In a bizarre unforced error, a tribute to championship glory features... Villanova?
The University of Kentucky’s marketing and graphics departments are typically among the best in the business. Their social media presence is sharp, their branding is clean, and they know how to showcase a program with a championship pedigree. Which makes the latest gaffe to surface from inside the Joe Craft Center all the more baffling.
Another unnecessary error from UK Athletics. A championship picture from Villanova in the UK basketball facility. Why? https://t.co/9Lnnr7ZKsz pic.twitter.com/oMoxIjizKp
— T.J. Walker (@TJWalkerRadio) August 21, 2025
As part of an effort to update the facility with graphics that honor the program's storied past, the university installed several new displays. One particular wall graphic was meant to evoke the ultimate feeling of success in college basketball: hoisting the NCAA National Championship trophy.
There's just one problem. The hands in the photo don't belong to a Kentucky player. They belong to Villanova's Jalen Brunson celebrating his 2018 title, leaving BBN asking why?
Yes, you read that right. In a building dedicated to celebrating the pinnacle of Kentucky basketball, a photo now hangs that, upon closer inspection, features another team's moment of glory. While only the player’s hands and the trophy are visible, eagle-eyed fans on social media quickly identified the distinctive confetti and context of the image.
The irony is staggering. Kentucky has won eight national championships. They have an entire trophy case full of evidence. They could have used the iconic image of Anthony Davis and the 2012 team. They could have used a shot from 1996 or 1998. They could have used literally any of their own championship moments. Instead, they used a stock-style image that just so happened to be from Villanova's title run.
It's a classic unforced error. In the grand scheme of things, it’s a minor issue that will surely be corrected now that it has been publicly pointed out. But for a blue-blood program that prides itself on its history, it’s a truly head-scratching and embarrassing mistake. Somewhere in Lexington, a graphics designer is likely having a very, very bad day.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time, he spends time with his family, and watching Premiere League soccer. #UpTheAlbion