Mark Stoops has done the remarkable at Kentucky by changing the program from an also-ran to one that can be a dark horse in the SEC East fueled by multiple 10-win seasons.

Stoops pointed out that the program has changed to the point that coaches around the league have noticed.

“I think ultimately it’s the respect throughout the league,” Stoops said. “It’s the respect throughout the league when you’re dealing with coaches and players. Win or lose, you walk out you know you’re going to be in a physical matchup. That we’re coming to play, we’re coming to compete, and having that mindset, because that’s not easy to change.”

Stoops then explained the difference between changing the climate, and changing the culture.

“It’s easy to change the climate, you just change a uniform, talk a little game, dance around, put on some stupid sunglasses, you can change a climate,” Stoops said. “But to change a culture is at the core, and I’m quite certain we’ve changed our culture. Just who we are and how we’re perceived. Walk around with some of the greatest coaches and that respect you get, and the respect our players carry with them.”

That comment appeared to be directed toward South Carolina coach Shane Beamer, who took part in a viral video during SEC Media Days where he put on sunglasses during what was made to look like a music video.