In a surprising and heartfelt gesture, legendary coach Rick Pitino has donated five state-of-the-art buses to the University of Kentucky’s athletic department. The announcement, made early Thursday morning, caught many fans and alumni by surprise — and stirred a wave of nostalgic gratitude across Big Blue Nation.
Pitino, who coached the Wildcats from 1989 to 1997 and led the team to a national championship in 1996, said the donation is part of his desire to give back to the program that helped shape his legacy. “Let’s ride as we build our legacy in a blue way,” Pitino said. “Kentucky will always have a place in my heart.”
The buses, custom-wrapped in Kentucky blue and adorned with historic moments from Wildcats basketball, will be used for both men’s and women’s sports programs. Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart praised the gift, calling it “a powerful symbol of unity, tradition, and forward momentum.”
Fans are calling the donation a classy move from a coach who helped build Kentucky basketball into a powerhouse. One thing’s for sure — with Pitino’s latest gift, the Cats will be riding in style as they chase future greatness.
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