Kentucky Women's Basketball - University of Kentucky Athletics

From its inception in the 19th century… 

Through the toddling years of its modern 

varsity status in the early seventies… 

During the national contender years of the 

early eighties… And continuing with the 

excitement of head coach Mickie DeMoss and 

her staff… Kentucky women’s basketball has 

long been known for its spirited and winning 

tradition. A combination of factors keeps that 

tradition strong. Begin with a university that is 

synonymous with basketball success. Add to that the 

benefit of playing in the best basketball conference 

in the nation. Throw in the greatest fans in the 

world. Mix in a beautiful campus, outstanding 

facilities, a fiery young squad and an acclaimed 

head coach and… you have KENTUCKY WOMEN’S 

BASKETBALL… you have a mecca for players and 

basketball aficionados alike… you have… 

Kentucky Women’s Basketball 

2006-07

Table of Contents 

This is UK HOOPS 

UK Pageantry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-7 

Mickie DeMoss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8-9 

Postseason Experience . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10-11 

Memorial Coliseum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12-13 

Rupp Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14-15 

Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16-18 

Training/Strength & Conditioning . . . . . . . . . .19-20 

CATS Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21-22 

Marketing/Media Exposure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23-24 

Cats in the Pros . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 

Big Blue Madness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 

Outreach Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 

Traveling with the Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28-29 

CATSPY Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 

Coaching Staff 

Head Coach Mickie DeMoss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76-79 

Assistant Coach Niya Butts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .80 

Assistant Coach Vonn Read . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .81 

Assistant Coach Pam Stackhouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .82 

Athletics Support Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83-85 

Cheerleaders/Dance Team . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .86 

Kentucky Life 

The Bluegrass State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 

A Look at Lexington . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33 

University of Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34-35 

Alumni/UK is Unique . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36-37 

Degree Programs at UK . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38 

William T. Young Library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 

President Lee T. Todd, Jr. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 

Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 

Wildcat Family . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42 

The SEC 

The Southeastern Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .88 

SEC Women’s Basketball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .89 

Cats’ SEC Honors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .90 

Outlook 

Rosters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 

TV/Radio Chart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 

2006-07 Outlook . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46-48 

Where are the Cats From? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49-50 

Opponents 

2006-07 Opponents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .92-101 

UK Travel Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .101 

SEC Composite Schedule/SEC-TV Schedule . . . .102 

Meet The Wildcats 

Senior Nastassia Alcius . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52-53 

Junior Chanté Bowman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54-55 

Junior Sarah Elliott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56-57 

Sophomore Moe Gamble . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58-59 

Senior Jennifer “Lanky” Humphrey . . . . . . . . . .60-61 

Sophomore Jenn’e Jackson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62-63 

Junior Samantha Mahoney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64-65 

Sophomore Carly Ormerod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66-67 

Senior Jenny Pfeiffer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68-69 

Junior Eleia Roddy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70-71 

Newcomer Brittany Edelen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 

Newcomer Amani Franklin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 

Newcomer Lydia Watkins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74 

2005-06 Review 

2005-06 Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .104-106 

2005-06 Game-By-Game Results . . . . . . . . . . . . .107 

2005-06 Final Stats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .108-109 

2005-06 Game-By-Game Team Stats . . . . . . . . . .110 

2005-06 Superlatives/Team Highs and Lows . . . . .111 

2005-06 SEC Standings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .112 

2005-06 SEC Final Individual Stats . . . . . . . . . . . .113 

2005-06 SEC Final Team Stats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .114 

2005-06 Game-By-Game Reviews . . . . . . . . .115-123 

Departed Senior . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .124 

2 • 2006-07 Women’s Basketball

To purchase additional copies of the 2006-07 Kentucky Women’s Basketball 

Media Guide, send a check or money order for $15, which includes shipping 

and handling to: 

UK Media Relations 

Memorial Coliseum, Rm. 23 

Lexington, KY 40506-0019 

859-257-3838 

Records 

2006-07 Credits 

Tradition 

Year-By-Year Team Stats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .126-128 

Scoring - Total Points . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .129 

Year-By-Year Scoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .130 

Field Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .131 

Three-Point Field Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .132 

Free Throws . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .133 

Rebounds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .134 

Assists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .135 

Blocks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .136 

Steals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .137 

Streaks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .138 

Miscellaneous Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .139-140 

Overtime/100-Points/All-Americans . . . . . . . . . . .141 

1,000-Point Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .142-145 

All-Time Results . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .146-152 

Records vs. Major Conferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .153 

Records vs. All Opponents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .154 

Scores vs. All Opponents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155-156 

Memorial Coliseum Records . . . . . . . . . . . . .157-158 

Big Games at Memorial Coliseum . . . . . . . . . . . . .159 

Rupp Arena Records . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .160-161 

Big Games at Rupp Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .162 

Timeline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .164-173 

All-Time Kentucky Coaches/Assistants . . . . . .174-175 

All-Time Letterwinners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .176 

Year-By-Year Starters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .177 

Retired Jersey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .178 

The Early Years . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .179 

All-Time Teams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .180-183 

Cats by the Numbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .184 

UK in National Rankings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .185-186 

Records vs. Ranked Opponents . . . . . . . . . . .187-188 

Regular Season Tournaments . . . . . . . . . . . . .189-192 

Cats in SEC Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .193 

UK Records in SEC Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . .194 

Cats in NCAA Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .195 

UK Records in NCAA Tournament . . . . . . . . . . .196 

Cats in Postseason WNIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .197 

UK Records in WNIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .198 

Media Information 

UKAA Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .200 

Media Policies & Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . .201-202 

Following the Cats . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .203 

Radio/Coaches Show/Internet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .204 

Opponent Media Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .205 

Lodging and Transportation Info/Maps . . . . . . . . .206 

UK Hoops Basketball Camps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .207 

Nike . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .208 

The 2006-07 Kentucky Women’s Basketball Media Guide 

was published by the University of Kentucky Athletics Association, 

Mitch Barnhart, Director. 

