Well over 450 media credentials were handed out along with thousands of fans, players and coaches allowed into PNC Arena for the NCAA Tournament. Unfortunately, no live mascots were permitted by the NCAA — including the beloved Butler Blue III.
Oh, I’m in Raleigh, and I’ll be here a bit longer too. Just not allowed into the game. #MarchMadness #GoDawgs https://t.co/3fh8BrjIk8
— Butler Blue III (@ButlerBlue3) March 17, 2016
PNC Arena made sure to let fans know they want Butler Blue III in the stadium, but the NCAA put the kibosh on that possibility.
@LDeGeorge @NCAA We would love to have him courtside! Unfortunately, we are under NCAA Tournament protocol.
— PNC Arena (@PNCArena) March 17, 2016
Not only were the Butler faithful deprived of his greatness, but the Raleigh crowd also missed out on the self-described, “Man’s best friend, America’s best hope.”
While it was far from a normal day for Butler Blue, the passionate pup stayed hard at work. He also clearly doesn’t hold a grudge against the fantastic staff at PNC Arena despite the snub.
Much love for the @PNCArena staff. They were great to me. Not their fault it’s NCAA protocol to not let me in. pic.twitter.com/z1kinNVwNW
— Butler Blue III (@ButlerBlue3) March 18, 2016
The bulldog was shut out from the arena, but made his presence felt around the outside portion of PNC. Inside, Butler pulled out a huge win, 71-61, over Texas Tech to advance.
Be sure to follow my @Snapchat today. Posting all sorts of #MarchMadness experiences from Raleigh. #GoDawgs pic.twitter.com/UtK9CrAUjD
— Butler Blue III (@ButlerBlue3) March 17, 2016
@AaronMatas @ButlerBlue3 @PNCArena Yet they allow this guy in #CreepyMuch pic.twitter.com/IjIHm2nKQT
— Collin Perry (@collin_perry) March 17, 2016
Wasn’t allowed in @PNCArena either today, but cheering on @ButlerMBB from home. @ButlerBlue3 #MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/EcTz5vGfSr
— Reno Boyd (@Reno_Boyd) March 17, 2016
Hopefully the rules will change for the Third Round games and Blue’s slobber will grace the Raleigh court. For now, we’ll have to enjoy him from the doghouse of PNC Arena.
Follow NSJ Sports on Twitter.