Championship banners and 15-foot photos of Wildcat alum cover the University of Kentucky’s Practice Facility, encompassing the storied past of one of college’s most successful basketball programs. Amongst the walls are two of the Kings own in DeMarcus Cousins and Willie Cauley-Stein – big men that made a lasting mark on the program. The duo isn’t alone, as rookie forward Skal Labissiere hopes to soon be added as another Kentucky success story.
On Friday afternoon, the three big men returned to their alma mater to prepare for Saturday’s game in the heart of Lexington, Kentucky. The site of the contest, Rupp Arena, has housed longtime memories for each of the Kentucky products, described by Cauley-Stein as an “electric” environment.
Come Friday evening, the duo of Cousins and Cauley-Stein made their return to Rupp Arena as part of Kentucky’s annual “Big Blue Madness” event. Thousands roared as Willie and DeMarcus were reintroduced to the Kentucky contingent while Labissiere’s highlight reel played shortly thereafter.
Wildcat reunions continued throughout the night, as team staff, fans and many more greeted the returning alum throughout Big Blue Madness. Though the Kentucky roster continues to change year after year, the passion the city holds for its team continues to be unparalleled in the collegiate game according to the three Sactown ex-Wildcats.
It’s where big moments were bred – where DeMarcus Cousins’ infamous “call me” moment lives on, where Willie Cauley-Stein spent three incredible seasons and where Skal Labissiere’s potential was on full display for the country.
Returning to the campus where each spent so much time, the Kentucky trio reminisced.
“It reminds you of when you were doing it,” said Trill following Big Blue Madness. “I had three years of it, but it’s still so much fun. It’s good times.”
“Being here, I learned how to be mentally tougher,” recalled Skal. “It was all learning experiences for me and I think it’ll carry on to the next level.”
“This is where we started lifelong bonds, became better players and created great opportunities for ourselves,” said Boogie following the team’s preseason victory in KY.
“The rest is history.”