Marquette Golden Eagles get a golden send off to NCAA Tournament

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Marquette Golden Eagles are getting ready for the big dance. On Wednesday, March 20, the men's basketball team packed up their gear and headed to Indianapolis.

The Golden Eagles will take on the Hilltoppers of Western Kentucky. Several students, fans, and parents showered the team with support at the Al McGuire Center during Wednesday's sendoff. 

Some of the players say it's exciting to see fans come out and support the team. They say it's a testament to how much people are rooting for them to do well. 

Head coach Shaka Smart says the team is ready to earn every win. 

“We want to enjoy everything we do. Again, that’s part of the experience of being at Marquette. Our guys are the gladiators, everybody else is the crowd and it’s a special opportunity, for sure," said Smart. 

The Golden Eagles tip off against Western Kentucky on Friday, March 22nd in Indianapolis at 1:00p.m. CT on TBS. 

If Marquette wins, they could face off against Florida, Boise State, or Colorado in the round of 32.