TUCSON, Ariz. — For 35 years in a row, Arizona Basketball has led the PAC-12 in attendance, but what happens when fans can’t attend?
Arizona basketball's head coach Sean Miller spoke to members of the media Thursday about how McKale Center will be much quieter this season, at least at the beginning due to COVID-19.
"I feel incredibly bad for our players first and foremost," Miller said. "Arizona basketball has used its home crowd to its advantage as much as any team in the nation."
The atmosphere of McKale Center has always been a crucial part of Arizona's success, and it has played a huge role in recruiting in recent years, according to Miller.
"Playing in front of 14,000 fans constantly. It’s a big reason you want to come be a part of our program," Miller said.
As COVID-19 cases continue to linger in the state, fans will have to catch the games on television.
"I feel bad for our fans. They love college basketball. They’re used to coming to McKale during the wintertime, and to not have that opportunity is going to be different as well," Miller said.
