Some Duke students frustrated as fans return, but learning remains virtual
Posted January 4, 2022 1:53 p.m. EST
Updated January 4, 2022 5:23 p.m. EST
Durham, N.C. — On Tuesday night, fans will return to Cameron Indoor Stadium after a weeks-long absence to see Duke's No. 2-ranked men's basketball team continue conference play against Georgia Tech.
That's irking some students, who are frustrated in light of the fact that they can't return to campus for in-person learning yet.
It's a historic season for the Blue Devils, led by stud freshman Paolo Banchero, as they send off coach Mike Krzyzewski after a hall of fame career. A number of students who spoke with WRAL News said they felt it's an example of the university prioritizing athletics over academics.
Students will have to be in virtual learning until Jan. 18, but the Cameron Crazies will be loud and in their usual seats come time for tip-off.
"They continue to change protocols in terms of requiring for testing and vaccination," said Duke MBA student Conner Stoldt. "My only hope would be that they would take a step back and realize that Duke University is more than just a basketball team. They are really made up of students, teachers, the faculty, everyone as a part of the campus individually and collectively. And to really focus on what drives their values."
The Blue Devils face Georgia Tech at Cameron Indoor Stadium on Tuesday night.
Fans are required to show proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative test result from a sample taken within 72 hours of the game. Anyone who can't produce either will be offered an on-site rapid antigen test for $45. Those who test negative will be allowed to enter.
The Blue Devils haven't played since Dec. 22 against Virginia Tech and have had scheduled games against Clemson and Notre Dame postponed.
Krzyzewski said that Monday will be the first time since the pause began that Duke will have its full allotment of players available and COVID had impacted "just about the whole team." Assistant Coach Nolan Smith also missed games due to COVID protocols.
Duke's team returned from Christmas break on Dec. 26. More than 100 college basketball teams have put their programs on pause, including Georgia Tech.
Christina Coleman, another Duke MBA student, shared her frustrations with WRAL News.
"Students are incredibly frustrated by this apparent hypocrisy of an educational institution such as Duke prioritizing athletics over an exceptionally expensive education," she said.
