LEXINGTON, Ky. — Big Blue Madness, the annual kickoff for Kentucky men’s and women’s basketball, will feature a dazzling display on court — and not just from the players. Kentucky will roll out a state-of-the-art court with a full LED video sports floor for the highly anticipated event.

The floor, created by ASB GlassFloor, was used during the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend, the 2024 Basketball Champions League Final and the 2023 FIA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup. This will be the first time it will be used for college basketball. 

“This is something that’s never been seen in college basketball before,” said men’s head coach Mark Pope. “Big Blue Madness is one of the great spectacles in all of sports. We are so excited for Kentucky Basketball to be the first college program to partner with ASB GlassFloor, bringing this exciting technology to Big Blue Nation. Our team can’t wait to put on a show in Rupp Arena on Oct. 11.” 

UK Athletics said the floor allows for interactive applications, and is designed to enhance player performance and give fans a more immersive experience. According to a news release, the floor is equipped with LED technology beneath the glass, turning the court into a dynamic display that can adapt instantly to the needs of the game. It offers branding opportunities and real-time data displays while still keeping with the performance and safety standards required.

Big Blue Madness will introduce the two new head coaches for Kentucky’s basketball teams, as well as their newly formed squads.

“We look forward to putting on a show for Big Blue Nation at our first Big Blue Madness with the ASB GlassFloor as part of the spectacle,” said women’s head coach Kenny Brooks. “Big Blue Madness is famous throughout the college basketball world. Since we saw the ASB GlassFloor at the U19 World Cup last year, we’ve been intrigued by the possibilities playing on this court. We’re excited to add this exciting technology to what promises to be an entertaining night in Rupp Arena.” 

Tickets for this year’s Big Blue Madness will be distributed exclusively through Ticketmaster beginning on Sept. 27 at 5 p.m. ET. The tickets are free and required to attend the event.