In a move that aligns with a growing trend in collegiate sports, fans of Tar Heel basketball can expect to bring a new element of cheer to the stands this season. The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill has announced that beer and wine will be available for purchase at both the Smith Center and Carmichael Arena during basketball events, according to CBS 17. With doors set to open to a more libatious atmosphere, the Smith Center will start serving alcoholic beverages during the men’s season opener against Elon on November 4, while sales will kick off at Carmichael Arena later in November.
UNC is seeking to tap into the additional revenue stream that comes with alcohol sales, which is not only expected to be a hit among attendees but also to support a new financial model that includes revenue-sharing with student-athletes. Rest assured, sales are to responsibly end once three-quarters of the event is complete. This is, of course, an effort to sustain a safe and enjoyable environment for all fans. "Many of our fans have asked for us to expand alcohol sales to our indoor events, and after five years, we think the time is right,” Bubba Cunningham, UNC's athletic director, said in a statement obtained by ABC11. UNC expects to better align themselves with other national sporting events, including NCAA championships and ACC tournaments, where alcohol is readily available.
Consistent with state law and UNC's focus on responsible service, attendees can look forward to buying up to two alcoholic beverages per transaction — a policy that applies across the board. The school plans to deploy up to 20 locations at the Smith Center and up to six at Carmichael, varying with the event, to serve beer and wine. Student sections, meanwhile, will be closely watched to ensure compliance with the rules, as reported by The News & Observer.
While the prospect of available libations may enhance the game-day experience, it is crucial to recognize the balance UNC is striving to strike. Careful monitoring and controlled sales timing aim to foster not only an exciting but also a safe sporting atmosphere. The end of alcohol sales will mark 10 minutes before the conclusion of men’s basketball games, and at the beginning of the fourth quarter for women’s basketball. With the women’s team set to open their season against Charleston Southern on November 4, UNC fans can brace themselves to soon toast their team's efforts from the comfort of Carmichael's stands.