UK Athletics Association 

Memorial Coliseum 

Avenue of Champions 


859-257-8000 

Written & Compiled 

Susan Lax 

Sean Cartell 

Editors 

Susan Lax, Sean Cartell, Brad Duncan 

Editorial Assistants 

Brad Duncan, Jamie Holloway, Matt Steinke, 

Nathan Schwake, Travis Turner, Rena Vicini 

Cover Design and Layout 

Kim Troxall 

Director of Photography 

David Coyle 

Photography Credits 

Team Coyle (David Coyle, Joseph Rey Au, 

David Robertson, George Green, Bill Patterson and Ken Weaver) 

Lexington Herald-Leader, WNBA Photo Services, DePaul University, 

Fernando Medina, WNBA Photos, 2006-07 UK Opponents, 

USA Basketball, Victoria Graff, AP/Wide World, Kentucky Tourism, 

UK Public Relations, Susan Lax, Matt Steinke, NCAA, SEC 

Printing 

Host Communications 

Special Thanks 

UK Public Relations, Kelley Bozeman, Beth Hanna, Walt LeRoy, 

Jamie Barker, Molly Mazzolini, Kathy Laws 

Kentucky has one of the top publications departments in the country, winning 

several national awards each year from the College Sports Information Directors 

of America (CoSIDA). 

Last season, the UK Hoops media 

guide was judged Second in the 

Nation by CoSIDA and the Wildcats’ 

commemorative poster for 

their win over No. 1 Tennessee 

was named Best in the District. 


2006-07 Kentucky Quick Facts 

General Information 

Location . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Lexington, Ky 

Enrollment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26,682 

Founded . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1865 

Colors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Blue & White 

Nickname . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Wildcats 

Conference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Southeastern 

Arena . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Memorial Coliseum (7,950)/Rupp Arena (23,000) 

Memorial Coliseum Press Row . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-323-5900 

Rupp Arena Press Row . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-252-3602 

Memorial Coliseum Ticket Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-928-CATS 

Web site . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ukathletics.com 

Administration 

President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Lee T. Todd, Jr. (Kentucky, ’68) 

Faculty Rep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Alan DeSantis (James Madison, ’86) 

Athletics Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mitch Barnhart (Ottawa, ’81) 

Athletics Phone Number . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-257-8000 

Media Relations Information 

Basketball Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Susan Lax (Freed-Hardeman, ’95) 

Associate Media Relations Director 

E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .slax0@uky.edu 

Office Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-257-3838 

Cell Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-608-5019 

Office Fax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-323-4310 

Office Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Memorial Coliseum, Room 23 


Assistant Basketball Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Sean Cartell 

Media Relations Student Assistant 

E-mail . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .secart3@uky.edu 

UK Hoops Staff 

Head Coach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Mickie DeMoss (Louisiana Tech, ’77) 

Overall Collegiate Coaching Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .96-110 (7 years) 46.6% 

Florida . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45-68 (4 years) 39.8% 

Kentucky . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51-42 (3 years) 54.8% 

Assistant Coaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Niya Butts (Tennessee, ’00) 

Pam Stackhouse (Louisiana Tech, ’91) 

Vonn Read (Clark Atlanta, ’97) 

Assistant Athletics Director/Women’s BB Ops . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Angela O’Neal 

Office Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-257-1340 

Staff Support Associate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Stephanie Aschmann 

Office Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .859-257-6046 

Best Time to Contact Coach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Contact SID 

Video Exchange . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Justin Scott 

Trainer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Tricia Matysak 

Strength Coach . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Stephanie Tracey-Simmons 

Team Physician . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Dr. Scott Mair 

2005-06 Review 

Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22-9 

Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11-4 

Away . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6-3 

Neutral . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5-2 

SEC Record (Finish) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9-5 (4th) 

SEC Tournament Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1 (Lost in semifinals) 

NCAA Tournament . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1-1 (Lost in second round) 

Radio Information 

Broadcast Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Big Blue Sports Network 

Play-by-Play Announcer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Neil Price (2nd year) 

UK Videotape Footage 

UK Sports Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Zach Whipple 

859-257-8046 

Starters Returning (5) 

No. Player Ht. Cl. Pos. PPG RPG 

00 Carly Ormerod 5-8 So. PG 9.6 3.2 (apg) 

4 Sarah Elliott 6-6 Jr. C 11.2 5.9 

11 Sam Mahoney 5-10 Jr. G 11.9 2.6 

20 Chanté Bowman 5-11 Jr. G 2.7 2.5 

32 Jennifer Humphrey 6-3 Sr. F/C 6.1 8.5 

Starters Lost (0) 

2006-07 Preview 

Other Letterwinners Returning (5) 


00 Eleia Roddy 6-3 Jr. F/C 7.8 6.7 

10 Nastassia Alcius 5-8 Sr. G 6.0 1.5 

21 Jenn’e Jackson 6-1 So. F 1.6 1.8 

23 Moe Gamble 6-0 So. G/F 1.6 1.4 

33 Jenny Pfeiffer 5-8 Sr. G 10.5 1.5 

Other Letterwinners Lost (3) 


3 Oreonna Taylor 5-6 Fr. PG 0.0 0.4 

22 Stephanie Stumbo 6-0 Sr. F 0.3 0.3 

34 Afton Perry 6-1 Jr. F 1.0 1.4 

Newcomers (3) 


15 Brittany Edelen 5-9 Fr. F 22.0 13.0 

25 Amani Franklin 5-11 Fr. G 12.7 - 

12 Lydia Watkins 6-1 Fr. G/F 14.0 10.0 


Kentucky Pageantry 

Blue and White 

The University of Kentucky adopted blue and 

white as its official colors in 1892. 

Originally, however, UK students had decided 

on blue and light yellow prior to the Kentucky-Centre 

College football game on 

December 19, 1891. 

The shade of blue, which is close to a royal 

blue, was chosen when a student asked the question, 

“What color blue?” 

At the time, Richard C. Stoll (who lettered in 

football at UK in 1889-94) pulled off his necktie 

and held it up. The students then adopted that 

particular shade of blue. 

A year later, UK students officially dropped 

the light yellow color for white. 

Wildcats Nickname 

The official nickname for the University 

of Kentucky’s athletics teams is 

“Wildcats.” The nickname became 

synonymous with UK shortly 

after a 6-2 football victory over 

Illinois on October 9, 1909, 

on the road. 

Commandant Carbusier, 

then head of the military 

department at old 

State University (UK), told a group of students in 

a chapel service following the game that the Kentucky 

football team had “fought like wildcats.” 

Later the name Wildcats became more and 

more popular among UK followers as well as with 

members of the media. As a result, the nickname 

was adopted by the University. 

Live Mascot 

In 2000, the University of Kentucky, in cooperation 

with the Kentucky Department of Fish 

and Wildlife, adopted a three-year-old male bobcat 

to serve as the Wildcats’ 

“official” mascot. 

The wildcat has a 

permanent residence on 

display at a game farm 

just west of the state 

capitol in Frankfort, 

Ky. UK Athletics sponsored 

a name-the-wildcat 

Internet contest and 

the final three possibilities 

were Tucky, Blue 

and Champ, with Blue 


earning the final nod after nearly 50,000 votes 

were cast. 

