Summit League Hosts Inaugural Fan Fest

The Summit League kicked off its inaugural Fan Fest Saturday with the start of its 2017 conference tournament.

While no official numbers are out yet--Fan Fest runs until 9 p.m. on Saturday--the crowds and participants seemed to grow.

Fan Fest attendance and participation lessened during the morning hours and the afternoon session, but as the evening session neared, fan participation evidently increased.

All of Fan Fest is accessible without a Summit League tournament ticket, although participation in some of the games and events does require a wristband.

“Fans of all ages, whether attending games or not, can participate in the excitement of March Madness at this festival," Summit League Commissioner Tom Douple said in a press release earlier this week. "Regardless of rooting interest or basketball skill level, there will be plenty of fun activities and entertainment for everyone.”

Included among the activities at Fan Fest are a sharpshooter competition, a Pop-A-Shot Championship, a championship moment and a bouncy house.

Attendance and participation at Fan Fest are expected to rise on Sunday with the South Dakota women's and South Dakota State men's and women's basketball squads playing in the Summit League quarterfinals during the day.

A full list of events is available here.