Kansas, North Carolina clash in a battle of the Blue Bloods
LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV) - Two of the most historic programs in all of college basketball squared off in Lawrence, Kansas, Friday night. The No. 1 Kansas Jayhawks played host to No. 9 North Carolina in a rematch of KU’s most recent national championship victory.
Kansas fans didn’t think North Carolina stood a chance in Allen Fieldhouse.
“It’s the loudest place in America for an indoor game,” said Van Peters, a KU student. “130.4 decibels.”
KU fans were eager to show the nation who the “better” blue blood was on Friday night. Listen to KU students, and they’ll tell you North Carolina can’t compete with Kansas.
“KU is the better blue blood because it has the history of basketball within the program,” Peters said. “Quite honestly, it has the most amount of wins out of any college in America right now.”
“Our crowd is unlike any other,” said Jackson Scribante. “Our team is good. We’ve been consistently good for decades.”
North Carolina fans weren’t shy at Allen Fieldhouse. Some Tar Heels made themselves right at home in Lawrence.
“We are going into enemy territory armed and ready,” said Martin Holland, who traveled from North Carolina for the game. “Go Heels!”
Although fans of a rival elite program, UNC fans told KCTV5 they couldn’t wait to take in the magic inside the “Phog.”
“That was the other part, probably one of the most important parts, was to experience Allen Fieldhouse with all the history and everything going on,” Holland said. “I’m excited to get inside, take pictures, walk around, and enjoy myself.”
KU fans had their doubts that North Carolina would be able to compete for two halves in front of one of the best atmospheres in all of college sports.
“It’s the best environment in college basketball,” Peters said. “There are shirts that say, ‘I’m sorry, everyone loses here.’ You are going to have to fight your way to win at this place.”
No. 1 Kansas beat No. 9 North Carolina 92-89. The Jayhawks are set to take on another blue blood, taking on Michigan State in Atlanta on Tuesday. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.
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