Through the years, UK has had other official 

live mascots with colorful names. Records indicate 

that the first wild animal was given to the University 

in 1921. Named “Tom,” this live Kentucky 

wildcat died quickly from captivity and was 

replaced by “TNT.” Other live mascots followed, 

including “Whiskers,” “Hot Tamale” and 

“Colonel,” only to pass on due to old age or being 

turned loose in the mountains after they failed to 

thrive in captivity. 

The current cat was born in captivity and 

donated by the Woods and Wetlands of Cadiz, 

Ky. His life expectancy is 15-25 years. 

UK Hoops experience. The Alumni Band plays at 

several UK Hoops games each year. 

On, On, U of K ... 

The Official Fight Song 

On, on, U of K, we are right 

for the fight today, 

Hold that ball and hit that line, 

every Wildcat star will shine, 

We’ll fight, fight, fight, 

for the blue and white, 

As we roll to that goal, varsity, 

And we’ll kick, pass and run, ’til the battle is 

won, And we’ll bring home the victory. 

Senior Day 

Senior Day at Kentucky has become one of 

the most celebrated ceremonies in college basketball. 

Honoring the senior class, UK’s event is one 

of the most elaborate and moving programs of its 

kind. The pregame ceremony begins with player 

introductions. Once they have all burst through 

banners bearing their likenesses, their families join 

them at center court. Then the state song, “My 

Old Kentucky Home,” is sung as the home crowd 

bids farewell. 

UK Pep Band 

With more than 80 members, the University 

of Kentucky pep band is the largest in the 

nation. Clad in their recognizable blue and white 

outfits, the pep band is directed by George 

Boulden. Performing at both home football and 

basketball games, the pep band has been named 

by Southern Living magazine as one of the “top 

10 bands in the South.” 

The Alumni Band, composed of former UK 

band members, also is an important part of the 

UK Dance Team 

The UK Dance Team performs at halftime at 

all home basketball and football games. In 2005, 

it took home its first national championship at the 

USA College Nationals in Las Vegas, Nev., placing 

first in jazz and third in hip-hop. In 2006, the 

squad took home 2nd place at the USA Nationals. 

Trademark Swoosh 

Only the best wear Nike. 

Kentucky not only wears 

Nike, but is under an allschool 

contract with the athletic apparel company. 

In 1997, UK signed the popular contract with the 

makers of the trademark swoosh. Thanks to 

Nike’s extensive research and product development, 

UK student-athletes stay on the cutting 

edge of quality and style with all of their gear. 

All 22 sports use Nike shoes and equipment, 

and over the course of the contract, the Wildcats 

will receive millions of dollars worth of clothing, 

equipment and cash. The men’s basketball team 

has been recognized by the apparel company as a 

“Nike Elite” team. 

While clothing adorned with “Kentucky” 

was already popular throughout the nation, 

thanks to Nike and its international marketing 

reach, Kentucky’s blue and white can now be 

found worldwide. 

Scratch 

Scratch joined the cheerleading squad in the 

mid ’90s in conjunction with the UK Kids’ Club, 

but today he has become almost as recognizable 

as the Wildcat. 

7 • 2006-07 Women’s Basketball 

The lovable face of UK athletics recently garnered 

national attention after being named to the 

2003 Capital One Mascot All-America team, an 

honor he earned again in 2004. Also in 2003, 

Scratch finished 13th at the UCA College Mascot 

National Championship.

2006 SEC Coach of the Year 

Mickie DeMoss 

Mickie DeMoss took over 

the Kentucky women’s 

basketball program in 2003 

and in only three short years 

returned the Wildcats back to 

national prominence. 

Last season she piloted a 

team that went from winning 

a combined 20 games 

in the two years prior to her 

arrival, to a record-breaking 

regular season that included 

the most wins (22) in 16 

years, a school-record nine 

SEC victories, the highest 

conference finish (fourth) in 

23 years, and UK’s first appearance 

in the NCAA Tournament in 

seven years. 

Under DeMoss the Wildcats also 

have: 

• Ranked in the top 20 in average 

attendance three consecutive years 

• Charted three top-25 recruiting 

classes 

• Graduated all 10 seniors who 

completed their eligibility 

• Received a top-25 ranking in both 

national polls for the first time 

since the 1992-93 season 

• Become one of just four unranked 

teams in the history of NCAA 

women’s basketball to knock off a 

No. 1 team with its 66-63 win 

over Tennessee last season 

Because of UK’s success, DeMoss 

was named UK Hoops’ first-ever 

SEC Coach of the Year by the SEC 

coaches and the AP. 


“Mickie DeMoss is the most personable person 

I know. Once you meet her she is your friend 

for life. She has a wonderful persona about her. 

When she recruited me to Tennessee and I heard 

she coached the post players I said ‘this little 

woman is going to coach me in the post?’ But 

when we saw her knowledge of the game and how 

she always came to practice prepared, there was 

nothing to do but respect her. We did whatever 

she asked us to do because we believed what she 

said. She had a way of motivating us. She knows 

the Xs and Os, she knows how to recruit, she 

knows how to manage people and she has a great 

cast of assistants at Kentucky.” 

Daedra Charles-Furlow — The SEC’s first 

Wade Trophy winner, two-time KODAK All-American, 

and a two-time NCAA Champion at Tennessee 

“When Kentucky hired Mickie DeMoss they 

hit a homerun. It sent a message to the country 

that they were totally committed to improving 

their women’s basketball team and building a 

championship program.” 

Lin Dunn — Assistant Coach for the WNBA’s 

Indiana Fever 

What Impresses You Most About Coach DeMoss 

Nastassia Alcius - Her desire and intensity 

Chanté Bowman - She is a caring and competitive person 

Brittany Edelen - Her will to win and determination 

Amani Franklin - Her hard work, will to win and her will to do anything for her players 

Moe Gamble - Her honesty 

Jennifer Humphrey - She is genuine and has a passion for basketball and a will to win 

Jenn’e Jackson - Her kind heart 

Samantha Mahoney - Her competitiveness 

Carly Ormerod - She expects nothing but our best 

Jenny Pfeiffer - She can say 1,000 words with one look and not even open her mouth 

Eleia Roddy - Her heart and attitude about winning 

Lydia Watkins - Her will to win 

“She is so committed and dedicated to us. She 

also has a real passion for the game. She’s made us 

compete and work hard every day, and she’s 

brought us success that’s really exciting.” 

