As someone who really appreciates the game of basketball and grew up playing and watching my entire childhood, it is very evident how much the crowd can affect the outcome of a game. Games in Coleman Coliseum are no exception to this huge factor.

That being said, some of the most successful and impactful basketball programs in the country have tons of students sitting near the floor yelling, making noise, and creating an intimidating environment. 

Knowing this fact, it would be extremely beneficial if the seating allocation for the students be closer to the floor and extended across the span of the sideline so that the same type of environment can be present at Alabama Crimson Tide Basketball games. This can be supported by the recognition of how active the students are at basketball games (standing up for the entire game, starting chants, and yelling no matter the situation).

During many crucial moments in games, I have witnessed fans currently sitting in these sections with no enthusiasm and lack of interest in the game. Personally, I’ve faced criticism from surrounding fans during games solely for cheering and celebrating big moments within reason. While I understand that other fans and attendees have every right to enjoy the game, our main concern is the impact, or lack thereof, that their form of support can have on not only a game, but also recruiting and for the improvement of the program as a whole. Additionally, tonight, I saw a large number of students that were turned away from entering to watch the game, while many other fans had sold their tickets to the opponent’s fans, allowing them to make a greater presence than even we did at times, and it is something that can be, and should be, changed. 

Please share and reach out to your friends so that we can get this to the Athletic Department, AD Greg Byrne, and even further along! Roll tide!