LEXINGTON — Just days after John Calipari’s departure, Mark Pope stood before a packed crowd at Rupp Arena, ready to introduce himself as the new head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats. In his official address, Pope acknowledged the high expectations surrounding the program.

When I first saw Keagan Hatton perform, opening for Buffalo Wabs at Red Bicycle Hall a few weeks ago, his voice was so strong and compelling, and his songwriting seemed wise beyond his apparent years. So I asked him how old he was, he replied, “I’m a senior at Carroll County High School.” We…