GREEN BAY, Wis. (WFRV) – The Bar on Lime Kiln Road was a sea of green on Friday night.
UW-Green Bay women’s basketball fans gathered to watch their Phoenix take on Minnesota in the first round of the NCAA tournament. Fans who spoke with Local 5 News said they were confident going into the game that the No. 13 seeded Phoenix could pull out a victory.
For most of the game, it looked like the Phoenix might pull the big upset. They led after three quarters, but got outscored 30-9 in the final frame en route to a 75-58 loss at the hands of the Golden Gophers.
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“It is sad that it’s over, but I’m very proud of making the NCAA and couldn’t be prouder (of this team),” UW-Green Bay superfan Paula McDonald told Local 5 News after the game.
The Phoenix women haven’t won an NCAA tournament game since 2012. However, fans believe that bright days are ahead for this program.
“It’s been a great year, the two years that head coach Kayla (Karius) has been here have been exceptional,” UW-Green Bay fan Bruce VandenPlas told Local 5 News. “Kept the ball rolling, raised the bar again. The program is growing by leaps and bounds every year.”
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The Bar on Lime Kiln Road has been a popular spot for watch parties for important Phoenix games over the years. Friday night was no different with the UW-Green Bay faithful showing up in force to support their team.
“It’s a wonderful atmosphere here, really proud of all the fans who showed up for Green Bay,” McDonald said.
