After Texas Tech beat Michigan State 61-51 securing the team’s first ever berth in a National Championship, fans filled Broadway to celebrate. Our reporters on the scene said they saw couches and lime scooters on fire, one of which a fan rode while it was still in flames. They also saw Tech fans overturn and then proceed to dance on a car.
These celebrations lasted for several hours and the City of Lubbock is calling it “extremely dangerous, and disappointing, behavior including vandalizing property.” They said in a statement early Sunday morning, “We are proud, and excited, for Texas Tech, but behavior like this will not be tolerated. We want Red Raider fans to support the team and celebrate lawfully and responsibly. We are on the national stage so make Lubbock proud.”
Lubbock Police’s SWAT team lined the streets and ordered the crowd to disperse. They asked people to leave the Broadway area.
On early Sunday morning the Lubbock Police Facebook page said in part: “The large crowds are causing a safety concern. We are also encouraging drivers to avoid the area as some of the roads have been blocked.”
Texas Tech University also released a statement regarding the activites that took place.
“This is a historical achievement in the university’s history and a great source of pride for all Red Raiders. As we continue to celebrate, we must do so in a way that does not diminish this incredible moment. Texas Tech has the best fans in the country and we appreciate their enthusiastic support and ask that they celebrate with integrity, positive energy and respect.”
