The 2024 Big Ten Men’s Basketball Tournament was hosted in Minneapolis to conclude this year’s Big Ten season. I was lucky enough to head to the Target Center to enjoy quarter and semi final play with a few other Gopher students. Here are my thoughts on the Target Center as a host.

First, the atmosphere was unmatched. A central meeting spot for college basketball fans across the country led to great crowds. Now, the nearby teams drew the best and this became evident as the tournament continued. The Gophers were unfortunately eliminated in the first round, but that did not stop Badger fans from sending their team to a finals matchup. This all came to life after they upset Zach Edey, and the one seed Purdue in the game of the tournament. Overall, crowds continued to grow as the rounds continued, leading to packed semi final and final matchups.

Another key to the experience were great halftime performances. This in my opinion was led by the professional Simon Says player. Steve Max was able to get the whole crowd involved with a hilarious performance. Furthermore, halftime included acrobatics, circus, and even a jump roping team. This made it hard to get up from your seat even when play was not going on.

However, when it was time to eat Target Center did not disappoint in options. They offered regular stadium food but also Mexican, Seafood, Chicken, and BBQ. I was lucky enough to try the Chicken Shack. It was a great meal led by the tenders and cheese curds, but the prices were incredibly high throughout the stadium.

Furthermore, the concourse offered a few games to get fans involved. They were presented by Discover and involved shooting hoops, and cutting down the nets. Although they were a bit dumb in my opinion, the kids around the event loved it.

Outside the stadium the city was ready for the event offering many drink deals around the stadium. However, in most cases it seemed that they were more focused on the St. Patrick’s Day holiday than the games.

My biggest complaint for the tournament was that it is made for television. The bands were set on opposite corners in small areas, and the broadcast crew was pretty much on the floor. This then led into hundreds or media members and no students. Getting a ticket on the floor was impossible and the second deck seats made it tough to see shot trajectory. In conclusion it makes sense why it is such a televised event, however it does hinder the viewing experience. 

As for the games, here is a quick run down

Wednesday:

• Maryland beats Rutgers 
• Penn St. beats Michigan

Thursday:

• Michigan St. beat Minnesota
• Wisconsin beat Maryland
• Ohio St. beat Iowa
• Indiana beat Penn St.

Friday:

• Purdue beat Michigan St.
• Wisconsin beat Northwestern
• Illinois beat Ohio St.
• Nebraska beat Indiana

Saturday:

• Wisconsin beat Purdue
• Illinois beat Nebraska

Sunday:

• Illinois beat Wisconsin

Purdue came into the tournament as heavy favorites, but the native switched once they were eliminated by Wisconsin. This opened the door for Illinois as they beat three point shooter Tominaga and Nebraska. When Sunday came around, Illinois knocked off Wisconsin in a high scoring affair. The game was close the whole way but Shannon and Illinois figured it out, sending them to the podium. 

Overall, the tournament was a great event for the city of Minneapolis, and Big Ten Basketball. Target Center’s energy was wild, and people seemed to be enjoying the city. Hopefully this is just the start to more high profile events in the Twin Cities, especially when it comes to college sports.