Jennifer Humphrey — Senior on the UK 

Hoops squad 

“When Kentucky attracted a coach who had 

been at Tennessee for 18 years, it gave them 

instant credibility in the women’s basketball 

world. Mickie could have gone numerous places 

but there was something about Kentucky that 

sold her. Taking Kentucky back to the NCAA 

Tournament in just three years shows that everyone 

has confidence and trust in what Mickie is 

doing. She definitely has created a buzz about the 

Kentucky women’s basketball program.” 

Kathy Harston — Assistant Coach for Texas 

Women’s Basketball 


For the sixth time in school history and 

the first time since 1999, Kentucky participated 

in the NCAA Tournament last season. 

The Wildcats earned their first bid in 

seven years with a No. 5 seed, their highest 

since their 1983 trip to the NCAA Tournament 

as a No. 3 seed. Other highlights 

included: 

• UK traveled to Chicago, Ill., as DePaul 

University played host to the first and second 

rounds. 

• Powered by 22 points and 11 rebounds 

from center Sarah Elliott, the Wildcats 

defeated Chattanooga, 69-59, to advance to 

the second round of the NCAA 

Tournament. 

• The fifth-seeded and unranked Wildcats 

met No. 4 seed and No. 16/17-ranked 

Michigan State in the second round. 

• It was Mickie DeMoss’ first appearance as a 

head coach in the NCAA Tournament, but 

she was no stranger to the Big Dance. 

DeMoss appeared in 19 NCAA Tournaments 

during her assistant coaching career 

(one at Auburn and 18 at Tennessee). In 

her 18 years as an assistant coach at UT, 

DeMoss won six NCAA Tournament 

titles, appeared in 13 Final Fours and 

advanced to at least the Sweet 16 in all 18 

appearances. 

“Knowing how far we’ve come is really special. I think that 

getting to the NCAA Tournament is so rewarding to look at the 

progress that we have made from year one to year three. That’s very 

rewarding as a coach, and I’m sure it’s very rewarding as a player.” 

— UK Coach Mickie DeMoss 


"As a Kentuckian, it means so much to me. I grew up watching 

Kentucky and I bleed blue. Being a Kentucky girl, going to the 

NCAA, and representing the state of Kentucky and the University 

of Kentucky is a great honor and a great feeling." 

— Center Sarah Elliott 

The Wildcats learn they are a No. 5 seed in the 2006 

NCAA Tournament Bridgeport Region, their first bid 

in seven years and their highest seed since 1983. 

Bridgeport Regional • Chicago, Ill. 


“Give all the credit to Kentucky. They came out and played with a lot of 

energy and they were extremely well prepared. It was an exciting atmosphere 

to play in and I thought [Kentucky] did a great job feeding off the crowd and 

maintaining the lead. They did a great job executing offensively. Almost every 

shot they took in this game was to their strengths.” 

— South Carolina Head Coach Susan Walvius, Jan. 8, 2006 


“I think Memorial gives us such a great 

home-court advantage, particularly with the 

fans that we’ve been able to generate.” 


At home games members of the Chick-fil-A Junior Wildcat Club meet 

the Wildcats at center court during starting lineups. 

A featured “Player of the Game” signs autographs for 

the UK Hoops fans following every home contest. 

Lucky fans at UK Hoops home games have the 

opportunity to win cool prizes by running in the hamster 

ball race or rolling the UK dice. 

“Kentucky does a good job of creating a tremendous environment. 

I hate to give their fans credit for making us miss free throws.” 

— Ole Miss Head Coach Carol Ross, Feb. 16, 2006 


Kentucky has ranked in the Nation’s 

top 20 and in the SEC’s top three in 

attendance three consecutive years. 

UK Home Attendance in the DeMoss Era 

2003-04 Total Per Game NCAA Ranking SEC Ranking 

72,533 (14 games) 5,182* 17th 2nd 


90,663* (19 games) 4,772 20th 3rd 


77,411 (15 games) 5,161 20th 3rd 

* - School record 

Note - In 2003-04, UK ranked No. 1 nationally in increased attendance from the prior season 

(3,488 more than the 2002-03 average). 

“I know I didn’t understand the 

magnitude of Rupp Arena when I walked 

in there for the first time, even to 

practice. I said ‘Wow! This feels like a 

Final Four arena.’ I’ve been to 13 Final 

Fours and when you walk into the arena 

for the first time, it just has a certain 

atmosphere to it, a certain feel and 

that’s the way I felt at Rupp. Rupp to me 

is the Cadillac of basketball.” 


It’s a WILDCAT STATE 

In 2005-06, Kentucky was one of only eight 

schools to rank in the nation’s top 30 in attendance 

for women’s basketball, men's basketball and football. 

• Kentucky 

• Tennessee 

• Oklahoma 

• Michigan State 

• Wisconsin 

• Texas 

• Ohio State 

• Iowa 


What they’ve said 

about Rupp Arena… 

“When they turned the lights off and had the fireworks 

(during player introductions), we were like 

‘Wow!’ This is the first time we've ever played 

in front of a crowd that big.” 

— Auburn player DeWanna Bonner 

“I was so glad for Mickie [DeMoss] that they had 13,000, 

almost 14,000 people here tonight. That’s an awesome 

thing to be able to do that. The crowd was a great sixth 

man for the home team tonight, and they did a great job of 

supporting their team.” 

— Tennessee player Shanna Zolman 

“You have to give Kentucky a lot of credit. What a great 

atmosphere - fun to play in. It is always nice to come back 

to Lexington.” 

— Alabama Head Coach Stephany Smith 

Special Features of Rupp Arena 

• Seats 23,000 

• The lower level features 10,000 Kentucky blue 

cushioned theater seats. 

• The upper level has 13,000 seats on epoxycoated 

metal bleachers. 

• Specially designed sound system nicknamed 

“Big Bertha,” and features high-level lighting for 

events and television coverage. 

• Video boards, each 12’6” by 20’ in size and 

mounted in each corner, allowing the Wildcats 

to utilize a new “lights out” introduction, featuring 

a video presentation and indoor fireworks 

• End-zone seating moves the student section, 

called the “eRUPPtion Zone,” closer to the 

floor in an intimidating, standing-room only 

arrangement. 

• High-grade northern maple playing floor with 

a striking design that sits 118 feet below the 

ceiling. 

“The fan support tonight was huge. We love our fans so 

much and appreciate everything they have done 

for us. At times it was so loud that the players 

from both teams couldn't hear each other. 

We can't thank them enough.” 

— UK guard Jenny Pfeiffer after defeating 

No. 1 Tennessee on Jan. 26, 2006, in front of 

a school-record crowd of 13,689 in Rupp Arena 

“Rupp Arena has such outstanding tradition. It’s the fans, the atmosphere, the 

energy. Playing there got us extra hype because it just exudes excitement. 

