Kentucky is one of those rare programs that brings a circus with it. And I mean that in the best way possible.
It doesn't matter if it's Rupp Arena, Knoxville, Alaska, or Maui; wherever Kentucky plays, blue finds a way to get in. Sometimes they get in even when Kentucky isn't playing. We say it all the time, but the fanbase is the best in the country, and it is not particularly close.
If you need proof beyond the sea of blue in opposing arenas, the most recent TV viewership ratings data proves it.
Kentucky is Top 5 in the viewership rankings
Even though Kentucky has suffered some brutal setbacks this season, injuries, tough losses, and some head-scratching moments, the fans still show up. And they still tune in.
According to the latest data, Kentucky is holding firm as a Top-5 draw in the entire sport.
Here is the complete Top 10 for men's college basketball ratings:
- Michigan State (Big Ten)
- Duke (ACC)
- Arkansas (SEC)
- North Carolina (ACC)
- Kentucky (SEC)
- Kansas (Big 12)
- UCLA (Big Ten)
- Indiana (Big Ten)
- Tennessee (SEC)
- Wisconsin (Big Ten)
It’s worth noting that Arkansas is sitting right there in the top three; the Calipari effect is real, but Kentucky struggled early, and Arkansas has been a little hotter. These two will lock up on Saturday in Fayetteville.
Eyes on the Cats
The numbers back up the narrative. The comeback win in Knoxville on Jan. 17 drew a massive audience, with 1.51 million viewers tuning in to watch the Cats claw back and knock off the Vols.
That is NFL-level loyalty in a college sport.
Can the Cats double-dip in Tennessee with a win in Nashville tonight? They have the momentum, they have the talent, and you better believe there will be plenty of eyes on them.
The circus is in town. Get your popcorn.