Madison police keep a close eye on State Street celebrations

MADISON (WITI) -- Madison was a mad house on Saturday, April 5th, as the Wisconsin Badgers took on the Kentucky Wildcats in the NCAA Tournament's Final Four game in Texas! The hope is that the celebrations will be memorable and lawful.

Bars near State Street were open for hours Saturday before the Badgers' game even kicked off -- so whether it be win, lose or draw for the Badgers, Madison businesses have won.

All eyes were on State Street Saturday -- where Badgers fans were expected to congregate following the Badgers' game on Saturday night.

Madison and campus police have set up command centers to keep an eye on those out on State Street Saturday night.

They tell FOX6 News they will not be patrolling in riot gear initially -- but they will have the gear on hand in case they need to use it.

Police say they will be prepared -- but some of those who are "Backing Bucky" expect things to remain under control in Madison regardless of what happens with the Badgers in Texas.

"I think people will probably just peacefully take to the streets and have a nice time. You know, we're probably going to sing 'Varsity' many times -- all our alumni songs," UW alumnus Matthew Schwedinger said.

"Hopefully not too much rioting. I'm hoping people will be smart," UW alumna Michele Ziegler said.

After last Saturday's game, police reported no arrests, and only a handful of citations issued.

The Badgers fell to the Kentucky Wildcats 74-73 on Saturday night. The Wildcats now advance to the championship game, where they will face UConn.