To kickoff Big Blue Madness, Kentucky women’s basketball made its first appearance in front of Big Blue Nation, highlighted by a walkout from head coach Kenny Brooks that had Rupp Arena shaking. 

Sporting a throwback Kentucky jacket, Brooks took his time, soaking in the cheers from Big Blue Nation. 

He addressed the crowd, admitting he made the right decision to come to Kentucky. 

“This is the best madness in the country,” Brooks said. “I came here for one reason, and one reason only, and that’s Big Blue Nation. I am honored to be a coach here.” 

Kentucky fans saw the team’s first on-court action this season, starting with a skill challenge. The white team, consisting of Lexi Blue, Dazia Lawrence and Teonni Key, managed to dribble, pass and shoot its way to victory. 

With the brand new LED court, fans saw a fun, interactive mini game called “hotspot” that showcased the players’ shooting ability from all spots on the court. As a circle popped up on the court, players had to run to that spot and shoot the ball. 

Ultimately, Amelia Hassett and Key won the contest, missing a few shots with a high margin of difficulty. 

Hassett was not done, however, scoring the highest amount of points in round one of the 3-point contest with 21, competing alongside teammates Lawrence, Georgia Amoore and Cassidy Rowe. 

Lawrence would move on to the second round with Hassett, beating her 23-12 in the final shootout from deep.

To conclude the women’s night, Brooks addressed the crowd one last time, calling Kentucky women’s and men’s basketball one big family and asking Big Blue Nation to come out for the first home game at the newly renovated Historic Memorial Coliseum on Monday, Nov. 4.