Kam Williams Expresses Excitement After First Visit to Lexington: “Can’t Wait to See the Fans at Rupp Arena”
LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Big Blue Nation has a new name to rally behind, and he’s already feeling the love.
Following his first official visit to Lexington this week, Kam Williams, the highly touted sophomore transfer from Tulane, took to social media and local press to express his excitement about joining the Kentucky Wildcats. His message to fans was simple and heartfelt:
“I can’t wait to see the fans at Rupp Arena,” Williams said with a wide grin following a tour of campus and a closed-door workout with coaching staff. “This place is special, and I felt that the second I got here.”
The 6-foot-5 guard, known for his slashing ability, perimeter defense, and high motor, committed to Kentucky earlier this spring after entering the transfer portal. Williams averaged 14.7 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game last season with the Green Wave, quickly earning a reputation as one of the top two-way players in the American Athletic Conference.
Now, he’s poised to bring his energy and talent to one of the most storied programs in college basketball.
Williams’ visit to Lexington included a full tour of the basketball facilities, a sit-down with head coach Mark Pope, and time spent with returning players and fellow newcomers. But what stood out most to the sophomore guard wasn’t the facilities — it was the atmosphere.
“The vibe here is electric,” Williams told local reporters after leaving the Joe Craft Center. “There’s a real sense of pride and tradition. You walk into Rupp, and it’s like stepping into history. I got goosebumps, man.”
Coach Pope, entering his first year at the helm of Kentucky’s program, praised Williams not only for his talent, but also for his maturity and competitive spirit.
“Kam is the kind of player who fits our culture perfectly,” Pope said. “He’s tough, he plays hard, and he’s hungry to win. What stood out when we recruited him was how badly he wanted to be part of something bigger. He’s not just coming here to play — he’s coming here to lead.”
Williams’ transition to Kentucky is expected to be seamless, especially in Pope’s up-tempo system. His ability to play both guard positions, lock down on defense, and attack the basket could be crucial as the Wildcats aim to re-establish themselves as contenders in the SEC and beyond.
For Williams, the biggest draw of Kentucky wasn’t just the coaching staff or the exposure — it was the fans.
“I’ve seen videos. I’ve heard stories. But being here, feeling that energy just during an offseason visit? I can’t imagine what it’s going to be like on a game night,” Williams said. “I’ve never played in front of 20,000 people before, and knowing they’re all behind you — that’s a dream for any player.”
As Williams walked around downtown Lexington, it didn’t take long for fans to recognize him, with several stopping for photos and offering warm welcomes. One young fan, decked out in UK blue, handed him a hand-drawn “Welcome to Kentucky” card. Williams, visibly touched, posed for a photo and thanked the boy personally.
“That’s what it’s about,” he said. “This is bigger than basketball. This is family.”
With summer workouts approaching and the roster beginning to take shape, all signs point to Kam Williams becoming a central figure in the Wildcats’ new era under Pope. And based on first impressions, he’s ready to embrace the moment.
“I want to win here,” he said. “And I want to give these fans everything I’ve got.”
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