LOUISVILLE, Ky. —

Thousands of fans filled downtown Louisville for the Battle of the Bluegrass, reviving energy around the rivalry and giving local businesses a boost.

"The past couple of years, it's kind of fallen off, but it's definitely getting back with Pope and Kelsey at the wheel. I would say the ceiling for these two teams is to be the number one and number two teams in the country," said Will Brassine, a Wildcats fan.

"It is the most fun. I grew up pretty wild, right? But this rivalry right here is unmatched because you only get one chance at your job, and it's the best you get," said Michael Lady, a Cardinals fan.

"The Cards are good, the Cats are good, and the rivalry has intensity. Good, healthy rivalry of both teams. It's great for us to be happy about basketball, I think,

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