There’s no place like it in the country.” — Former Wildcat Stephanie Stumbo 


A $30 million state-of-the-art 

basketball practice facility 

Representing the latest example of Kentucky 

Athletics’ unwavering commitment to its 

basketball program, UK’s state-of-the-art practice 

facility is scheduled for completion in December 

2006. 

The 100,000-square-foot facility, which is an 

expansion off the north side of Memorial Coliseum, 

houses practice courts; locker, meeting, training 

and weight rooms; and coaches’ offices for 

men’s and women’s basketball, in addition to 

administrative and ticket offices. 

In August 2006, Kentucky Athletics received 

a $6 million pledge to name the practice facility 

from Joe Craft, an eastern Kentucky native who 

currently resides in Tulsa, Okla. It represents the 

largest private gift in the history of UK Athletics. 

A native of Hazard, Craft, 55, received both 

an undergraduate degree in accounting (1972) 

and a law degree (1976) from UK. He is president 

and chief executive officer of Alliance Resource 

Partners, L.P., a diversified coal producer and 

marketer. 

“In the greatest 

conference in the country 

for women’s basketball, it 

is imperative that the 

University of Kentucky 

makes the investment 

necessary to give our 

coaches and athletes the 

opportunity to achieve 

their dreams.” 

— UK Athletics Director 

Mitch Barnhart 

(Above:) In December 2005, Memorial Coliseum received a new $750,000 scoreboard and video board. 

An exterior rendering of the future basketball practice facility. 


(Left:) Scheduled for completion by December 2006, 

the Memorial Coliseum expansion project will provide 

new practice courts, state-of-the-art training and 

strength facilities, locker rooms and coaches’ offices for 

men’s and women’s basketball. In addition to creating 

over 100,000-square feet of new space for basketball, 

the renovation also will provide new locker rooms and 

coaches’ offices for other sports such as volleyball and 

gymnastics. 

“I’m from Kentucky, so I understand that the University of Kentucky athletics 

program means a great deal to the people of the state. Athletics play a big part in 

the development of young people, and I believe strongly in the work currently being 

done by the coaches, staff and student-athletes at UK.” 

— Joe Craft (UK ’72, UK Law ’76) 


UK Hoops Facilities 

In August 2005, members of the UK Hoops team moved into the new residence hall on UK’s north campus. Located on the corner of Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd. and 

Euclid Avenue, the residence hall is a block from Memorial Coliseum and the adjoining Blazer Hall Dining facility. Each spacious room houses two students and features 

a dresser, wardrobe, desk and bookcase for each resident with a private sink in each room. Four students share a connecting bathroom. 

“We love our locker room 

and the new practice facility 

is going to be unbelievable. 

I can’t wait.” 

— UK junior 

Chanté Bowman 

The women’s basketball locker room was remodeled in 

the summer of 2003, complete with a dressing area, 

lounging area and a new team film room. 


The athletic training department 

is one of the best in 

the country. The Wildcats have 

immediate access to both the 

athletic training room as well as 

the best doctors in the country. 

Led by senior athletic trainer 

Tricia Matysak, the UK athletic 

training staff and physicians 

who work with the UK Hoops 

team on a daily basis offer the 

best care available to the student-athletes. 

The Memorial Coliseum 

athletic training room is complete 

with rehabilitation equipment 

and a rehabilitation area. 

A treatment area also exists with 

numerous types of modalities. 

Two state-of-the-art hydrotherapy 

units are available and the 

Cats also have access to the 

SwimEx located at the Nutter 

Training center for aquatic 

rehabilitation. 

Athletic Training/Conditioning 

The Wildcats work out with SAQ 

(speed, agility and quickness expert) 

Jackie Ansley before each season to 

improve performance on the court. 

“It’s definitely tough love in the training room, but the 

trainers and doctors are always looking out for our best 

interest. They want what is best for us and want to 

find the best way to get us back on the court. I really 

appreciate our training staff and doctors because they 

helped me get through my knee surgery.” 

— Junior Sarah Elliott 


Building Wildcat Champions 

“Playing at this level and in this conference, endurance is the key 

to winning games. Most games are lost in the last five minutes and 

that’s why it is so important to be physically ready. Strength and 

conditioning are important the entire year — not just while we are in 

season. Games are won in how well you prepare in the offseason.” 


UK athletes are in top shape because of the 

determination and goals set before the season 

begins. It begins in the offseason, in the 

weight room. 

The Kentucky Wildcats are very dedicated in 

the weight room throughout the year. Strength 

and conditioning coach Stephanie Tracey-Simmons 

has built a regimen for the Cats that not 

only helps them get stronger and faster, but helps 

keep them free from injury. She monitors the 

Wildcats’ workouts on a daily basis and assists 

them with planning a proper diet. 

“Our number one goal is to create a comprehensive 

training program which encompasses the 

areas of speed, power, strength, agility, flexibility, 

balance and nutrition. Through these avenues, we 

are providing the athletes with the tools they need 

to reach their athletic potential, while remaining 

injury-free,” Tracey-Simmons said. 

The primary focus of Tracey-Simmons’ weight 

room is the development of core strength by using 

ground-based, multi-joint lifting through use of the 

Full-time strength and conditioning 

coaches 

More than 85 different workout 

stations 

Comprehensive program including 

full nutrition analysis and complete 

conditioning regimen 

New practice facility that will 

feature another state-of-the art weight room 

Olympic lifts. By incorporating this explosive style 

of lifting, athletes become more powerful which 

results directly in becoming faster. The core of the 

athlete’s body also is trained and complemented 

with a variety of lifts such as squats, lunges, plyometrics, 

presses, pulls, trunk rotation and abdominal 

exercises. It is through the periodized 

combination of these exercises that the athletes take 

steps to reaching the number one goal. 

Another major focus of the strength staff is the 

development of sport-specific speed, agility and 

conditioning. This facet of training is developed 

through many different types of footwork patterns, 

change of direction drills and linear fitness. 

“My goals for the team are to increase flexibility, strength, power, vertical 

jumps, speed and quickness. I want them to be as strong and fit in overtime as 

they were at tip-off.” — UK Hoops Strength Coach Stephanie Tracey-Simmons. 


Academic Priority 

Ohio Casualty Center for Academic and Tutorial Services (CATS) 

The University of Kentucky has made a commitment 

to put the student-athlete at the 

heart of the program. 

The cornerstone of that commitment lies in 

the academic success of the University’s studentathletes. 

