Big Blue Madness is always sensory overload at its highest level, and this year was no exception. Heart-pounding music, billowing plumes of smoke and an elaborate light show helped add to the excitement last night in Rupp Arena. The night opened with UK’s mascots rappelling from Rupp’s rafters. Rap superstar Drake introduced Coach Cal and had a courtside seat on the bench in front of Kentucky’s prime recruiting targets.
UK Hoops Coach Matthew Mitchell transformed into entertainer Bruno Mars, dancing and singing his way through some of the crooner’s hits.The performance was followed by the the introduction of this year’s women’s team.
The much-anticipated introductions of the Wildcats included giant video screens, pyrotechnics and of course dancing. Kentucky native Dominique Hawkins received one of the loudest cheers and honored one of UK’s favorite sons by doing the John Wall dance.
The capacity crowd got its first look at the new Cats as they ran through practice drills and wowed the fans with a few electrifying swats and dunks.
Hopefully the larger-than-life spectacle impressed some of the Cats’ special guests in attendance enough to join in the fun next year.
Enjoy this photo gallery from the night’s events.
Photos: Regina Rickert. Click to enlarge.
