LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) – With 50 days to go until the start of the regular season, UK Athletics and Rupp Arena, are excited to announce a season-long celebration marking the 50th season of Kentucky men’s basketball playing in one of the most iconic venues in college sports.
Since opening its doors in 1976, Rupp Arena has been home to countless unforgettable moments, including four NCAA Championship-winning teams, legendary players and generations of Big Blue Nation faithful.
“Rupp Arena is sacred ground in college basketball,” said head coach Mark Pope. “To be part of the 50th season in this building, where so many legends have played and so many memories have been made, it’s incredibly humbling. We’re excited to honor the past, while building toward the future.”The milestone season will honor that rich history with a series of in-venue celebrations, social media throwbacks and special broadcast programming through the UK Sports Network.
“This is more than a milestone, it’s a celebration of the bond between a team, a venue and a fanbase unlike any other,” said UK Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart. “We’re proud to partner with Rupp Arena and Central Bank Center to honor the legacy of Kentucky basketball and the Big Blue Nation.”
Throughout the 2025–26 season, fans can expect a variety of tributes to the program’s storied history, including highlight reels, commemorative content and special recognitions during home games. The celebration will also spotlight the fans who have made Rupp Arena one of the most electric environments in all of sports.
“We are thrilled to celebrate 50 seasons of Kentucky basketball at Rupp Arena,” said Brian Sipe, General Manager of Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center. “This arena has been the backdrop for some of the greatest moments in college basketball history, and we look forward to making this season one to remember.”
Fans are encouraged to follow along at @KentuckyMBB, @UKathletics and @UK_SportsNetwork social media platforms and tune in to UK Sports Network broadcasts for exclusive content and updates throughout the season.
For more information and updates on the 50th season celebration, visit UKAthletics.com and RuppArena.com.
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