It’s been impossible not to notice and be disappointed in student sections shrinking considerably this basketball season all around SWMO.
Three months into the season, that trend has held true locally even at customary hotbeds the likes of Ozark and Nixa, as well as practically every other school, big and small.
Watch a YouTube video of an Ozark-Nixa game from less than 10 years ago and in comparison it’s absolutely alarming how small student sections have become.
Finally, and even from an opposing point of view, Glendale and its student section proved to be an exception for its home contest Friday against Ozark. The Falcons’ student section was strong in numbers and in its support for the home team, as well as its disdain of the Tigers.
They gave Ozark players good-natured ribbing, particularly at the free-throw line.
“They've always had a good (student section) ever since I've been playing varsity,” Tigers senior guard Hudson Roberts said. “We expected it. We're varsity players. We can't let it factor in the game.”
The Falcons’ faithful likely did play a factor, what with Ozark making a modest 7-of-15 free throws while shooting in the first half in front of Glendale’s student section.
“They were loud and good,” Ozark forward Kylan Pickren said of the Falcons’ student section. “I wish we had more of one like that. It affects you a little bit. It's hard to play with.”
Ozark coach Jayme Donnelly also gave a nod to the Falcons’ student section, relating there was, “a good environment here at Glendale.”
Surprisingly, Glendale’s 61-55 victory versus Ozark was only the Falcons’ second home win this season.
Ozark returns home Monday to host Springfield Central.
