping 12 points and scraping up 4 steals.

“Big-time talent,” Pope added. “I enjoyed coaching him, and he was on his way to becoming a legend here at Kentucky.”

Though the loss stings, Pope wished Perry nothing but success moving forward.

“He’s going to find a path that works for him, and it’s going to be positive,” Pope said. “But that was tough for us.”