How the NCAA Is Using Fan Cutouts in March Madness

Recently, fan cutouts have become a typical sight in sporting events, and the NCAA announced they’ll also be providing a fan cutout program that will allow college basketball fans to be a part of the scenery in the Men’s Final Four in Indianapolis. Through these large cardboard cutouts of fans, the NCAA has innovated a new way to maintain a Memoriam of March Madness without putting people at risk of getting sick. 

The cutouts will be scattered among the limited fan seating available for the Final Four and Championship games. Last month, the NCAA announced that the Indianapolis venues could host up to 25 percent of participants, essential staff and family members of players, and a reduced number of fans. The decision was made in conjunction with state and local health authorities.

The NCAA said that due to limited capacity, the NCAA said that March Madness “won’t be packed with quite as many passionate fans cheering on their team.” Thus with the cutouts, which show a picture of a fan in place of a real-life one, it will remind how many people support the teams from the sanctity of their homes. 

In a recent release about the program, the cutouts were described as a fan’s “opportunity to be represented and make their mark at The Big Dance! Showcase your school spirit to enhance the atmosphere and visual presence in Lucas Oil Stadium.”

“As we seek to continue to engage fans during the Men’s Final Four, we want to make an impact beyond improving the atmosphere in the venue,” NCAA President Mark Emmert said. “Each purchase supports an important cause, whether locally with COVID-19 relief in Central Indiana or nationally, by supporting mental health initiatives for student-athletes across the country. It’s another opportunity for us to think creatively and provide a meaningful experience during this historic event.”

The cost of a cutout is $100, plus the option to have it shipped back to you (an additional $35 each) or recycled. The NCAA noted that the revenue from the cutout program would be donated to several charitable causes. The proceeds will benefit both the United Way’s Central Indiana COVID-19 Recovery and Rebound effort and Hilinski’s Hope, a national nonprofit promoting awareness and education of student-athlete mental health and wellness.