More than 14, 500 fans proved it Sunday — a game besides LSU football can be exciting.
The No. 4 Lady Tigers hosted the No. 3 Volunteers of Tennessee in front of the largest crowd ever to witness a women’s basketball game Louisiana. This myriad crowd came to see one of the best match ups of the season, as the score definitely showed.
And the best part was that the Deaf Dome lived up to its name as every fan stood to their feet for tip off and cheered throughout the game.
It was just another basketball game. It didn’t matter whether it was men or women; it was a good game. That’s the way it should be.
The fans showed up in true LSU form — dressed in purple and gold, waving signs and holding their foam paws. And they did not leave their obnoxiousness at home either. Tennessee was booed coming onto the floor and there was one sign saying Tennessee was Tiger Bait, of course.
And the student section was lively with students wearing tie-dyed “Sue’s Krewe” shirts, standing to their feet, yelling and stomping. Even the gyrating guy showed up to cheer on the Lady Tigers.
The students were definitely into the game — a women’s game. The fact that there was such a student presence at any game other than football is an accomplishment in itself. I never have understood why students pass up such good, free entertainment such as basketball games but willingly pay to see all the football games, the good and the bad.
Nick Saban even showed up to watch this match up. He made sure he had a front row seat too.
All that can be said about the turnout — it is about time.
Honestly, Tennessee head coach Pat Summitt said it best, “I can’t believe it’s taken 21 years. Today doesn’t need to be a one-time appearance.”
Why did it take so long for fans to show up to the women’s basketball games? People shouldn’t be showing up just because it was Tennessee but because it is LSU. The Lady Tigers boast the best record at LSU and deserve to be recognized. With their winning consistency and high ranking, the fans should be pouring in to see the ladies play.
The fans were not unappreciated. Aiysha Smith and coach Sue Gunter both said their first reactions were “Wow!” to seeing the packed-out PMAC.
Gunter added it was something she had dreamed about.
LSU fans should continue this support of the team. Thursday is a game against the only other team that beat LSU — Arkansas. And then, the SEC tournament, the NCAA tournament, including the Elite Eight and the Final Four.
See you in Atlanta.