Lexington, KY — In a moment that touched hearts far beyond basketball, Kentucky Women’s Basketball Head Coach Kenny Brooks and his wife, Chrissy, took the court together to shoot some hoops—marking a radiant and emotional celebration of life, love, and perseverance.
The joyful occasion comes just months after it was announced in February that Chrissy Brooks had defeated cancer, following a courageous and public battle. The image of the two standing side by side, smiling from ear to ear as they took shots together in Memorial Coliseum, was more than just a photo op—it was a symbol of resilience, triumph, and deep-rooted love.
Captured by UK Athletics and widely shared on social media, the moment quickly resonated with fans and the broader college basketball community. Chrissy, glowing with health and strength, matched her husband shot for shot in a light-hearted exchange that brought smiles and even a few tears to those witnessing it.
For Coach Kenny Brooks, who took over the reins of the Kentucky women’s program earlier this year, this personal victory runs parallel with the new chapter he’s writing on the court. “This was a moment we’ll never forget,” said Brooks. “Basketball has been our life—but nothing compares to seeing Chrissy healthy, happy, and on that court with me again.”
The couple, married for over 25 years, has been a visible source of inspiration, particularly as they navigated Chrissy’s diagnosis with grace and strength. Throughout her treatment, Kenny balanced coaching duties while remaining a pillar of support for his wife and their four children.
Since joining the Wildcats from Virginia Tech, Brooks has emphasized the importance of family, faith, and character in his leadership philosophy—and today’s moment was the embodiment of those values in action.
The Big Blue Nation, already rallying behind Coach Brooks for his basketball vision, now has even more reason to stand behind him and his family. As one fan tweeted: “Chrissy beat cancer. Kenny’s leading Kentucky. Life is beautiful. #BBN”
In a world so often focused on wins and losses, this was the biggest win of all.
