Hold onto your overpriced lattes, Bay Area sports fans – this year’s March Madness at Chase Center is giving major “meh” energy.

The NCAA tournament’s Sweet 16 is rolling into town, but ticket sales are about as lukewarm as a cold brew left out in the Sunset District. While previous years saw ticket prices skyrocketing faster than San Francisco rent, this weekend’s games are looking like a clearance sale nobody asked for.

The Geographic Disconnect

Let’s be real: When the teams playing are from Arkansas, Florida, Maryland, and Texas Tech, Bay Area basketball enthusiasts are about as excited as a vegan at a steakhouse. These schools are basically playing an away game on steroids, with each team hailing from 1,500 to 3,000 miles away. No local pride, no local hype.

Ticket Prices: A Surprising Twist

In a plot twist nobody saw coming, Chase Center tickets are actually cheaper this year. StubHub is offering two-session passes for a mere $378 – which in San Francisco money is basically a discount. Compared to other regional tournament locations charging upwards of $865, this is practically a sports bargain.

The Charles Barkley Footnote

And for those wondering about the NBA’s snarky commentator? He’ll be commenting from Atlanta, proving once again that even sports personalities are practicing social distancing from San Francisco. Classic Barkley.

Game schedule for the curious: Thursday’s matchups include Florida vs Maryland and Texas Tech vs Arkansas, with Saturday’s winner yet to be determined. Roll the brackets, sports fans!