This past Saturday, Chase Center in San Francisco buzzed with excitement as NCAA fans flocked to witness the Elite Eight men’s basketball finals for the West Region. The matchup featured the Texas Tech University Red Raiders and the University of Florida Gators.

Game Highlights

The contest was fiercely contested, with both teams exchanging leads throughout the game. With only six minutes left in the second half, the Gators found themselves trailing by ten points. However, they mounted a remarkable comeback to secure an 84-79 victory over the Red Raiders, earning a coveted place in the Final Four.

Fan Experience and Attendance

Chase Center was filled to capacity, with 16,778 fans in attendance, many of whom had traveled from outside the state to witness this thrilling encounter. As San Francisco embraced the influx of visitors, local citizens joined in the celebration of NCAA basketball.

Mayor’s Observations

San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie was present at the event, taking the opportunity to engage with out-of-town fans. In an interview with NBC Bay Area, he remarked, “They’re getting to see what we see all day, every day, which is: San Francisco’s on the rise.” Furthermore, he emphasized the city’s status as a sports hub, referencing the recent NBA All-Star Game and upcoming World Cup matches and the Super Bowl set for 2026.

Fan Feedback

Feedback from attendees highlighted the positive aspects of the Chase Center as a game venue. Pat Conway, a Texas Tech alum from Dallas, expressed satisfaction with the logistics and amenities, stating, “Logistically, it was easy to get to. […] I think it’s top-notch.” Although disappointed with the outcome, he maintained optimism for the future of the Red Raiders.

Conversely, Gators fan Pj Metz, a University of Florida alumnus and former band member at games, enjoyed the atmosphere, reminiscing about past victories. He shared, “It just felt good being here with Gators and people who actually want to cheer and get excited during the game.”

Chase Center’s Role in March Madness

Opened in 2019, Chase Center has established itself as a premier venue for high-profile sports events, having hosted its first March Madness games in 2022. The center is scheduled to welcome NCAA tournament games again in 2028, further solidifying its reputation in the sports community.