Perhaps the biggest surprise was fans followed the instructions, even though the win over Florida, one of Georgia's biggest rivals, ended the Gators' streak of 12 consecutive wins in the series while also providing the Bulldogs with an important boost to their NCAA Tournament hopes.
Players and team officials celebrated on the court for about a minute while fans began filling the aisles, waiting for the go-ahead to rush onto the court. Then, just as the public address announcer promised, the fans were then given full access to rush onto the court.
Many in the crowd of 10,066 remained on the court for several minutes, celebrating Georgia's first win in the series since March 2, 2019.
There was no immediate word if the unusual postgame order would have any impact on normal fines from the Southeastern Conference to schools for having fans rushing onto the playing field or court following games. The first offense carries a fine of $100,000.
Georgia coach Mike White said he was not involved in any plan before the game to ask fans to wait 90 seconds to celebrate on the court.
“I didn't know it was coming,” White said. “I leave that to our administration. ... I'm sure our players will remember that for the rest of their lives.”
Georgia freshman Asa Newell said he appreciated the fans' support but added, “We've got to keep the fans in the stands.”
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