Game raises $162,450 for eastern Kentucky floor victims
Kentucky’s annual Blue-White basketball game had a bigger purpose than any played in the history of the program on Saturday night.
It was played at the Appalachian Wireless Arena in front of 7,000 fans to aid in the healing process of those impacted by the devasting floods this summer.
The White team defeated the Blue squad, 70-67, but the real winner was eastern Kentucky.
The game brought in revenue in the amount of $162,450. Governor Andy Beshear, Top Aid Rocky Adkins, UK coach John Calipari and the team presented the check to Team East Kentucky Flood Relief Fund during halftime.
The team had raised more than two million dollars during a telethon at Rupp Arena in August.
Players made their way to the floor prior to the start of the game wearing shirts reading, “Appalachia Men’s Basketball” on the front and “606” on the back.
Prior to arriving in Pikeville, the team made a brief stop at Jenny Wiley State Park in Prestonsburg, handing out winter clothes to families in need.
From the Mountain Top Stage upon arrival coach Calipari told a large gathering of fans his basketball team will continue to support the region.
CJ Fredrick paced the winning squad with 18 points while Antonio Reeves led all scorers for the blue team with a game-high 27 points.
Fan favorite Oscar Tshiebwe was in attendance along with teammates Lance Ware and Sahvir Wheeler, all recovering from injuries.
Players and coaches interacted with fans prior and after the game taking photos and signing autographs.