Aug. 13, 2001

UK Director of Compliance Sandy Bell reported to the UKAA Board that the University of Kentucky has received an official letter of inquiry from the NCAA regarding the football investigation. Bell reported that the NCAA’s investigation into the UK football program did not uncover any additional violations. Bell said an official response is due to the NCAA Committee on Infractions by Oct. 5, 2001, which is 90 days from the date of the letter of inquiry.

At this point, UK expects to be able to prepare a thorough response to the NCAA in the very near future. A hearing has been scheduled Nov. 16-18 with the NCAA Committee on Infractions, but the university hopes to have the hearing moved up to September.

In other action, the athletics board approved a 12-year extension to the Rupp Arena lease.The Wildcats’ men’s basketball team will continue to play all of its home games in the downtown facility through the 2017-18 season. Bill Owen, President of Lexington Center, gave a presentation to the board detailing planned renovations, the majority of which will get underway April 2002. The renovations include new entrances on both Vine and High Streets, expanded concourse areas, additional women’s restroom facilities and all blue seats in the lower arena.

The Wildcats moved into Rupp Arena 25 years ago.