The Basketball Tournament (TBT) is set to become even more thrilling for Kentucky Wildcats fans as La Familia, a team comprised of Kentucky basketball alumni, is making its debut. This exciting team will host the Lexington Regional at Rupp Arena from July 19-23, aiming to defend their home court in the high-stakes, $1 million winner-take-all summer basketball event broadcast live on FOX Sports.
La Familia: A Wildcat Family Reunited for TBT Glory
La Familia, proudly holding the second seed in the Lexington Region, is more than just a team; it’s a reunion of Kentucky basketball brotherhood. Leading this talented squad as head coach is Tyler Ulis, the 2016 SEC Player of the Year and former NBA player. Ulis will be supported by a strong coaching staff including Darius Miller, Jon Hood, and Sean Wright, all deeply connected to the Kentucky basketball program. The team’s foundation is further solidified by Twany Beckham and Sam Malone, who have taken on the organizational responsibilities.
Star-Studded Roster of Kentucky Basketball Legends
The current roster of La Familia boasts an impressive lineup of Wildcats who have left their mark on Kentucky basketball history. Fans can expect to see familiar faces and exciting talent, including:
- Kellan Grady (2021-22): Known for his sharpshooting and veteran presence.
- Nate Sestina (2019-20): A stretch forward who brought versatility to the Wildcats.
- Reid Travis (2018-19): A powerful forward with a knack for rebounding and scoring.
- Andrew Harrison (2013-15): A dynamic point guard who led Kentucky to the national championship game.
- James Young (2013-14): An explosive scorer and NBA talent from the formidable 2014 team.
- Willie Cauley-Stein (2012-15): A defensive anchor and fan favorite known for his athleticism.
- Marquis Teague (2011-12): A lightning-quick point guard from the 2012 national championship team.
- Doron Lamb (2010-12): A clutch scorer and another key piece of the 2012 championship run.
- Daniel Orton (2009-10): A dominant force in the paint with NBA experience.
- Eric Bledsoe (2009-10): An explosive guard known for his athleticism and defensive prowess.
Further player announcements are anticipated, so Kentucky basketball enthusiasts should follow TBT and La Familia’s social media channels for the latest updates. This blend of seasoned veterans and exciting talent positions La Familia as a strong contender in the Lexington Regional.
Lexington Regional: Road to the Million Dollar Prize
The Lexington Regional promises intense competition, with La Familia facing a bracket of formidable teams. The full regional seeding is as follows:
#1 seed: Herd That (Marshall alumni)
#2 seed: La Familia (Kentucky alumni)
#3 seed: WoCo Showtime (Wofford alumni)
#4 seed: War Ready (Auburn Alumni)
#5 seed: D2 Waymakers
#6 seed: The Nawf
#7 seed: 305 Ballers
#8 seed: Jackson TN Boom
La Familia will tip off their TBT journey against 305 Ballers on Friday, July 19, at 8 p.m. ET. Fans can catch the action live on FS2. Should La Familia advance, they are slated to play the winner of WoCo Showtime and The Nawf in the second round on Sunday, July 21, at 2 p.m. ET, broadcast on FOX. The Lexington Regional championship game is scheduled for Tuesday, July 23, at 9 p.m. ET on FS1, promising high-stakes basketball action at Rupp Arena.
Club Blue Partnership: Supporting Kentucky Athletes
Adding another layer of significance to La Familia’s TBT participation is their partnership with Club Blue, the official NIL partner of Kentucky Athletics. This collaboration means that a portion of ticket sales for all Lexington Regional games at Rupp Arena will directly support Kentucky student-athletes through Club Blue. This partnership underscores the strong connection between La Familia and the current Kentucky basketball program.
TBT and the Elam Ending: A Unique Basketball Experience
The Basketball Tournament is renowned for its exciting format and the innovative Elam Ending®. This unique game-ending format eliminates the clock in the final minutes, replacing it with a target score, ensuring every game concludes with a dramatic, game-winning shot. TBT has rapidly grown into a major summer basketball event, attracting top talent and offering fans thrilling, high-stakes competition culminating in a $1 million prize.
The winner of the Lexington Regional will advance to the TBT quarterfinals, facing the winner of the Louisville Regional on July 29 or 30. The semifinals and the coveted $1 million championship game will be held in Philadelphia at the Daskalakis Athletic Center on August 2 and 4.
For fans eager to witness Kentucky basketball legends in action and support La Familia in their quest for the TBT championship, more information and tickets for the Lexington Regional are available at TheTournament.com. Don’t miss the opportunity to cheer on La Familia and experience the excitement of TBT at Rupp Arena.
