BP: Place

Rupp arena is one of the most iconic places in Lexington. It is home to the University of Kentucky Wildcats men's basketball team. The interior of the arena has the court in the center and NCAA tournament banners suspended from the rafters. On the days of home games fans flock to Rupp Arena to watch the Wildcats defeat the opposing team. The Erruption zone is the student section located behind one of the baskets inside the arena. This arena is reserved for the rowdiest students to see their Wildcats play ball and to cheer the players on.

So why does Rupp Arena have genius loci? When I go to games and see the hype video featuring highlights of past teams I always get cold chills. I have set foot on the court one time and while I was on the court I was in awe because I was standing where the current players and former players have stood. It was one of the best moments in my college career, one that I will never forget.

When it comes time to introduce the Wildcats everything but the court goes dark, a spotlight is on the players and pyrotechnics are set off. These games bring together fans of all ages whether it be young children, college students or the elderly. Rupp Arena has a special place in the heart of all Kentucky Wildcat fans and it will always be what the University of Kentucky is known for. We may be stressed out from the work week but the games bring us together as the Big Blue Nation and makes us leave all our worries behind as we live vicariously through the players.

Photo Courtesy of Cody Cioffe