I attended my first Duke basketball game on October 29, and it is safe to say that I was hooked! As I mentioned in my blog about Duke football, I came from a great undergraduate program which did not have a strong athletics program. Therefore, I didn’t really know what to expect at Duke, but I knew that Duke basketball is consistently known as one of the best programs in world. I also knew that Duke basketball fans are some of the most passionate and intense in the world! After attending four games now, I can say with 100% assurance that I have never seen more passion for a sport.

Graduate students have the opportunity to sit behind the backboards on either side of the stadium and the fan experience is crazy. There is a reason they call us “Cameron Crazies.” We make the experience interactive. From the moment the opponent takes the court, we have unique chants, body movements, and distractions to help Duke win the game. After 4 games, I am still learning all the chants and moves!

Each Duke fan in that stadium truly believes they have an impact on the game and they take their job seriously. We don’t sit for the game (so bring your most comfortable shoes!). In addition, you’ll see an amazing variety of celebrities at the games. Current and former NBA players, current NBA coaches, and recently drafted Duke alumni are common place. In the four games I have attended, I’ve seen Nolan Smith, Kyrie Irving, Stephen Curry, Dell Curry, Doc Rivers, and Mike D’Antoni!

The Duke basketball experience is incredible and I am so excited for the rest of the season! Go Blue Devils!