The University of Cincinnati men's basketball team will have more fans inside Fifth Third Arena for its final three home games this season.
The state of Ohio on Tuesday granted Cincinnati an attendance variance to allow 9% capacity, or about 1,135 fans, inside the 12,012-seat arena.
"Very appreciative of the work (UC Director of Athletics) John Cunningham and his staff provided in working with the state in regards to the variance," UC coach John Brannen told The Enquirer. "Our campus and athletic department has done a phenomenal job in keeping our students and athletes as safe as possible during this time. I would urge all 1,135 people to be as loud as possible this weekend."
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The Bearcats (7-8, 5-5 AAC) have played each of their seven home games this season in front of approximately 300 fans.
The variance request is similar to the one the state approved earlier this month for Xavier at the Musketeers' Cintas Center.
Ohio approves Xavier's variance request, more fans allowed in Cintas Center
Both Cincinnati and Xavier submitted their requests in the fall.
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Fans inside Fifth Third Arena will sit socially distant in the upper bowl and be required to wear masks except when eating or drinking.
Cincinnati's next home game is scheduled for Friday against Tulane. Tipoff is set for 4 p.m. on ESPN+.
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