On a warm night in February, fans of all ages nearly packed the Swinney Center to watch the men’s basketball team take on Denver.
Foam fingers and popcorn donned in the university’s gold lit up the bleachers as the crowd took to their feet each time the Roos scored.
Finding an empty row of bleachers was scarce among families, students and local ticket holders.
“I like to sit upstairs, so I wish there were two sections, one at the bottom and one at the top,” said Kayla Whitaker, a freshman dance major.
With four more years at UMKC, Whitaker looks forward to the idea of an upgrade during her time as a student and athletics attendee.
As talks of a possible new arena sparked interest over the last year, some fans pay more attention than others.
“I’m looking forward to the new gym,” said 25-year season ticket holders Jim and Connie Walsh. “It’s a nice little court the way they have it built.”
Though smaller than most Division I courts, the arena was overflowing with cheers from audience participation and uplifting music from the athletic department’s pep band, The Mob.
Children and adults alike vied for Roo merch as the dance team threw out “tees for threes” whenever a player made a three-point basket.
At the halftime mark, Kansas City was up, and victory seemed likely for the Roos.
While the concession line extended, people were taking selfies with the mascot, kids linked nine foam fingers together and many showed off their moves to the music in hopes of being featured on the big screen.
“It doesn’t really feel like a D1 gym, but like that’s a good thing, you know?” said first-time attendee and University of Springfield alumni, Jake Ingmire. “As a fan, you appreciate it more.”
Along with Ingmire were his friends who had convinced him to go for a fun night out.
“I love it, I think it’s awesome,” said another first-timer to the Swinney Center, Gabe Worthington. “I was impressed, I can’t think of another word, but yeah I’m impressed by the gym.”
The men’s team shut down Denver in a final score of 85 to 71, electrifying the audience as the final buzzer blew. The following Saturday night game resulted in a sold-out venue.
While speculation continues around the possibility of a new arena, one thing is certain: people will show up and show out for the Roos.
