NEW HAVEN, Conn. (March 12, 2026) — UConn men’s basketball begins its quest for another Big East Tournament title Thursday night, and fans were already boarding trains at New Haven’s Union Station hours before tip-off.
Metro-North is adding extra trains on the New Haven Line this week to accommodate the surge of basketball fans heading to Madison Square Garden in New York City.
Valerie Mendoza of Newington said she was dressed in UConn gear from head to toe and ready for the tournament.
“Said we’re going to go all out, got good tickets, so excited,” Mendoza said. “This is my first time at the tournament, I’ve been to some games at the XL Center. I love UConn — all things UConn, sports, basketball, everything.”
Paul Pesca said he was relieved by the Huskies’ first-round matchup.
“I’m glad they’re not playing Marquette — lost to Marquette Saturday, watched the game, didn’t want to see the same thing over,” Pesca said.
For some fans, the trip to New York for the Big East Tournament is an annual tradition. Kate Wargo of West Suffield said her family has made the train ride a regular part of the postseason.
“It’s a tradition — this is our 3rd year? 4th year coming down on the train,” Wargo said.
Stella and Sarah Frank of Granby said they were looking forward to both the game and the city.
“I love doing all the activities in New York, it’s so much fun,” Stella Frank said. “She might be going to her first game tonight though — we’re looking forward to Xavier, hoping the guys pull out a big win and we’re looking forward to a fun weekend, go Huskies.”
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