Mark Stoops Sacked: Kentucky Coach's Shocking Exit After 13 Seasons, $38M Buyout Revealed
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In a stunning move, the University of Kentucky has parted ways with Mark Stoops, its head coach of 13 seasons. Stoops, a native of Ohio, led the Wildcats to unprecedented success, including eight consecutive bowl appearances (2016-2023) and 10 wins in both 2018 and 2021. Despite a tumultuous 2022 season, Stoops had secured a contract extension until 2030, solidifying his commitment to the university. However, recent on-field struggles and uncertainties about the team's SEC trajectory led to a deterioration in the coach-player relationship. Stoops, who held the record for the longest-serving SEC coach and surpassed Bear Bryant's wins record in 2022, expressed reluctance to leave, stating 'zero percent chance' of voluntarily resigning. According to sources, Stoops was willing to negotiate a buyout agreement that would allow the university to distribute payments over several years. The 2017 contract amendment guarantees him 75% of his remaining salary, totaling nearly $38 million, to be paid within 60 days if dismissed without just cause. As the search for Stoops' successor begins, the university aims to build upon his legacy, which transformed Kentucky from an SEC bottom-dweller to a reliable contender. Stoops' estimated net worth is around $9 million, derived from his annual salary and contractual incentives. However, some outlets suggest a lower net worth of $2.5 million, considering his salary and years of program development.
