Beech Tree News Network

Like many of you, I’ve watched a few college basketball games. In Kentucky, we tend to take the game pretty seriously. I’m not a big fan, but I enjoy watching a game.
I began to think about why people became fans of certain teams and about what caused them to be loyal to one team instead of another. So, I asked friends and family (all with a Kentucky tie), “What is your favorite college team, and what caused you to be a fan?” Their responses are below.
•    UK because I went to college there.
•    UK basketball team. I lived in Kentucky and went to college there.
•    I am for IU, Louisville, and UE. My kids graduated from IU. Louisville because I don’t like UK. UE because I graduated from there.
•    IU, and it would be the two college graduates I have from there. But, quite honestly, I really don’t give a rat’s patootie.
•    UK all the way! I just was raised around UK basketball.
•    My husband and I have never gotten overly excited about any team. We do cheat and get a little excited when the Sweet 16 gets here.
•    UK basketball because my Daddy raised me to love them.
•    UK, of course! They are a state team with great tradition. However, I do support Louisville and all Kentucky teams when they are not playing UK.
•    I’m not the biggest ball fan, but UK is my favorite – mainly because my husband’s entire family (especially his Mom) have always been huge UK fans. I also like Louisville simply because they are another great Kentucky team.
•    UK! Big blue nation!
•    UK basketball. I was born that way. I like SEC football – no specific team – because football is my true sports love.
•    I don’t follow college sports; but if I did, I suppose I would root for UK in honor of Dad. I have fond memories of growing up surrounded by caps and T-shirts that said UK, and hearing Dad and visitors yell excitedly at the TV when games were on.
•    UT. I’m not a fan because of a win-loss record. I like the history and tradition of UT. Tennessee is the Volunteer State. And, the UT athletes are a team, working together and representing Tennessee as Volunteers. I’m a loyal person and identify with working for the common good.
•    Indiana Hoosiers! I was born to bleed red…. My dad is form Bloomington, IN. I didn’t really have a choice. That’s all I’ve known since birth.
•    UK all the way! I was raised a UK fan. My dad always made us watch it as kids, and I grew to love it.
I think personal connection to or family affiliation with the college plays a part in becoming a team fan. Additionally, the team’s traditions and their winning record appeal to fans. And, when we say, “may the best team win,” we want that team to be the one we’re pulling for.