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)
Air Force women capitalize on rare nonconference home game, toppling Portland State
Brent Briggeman
brent-briggeman@denvergazette.com
Updated 21 minutes ago
The taste of victory on this court was the main thing from this night, because the opportunities for those bites are so limited. The Air Force women dispatched of Portland State 65-55 at Clune Arena on Tuesday evening. It probably...
Brent Briggeman
Reporter
nhlrdp
Jim O'Connell
jim.oconnell@gazette.com
Updated 57 minutes ago
Maple Leafs 3, Blues 2 Toronto: William Nylander scored at 4:06 of overtime as underperforming and injury-ravaged Toronto picked up a victory over St. Louis to snap a five-game slide. Jake McCabe and Steven Lorentz also scored for Toronto, which...
Jim O'Connell
Reporter
nbardp
Jim O'Connell
jim.oconnell@gazette.com
Updated 1 hour ago
Pistons 120, Hawks 112 Atlanta: Cade Cunningham returned from injury with 25 points and 10 assists as Detroit won its 11th straight game, over short-handed Atlanta, whose five-game winning streak ended. Jalen Duren added 24 points for the Pistons, who...
Jim O'Connell
Reporter
bkcrdp
Jim O'Connell
jim.oconnell@gazette.com
Updated 42 minutes ago
LEFT SUMMARY AND STORY UNTIL KNOW WHICH FITS BETTER No. 5 Duke 78, No. 24 Kansas New York: Cameron Boozer had 18 points and 10 rebounds, twin brother Cayden made a couple of big second-half baskets and Duke outlasted Kansas,...
Jim O'Connell
Reporter
bkwrdp
Jim O'Connell
jim.oconnell@gazette.com
Updated 2 hours ago
No. 6 Michigan 120, Binghamton 50 Ann Arbor, Mich.: Olivia Olson and Syla Swords each scored 15 points and Michigan beat Binghamton. McKenzie Mathurin had 14 points, Te’Yala Delfosse scored 13, and Ashley Solfilkanich and Macy Brown each added 12...
Jim O'Connell
Reporter
Rockies designate former first-round picks Toglia, Rolison for assignment
Kevin Henry
kgh23@yahoo.com
Updated 4 hours ago
With Tuesday’s deadline to firm up 40-man rosters to protect players from the upcoming Rule 5 draft, the Colorado Rockies designated two former first-round picks for assignment and made a trade that adds a new face to the bullpen mix....
Kevin Henry
Reporter
Cam Johnson’s shot starts to drop for Denver Nuggets | NBA Insider
Vinny Benedetto
vinny-benedetto@denvergazette.com
Updated 4 hours ago
Denver Gazette beat writer Vinny Benedetto takes you around the NBA and inside the Nuggets locker room: NBA Insider There was no moral victory Monday at Ball Arena, but there was a silver, if not gold, lining in the Nuggets’...
Vinny Benedetto
Reporter
Colorado justices address conflict between anti-SLAPP law, state constitution
Michael Karlik
michael-karlik@denvergazette.com
Updated 5 hours ago
Colorado lawmakers in 2019 created a mechanism to quickly dispose of lawsuits over conduct that implicates a person’s First Amendment rights, specifically the rights to free speech and to petition the government. Known as the “anti-SLAPP” law, which stands for “strategic...
Michael Karlik
Reporter
Aurora homeless navigation campus welcomes 176 people on first day
Kyla Pearce
kyla-pearce@denvergazette.com
Updated 5 hours ago
Aurora’s homeless navigation campus opened its doors to 176 homeless people Monday two weeks after its official ribbon cutting. The navigation campus — formerly a Crowne Plaza hotel — at 15500 E. 40th Ave., has been in the works for...
Kyla Pearce
Reporter
Deion Sanders ‘proud’ to see son Shedeur make NFL debut with Cleveland Browns
Tyler King
tyler-king@denvergazette.com
Updated 5 hours ago
BOULDER — For one Sunday afternoon, Deion Sanders got to sit alone in his office and be a proud dad. As Coach Prime returned to campus from the second of two bye weeks for his Colorado team, his son and...
Tyler King
Reporter








