UK Basketball Players Serve Families at Ronald McDonald House

Wildcats take a break from the court to give back to the community

Apr. 7, 2026 at 1:36am

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An abstract, energetic painting in neon colors depicting the movement and energy of a basketball game, with players' forms breaking down into expressive brushstrokes.UK basketball players bring joy and community support to families staying at the Ronald McDonald House in Lexington.Lexington Today

Several players from the University of Kentucky men's basketball team visited the Ronald McDonald House in Lexington, Kentucky on Monday night to serve pizza, chat with families, and sign autographs for the children and parents staying there. The players described the experience as humbling and a chance to put their own problems in perspective while providing a much-needed break for the families from their daily hospital routines.

Why it matters

The Ronald McDonald House provides temporary housing and support for families with children receiving medical treatment, offering a home-away-from-home and community during a difficult time. The visit from the popular UK basketball players was a welcomed distraction and morale boost for the families staying there.

The details

The UK players served pizza, signed autographs, and spent time talking with the families at the Ronald McDonald House. Sophomore Trent Noah said the experience made him grateful for his own situation and realize that his problems are 'slim' compared to what the families are going through. Jasper Johnson added that it was meaningful for the team to hear the families' stories and try to be 'uplifting and encouraging' during their visit.

  • The visit took place on Monday, April 7, 2026.

The players

Trent Noah

A sophomore on the UK men's basketball team.

Jasper Johnson

A player on the UK men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“It makes me extremely grateful every time we get to come and hear their stories. It makes me realize that my problems — and the stuff that I'm going through is slim and not really even that big of a deal at all.”

— Trent Noah, Sophomore, UK Men's Basketball

“It's a blessing to be able to talk to them and hear their stories and things like that. It always put in perspective that not everybody as good as you are. Just trying to be uplifting and encouraging at all times.”

— Jasper Johnson, Player, UK Men's Basketball

What’s next

The UK basketball team plans to continue visiting the Ronald McDonald House throughout the year to support the families staying there.

The takeaway

The visit by the UK basketball players to the Ronald McDonald House demonstrates the importance of athletes using their platform to give back to their local community and provide support to those facing difficult circumstances. The experience was meaningful for both the players and the families, reminding everyone of the power of compassion and community.