Rupp Arena The site that now serves as a tribute to his outstanding coaching accomplishments – Rupp Arena – has
become one of the most recognizable gymnasiums in the world while serving as home to college basketball’s
most storied program.The improvements followed changes that included four new video boards, a new playing floor with a striking
new design and enhancements to the concourses as well. It was all part of a $15 million upgrade to what many
consider the mecca of college basketball.
Adolph Rupp is synonymous with winning. As coach of
Kentucky, he was a pioneer in the Wildcats’ fast-break offense while becoming the winningest coach the
game had ever seen. Now in its 30th season as the Kentucky Wildcats’ home court, the facility has seen UK win 90
percent of its home games since it was opened in 1976.
In recent years, Rupp Arena completed renovations - including the lower arena seats being changed to
blue from their previous rainbow colors. In addition, new end-zone seating moved the student section
closer to the floor in an intimidating, standing-room only arrangement. While the endowment seats
along courtside continue to entice fans to financially support their Wildcats, a large portion
of the media have been moved to a “press box” location between the lower and upper seating areas.
And finally, nearly 40 seats were added to each corner, the first additions in seating in nearly
two decades
