Following Mark Pope is something Collin Chandler has no regrets about. “This is where I should have been.”
When Collin Chandler made the decision to follow Mark Pope to the University of Utah, it wasn’t just a matter of basketball—though the game was certainly a huge part of it. It was about believing in a coach, in a system, and in a vision. Chandler’s commitment to play under Pope’s leadership was rooted in a deep sense of purpose and trust, qualities that would not only shape his career on the court but also solidify his growth as an individual. Looking back, Chandler has no regrets about the decision. In fact, he is convinced that it was the right place for him, and every step he has taken has affirmed that belief.
The Decision: Trusting the Process
For any young athlete, choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions they will ever make. The school, the team, the coach, and the environment all contribute to the athlete’s development—not just as a player, but as a person. Collin Chandler’s path to the University of Utah was not an accident. His decision to join Coach Mark Pope’s program came after careful consideration of what he wanted for his future. Chandler knew that Pope wasn’t just a coach who would push him on the basketball court—he was a mentor who understood the game’s deeper lessons.
“I was looking for a coach who would develop me, not just as a player but as a person,” Chandler explained. “I knew Coach Pope was someone who would hold me accountable, push me to be the best version of myself, and build a program where everyone felt valued.”
The decision to join Pope’s team was rooted in more than just the X’s and O’s of basketball. Pope’s reputation as a coach who emphasized relationships and character resonated with Chandler. It wasn’t simply about playing for a winning team—it was about learning the right lessons and developing a strong foundation for both on and off the court.
Building Relationships: A Coach Who Cares
One of the key elements of Mark Pope’s coaching style is his ability to form meaningful relationships with his players. He doesn’t just see them as athletes; he sees them as people. This personalized approach was one of the main reasons Chandler felt at home at Utah. Chandler had a connection with Pope even before making his decision to commit.
“Coach Pope is different,” Chandler remarked. “He doesn’t just care about how well you play basketball. He cares about who you are, what you stand for, and how you carry yourself every day. That really resonated with me.”
Pope’s attention to character development and his focus on instilling values such as discipline, integrity, and teamwork have shaped Chandler’s approach to both his game and life. By creating an environment where players feel valued for who they are, Pope has built a culture that breeds trust and success. For Chandler, being part of that culture has been transformative.
“It’s more than just basketball,” Chandler said. “It’s about becoming the best version of yourself in every way possible. I trust Coach Pope, and I trust the process.”
Growth as a Player: The Impact of Mark Pope’s System
Beyond the personal connection and mentorship, Collin Chandler found a system under Mark Pope that allowed him to flourish as a basketball player. Pope’s coaching style is built around the concept of team-first basketball. While individual skills are important, Pope emphasizes the importance of collective effort, unselfish play, and adaptability.
Chandler’s development on the court can be attributed to the way Pope has structured his teams. Pope encourages versatility and gives his players the freedom to express their talents within a cohesive system. This approach allowed Chandler to refine his skills while understanding the importance of playing within the team concept.
“Coach Pope’s system allows you to showcase your strengths, but it also teaches you how to be a part of something bigger,” Chandler said. “I’ve grown a lot, not just in my skills, but in my understanding of the game and what it takes to win.”
Chandler’s improvement as a player is a testament to the way Pope has shaped his program. From developing his shooting ability to improving his defensive presence, Chandler’s game has expanded, and it’s clear that Pope’s influence has played a huge role in that growth.
Trusting the Journey: The Decision That Shaped Chandler’s Future
When Chandler first made the decision to play for Mark Pope, he could have never known just how much that choice would impact his future. But as he reflects on his time at the University of Utah, one thing is clear: the journey was worth it.
“There’s no question in my mind that this was the right decision,” Chandler said. “This is where I should have been. Everything I’ve learned, everything I’ve experienced here has helped shape who I am today. I wouldn’t change a thing.”
Chandler’s trust in Pope, in the program, and in himself has paid off. His career at Utah has been filled with growth, both as a player and as a person. The lessons he has learned under Pope’s guidance go far beyond basketball—they are lessons that will stay with him for the rest of his life.
“The most important thing I’ve learned here is to trust the process,” Chandler reflected. “Things don’t always go the way you expect, but if you trust the people around you and stay focused on getting better, it all works out in the end.”
Looking to the Future: What’s Next for Chandler?
As Chandler continues his basketball career at the University of Utah, his focus is on achieving even greater success, both individually and as a team. With Mark Pope continuing to lead the program, Chandler feels confident about the future.
“Coach Pope has built something special here,” Chandler said. “We have the potential to do big things, and I’m excited to be part of it.”
For Chandler, the decision to follow Mark Pope was more than just a choice—it was a commitment to a vision. It was about trusting the process and believing in the leadership that Pope provided. As he moves forward in his career, Chandler remains steadfast in his belief that he made the right decision. With no regrets, he looks ahead to a bright future, both on the court and in life.
A Perfect Fit
Looking back at his decision to play for Mark Pope, Collin Chandler can confidently say that it was the best choice he could have made. The combination of Pope’s leadership, the program’s culture, and Chandler’s own commitment to growth has made his time at the University of Utah one of the most impactful periods of his life.
As Chandler continues to develop as both a player and a person, he remains grateful for the opportunity to follow Mark Pope. “This is where I should have been,” he says, a sentiment that reflects his unwavering belief in the path he chose.
For Chandler, the future is bright, and it’s clear that the foundation laid during his time with Coach Pope will continue to support him as he moves forward in his basketball journey and beyond.