March Madness, St. Patrick’s Day draws crowds and boost business downtown
Christian Murdock/Denver Gazette
Tom Hellauer tom.hellauer@denvergazette.com
Crowds came out to Auraria and other neighborhoods surrounding Ball Arena for March Madness and St. Patrick’s Day, keeping the area buzzing throughout Friday.
Across the street from Ball, seas of fans in red NC State gear carefully wove their way through the green-wearing Baylor fans and St. Patrick’s Day revelers.
The games will bring in an estimated $4 to $8 million in revenue for Denver, according to the Denver Sports Commission, CBS Colorado reported.
“It’s been awesome, a lot of new people coming in who we hadn’t seen before this year… We have three levels in this bar and we will be packed to the brim,” Dahlas Babnick, bar manager of Pour House on Market, said.

Baylor Bears guard Keyonte George (1) fights UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Calvin Wishart (10) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos forward Evans Kipruto (12) dunks the ball over Baylor Bears forward Flo Thamba (0) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears mascot Bruiser cheers during a timeout in the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Cole Anderson (4) goes up for a shot against Baylor Bears forward Jalen Bridges (11) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) goes up for as shot against Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) left, and forward Caleb Lohner (33) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) goes up for a shot against Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (10) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos forward Miles Norris (5) dunks the ball over Baylor Bears forward Jalen Bridges (11) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (10) drives toward the basket as UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) defends during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears forward Jalen Bridges (11) looks into the crowd during a timeout in the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) and forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) battle UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears mascot Bruiser plays a little air guitar during a timeout during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against UC Santa Barbara at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) battles UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) fouls Baylor Bears forward Josh Ojianwuna (15) as he tries to dunk the ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) drives toward the basket against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) falls to the floor after an injury against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Andrew Otelsberg, center with wig, Sarah Sisk, second from right, Katie Phillips, right, and the rest of the North Carolina State Pep Band cheer for their Wolfpack during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against the Creighton Bluejays at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Denver Gazette, Christian Murdock)

North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Casey Morsell (14) gets a layup past Creighton Bluejays forward Arthur Kaluma (24) and center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) dunks during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

North Carolina State head coach Kevin Keatts yells past an official during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

North Carolina State Wolfpack forward D.J. Burns Jr. (30) looks up to the board after call during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) is greeted by teammates after a dunk during a first-round college basketball game against South Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Terquavion Smith (0) blocks a shot by Creighton Bluejays guard Baylor Scheierman (55) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton head coach Greg McDermott discusses a call with an official during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) gets a hug from Creighton Bluejays guard Baylor Scheierman (55) during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Terquavion Smith (0) is comforted by a teammate after a loss to Creighton during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton Bluejays forward Arthur Kaluma (24) blocks a shot by North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Casey Morsell (14) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Terquavion Smith (0) dunks over Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) grabs his ankle after attempting to block a North Carolina State player during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton junior center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) dunks against North Carolina State during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette

Creighton sophomore forward Arthur Kaluma (24) attempts a shot over North Carolina State forward DJ Burns Jr. (30 during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette

North Carolina State fifth year band member Sarah Sisk looks up while playing at a break during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette

Creighton senior guard Baylor Scheierman (55) gets past North Carolina State for a layup during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette

Creighton freshman forward Mason Miller (13) and North Carolina State guard Jack Clark (5) reach for a loose ball during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette

Creighton freshman forward Mason Miller (13) and North Carolina State guard Jack Clark (5) crash out of bounds after competing for a loose ball during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette

Grand Canyon University sophomore Grace Ann Stewart, left, and others in the student section taunt Gonzaga players as they head to the locker room at halftime of a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Nolan Hickman (11) squares off with Grand Canyon Antelopes guard Chance McMillian (2) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Drew Timme (2) dunks off a rebound against Grand Canyon University during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Grand Canyon Antelopes forward Gabe McGlothan (30) has a shot blocked by Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Julian Strawther (0) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette

TCU Horned Frogs guard Mike Miles Jr. (1) draws a foul while going up against Arizona State University defenders during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) takes a free throw during a first-round college basketball game against Arizona State University in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) has a three pointer blocked by Arizona State Sun Devils forward Alonzo Gaffney (32) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs forward Emanuel Miller (2) keeps the ball inbounds after stealing it from Arizona State Sun Devils guard Desmond Cambridge Jr. (4) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Arizona State Sun Devils guard Frankie Collins (10) passes forward while falling during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

