1. Rock Chalk, Jayhawk
Once coined the greatest college chant he’d ever heard by Teddy Roosevelt, Jayhawk fans proudly yell the rock chalk chant during the pre-game ritual as well as when they believe they are safely ahead.
2. Original Rules of Basketball
Located in the DeBruce Center, you’ll find James Naismith’s original rules of the game. The rules are something every basketball fan should see at least once, so make sure to check them out during your visit to Lawrence.
3. Phog Allen Statue
Snap a pic with the Phog Allen statue located outside of Allen Fieldhouse. The statue pays tribute to one of the greatest coaches in college basketball history as well as the fieldhouse’s namesake making it a must see for any basketball fan.
4. Waving the Wheat
KU has its personal version of the traditional wave at sporting events. Their version is known waving the wheat and features fans lifting their arms in the air and slowly waving them back and forth, which is reminiscent of Kansas wheat swaying in the prairies. Waving the wheat often occurs after an opposing player follows out and is accompanied by the chant “You Didn’t Have Your Wheaties,” so join in on this fun tradition when attending a KU basketball game.
5. Booth Family Hall of Athletics
The Hall of Athletics is a great display of Kansas Jayhawks athletics history. From championship ring collections to trophies, this is a must see for any college sports fan. It is an excellent way to experience the rich tradition of the Jayhawks. The best part about the Hall of Athletics is it’s free!
6. Beware of the Phog Banner
Above the Jayhawks national championship banners is a sign that reads, “Pay Heed, All Who Enter: Beware of the Phog.” The sign shows off how intimidating Allen Fieldhouse is for opposing teams, where the Jayhawks have amassed a 140-3 record since 2007. Don’t come to Allen Fieldhouse expecting a W if you’re a fan of the opposing team.
7. Honored Number and Championship Banners
Hanging from the rafters of the arena are banners honoring all of the Jayhawks best players and their many accomplishments. The honored numbers on the south wall pay tribute to Jayhawks legends including Wilt Chamberlain, Danny Manning, and Paul Pierce. Meanwhile, you’ll find banners honoring Kansas’s five NCAA championship banners on the north wall. Make sure to take them all in when visiting Allen Fieldhouse to see the program’s great history.
8. Big Jay and Baby Jay
Big Jay and Baby Jay are the two Jayhawk mascots found at every Kansas sporting event. Keep your eye open for these fun and energetic mascots as you never know what they’ll do next.
9. Confetti
During the opponent player intros, the student section holds up a piece of paper and pretends to read it. Then when the Jayhawks are introduced, they rip up the paper and throw it in the air like confetti. Any leftover confetti is then thrown once the Jayhawks score their first basket, so if you’re sitting in the student section come prepared to be showered with confetti.
10. Late Night at the Phog
Kansas is a basketball school, and as a result, the fans go all out for the start of the season. Fans line up for hours to get their first glimpse of the team during Late Night at the Phog, so take the opportunity to attend this event if you’re in Lawrence for the start of the season.
