Huge Lexington homecoming planned for UK WIldcats basketball team

LEXINGTON, Ky. - A full house of more than 20,000 fans is expected at Lexington's Rupp Arena Tuesday afternoon as the University of Kentucky Wildcats return home as national champions of men's college basketball.

UK defeated Kansas 67-59 for the NCAA title Monday night in New Orleans.  Kentucky forward Anthony Davis was named the National Player of the Year, becoming only the fourth freshman to earn the honor. He was also named the Final Four's most outstanding player.

The celebration is slated to begin around 3:30 p.m. at Rupp Arena.  Ticket pickup began at 8 a.m. Tuesday and doors opened at 2 p.m.

People who aren't able to get to Rupp for the event can cheer the team bus along its route from Bluegrass Airport.

- Man-o-War to Versailles Road
- Right on Red Mile Road/Virginia Avenue
- Left on South Limestone
- Left on West Main
- West Main to Rupp Arena

Players and coaches are expected to speak at the event.

9 News has crews in Lexington to provide highlights of the celebration for Big Blue fans on WCPO.com and KyPost.com.