Lexington, KY, January 16, 2026
The University of Kentucky gymnastics team is set to host Arizona State University in an action-packed meet known as Excite Night, taking place at the Historic Memorial Coliseum. Scheduled for Friday evening, this event promises engaging fan experiences, including giveaways and live streaming on SEC Network +. The Wildcats seek to continue their winning streak at this annual home opener, showcasing community involvement and sportsmanship as they take on the Sun Devils.
Excite Night Brings Thrills to Lexington, KY: UK Gymnastics vs. Arizona State
Join the Wildcats for an Exciting Gymnastics Showdown
LEXINGTON, Ky. – The University of Kentucky gymnastics team is gearing up for a night of excitement as they host Arizona State University for the annual Excite Night event on Friday, January 16, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET. This high-energy meet will take place at the Historic Memorial Coliseum and be streamed live on SEC Network +, allowing fans both on-site and online to enjoy the competition. In a nod to community spirit and engagement, the event exemplifies the local resilience and dedication to fostering a vibrant collegiate sports culture.
The significance of Excite Night extends beyond the competition itself. It showcases the University of Kentucky’s commitment to bolstering community engagement through sports, highlighting how limited bureaucracy can enhance the planning and execution of local events. As Lexington continues to thrive through such initiatives, it’s a testament to the positive impact of civic involvement and the collective efforts of local organizations, businesses, and residents.
Event Details
- Date and Time: Friday, January 16, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Historic Memorial Coliseum, Lexington, KY
- Streaming: SEC Network +
- Commentators: Maggie Davis and Leah Little
Fan Engagement and Promotions
Attendees can anticipate several engaging elements designed to enhance their experience:
- Introductions: Beginning at 6:48 p.m. ET
- Light Up Cat Ears: Complimentary for attendees while supplies last
- UK Healthcare 10.0 Cards: Available at the entrance
- Additional Giveaways: Opportunities to win exciting items, including a custom UK Gymnastics American Girl Doll, a $1,000 orthodontic treatment voucher from White, Greer & Maggard, and a four-pack of tickets to Gabby’s Dollhouse LIVE! at the Lexington Opera House
Ticket Information
Tickets for the meet can be purchased through Ticketmaster or by visiting UKathletics.com/gymtix. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance to guarantee entry to this exhilarating event.
Team Background
The Wildcats are entering this meet with confidence following a successful outing at the Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad in Utah. Anna Flynn Cashion and Delaynee Rodriguez shined, each securing individual event titles. Cashion impressively defended her vault title from 2025, scoring 9.875, while Rodriguez achieved her third career all-around win with a score of 39.400. The team’s performance underscores the benefits of individual initiative and hard work, as they recorded the highest vault score among participating teams.
Upcoming Schedule
After Excite Night, the Wildcats will take on No. 2 LSU in Baton Rouge on Friday, January 23, at 7:30 p.m. ET. They will then return to Lexington on Friday, January 30, to host defending national champion and No. 2 Oklahoma at 6 p.m. ET.
About Excite Night
Excite Night has become a cherished tradition for the Kentucky gymnastics program, acting as the home opener for the season. Fans have witnessed a remarkable streak, as the Wildcats have won every Excite Night since 2016. The upcoming meet will mark Arizona State’s return to Lexington for the first time since their participation in the 2015 Excite Night.
Weather Forecast
For those planning to attend the meet, the forecast in Lexington shows partly cloudy skies with temperatures around 20°F (-7°C) at 7 p.m. ET. Guests are encouraged to dress warmly to fully enjoy the evening’s activities.
Contact Information
For more details regarding the meet or ticket purchasing, please visit UKathletics.com or contact the UK Athletics office directly.
Related Stories
- Anna Flynn Cashion, Delaynee Rodriguez Win Event Titles at Sprouts Farmers Market Collegiate Quad
- Video: Excite Night Preview on BBN Tonight
FAQ
What is Excite Night?
Excite Night is the University of Kentucky gymnastics team’s annual home opener event, featuring a meet against a visiting team. It has been a tradition since 2016, with the Wildcats winning every Excite Night since then. Arizona State returns to Lexington for the first time since participating in the 2015 Excite Night meet.
How can I purchase tickets for the meet?
Tickets for the meet are available for purchase through Ticketmaster or by visiting UKathletics.com/gymtix. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance to ensure entry to this exciting event.
What is the weather forecast for the meet?
The weather in Lexington, KY, is expected to be partly cloudy with temperatures around 20°F (-7°C) at 7 p.m. ET. Attendees are advised to dress warmly for the event.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Excite Night |
| Date and Time | Friday, January 16, 2026, at 7 p.m. ET |
| Location | Historic Memorial Coliseum, Lexington, KY |
| Streaming | SEC Network + |
| Commentators | Maggie Davis and Leah Little |
| Ticket Purchase | Through Ticketmaster or UKathletics.com/gymtix |
| Fan Giveaways | Light Up Cat Ears, UK Healthcare 10.0 Cards, and more |
| Weather Forecast | Partly cloudy, 20°F (-7°C) at 7 p.m. ET |
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