And at UK, that success stems from the 

resources within the Ohio Casualty Group’s Center 

for Academic and Tutorial Services (CATS). 

“One of the most attractive aspects of UK basketball 

is the academic support,” Coach Mickie 

DeMoss says. “When we bring a young lady into 

our program, we expect her to perform in the 

classroom first and on the hardwood second. 

CATS provides the resources and personnel to 

help us reach that goal from day one of their 

freshman year.” 

In Mickie DeMoss’ three 

seasons, 100 percent of 

the players completing 

their eligibility (10) also 

left with their degree. 

DeMoss understands the commitment the 

Center makes to each of her basketball players — 

she received her bachelor’s degree from Louisiana 

Tech and went on to complete her master’s degree 

at Memphis. 

“Getting that degree is so important,” DeMoss 

said. “Basketball can end in an instant. An education 

lasts forever and allows you so many great 

opportunities.” 

The center was constructed in 1981 as the first 

academic support unit in college athletics. Its mission 

was simple — to enhance the student-athletes’ 

academic standing, to assist them in meeting 

their degree requirements and to prepare them for 

life after college. 

The $2.4 million facility, which operates on a 

$1.5 million annual budget, is located in Memorial 

Coliseum and was dedicated on Sept. 18, 1998. 

It includes: 

• 20,000 square feet of space, more than double 

the size of the former facility; 

• a computer room housing 35 computers; 

• a study area which accommodates 90-100 

people; 

• 24 tutoring rooms; 

• a career development and life skills 

resource center; 

• headquarters for a community outreach 

program; 

• offices for an ever-growing staff. 

The full-time staff of 11 includes 

Bob Bradley, Associate Athletics Director for Student 

Services; Barb Deniston, director of academic 

services; Mike Haley, director of advising 

services; four academic counselors; a life skills 

coordinator, two staff associates. CATS also 

employs seven graduate assistants and numerous 

tutors, both from the University and the surrounding 

community. UK has budgeted more 

than $1.5 million for the operation of CATS in 

the coming year. 

“We are extremely proud of what we have 

accomplished in the academic arena,” Bradley 

says. “The CATS program is focused on winning 

in the classroom. We look at each student-ath- 

Three members of the 2006-07 UK Hoops team have 

graduated and will work on a master’s degree or add another 

undergraduate major (from left): Jenny Pfeiffer, Jennifer 

Humphrey and Nastassia Alcius. The Wildcats are the 

nation’s leader in current players who have earned a bachelor’s 

degree. 


CATS Staff 

Bob Bradley 

Associate 

Athletics Director 

Barbara Deniston 

Director of 

Academic Services 

Mike Haley 

Director of 

Advising Services 

Katrina Sally 

Academic 

Counselor 

D’Ann Blankenship 

Staff Support 

Associate 

Amy Craiglow 

Academic 

Counselor 

Jon Ross 

Academic 

Counselor 

Michael Stone 

Senior Academic 

Counselor 

UK Hoops academic counselor Jon Ross provides assistance to Jenn’e Jackson and Carly Ormerod on registering 

for fall classes. 

A total of 170 Wildcats 

were named to the 

Southeastern Conference 

Academic Honor Roll last 

season. 

lete’s individual needs, set goals and develop 

strategies to attain those goals. Our center provides 

our student-athletes with a definite advantage 

over student-athletes at many other 

institutions. Our goal is to show that we care 

about the student as well as the athlete.” 

For the CATS staff, showing you care means 

more than helping athletes maintain eligibility, 

graduate or win awards. The academics staff also 

prepares student-athletes for life after college with 

the Wildcat Career Development Program. 

The Career Development Program helps student-athletes 

look to the future through a step-bystep 

process which includes: 

• Mentoring and internships, which help 

determine career interests; 

• career counseling; 

• resume writing; and 

• forming a career plan. 

The Wildcat Career Development Program 

works closely with the University’s Career Planning 

and Placement Center in order to provide 

additional assistance when needed. 

CATS has one of the 

largest academic staffs in 

the country with 11 

full-time staff members 

and seven graduate 

assistants. 

Dan Childs 

Academic 

Counselor 

Martina Martin 

Career and Personal 

Development Coordinator 

The CATS computer center housess 35 state-of-the-art 

computers. CATS also provides 900 hours of tutoring 

per week for student-athletes. 

Dustin Lewis 

Administrative Support 

Associate 


first-class 

marketing 

(right) This advertisement was located on the back 

of Pepsi trucks in the local area last season. 

“Because of the marketing 

efforts, we went from 

averaging about 1,000 fans a 

game the year before our 

arrival to over 5,000 fans last 

season. That increase is a 

credit to Mitch Barnhart and 

his support for women’s 

basketball. Since the day 

I arrived on campus, 

Mitch has been committed 

to the women’s basketball 

program, not only in words 

but in his actions.” 


(below) This 60-foot banner hung 

outside of Memorial Coliseum in 2004. 

Mickie DeMoss played golf with Dave 

Jennings (WHAS-AM), Scott Dillingham 

(Dawson Springs Progress) and Todd 

Griffin (Princeton Times Leader) at the 

inaugural Mickie DeMoss Media Extravaganza 

last October. 

The marketing budget for women's basketball was $190,000 in 2004-05, the largest in the SEC. The following is 

a list of some of the ways the women's basketball program has been marketed. 

TV Ads Radio Commercials 

Newspaper Ads > 2 largest papers in state 

Billboards Throughout Lexington and surrounding communities 

Banners In Commonwealth Stadium and throughout campus 

Direct Mail Pieces 

Community Support 

UK Hoops Corporate Sponsorships Support 

Mickie DeMoss Media Extravagana Media Golf Event 


Media Exposure 

Televised Games - UK Hoops’ games will be televised over 10 times during 2006-07 

Radio - All games are broadcast live on the Big Blue Sports Network - WLAP 630 AM 

and each Sunday SEC game will be aired on WHAS 84 - a 50,000-watt radio station 

Internet - Fans can follow all the action complete with stats 

and photos on ukathletics.com 

Print - A variety of print publications, including newspapers and magazines, cover 

the UK Hoops team throughout the season 

F R I E N D S • F A N S • C O A C H E S • S T A F F • C O M M U N I T Y 


Wildcats in the Pros 

In 2006, SEC schools had 45 former players on preseason rosters in the WNBA. Since the inaugural 

WNBA draft in 1997, the SEC has had 84 former players drafted for the professional league. 

In this year’s WNBA draft, a total of 

SEVEN SEC women’s basketball players were taken. 