The TCU Horned Frogs and Arizona State Sun Devils mascots meet at mid-court during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) defends against Arizona State Sun Devils guard Desmond Cambridge Jr. (4) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Arizona State Sun Devils forward Alonzo Gaffney (32) asked an official for clarification during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Arizona State Sun Devils guard Desmond Cambridge Jr. (4) lays on the court after losing the ball during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs guard Mike Miles Jr. (1) pauses as his team is down late I the second half against the Arizona State Sun Devils during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Arizona State Sun Devils guard DJ Horne (0) reacts after scoring against the TCU Horned Frogs during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs forward JaKobe Coles (21) score the final points to put his team ahead late in the second half against the Arizona State Sun Devils during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Arizona State Sun Devils guard Frankie Collins (10) dunks over TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Arizona State Sun Devils guard Frankie Collins (10) reacts after dunking over TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Arizona State Sun Devils guard Devan Cambridge (35) dunks during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs guard Mike Miles Jr. (1) blocks a shot by Arizona State Sun Devils forward Warren Washington (22) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

TCU Horned Frogs forward JaKobe Coles (21) blocks a shot by Arizona State Sun Devils forward Jamiya Neal (5) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Baylor Bears guard Keyonte George (1) fights UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Calvin Wishart (10) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos forward Evans Kipruto (12) dunks the ball over Baylor Bears forward Flo Thamba (0) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears mascot Bruiser cheers during a timeout in the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Cole Anderson (4) goes up for a shot against Baylor Bears forward Jalen Bridges (11) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) goes up for as shot against Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) left, and forward Caleb Lohner (33) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) goes up for a shot against Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (10) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos forward Miles Norris (5) dunks the ball over Baylor Bears forward Jalen Bridges (11) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (10) drives toward the basket as UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) defends during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears forward Jalen Bridges (11) looks into the crowd during a timeout in the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) and forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) battle UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears mascot Bruiser plays a little air guitar during a timeout during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against UC Santa Barbara at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) battles UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) fouls Baylor Bears forward Josh Ojianwuna (15) as he tries to dunk the ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) drives toward the basket against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) falls to the floor after an injury against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette

Andrew Otelsberg, center with wig, Sarah Sisk, second from right, Katie Phillips, right, and the rest of the North Carolina State Pep Band cheer for their Wolfpack during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against the Creighton Bluejays at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Denver Gazette, Christian Murdock)

North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Casey Morsell (14) gets a layup past Creighton Bluejays forward Arthur Kaluma (24) and center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) dunks during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

North Carolina State head coach Kevin Keatts yells past an official during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

North Carolina State Wolfpack forward D.J. Burns Jr. (30) looks up to the board after call during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)

Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) is greeted by teammates after a dunk during a first-round college basketball game against South Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
PHOTOS: NCAA March Madness – First Round
Highlights from the regionals tournament in Denver.
Baylor Bears guard Keyonte George (1) fights UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Calvin Wishart (10) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) goes up for as shot against Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) left, and forward Caleb Lohner (33) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (10) drives toward the basket as UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) defends during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) and forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) battle UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears mascot Bruiser plays a little air guitar during a timeout during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against UC Santa Barbara at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) battles UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) fouls Baylor Bears forward Josh Ojianwuna (15) as he tries to dunk the ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) drives toward the basket against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) falls to the floor after an injury against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Andrew Otelsberg, center with wig, Sarah Sisk, second from right, Katie Phillips, right, and the rest of the North Carolina State Pep Band cheer for their Wolfpack during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against the Creighton Bluejays at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Denver Gazette, Christian Murdock)
North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Casey Morsell (14) gets a layup past Creighton Bluejays forward Arthur Kaluma (24) and center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) dunks during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
North Carolina State head coach Kevin Keatts yells past an official during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
North Carolina State Wolfpack forward D.J. Burns Jr. (30) looks up to the board after call during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) is greeted by teammates after a dunk during a first-round college basketball game against South Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Terquavion Smith (0) blocks a shot by Creighton Bluejays guard Baylor Scheierman (55) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton head coach Greg McDermott discusses a call with an official during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) gets a hug from Creighton Bluejays guard Baylor Scheierman (55) during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Terquavion Smith (0) is comforted by a teammate after a loss to Creighton during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton Bluejays forward Arthur Kaluma (24) blocks a shot by North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Casey Morsell (14) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Terquavion Smith (0) dunks over Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) grabs his ankle after attempting to block a North Carolina State player during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton freshman forward Mason Miller (13) and North Carolina State guard Jack Clark (5) crash out of bounds after competing for a loose ball during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette
Grand Canyon University sophomore Grace Ann Stewart, left, and others in the student section taunt Gonzaga players as they head to the locker room at halftime of a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
The Grand Canyon University student section cheers during a first-round college basketball game against Gonzaga in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Nolan Hickman (11) squares off with Grand Canyon Antelopes guard Chance McMillian (2) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Drew Timme (2) dunks off a rebound against Grand Canyon University during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Grand Canyon University and Gonzaga play a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Grand Canyon Antelopes forward Gabe McGlothan (30) has a shot blocked by Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Julian Strawther (0) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
- Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette
TCU Horned Frogs guard Mike Miles Jr. (1) draws a foul while going up against Arizona State University defenders during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) takes a free throw during a first-round college basketball game against Arizona State University in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) has a three pointer blocked by Arizona State Sun Devils forward Alonzo Gaffney (32) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs forward Emanuel Miller (2) keeps the ball inbounds after stealing it from Arizona State Sun Devils guard Desmond Cambridge Jr. (4) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Arizona State Sun Devils guard Frankie Collins (10) passes forward while falling during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
The TCU Horned Frogs and Arizona State Sun Devils mascots meet at mid-court during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) defends against Arizona State Sun Devils guard Desmond Cambridge Jr. (4) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Arizona State Sun Devils forward Alonzo Gaffney (32) asked an official for clarification during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Arizona State Sun Devils guard Desmond Cambridge Jr. (4) lays on the court after losing the ball during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs guard Mike Miles Jr. (1) pauses as his team is down late I the second half against the Arizona State Sun Devils during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Arizona State Sun Devils guard DJ Horne (0) reacts after scoring against the TCU Horned Frogs during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs forward JaKobe Coles (21) score the final points to put his team ahead late in the second half against the Arizona State Sun Devils during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Arizona State Sun Devils guard Frankie Collins (10) dunks over TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Arizona State Sun Devils guard Frankie Collins (10) reacts after dunking over TCU Horned Frogs forward Chuck O’Bannon Jr. (5) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Arizona State Sun Devils guard Devan Cambridge (35) dunks during a first-round college basketball game against the TCU Horned Frogs in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs guard Mike Miles Jr. (1) blocks a shot by Arizona State Sun Devils forward Warren Washington (22) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
