Indiana grad supports UC San Diego at March Madness

Nick Strafford, a 30-year-old from Indiana, dressed as King Triton to support his adopted college basketball team, UC San Diego. He was at the Ball Arena in Denver as the Tritons prepared to play against Michigan in the NCAA Tournament on Friday. This is a special event for UC San Diego, as it marks their first appearance in the tournament after moving up to Division I. Strafford bought the King Triton costume specifically for this occasion. He expressed excitement about the team’s chances, despite being underdogs against Michigan. He noted, “This is our first tournament appearance, so I’m hoping this gets us over the edge.” Before entering the arena, security took away his trident, which he found disappointing. As an alumnus of Indiana University, Strafford decided to support UC San Diego after their impressive victory in the Big West championship. He and his friends wore their "Big West champions" shirts and felt ready to cheer for their team. Strafford described it as a "Cinderella season" and hopes for an upset against Michigan.