Rival school proclaims they are the best fanbase, have they not met Kentucky fans?

If you ask a certain team from the SEC who has the best fanbase in the country, they'll gladly tell you they do.

But let’s get real—Big Blue Nation (BBN) sets the standard for fandom in every measurable way.

First, let’s talk ticket sales. Kentucky basketball routinely leads the NCAA in attendance. Rupp Arena's average attendance has topped 19,000 fans per game, year after year. Even with frustration over John Calipari's post season exit, Kentucky still averaged more fans than Tennessee did. Compare that to other programs struggling to fill their venues at times, and it’s clear who shows up for their team.

On social media, Kentucky’s dominance is absolutely undeniable. According to data from SkullSparks, Kentucky basketball ranks in the top 5 programs nationally for social media interactions across social media platforms. In the 2023 calendar year, the Wildcats logged over 12.3 million interactions—more than most football programs, let alone basketball teams.

Merchandise? Kentucky fans ensure the Wildcats consistently rank near the top in apparel sales. When you walk into any arena across the country, there’s a good chance you’ll see Kentucky blue, no matter who’s playing. Remember, blue gets in.

Then there’s Big Blue Madness, the annual kickoff to basketball season that’s essentially a national holiday for Wildcats fans. Tickets for the event are so sought after that fans used to camp out for days to secure a spot, pre-covid. Who else does that for a practice?

And don’t forget the road games. Kentucky fans are famous for taking over opponents’ arenas, turning away games into home-like environments. Even during down years, the loyalty never wavers.

Meanwhile, other programs might claim they have the "best fanbase," but stats—and passion—tell a different story. BBN isn’t just loyal; it’s a lifestyle. It’s a culture that transcends wins and losses, uniting generations of fans in a way no other program can replicate. C-A-T-S rings out all across Lexington no matter if a game is going on or not.

So, to those dreaming they hold the crown of fandom supremacy: keep dreaming. Big Blue Nation reigns supreme.