TCU Horned Frogs forward JaKobe Coles (21) blocks a shot by Arizona State Sun Devils forward Jamiya Neal (5) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Baylor Bears guard Keyonte George (1) fights UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Calvin Wishart (10) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) goes up for as shot against Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) left, and forward Caleb Lohner (33) during the first half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Adam Flagler (10) drives toward the basket as UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) defends during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) and forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) battle UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears mascot Bruiser plays a little air guitar during a timeout during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against UC Santa Barbara at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) battles UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Ajay Mitchell (13) for a loose ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
UC Santa Barbara Gauchos guard Josh Pierre-Louis (1) fouls Baylor Bears forward Josh Ojianwuna (15) as he tries to dunk the ball during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears guard Dale Bonner (3) drives toward the basket against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Baylor Bears forward Jonathan Tchamwa Tchatchoua (23) falls to the floor after an injury against the UC Santa Barbara Gauchos during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver. Baylor defeated UC Santa Barbara 74-56. (The Gazette, Christian Murdock)
- Christian Murdock/The Gazette
Andrew Otelsberg, center with wig, Sarah Sisk, second from right, Katie Phillips, right, and the rest of the North Carolina State Pep Band cheer for their Wolfpack during the second half of a first round of the Men’s NCAA Tournament Friday, March 17, 2023, against the Creighton Bluejays at Ball Arena in Denver. (The Denver Gazette, Christian Murdock)
North Carolina State Wolfpack guard Casey Morsell (14) gets a layup past Creighton Bluejays forward Arthur Kaluma (24) and center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) during a first-round college basketball game in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) dunks during a first-round college basketball game against North Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
North Carolina State head coach Kevin Keatts yells past an official during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
North Carolina State Wolfpack forward D.J. Burns Jr. (30) looks up to the board after call during a first-round college basketball game against Creighton in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Creighton Bluejays center Ryan Kalkbrenner (11) is greeted by teammates after a dunk during a first-round college basketball game against South Carolina State in the NCAA Tournament on Friday, March 17, 2023, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colo. (Timothy Hurst/Denver Gazette)
Truck driver hospitalized, United flight deplaned after Denver airport crash
Michael Braithwaite
michael.braithwaite@gazette.com
Updated 1 minute ago
The driver of a de-icing truck was hospitalized and a United Airlines flight was deplaned after a crash at Denver International Airport Friday morning. Amid heavy snowfall, United Airlines flight 605 headed to Nashville hit the truck while leaving the...
Michael Braithwaite
Reporter
Procedural clash exposes rift on Denver school board
Nicole C. Brambila nico.brambila@denvergazette.com
nico.brambila@denvergazette.com
Updated 5 minutes ago
The coalition that restored the president’s gavel to Denver school board Director Xóchitl Gaytán showed cracks Thursday, with board members trading accusations during its regular meeting and arguing over procedure while the district’s general counsel flipped through Robert’s Rules of...
Highly-rated distillery expands to another mountain town with new spot in historic barn
Spencer McKee
spencer@outtherecolorado.com
Updated 31 minutes ago
Tucked on the northwest edge of Steamboat Springs is the highly-rated Mythology Distillery, an award-winning spot perhaps best known for its whiskey offerings. As of March 6, an in-person tasting experience of the company’s product is now more accessible for...
Spencer McKee
Reporter
No. 7 Denver Pioneers host Miami to open NCHC tournament at Magness Arena | Colorado Sunshine
Paul Klee
paul.klee@gazette.com
Updated 16 hours ago
Where good news shines The No. 7 Denver Pioneers are playing their best hockey at the right time. Denver enters the Frozen Faceoff quarterfinals against Miami (Ohio) having won five straight games with a goal differential in that stretch of...
Paul Klee
Reporter
Legal war over Trump tariffs still raging despite Supreme Court ruling
Jack Birle, Washington Examiner
jack.birle.washington.examiner@gazetteedit.wpenginepowered.com
Updated 1 hour ago
The war in the courts over tariff refunds took a key step forward this week as President Donald Trump’s newly implemented tariffs are facing a new legal challenge, less than a month after the Supreme Court struck down Trump’s sweeping...
Jack Birle, Washington Examiner
Reporter
New ‘state wildlife area’ coming to Colorado thanks to acquisition of 3,314 pristine acres
Spencer McKee
spencer@outtherecolorado.com
Updated 2 hours ago
A new state wildlife is set to be established in Colorado, thanks to the recent acquisition of “pristine” habitat spanning Gilpin and Boulder counties by Colorado Parks and Wildlife and The Conservation Fund. Per a March 6 press release from...
Spencer McKee
Reporter
Colorado Rapids announce downtown Denver soccer celebration
Maren Prince
maren.prince@denvergazette.com
Updated 1 hour ago
Downtown Denver visitors have an opportunity to play, watch and celebrate soccer this summer. The Colorado Rapids is teaming up with the Downtown Denver Partnership to create an “immersive fan zone experience” focused on connecting the local soccer community with the global...
Maren Prince
Reporter
Cherry Hills officer shot alleged thief during medical exam, department said
Michael Braithwaite
michael.braithwaite@gazette.com
Updated 2 hours ago
A Cherry Hills Village police officer shot an alleged thief Thursday evening after after the suspect attacked the officer during a medical exam, according to a department post on X. After arresting the suspect on suspicion of an auto theft...
Michael Braithwaite
Reporter
The ancient, amazing lives of sandhill cranes, Colorado’s beloved visitors back for seasonal stop
Seth Boster
seth-boster@denvergazette.com
Updated 12 minutes ago
In Colorado’s San Luis Valley, Jenny Nehring longs for this time of year, when her eyes look to the big sky and the big birds flying en masse against the Sangre de Cristo peaks, snow-capped and glowing from the rising...
Seth Boster
Reporter
Which players should Broncos draft, extend and sign? | Friday Faceoff
Paul Klee
paul.klee@gazette.com
Updated 16 hours ago
Friday Faceoff: As NFL free agency opens Monday, which players should the Broncos draft, extend and sign this offseason? Paul Klee, sports editor Answer: Draft LB Anthony Hill Jr., extend CB Ja’Quan McMillian, sign RB Travis Etienne Was it pure...
Paul Klee
Reporter








