By LARRY VAUGHT

Two years ago Patrick Patterson played his final game in Rupp Arena for Kentucky and went through an emotional pregame ceremony with his parents, Tywanna and Buster. He was only a junior, but was set to graduate and knew he was going to the NBA, so Kentucky included him in the special ceremony.

At that time, Darius Miller was a sophomore. On Thursday, he’ll go through his Senior Night with his parents, Brian and Nicole, and Tywanna Patterson and her husband will be there to celebrate with them.

Here are some thoughts Tywanna Patterson shared about her memories from that game two years ago.

Question: What do you remember most about Patrick’s Senior Day experience and how emotional was it for you?
Patterson: “I remember it well, especially how emotional it was for me being that it was Patrick’s final home game. What made it even more special was that Patrick was graduating in May and the finality of it all made it even more emotional and special. It was great having our family there and Patrick’s grandparents as well. It was also great getting to share it with the fans and other teammates and their families.”

Question: How does that game rank among your Kentucky memories?
Patterson: It ranks very high among my Kentucky memories. It makes it even more special to win the game for us and for BBN. Some of the clips is also on www.youtube.com under The Patrick Patterson Story, so I can always see some of his Senior Night online!”

Question: What do you think Thursday night will be like for Nicole and Brian Miller, Darius Miller’s parents?
Patterson: “I think Thursday night will be very special and very emotional for Nicole and Brian Miller. It will be a happy occasion to be able to share it with their family, friends and the fans. BBN will enjoy being a part of it as well. I even sent them a copy of the wwwyoutube.com video clip from The Patrick Patterson Story on Nicole’s face book page reminding her of how we did it and they were also in the video.”

Question: How proud are you of what Darius has done since Patrick was like a big brother to him?
Patterson: “Buster, Patrick and I are very proud of Darius and all that he has accomplished at Kentucky. I am especially proud and happy as a mom that he is getting his degree as well and that he has stayed in school all four years to obtain this. Education is very important and a great milestone. Not all athletes stay in school and finish their degree. I know Brian and Nicole will be beaming with pride and happiness. I look forward to being there and sharing in their happiness as they were there to share in ours.”

Question: What advice would you have for the Millers about Senior Night and life after UK basketball?
Patterson: “Enjoy each and every moment of Senior Night. It is Darius and their family night to be acknowledged and to stand before BBN and be recognized and honored. I am getting emotional just thinking about it. I know I will cry just as I did with Patrick. There is still much to do after UK basketball. The sky is the limit. Darius will have his degree and the NBA is waiting as well. So many more opportunities and they can always come back for games at UK as Buster and I do. Once UK … always UK … the door remains open and we are here for them whenever they need us. WOW! Time has flown by, but lots of good memories. Go CATS and Go BBN!!