AUSTIN, Texas — Texas’ deep run in March Madness is paying off beyond the court, with Austin bars and businesses reporting a surge in customers as both the Longhorns men’s and women’s teams advance to the Sweet 16.
Businesses say the tournament games have brought more people through the door, especially with the women’s team playing nearby at Moody Center this weekend.
At Scholz Garten, one of the closest bars to Moody Center, assistant manager Creighton McFarlin said the crowds have helped offset what is typically a slower stretch during spring break.
“This one has really made up our weekend,” McFarlin said. “This was painted in burnt orange about 15 minutes ago.”
McFarlin said the boost has been significant for workers and the broader area.
“It’s huge for staff, it’s huge for the community, it’s incredible to have a busy day like we are having today. I was looking at the numbers, we did our best day all week,” he said.
ALSO: One person dead, police investigating homicide in E Austin near Mueller
Fans around town said they believe both teams can keep the run going.
“I think they can go all the way, to tell you the truth. They got the momentum going. The guys won yesterday. We’re just trying to keep that going,” said Valerie Gonzalez and Jose Valencia, Austinites. “They’re doing their thing. The girls are doing their thing.”
On the Drag, 1972 Pub, a women’s sports bar, also reported increased business even as many students were away from campus.
“Sunday afternoons, they’re pretty steady. Not quite the gigantic mass that it usually is for the tournament. So yeah, definitely just a huge uptick,” said Peeps Barlow, the pub’s front-of-house manager.
The Longhorns will try to keep the momentum going with the men’s team playing again on Thursday. The women’s team is set to play Saturday in Forth Worth.