Big Blue Madness to Take Place on ASB GlassFloor

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Big Blue Madness, presented by Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of the Bluegrass, will have exciting new technology as a centerpiece of the spectacle when the event tips off on Oct. 11 inside Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center.

In a historic moment for college sports, ASB GlassFloor, a global leader in innovative sports flooring, will create the center stage at one of the biggest and most anticipated events of the college athletics year.

The landmark spectacle will be the first college basketball event that features the revolutionary floor, designed to enhance player performance and provide fans with a more immersive experience.

Previously used during 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis, the 2024 Basketball Champions League Final and at the 2023 FIBA U19 Women’s Basketball World Cup, the state-of-the-art court is a full LED video sports floor allowing for interactive applications.

“This is something that’s never been seen in college basketball before,” Pope said. “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.”

The event serves as the annual introduction of the Kentucky men’s and women’s basketball teams – and this year the debuts of head coach Mark Pope and head coach Kenny Brooks.

“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,” Brooks said. “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.”

Big Blue Madness is a pivotal event on the collegiate basketball calendar, drawing thousands of passionate fans and extensive media attention. It serves as a celebration of the sport and the student-athletes who dedicate their lives to excellence both on and off the court. With the ASB GlassFloor, this year’s event promises to elevate fan engagement and redefine the future of collegiate sports.

“Participating in Big Blue Madness signifies a pivotal moment for ASB GlassFloor and underscores our commitment to innovation in collegiate sports,” said Christof Babinsky, Managing Director of ASB GlassFloor. “This event is not just a showcase; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate how our sports floors can transform the game for athletes while creating an unparalleled experience for fans. Our partnership here will set a new standard for the future of collegiate sports events.”

Setting a New Standard for College Athletics Events
The ASB GlassFloor is a sports floor that integrates interactive display capabilities, creating visual experiences for players and fans alike. Known for its design, durability, and stunning visual capabilities, the ASB GlassFloor brings a new level to collegiate sports. 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 any game, whether it be basketball, volleyball, or other major competitions. The digital court provides dynamic branding opportunities, in-game activations, and real-time data displays, all while maintaining the performance and safety standards expected at the highest levels of sport.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Sports Venues
With a growing list of installations in sports venues across the globe, including its involvement in professional basketball leagues, ASB GlassFloor continues to revolutionize the way sports are played and experienced. Its inclusion in such a high-profile College Basketball event not only highlights the increasing demand for multifunctional, durable , and visually dynamic sports floors but also marks a significant milestone in the modernization of college sports.

2024-25 Wildcats
Pope and his staff have put together a dynamic roster for the 2024-25 season that features a mix of six fifth-year players, one senior, one junior, one sophomore and three freshmen.

Brooks’ team is ranked 25th in the most recent ESPN Way-Too-Early Top 25 and is projected as s six-seed in Charlie Creme’s latest bracketology report. Brooks’ roster features two returners, including Cassidy Rowe and Saniah Tyler, and 11 newcomers, including All-American, fifth-year point guard Georgia Amoore. The Wildcats boast a balanced and experienced roster, consisting of three freshmen, three sophomores, four juniors, a redshirt senior and two graduate students.