Kentucky to host Players First Fan Fest at Rupp Arena on Aug. 29

Who’s ready to get their first look at the 2021-22 Kentucky men’s basketball team? You don’t have to wait long.

With the name, image, and likeness era now underway, UK players have announced the first-ever Players First Fan Fest at Rupp Arena on Sunday, August 29, with tickets on sale now at Ticketmaster.com.

Doors open at 11:30 a.m. ET and festivities begin at 12:30 p.m. ET.

The event will feature players such as TyTy Washington, Davion Mintz, Jacob Toppin, Lance Ware, Keion Brooks, Jr., CJ Fredrick, Dontaie Allen, Sahvir Wheeler, Kellan Grady, and Bryce Hopkins, among others. Activities include a Dunk Contest, 3-Point Shooting Contest, and Skills Competition.

Players First Fan Fest was a team decision to do a joint NIL deal rather than focus on individual money opportunities.

“With NIL, everybody is going to have their own endorsements and sponsorships,” Brooks Jr. announced. “But we move as one unit. For us to come together and do something, you can’t pass up an opportunity like that.”

Grady, Brooks Jr., Mintz, Washington, and Fredrick are scheduled to participate in the 3-Point Contest, while Ware, Hopkins and Wheeler are set to compete in the Skills Showcase. Toppin is the only confirmed participant for the Dunk Contest, while Ware and Brooks are also the team captains for the Open Run portion of the event.

In review with the local and state health officials coupled with the concern for the fans and team, face masks will be required to be worn at all times inside Rupp Arena.

“This Players First Fan Fest is going to be it,” Dontaie Allen said during the announcement. “Guys, if you’re debating getting tickets and you’re semi-close, you’ve got to pull up. I know there’s a 3-Point Contest, a Dunk Contest for sure, I’m sure the guys are going to whip up a couple more things.

“It’s definitely going to be a first look at the team, it’s going to be exciting. I know I’m excited.”

Purchase your tickets here.