Tulsa NCAA Madness Kicks Into High Gear With Single-Session Tickets

Dan Bewley, News On 6

TULSA, Oklahoma -- The madness in Tulsa is only a few days away. The BOK Center is set to host one of the biggest downtown sporting events in city history.

It's going to be a party downtown come Friday. There's even a tent for fans who want to soak in the action but not go to the games.

At first, fans had to buy tickets to both sessions. That changed Wednesday morning, and people were in line before the box office opened. They wasted no time for a chance at tickets to the NCAA tournament.

"It's great, didn't expect to have this many people in line so looks good; off to a good start," said John Bolton, general manager of the BOK Center.

The NCAA and BOK Center released game tickets to the individual sessions Wednesday morning. The price of $79 plus tax gets you a ticket to two games, either Friday morning, Friday evening, or Sunday afternoon.

3/15/2011 Related Story: Single-Session Tickets To NCAA Tournament In Tulsa Available Wednesday

"That makes it more tolerable for sure," said Tulsa resident Steve Brown.

Vince Pritchett wanted to watch his team but didn't want pay the more than $230 for both sessions.

"Pretty exciting," said Pritchett, a Kansas fan. "Me and my father are going to come. We've never come to anything like this so it ought to be pretty fun."

The single session ticket came in handy for Carrin Fuller and Margaret McDowell. The KU and Texas fans have to work Friday and took the chance their teams will make it to Sunday.

"We got them," said Kansas fan Carrin Fuller.

3/16/2011 Related Story: BOK Center Open To Public Thursday For NCAA Practices

"We're going to the Kansas game and the Texas game Sunday," said Texas fan Margaret McDowell.

"Yes, Sunday. Cause they're going to win Friday nigh, so Sunday we're definitely going to be here," Fuller said.

Across the street, the big tent is ready and preps are underway for those who don't have a game ticket.

"So far it has been, yeah, it's been a lot of work but it's going to be worth it," said Brian Fontaine with McNellie's Group.

There's no charge for the Downtown Basketball Bash with big screen TVs and some of Tulsa's finest food.

"They're bringing their competition smoker from Rib Crib, and Mazzio's is bringing their big catering truck," Fontaine said.

Big time, indeed, as Tulsa gets set for the national stage.

"It's a great week for us. I mean, the national TV exposure not only for the building but for the city is truly amazing," said John Bolton BOK Center general manager.

Single session tickets will be available throughout the weekend.

The BOK box office will be open Thursday and Saturday morning at 10 a.m. and Friday at 8:30 a.m. Sunday's hours are still to be determined.