Wildcat fans ready to cheer on team in New Orleans

Wildcat fans ready to cheer on team in New Orleans

The Big Blue Nation has already invaded the bayou.

Fans are showing up a day early, ready to watch their basketball cats hit the hardwood against East Tennessee State in the first round of the tourney.

Wildcat fans are slowly, but surely, arriving in New Orleans.

Even though it's St Patrick's Day, they're vowing to paint the town blue.

"I'll have my blue.... I always have my blue," explained Heather Laos, a UK Fan.

Bourbon Street is already a popular place among Wildcat fans already.

Many have arrived, just in time for the open practice.

So far, they say New Orleans is a slam dunk.

Caroline Wilt says, "New Orleans is great, not my first time, I love it here. The food, the atmosphere."

"Hopefully we'll see it loaded up with UK fans, we're headed down to practice in a few minutes," echos Mike Russell.

Fans say they'll be cheering the Cats all night on Bourbon Street.

Dozens of fans came straight from the SEC Tournament in Nashville.

"They're awesome this year," explained Todd Reed. "So much better than the last two years. Coach Cal is a great coach and we have great players."