LEXINGTON, Ky. -- Kentucky fired the SEC's longest-tenured coach Monday, ending Mark Stoops' tenure following his 13th season with the Wildcats after posting back-to-back losing records.

Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart said in a statement Monday morning that he informed Stoops they decided to go in a new direction and started a national search for his replacement.

"We will continue to make the necessary investments to recruit an elite head coach, players, and support staff," Barnhart said. "That includes fully funding revenue-sharing and NIL opportunities, providing state-of-the-art facilities, and ensuring our student-athletes have every resource to thrive."

Kentucky became the sixth SEC program to change coaches this season, joining Auburn, Arkansas, Florida, LSU and Ole Miss.

Stoop

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