Home court advantage was once considered a big deal in college basketball, but is it still an important part of the game? We are used to seeing schools like Duke University filled to capacity with fans as loud as can be. However, due to the pandemic, fans are not able to attend games or in some cases only a small number people can spectate. This is a stark change from the normal attendance at college basketball games.

We have seen how important home court advantage was for Duke, but how has not having fans in the stands affected the Bobcats? The men’s basketball team has been successful thus far, posting a 4-0 record at home. On the road, however, it is 0-2.

On the women’s side, the team has had similar home success as it did last season. In the 2019-20 season, it was 8-7 at home and now it is 3-3 to start out the year. Quinnipiac women’s basketball head coach Tricia Fabbri explained how the empty stands are difficult to get used to, but also said at away games it does help her ability to coach.

“There is usually a roar, and an atmosphere,” Fabbri said. “Our pep band, our cheerleaders, our fans, when we needed them the most, not when things are actually going well, when you need that stop, when you need the lift.” Fabbri is also not in favor of the fake fan noises, saying how it can be annoying at times.

“Every game just feels like a scrimmage,” Fabbri said. Junior guard Amani Free said she thinks it is easier to play with no fans because she can hear the coaches better. She never thought home court advantage was an important part of the game and said she treats every game the same.

“It is easier to hear the coaches and your teammates talking on defense or offense, communication is really nice,” Free said. “It doesn’t matter where you are, you just have to compete against the other team.”

The University of North Carolina men’s basketball team has proven that not having a packed stadium does matter that much. The Tar Heels are 5-0 at home while they are 1-4 when they are not at their place. North Carolina State is experiencing something similar. The Wolfpack are 5-1 at their place but still has not won a game outside of their arena through five games.

The season is far from over, but all signs are pointing toward that the players find more success playing at home, even without fans.