Cats Represent America 

Liz Lukschu/Maria Donhoff (1978) 

Both Lukschu and Donhoff won a silver medal in the 

Junior Pan American Games (1978) with the USA 

National Junior Women’s Basketball Team that 

toured South America. 

Valerie Still (1980, ’81, ’82) 

Following her freshman and junior years, Still played 

for the USA R. William Jones Cup team in Taipei, 

Taiwan. In the summer of 1981, she competed for 

the U.S. in the World University Games in Romania, 

where she helped lead the team to a silver medal. 

Patty Jo Hedges (1983) 

Hedges was a member of the silver medal winning 

1983 USA World Championship Team, which compiled 

a 6-2 record in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Hedges was 

also a member of the gold medal winning 1983 USA 

Women’s Pan American Games Team, which registered 

a perfect 5-0 record in Caracas, Venezuela. 

Bebe Croley (1985, ’86) 

Croley represented UK two straight years (1985 and 

1986) on the USA Select squad. In the summer of 

1985, Croley and the USA squad toured Europe and 

participated in the Jones Cup competition in Taiwan. 

In 1986, the Select team competed in the Canadian 

Invitational games. It marked the second 

straight year Bebe was named to the USA team. 

Former UK All-American Valerie Still was assistant coach for the WNBA’s Orlando Miracle in 2002 

while former Kentucky great Tiffany Wait McCain was in her third year with the Miracle. 

Tiffany 

Wait McCain 

(1995-2000) 

Spent three 

seasons (2000-02) 

with the WNBA’s 

Orlando Miracle 

before retiring in 

2003. 

Jodie Whitaker (1986, 87) 

Whitaker played on the Gold medal-winning South 

squad in the U.S. Olympic Festival in the summer of 

1986 and went on to compete on the USA Junior 

Pro team that competed in the Jones Cup tournament 

in Taiwan in 1987. 

Stacey Reed (1995) 

Reed won a silver medal as a member of the 

Women’s World University Games Team. She then 

helped the USA Basketball’s Jones Cup team take a 

Gold medal in Taiwan. She was a member of the 

USA Junior Select team in the summer of 1992. 

Bernadette Mattox (1998) 

Mattox was the first head coach for a women’s basketball 

team at UK to be selected to coach at the USA 

Women’s World Championship. Mattox helped lead 

the 1998 World Championship team to an 8-0 record 

and its third gold medal by defeating Russia, 71-65. 

Shantia 

Owens 

(1998-2000) 

Was the first UK 

player picked in the 

WNBA draft. Owens 

was the 53rd overall 

pick, selected in the 

fourth round by the 

Phoenix Mercury and 

was later traded to 

the Miami Sol 

franchise. 

Valerie Still (1979-83) 

Still became a charter member of the American 

Basketball League for Women and was a two-time 

MVP of the ABL Championship Series. Still later 

played and coached for the Washington Mystics of the 

WNBA. She also was an assistant coach for the 

Orlando Miracle. 


Big Blue Madness 

In 2005, Big Blue Madness included touches like a propane torch that shot fireballs 30 feet 

into the air during player introductions. UK also brought in Jon Mason, the public address 

announcer for the NBA’s Detroit Pistons, to handle the introductions. (Former Kentucky 

standout Tayshaun Prince plays for the Pistons.) 

When former Kentucky men's basketball 

coach Joe B. Hall decided in 1982 that he 

needed to boost enthusiasm for the upcoming season, 

he remembered a special practice Maryland’s 

Lefty Dreisell had conducted nearly a decade 

before. He would invite the fans to a midnight 

practice on the first day college teams could begin 

preseason practice. So in October, Kentucky held 

an event that was billed as “Midnight Special.” 

For many years, until the term was trade marked, 

the event was called Midnight Madness. Now, 

Kentucky fans flock each October to “Big Blue 

Madness.” 

More than 8,500 fans attended that first practice 

in the then 12,000-seat Memorial Coliseum. 

Entry into the gym was somewhat easier then — 

those still arriving near the stroke of midnight had 

no problem getting a seat. But the seed of growth 

had been planted for what is still an annual, free 

event. 

Since the inception in 1982, it had been held 

in Memorial Coliseum. But with the Coliseum’s 

Coach Mickie DeMoss is interviewed before a record 

crowd of 23,174 at last season’s Big Blue Madness in 

Rupp Arena. 

Jenny Pfeiffer waves 

to the capacity crowd 

at UK’s first Big Blue 

Madness in Rupp 

Arena last 

season. 

capacity limited to 5,000 because of the construction 

of the new practice facility, UK held its first 

Big Blue Madness in Rupp Arena in 2005. Free 

tickets were distributed on Oct. 1, and about 

20,000 tickets were claimed during the first 35 

minutes. It took a little more than 48 hours to 

distribute the rest of the tickets. 

“It really is madness,” Coach Mickie DeMoss 

said. “This is the standard everyone measures their 

opening practice by.” 

UK Hoops opens the season with Big Blue 

Madness on Oct. 13 in Rupp Arena. 


UK’s Outreach Program 

CATS THAT CARE — TAKING TIME TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE 

Aprivilege at a major university is to be a student-athlete. 

Among the benefits that student-athletes 

enjoy are significant learning 

experiences that teach important life lessons. 

None is more important than learning to return 

that benefit to individuals in the community that 

have supported and cheered the student-athlete, 

win or lose. 

The University of Kentucky has a community 

outreach program that, when initiated more than 

15 years ago, was intended to provide support for 

young people. The program was viewed as a “oneway” 

effort with the student-athlete giving and the 

community and schools receiving. But as the 

“Cats That Care” program has grown, one of the 

most notable results is what the student-athletes 

learn about themselves — they really do receive 

by giving. 

The athletics department’s community outreach 

program began in 1990 when, in cooperation 

with the College of Education, UK 

student-athletes “adopted” the fifth-grade class at 

a local school. The program matched UK studentathletes 

one-on-one with school children, who in 

turn, set goals while the student-athletes monitored 

their progress and assisted the children in 

achieving their stated objectives. 

The program was highly successful and 

continues today. “Cats That Care” has expanded 

and now includes many worthwhile projects, 

including: 

Celebrity Hospital Visitor 

Student-athletes visit patients at local hospitals, 

including rehabilitation facilities and veterans 

hospitals. 

Cats Cultivating Character 

Student-athletes teach character lessons twice a 

month to third grade students at a local elementary 

school. 

Mentoring 

Student-athletes serve as role models for many 

elementary and middle school students. As a mentor, 

they help younger students develop self 

esteem and promote academic success through 

weekly interaction. 

