The University of Connecticut’s basketball teams are capturing the attention of fans nationwide as they make their mark in the NCAA tournament. But it’s not just the games themselves that are drawing excitement; the fervor of Husky Nation is palpable both on and off the court.
As the UConn men’s and women’s teams advance further into the tournament, the energy in Storrs, Connecticut, where the university is located, is electric. Despite the Easter holiday typically bringing a slowdown in business, local establishments are seeing a boost in activity thanks to the tournament.
At Ted’s Restaurant and Bar, a favorite haunt for UConn students, the atmosphere is charged with excitement as fans gather to watch the games. “Teds is our favorite place to be. We’re sipping on our Pink Beavers. There’re no complaints right now,” exclaimed Elizabeth Costa, a UConn senior.
Even with some students heading home for the Easter holiday, the sense of camaraderie among Husky fans remains strong. Sydney Brewer, a UConn grad, expressed, “We have a family here as well as our families at home for Easter. It’s reconnecting with a family that I kind of lost touch within the last year.”
Businesses like Dog Lane Café in downtown Storrs are feeling the impact of the tournament as well. Despite Easter typically being a slow time, the café is bustling with activity on game days. Max Bean, a manager at the café, noted the increase in takeout orders as fans prepare for the excitement of the matchups.
And excitement is certainly in the air as both the men’s and women’s teams continue their quest for glory. The women’s team, led by star player Paige Bueckers, is back in the Elite Eight after a historic early exit last year. Meanwhile, the men’s team is making its own mark on the tournament with a strong showing.
But it’s not just about the star players; it’s about the teams as a whole. USC coach Lindsay Gottlieb emphasized, “It’s USC against UConn… But star power drives narratives in athletics.” Indeed, the matchups between powerhouse teams like UConn and USC are not only drawing in fans but also shining a spotlight on women’s college basketball as a whole.
As UConn and USC prepare to face off in the Elite Eight, all eyes are on the players who have captured the hearts of fans everywhere. With a Final Four berth at stake, the stage is set for an unforgettable showdown between two basketball powerhouses.
The excitement of UConn’s tournament run is bringing communities together and proving once again the enduring passion for college basketball in Connecticut.