Tucson is anticipating significant crowds this weekend as the University of Arizona men’s basketball team heads to the Final Four. Local bars and restaurants are preparing for wall-to-wall attendance, with many already experiencing a surge in reservation requests.

Corbett's Prepares for Game Day Rush

Corbett’s is already feeling the impact, with marketing director Stefanie Shirley reporting a constant stream of calls for table reservations. “We were getting calls like every--I felt like 5 minutes, and it was just everyone wanting a table for the game,” Shirley said.

The restaurant is focused on maximizing space and ensuring optimal viewing angles for all patrons. “We’re just trying to make sure how we organize our tables, how many more do we add in and everything just to make sure that we can accommodate,” Shirley explained. Corbett's will also offer food and drink specials and encourages fans to book reservations for the potential championship game on Monday.

Downtown Venues Expand Capacity

Downtown establishments like Playground and HUB are also expanding their capacity to accommodate the expected influx of fans. General manager Michael Fahey stated, “We’ll have TVs on the roof set up. Weather should be awesome. Audio in all three spaces, both the roof, the bar downstairs and the patio. And then we’ll have the game on inside HUB as well.”

Fan Plans and Police Preparations

Fans are already securing their viewing locations. Emma Rush, a Tucson native, plans to watch at No Anchovies on University Boulevard, exclaiming, “Go Cats!” Lukas Habelt, a U of A sophomore, intends to visit Pete's Illegal Pete's, Gentle Ben's, and Deck Days to cheer on the team.

The Tucson Police Department is increasing its presence in key areas. Sergeant Beau Wilson announced, “There will be enhanced law enforcement presence on University Blvd, 4th Ave, and Congress on Saturday evening in preparation for the game.” Officers from the Community Network Team will be handing out “Bear Down with Pride” bracelets to fans.

University Avenue is likely to be closed to vehicular traffic, with exceptions for pedestrians, bicyclists, the streetcar, and food deliveries. Parking meters will be hooded on Saturday morning, and barricades are planned to be in place a few hours before game time.

Where to Watch the Game

  • McKale Center at ALKEME Arena - Gates open at 4:30 p.m.
  • Corbett’s - 340 N. 6th Ave.
  • Playground & HUB - 278 E. Congress St.
  • Hotel Congress Plaza - 311 E. Congress St.
  • The Monica - 40 E. Congress St., Ste. 150
  • Pockets Pool & Pub - 1062 S. Wilmot Rd.
  • Gentle Ben’s - 865 E. University Blvd.
  • Illegal Pete’s - 876 E. University Blvd.
  • No Anchovies - 870 E. University Blvd.
  • O’Malley’s Bar & Grill - 247 N. 4th Ave.

The University of Arizona men’s basketball team will play Michigan in the Final Four on Saturday, April 4, with tip-off at 5:49 p.m.