Wildcats Return To Rupp Arena

• {Lexington, Kentucky}...University of Kentucky coach John Calipari and his Wildcats returned home to throngs of adoring fans Tuesday evening after winning the school's eighth NCAA championship. Blue-clad fans packed Rupp Arena to watch replays of Kentucky's 67-59 win over Kansas in New Orleans Monday night. Senior Darius Miller carried the NCAA trophy as players stepped off a sleek blue bus emblazoned with “national champions” after it pulled into the packed arena to joyous cheers and screams. Each team member was introduced to loud ovations as players and coaches took the stage in the middle of the arena. Senior Darius Miller, a basketball net draped around his neck, toted the NCAA championship trophy to a table. Coach John Calipari pumped his fist and raised his arms in triumph as he basked in the cheers. Calipari reminded the crowd that his goal three seasons ago when he took the Kentucky coaching job was to once again make the Wildcats the “gold standard” in college basketball and to raise more championship banners. Then on cue, the 2012 title banner slowly unfurled from the rafters at Rupp as the Kentucky pep band played and fans cheered. Calipari thanked the fans and said there were about 5,000 that welcomed the team at the Blue Grass Airport, and more lined the roads between the airport and Rupp Arena. Calipari told the crowd, "You people never cease to amaze me." Calipari said the Wildcats won the national title because Kentucky had "the best players and the best team" this year.