‘It’s been unmatched’: Despite tournament loss, fans say weekend was once in a lifetime

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Badger fans lucky enough to score tickets to Sunday’s round of 32 loss say while it wasn’t the result they wanted, they’re grateful for the chance to see the team in person.

“This has been amazing,” said Brock Wurger, who was able to get tickets to the game along with four close friends. “We don’t really have a spring break, so just being able to take this time away from classes, spend some time with the guys, it’s been awesome.”

Just 25 percent of Hinkle Fieldhouse’s 9,100 seat capacity was opened to fans, meaning roughly just 1,000 Badger fans had the opportunity to see the game in person.

“It’s just been unmatched, really,” said UW-Madison student Harrison Logan, who joined Wurger on the trip. “Obviously it’s a unique year already, but it’s super nice to come out and support the team and support the Badgers.”

It’s a tight matchup between @BadgerMBB and @BaylorMBB halfway through the first half.

Prior to tip, I caught up with Badger fans (including the legendary Andy North), Baylor fans, and a neutral third party.#MarchMadness @WISCTV_News3 #News3Now pic.twitter.com/4XhIu2D1Fs

— Adam Duxter (@News3Adam) March 21, 2021

The future of the team itself is uncertain. Under NCAA exemptions created in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, seniors on the roster are given the chance to return one more time. No matter who returns, however, the fans say they’ll return to the Kohl Center to support.

“I think we’re going to to have a good team next year,” said Vicki Dombeck, who joined the group on its trip. “No matter who decides to come back or who decides to leave, I think we’re going to be contenders.”
  

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