Kentucky announces Big Blue Madness 2025 to be held on Saturday in October
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Excitement is building in Kentucky as basketball season approaches! On Thursday, Kentucky Athletics announced that the highly anticipated Big Blue Madness will take place on Saturday, October 11, at Rupp Arena. This event marks the unofficial kickoff to the Wildcats’ 2025-2027 basketball season.
For years, Big Blue Madness has traditionally been held on Friday but this year promises a fresh twist with a Saturday celebration. Fans can look forward to the first official glimpse of both Kentucky men’s and women’s basketball lineups.
Mark Pope and his men’s team will hit the court for exhibition games against Purdue on October 24th and Georgetown on October 30th, leading up to the season opener against Nicholls on November 4. Meanwhile, Kenny Brooks and the women’s team are set to launch their regular season against Morehead State on November 3.
This year’s Big Blue madness isn’t just showcasing talent; it also serves as a pivotal moment for recruiting. Coach Mark hopes to welcome top prospects, including five-star shooting guard Jordan Smith Jr., ranked number 3 overall for 2026; Four Star center Ethan Taylor, ranked number 25; and four-star center Josh Irving, ranked number 68 overall. What better way to make an impression than under the bright lights of Rupp Arena?
The countdown has officially begun in Lexington.
Lee Ann joins the Saturday Down South team, bringing over fifteen years of experience covering the SEC as both a sports journalist and football scout. With her keen eye for talent, she has also flexes her skills as the Director of Recruiting for the Rebel Walk( Ole Miss) Herring, is a staff writer at USA Today Sports Wildcats Wire, where she dives into the thrilling world of Kentucky football and basketball. When fall rolls around, you can catch her on air as an analyst for the Wake up 502 College Football Show on Big X Sports Radio 96.1 FM—because who doesn't love a good game day chat? A proud Brown University alum, Lee Ann balances her time between the sidelines and press box with her passion for coaching her boys' youth lacrosse and savoring a fine glass of bourbon alongside a good cigar. So, whether she's dissecting plays or rallying the next generation of athletes, Lee Ann is your spirited insider ready to tackle all things SEC!
