New security measures for Rupp Arena

UK Athletics and Rupp Arena have announced heightened security measures in effect for basketball games for the remainder of the 2015-16 season, including today’s home game vs. Arizona State.

Enhanced bag checks and “intensive visual inspection” will occur at all entrances, including the student entrance. Bags, jackets and outerwear should be removed for inspection upon entering the arena. Fans are encouraged to arrive early to allow more time to make it through security.

Chemistry sophomore Aaron Trejo doesn’t see the necessity in the enhanced screening process.

“I don’t understand why security would need to be increased at a basketball game,” Trejo said. “I can understand the University in general, but at a basketball game, it seems like a little too much.”

The list of banned items inside Rupp Arena has also been expanded. These items are not allowed:

  • All illegal substances (tobacco products and electronic cigarettes are permitted in the designated smoking area outside of the arena)

  • Artificial noisemakers and irritants

  • Backpacks

  • Banners

  • Beach balls

  • Cameras with detachable lenses

  • Firearms

  • Fireworks

  • Frisbees

  • Flasks

  • Glass and aluminum containers

  • Helium balloons

  • Laser pointers/pens

  • Mace

  • Outside food and beverages

  • Selfie sticks

  • Signs larger than 24 inches by 24 inches

  • Video or audio recorders

Biology sophomore Devon Virgin said it was difficult to say whether increased security was necessary given recent events across the country, but he thought one of the items on the list, signs larger than 24 inches by 24 inches, was harmless.

“I can’t remember how big the signs were last year, but a friend of mine had quite a big one,” Virgin said. “It was really funny. I’d be a little sad if he can’t bring in any more signs.”

Biology freshman Morgan Sexton can understand most of the list, but was surprised at a few of the items included.

“I think the selfie sticks and the signs is a little bit ridiculous,” Sexton said. “There’s really not much you could do with that. I get most of them, like there could be precautions there.”

With many basketball games ending late in the evening, on-campus students are often walking back around 10 or 11 p.m.

“I can see why some people would like to have their mace too at the night games,” Sexton said. “It’d be nice walking back with, but I understand why they’re doing it.”