Hospital Breakfast with Santa 

Each year, UK student-athletes assist the UK 

Children’s Hospital with a special Christmas 

breakfast for children at the hospital. 

Kentucky Excel Mentor Program 

UK student-athletes serve as mentors for high 

school students participating in the program. It 

provides scholarships for students who complete 

the program. 

Kentucky Children’s Hospital 

Student-athletes volunteer at least once a 

month to play games and visit with the patients. 

School Speaker 

Student-athletes visit a number of local 

schools, speaking to children on a variety of topics, 

including the importance of an education, 

staying off drugs and promoting reading. 

Boys and Girls Club 

Student-athletes mentor and interact with 

children and young adults on a weekly basis. 

They also volunteer for various holiday activities, 

such as the “Mountain of Love.” 

Coach DeMoss enjoys giving back to the community 

and has even started her own foundation known as 

“Mickie’s Team.” Her goal is to help develop strong 

community resources that will benefit all walks of life, 

specifically the under-served and the disadvantaged. 

Food Drive 

Student-athletes organize a food drive that 

benefits God’s Pantry. 

Ronald McDonald House 

Student-athletes volunteer to bake dessert 

items for the families staying here who have a 

child in the hospital. They also help clean up the 

ground and take time to clean the inside of the 

House as well. 

Hope Center 

Serving the Lexington-Fayette County area, 

the Hope Center is a shelter for men. Student- 

Athletes volunteer at least once a month to serve 

lunch and/or dinner to those currently staying at 

the center. 

Salvation Army 

During the holiday season, student-athletes 

volunteer their time ringing bells for the “Red 

Kettle Campaign” to help raise money. Students 

also purchase small gifts to stuff in Christmas 

stockings to be distributed to local families in 

need. 

Junior Eleia Roddy (front) poses with a group of children 

and fellow counselors during a mission trip to 

Spain with Athletes in Action over the summer. 

“Giving back to the community is so 

important to me because in some way, big or 

small, many people have given to me, and are 

a big part of who I am today.” 

— UK junior forward Eleia Roddy 


Traveling with the Cats 

fly the 

BIG BLUE 

skies 

In 32 years of Kentucky women’s 

basketball the Wildcats have traveled 

to countries and cities all over the world. 

The Cats have visited Japan, France, 

Switzerland, Estonian and Finland, as 

well as cities throughout the U.S. 

The Wildcats charter nearly every 

flight and are always finding new and 

exciting places to go. 

Lea Wise (1979-83) was a “cover girl” on a 

Japanese magazine during the Cats’ tour of 

Japan in 1981. 

(right) UK participated in the Hawaii 

Invitational in 2003 and the 

Rainbow Wahine Classic in 1998 

in Honolulu, Hawaii. 

“Giving the players the 

opportunity to explore other 

areas of the country and 

world is part of the total 

educational process. We will 

continue each year to travel 

to places where we can 

compete and learn as well.” 

–– UK Coach Mickie DeMoss 

(above left) In 2003, UK visited San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge over the Thanksgiving break. 

(above right) In 2005, the Wildcats spent their Thanksgiving holiday participating in the Paradise Jam in beautiful 

St. Thomas, Virgin Islands. 

(below) Last year the Cats visited Malibu, Calif., for the Pepperdine Classic in November and were surprised by 

Coach DeMoss with a limousine waiting to take them shopping on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. 


“One of the many reasons playing basketball at Kentucky was so awesome 

was the way we, as student-athletes, were treated. We traveled to great 

cities all over the United States and we always stayed in the best hotels 

and ate at the best restaurants. It was cool to travel to different places 

with my teammates.” — Former Wildcat Sara Potts 

The Wildcats traveled to France and Switzerland on an 11-day tour in 

May 2001. They took a tour of Paris, visiting the city’s most famous sites 

such as the L’Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. 

Prior to the NCAA rules that allows teams to 

travel abroad only once every four years, UK traveled 

to Japan three consecutive summers from 

1981-83. 

The Cats went to the top of the famous 

Space Needle in 2002 to celebrate 

Thanksgiving in Seattle. 

The Cats traveled to Malibu, Calif., for the Pepperdine Classic in 2000. 

Senior Associate Athletics Director Sandy Bell and daughter Lori presented 

“Tonight Show” host Jay Leno with a UK women’s basketball jacket after a 

taping of his show in Los Angeles. 


2006 CATSPY Awards 

One Shining Moment 


2006 CATSPY Winners 

Rookie of the Year 

tie: Heather Hite (gymnastics)/ 

Carly Ormerod (women’s basketball) 

Jason Dardas (rifle) 

Women’s basketball players at the University 

of Kentucky enjoy a unique evening 

for celebrating the accomplishments of all UK 

student-athletes — the CATSPY Awards. 

Based on the highly popular “ESPY Awards” 

hosted by ESPN, the CATSPY Award ceremony 

is a dinner and awards show honoring studentathletes, 

coaches and administrators for UK’s 22 

varsity sports. The event is held each year in April. 

The 2006 award-winners are listed to the right. 

Performance of the Year 

Brooke Marnitz (softball) 

Rafael Little (football) 

K-Association 

Athlete of the Year 

Taryn Ignacio (diving) 

J.B. Holmes (men’s golf) 

Team of the Year 

Women’s Tennis 

Men’s Golf 

Supporting Role 

Brannan Sapp (men’s soccer) 

Scratch Award 

Crissy Cannon (gymnastics) 

Ravi Moss (men’s basketball) 

Blue Heart Award 

Elizabeth Dotson (women’s golf) 

Scholar-Athlete of the Year 

Meghan Cooper (softball) 

Taylor Begley (football) 

Fifth Third Bank Community 

Service Award 

Nicole Allyn (track & field) 

Antoine Huffman (football) 

Character Award 

Vicki Goss (rifle) 

Academic Team of the Year 

Softball 

Men’s Soccer 

Coach of the Year 

Mickie DeMoss (women’s basketball) 

Brian Craig (men’s golf) 

Miss Wildcat 

Danielle Wallace (volleyball) 

Mr. Wildcat 

Antoine Huffman (football) 

Play of the Year 

Jenny Pfeiffer (women’s basketball) 

Raymond Fontaine, Bo Smith 

& Antoine Huffman (football) 

One Shining Moment 


Courage Award 

Mike Lyden 

Coach of the Year 

Mickie DeMoss 

Rookie of the Year 

Carly Ormerod 

Play of the Year 

Jenny Pfeiffer 

Lifetime Achievement Award 

Sandy Bell

Kentucky Women's Basketball - University of Kentucky Athletics

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