Kentucky WBB recruits talk their experiences at Big Blue Madness

The basketball season got started on Friday night as Kenny Brooks participated in his first-ever Big Blue Madness as the head coach of Kentucky women’s basketball. The event served a pep rally-type experience to get the fans excited for the season, but for Brooks’ program specifically, it was a massive, massive recruiting event as well.

A few Kentucky targets (ones that have officially been offered, that is) were inside of Rupp Arena to catch the experience — all of which are Bluegrass-made talent. 2025 prospects ZaKiyah Johnson and Grace Mbugua as well as 2029 Ryle standout Jayden McClain were all present for Madness.

Here’s what Mbugua and McClain had to say about their time at the event.

Grace Mbugua: “I had a great time at Big Blue Madness. It was a historic night with the beginning of the Coach Brooks and the Coach Pope Era! It was also incredible to see all the champions from the past and Coach Pitino. I was truly appreciative for them having me and Coach Brooks and his staff always makes you feel very special!”

Jayden McClain: “Never experienced nothing like that before. [It] was different, exciting and I loved it.”

Along with those three, there were also several in-state up-and-comers who were invited to watch Big Blue Madness as well. Here’s what they had to say regarding the festivities.

Addison Yates: “I really enjoyed Big Blue Madness. I feel like Coach Brooks and his staff have great energy and enthusiasm for the program. It was great to see the importance of recruiting in-state players.”

Kayley Benningfield: “I really enjoyed the whole thing, but I would have to say my favorite thing about Big Blue Madness is the environment. There was a lot of people there showing their support for both women’s and men’s basketball, and it was just great to be apart of! I also loved the energy all the players brought out on the court. Even if their shots weren’t falling, they didn’t get down and they still supported their teammates! And lastly I enjoyed getting to meet and talk to the team and Coach [Brooks] after it was over! They were all very welcoming and nice!”

Laine Lyles: “Kentucky’s Big Blue Madness was a once-in-a-lifetime event to be invited to. It’s a pleasure to be selected as a potential recruit down the road. The fans were ecstatic as the players were being introduced and throughout the event. I can’t wait to see the Kentucky Wildcats play this season.”

Charlotte McCurry: “I had a great time! Very cool experience. Loved the LED floor. It was good to meet the coaches and players and get to hangout with them after the event. I think they are going to be really good this year.”

Kennedy Deener: “It was an amazing experience. I loved the energy and how much fun they had. All the coaches and players were very cool and gave good advice to all the younger players. I’m looking forward to watching them this season!”