The upcoming college basketball season is almost upon us, but things will be different this season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. One major change Mississippi State basketball fans will be facing this year is the limit on how many fans are allowed in Humphrey Coliseum this season.
While light crowds at Mississippi State men’s basketball games have made headlines and been discussed at length, this year there’s going to be a good reason for a lower attendance number: capacity for the Hump will be at 25% this season.
According to a news release from Mississippi State Athletics, the capacity has been set at 25% because of an executive order from Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves.
“The plan is focused on the recommended health and safety protocols put in place by health officials from the Mississippi State Department of Health, Mississippi State University, the city of Starkville, the Southeastern Conference and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention to protect the well-being of all student-athletes, fans and staff.”
Matt Dunaway, Mississippi State Athletics
Fans who do attend Mississippi State basketball games will need to wear a face mask unless they’re eating or drinking. So, the entire time you’re in the Hump, minus the moments you’re putting some food or drinks into your mouth, you’ve gotta mask up, according to the athletic department.
“All fans will be required to wear a face covering, face shield or mask, over the nose and mouth during all times except when eating or drinking while inside Humphrey Coliseum.”
Matt Dunaway, Mississippi State Athletics
MSU’s ticket office is apparently trying to figure out how seats will be assigned to season ticket holders. According to the news release, fans will be informed of their seat location by email.
The athletic department is encouraging season ticket holders to check their email accounts for updates.
According to MSU, students will still be in the lower level seats, but more information about student tickets will be released later.
According to the news release, a total of four seats will be assigned “at priority” for each account. Additional seats will be assigned later in the process, but they will be in another location inside the Hump.
MSU said it is working to accommodate as many season ticket holders as it can. According to the athletic department, fans can opt out of tickets for the upcoming season and will still maintain the ability to renew season tickets for next season.
For more information, read the full news release here.
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