The Texas Tech Athletics department will host a watch party at the United Supermarkets Arena March 15 for players, coaches and the Red Raider fans to see if the men’s basketball team earns a spot into the NCAA Tournament.
“We brought in a huge 20 x 20 HD screen to view it,” Associate Athletics Director Robret Giovannetti said. “We’ll have the Big 10 championship game on before the selection show starts. We’ll have inflatables for kids to play in, food, drinks. try to make a fun event and a big celebration for the program and our fans.”
The watch party is open to the public and fans will even have a chance to be on TV. CBS will have a live camera on the team and crowed to capture their reaction when the announcement is made.
“Obviously because of the story and coach Smith being the National Coach of the Year and just his great reputation,” Giovannetti said. “I think they wanted to look at this and be part of the fabric of the story they tell. It’s the first time Texas Tech could be in the NCAA tournament in almost 10 years, so it’s pretty exciting.”
Tech madness is being felt across campus, students are confident the team will go to the Big Dance and are making predictions.
“I think they’ll go a few rounds at least, hopefully we’ll be that Cinderella team,” TTU junior Matthew Rosas said.
“Once we get to the Final Four it’s easy money from there, so yeah all the way,” TTU junior Michael Huber said.
Giovannetti said while there was obvious disappointment over the teams Big 12 Tournament loss, the team is ready for redemption.
“It’s been 9 years since the men have been in and so to be in the conversation and the mix I think everyone is walking around with an extra spring in their step,” he said.
If you want to attend the event, doors open at 3:30, the selection show starts at 4:30 right here on KLBK.
