Photo by Keyli Chisesi (Go Big Blue Country)
Friday the 13th brought no bad luck to the University of Kentucky, as Friday was a successful night. Kentucky rolled out the blue carpet and put on a show for fans and recruits. Wildcats past and present entered Rupp Arena via the blue carpet, as some of the best high school talents in the country stood front and center.
The night got off to a bang with the UK hoops team introductions, followed by Matthew Mitchell’s annual dance moves. Looking to top what he had done in years past, Mitchell included a variation of songs and dances. The UK head coach was even joined by his players, as the women’s team took center stage at Rupp Arena.
.@UKCoachMitchell continues the Big Blue Madness tradition. Watch him and @KentuckyWBB bust a move. https://t.co/tE7SWWSIiC
— KYwildcatsTV (@KYwildcatsTV) October 14, 2017
Following the UK hoops scrimmage, Rupp Arena was electric for the anticipation of the men’s team. Prior to the Wildcats being introduced, the lights were turned off and the following video was played.
Big Blue Nation is ready for @KentuckyMBB. Check out the intro video here. https://t.co/6DvyyAR6mK
— KYwildcatsTV (@KYwildcatsTV) October 14, 2017
The players made their way to the floor and soon after John Calipari took the podium. His message included embracing the process of playing at Kentucky and the goal being to win a 9th NCAA crown. But, that wasn’t all. Calipari mentioned that Drake was on his way and the Big Blue Nation started buzzing with excitement.
.@UKCoachCalipari talks about @KentuckyMBB and the upcoming season. Watch his speech here. https://t.co/KSGfxQtPW8
— KYwildcatsTV (@KYwildcatsTV) October 14, 2017
Wearing a Kentucky dad hoodie, Drake entered through the UK tunnel. The excitement was all over the player’s faces and Calipari set it up perfectly, inviting former players to the floor prior to Drake making his entrance. The current and former players, along with Calipari, Ellen, and Drake, posed for a family photo. The night was just getting started. Drake took the microphone and addressed the fans in attendance and the millions watching on TV.
“People ask me why I don’t go anywhere else. I’m a Wildcat through & through. Big Blue Nation I love you.”
– @Drake https://t.co/74nfHmapKl
— SEC Network (@SECNetwork) October 14, 2017
The 2017-2018 edition of Big Blue Madness was capped off by a brief blue/white scrimmage. The Wildcats gave a preview of the athleticism this team possesses, including this dunk by Hamidou Diallo during warm-ups.
Goodness, Hamidou Diallo. #BBN pic.twitter.com/QZqLHDW9YY
— KSTV (@KSTV_Sports) October 14, 2017