100s of fans celebrate 'Big Dance' berth together

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - A season's worth of anticipation finally pays off for Indiana State Sycamore fans. An estimated thousand people clad in blue and white gathered together to find out just where ISU would be dancing Sunday evening.

It was a spontaneous eruption at the ISU Student Recreation Center when they found out they would have a date with the Syracuse Orange. It ends a decade-long drought from the Big Dance of March Madness and the NCAA tournament.

The excitement started building Sunday afternoon with all sorts of family friendly activities including face painting, free food and free souvenirs.

"I think it's been a lot of fun, great for the kids and the whole family" said Sycamore fan Nina Storey.

The whole family got in free to the Rec. Center.

But the Rec. Center transformed with a 'Let's Dance' banner hanging from the rafters along with jerseys from the team.

The party really got started when the team arrived, walking into a standing ovation. Then they got to work, signing autographs and interacting with their young fans. For fans like Faith Thomas, 6, it was her favorite part.

But then it was time to sit, and wait. Even knowing the Sycamores were guaranteed a spot didn't lessen the tension.

"Oh I think it's much more exciting that watching it at home, to be here with the rest of the fans," said Sycamore fan Ryan Baker.

For the estimated 1,000 fans gathered like Baker, it was worth it.

With a few shouts overheard of "I'm going to Cleveland", it sounds like the party for the fans may just be getting started.