'Brings back a lot of memories': Marquette alumni, fans get in the spirit for Friday's NCAA game
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Marquette University men's basketball team and their fans are entering March Madness with confidence. The team won the Big East Tournament Championship for the first time ever this weekend. Now, they're prepping for their first-round game in the NCAA Tournament against Vermont.
The game airs Friday at 1:45 p.m. on CBS 58.
The excitement continues for same for the tourney-bound women's team, who will play Friday morning.
Despite most students being out for spring break, the Marquette campus Spirit Shop has been busy with fans, stocking up on blue and gold ahead of NCAA round one.
Marquette’s spirit shop is stocked up ahead of NCAA round 1 on Friday! We’re hearing from proud alums on @CBS58 tonight at 4/5! ? pic.twitter.com/EVfsaS2bGp
— Jenna Wells (@JennaWellsNEWS) March 13, 2023
"I'm heading to Columbus and had to get some new swag," said Chris Marcoux, a Marquette alum.
"It's good energy. Everybody's coming in before the game," said Liliana Caban, Marquette freshman and Spirit Shop employee.
Most shoppers CBS 58 saw Monday were MU alumni, ecstatic to see their team shine.
"We've had great coaches, great teams, it's a great tradition here in Milwaukee," said alum, Rocky Marcoux.
"We waited a long time for this," said his wife, Chris.
The excitement is extra special for those who remember the team's first-ever NCAA win.
"I actually was a freshman in 1976-77, so I was here when we won the national championship, which was just extraordinary," Rocky Marcoux said. "It brings back a lot of memories."
Marcoux truly believes this team has a chance for another trophy.
"They're going to need that trust, they're going to need each other's backing, they're going to have to have each other's back, and I think they've got all the ingredients," Marcoux said.
Rocky and Chris Marcoux are driving seven hours to Columbus on Friday to see the game.
"It's just special to be there in person. You're part of the excitement, you're part of the energy," Rocky said.
"Just can't wait, got to show our Marquette spirit," Chris said.
They're joining thousands of fans ready to spread their Golden Eagle pride, as this historic season continues.
"Go Marquette, let's go all the way to Houston, and let's take home our second national championship," Marcoux said.