Allen electrifies at Big Blue Madness

The University of Kentucky held its signature event to usher in the start of another college basketball season in front of a jam-packed crowd at Rupp Arena: Big Blue Madness.
 

Wildcats head coach John Calipari and his new-look staff along with a freshly revamped roster was welcomed loudly by all members of Big Blue Nation, but there was one particular player who appeared to have a connection that seemed to be just a little extra special...Pendleton County’s own Dontaie Allen.
 

The redshirt sophomore is now in his third season in Lexington and after a couple of standout performances during an otherwise lowly season for the program, Allen, the homegrown star, has now quickly become the fan favorite. During player introductions last Friday evening he walked onto the stage to “Grove Street Party” the hit by Waka Flaka Flame which has served as the unofficial theme song for the Kentucky football team since 2014 and was met by a roaring reception. Big Blue fans have always had a special place in their hearts for Kentucky-born players, and for Allen it is clearly evident.
 

Calipari addressed the fans with his usual preseason hype speech but this time around it did resonate more deeply. The 20,000 plus attendees in Rupp Arena marked the largest indoor gathering in the state since the beginning of the pandemic.
 

“Can I just say, boy...have I missed that roar,” Calipari stated.

As the festivities got underway for the men’s team, Allen along with Davion Mintz, Kellan Grady, Tyty Washington, Bryce Hopkins and eventual winner CJ Fredrick took part in a three-point shooting competition. Allen was also part of a team scrimmage to close out the night that provided plenty of highlight dunks to the delight of the fans.
 

Earlier in the week, Allen returned to his hometown of Falmouth on Oct. 11 where he handed out tickets to Big Blue Madness at Southern Elementary. He was greeted by a long line of local fans who have been supporting his basketball career for many years and he definitely felt the love. Lexington NBC affiliate LEX18 was there to film the homecoming and witness the outpouring of support firsthand.

 “Honestly, it’s just fun. Being around the community and having your home behind you. I knew the community would gather and support me here tonight” Allen said.
 

Big Blue Nations next chance to see their favorite son will be during the team’s annual Blue-White game at 7 p.m. on Oct. 22 at Rupp Arena and broadcasted on the SEC network.