Texas Tech Fans Lose It After Final Four Win, Police in Riot Gear Called - Report
Fans in Lubbock, Texas celebrated Texas Tech’s win over Michigan State Saturday night to reach the NCAA’s finals — but some went a little too far.
Celebrations turned to reported acts of vandalism as several cars were toppled over, a couch was set on fire, and scooters were set ablaze, according to KTRK-13 in Houston.
Record breaking 4 cars flipped tonight in Lubbock texas pic.twitter.com/NKKUw4O3lN
— Texas Tech Probs (@TexasTechProb) April 7, 2019
Police in riot gear were called in to disperse the crowds, using tear gas, according to several news outlets, including KCBD-TV.
The Lubbock police are starting to make their way down Broadway and break up the activity. pic.twitter.com/zSKpRJlVtt
— Eric Kelly (@EricKellyTV) April 7, 2019
The City of Lubbock issued a statement at 12:38 a.m,. local time, according to KCBD.
“After the Texas Tech Men’s Basketball team defeated Michigan State in a NCAA Championship Final Four game, hundreds of fans gathered on Broadway, near University. The crowd engaged in extremely dangerous, and disappointing, behavior including vandalizing property,” city officials said in a statement.
“We are proud, and excited, for Texas Tech, but behavior like this will not be tolerated. We want Red Raider fans to support the team and celebrate lawfully and responsibly. We are on the national stage so make Lubbock proud,” the statement continued.
The Lubbock Police also posted a statement on Facebook.
“Alright folks, we are just as happy that Texas Tech WRECKED Michigan State, but we are asking people to leave the Broadway area near University. We have multiple officers in the area clearing the scene,” Lubbock Police said.
“The large crowds are causing a safety concern. We are also encouraging drivers to avoid the area as some of the roads have been blocked,” Lubbock Police added.
Celebrations got out of hand after @TexasTech punched their ticket to the @NCAA National Championship game. Police used tear gas to break up chaotic celebrations that escalated into a riot overnight. Follow the link to see much more of what happened –> https://t.co/X9nadBL2VN pic.twitter.com/HD4zlNTsfM
— KTBS (@KTBS) April 7, 2019
There was no information about arrests, injuries, or property damage made public, reported Fox News.
The Lubbock police are starting to make their way down Broadway and break up the activity. pic.twitter.com/zSKpRJlVtt
— Eric Kelly (@EricKellyTV) April 7, 2019
Most fans were just reveling in the victory, singing songs and chanting in support of the home town team.
“We’ve had a long drought with Texas Tech basketball,” Ryan Burns, a Lubbock native and Texas Tech graduate, told the Lubbock Avalanche-Journal. “Three years with Coach Chris Beard, a savior to Lubbock, Texas. He came here three years ago, and promised us a Final Four appearance. 2019 champions, here we come.”
Texas Tech beat Michigan State 61-51 to earn its first trip to the NCAA Men’s basketball championship game in school history. Matt Mooney led the Red Raiders with 21 points while Jarrett Culver added 10 points.
April 6 will forever be known as Matt Mooney Day in Lubbock.pic.twitter.com/u5XexyaT3Q
— Sporting News (@sportingnews) April 7, 2019
Texas Tech takes on Virginia in the finals Monday night.
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