Butler basketball coach Thad Matta was pleased Monday with Evan Haywood's first-half performance in the College Basketball Crown. Haywood started in place of Jahmyl Telfort, who didn't dress but is with the team.
He also was concerned with Utah's fan advantage — emphasis on the fan.
Haywood, a freshman from Brebeuf, made his first start of the season and hit a couple of early 3-pointers, and added another late in the half. His nine first-half points were one short of his season high against Merrimack, as Butler trailed 46-42.
HAYW👌 👌 D pic.twitter.com/4DUpwNfKRN
— Butler Basketball (@ButlerMBB) March 31, 2025
However, a Utah fan in the front row across from the Butler bench caught Matta's eye. That fan was dressed to play and has been active throughout.
"Right now our biggest problem is No. 23 across the bench right now," Matta said. "That fan, he's pretty d--- good at what he's doing."
"Right now our biggest problem is No. 23 across the bench. He's pretty damn good at was he's doing." @NickBahe caught up with Thad Matta about the Utah fan that's causing some pressure for the Bulldogs pic.twitter.com/QYe2zXBkzi
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) March 31, 2025
You can see that fan at the bottom of the screen.
The first JAM of the @CBBCrown 💪 @keanu_28 x @UtahMBBpic.twitter.com/xoG4FrgIE9
— FOX College Hoops (@CBBonFOX) March 31, 2025
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Butler basketball: Evan Haywood gets first start; Thad Matta on Utah fan
