New Mexico band member at center of March Madness mystery after buzzy appearance

UNM Band Member Garners Social Media Attention at March Madness

A member of the University of New Mexico (UNM) marching band attracted considerable attention on social media platforms prior to the team’s second-round defeat against Michigan State in the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament on Sunday.

Flute Player Sparks Online Discussion

During the March Madness matchup, cameras from TNT captured the UNM band performing in the stands of Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland. This footage led numerous basketball fans to comment on a woman playing the flute. Michigan State ultimately defeated the Lobos 71-63, advancing to the Sweet 16.

The flutist, distinguished by her long gray hair styled with a pom pom, appeared visibly older than the other student musicians in the ensemble.

Dave Portnoy and Others React on Social Media

Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports, shared the clip on X (formerly Twitter), captioning it, “5th year senior?” This post amplified the conversation, with numerous users echoing similar sentiments and raising questions regarding the composition of the university’s Spirit Marching Band.

A member of the New Mexico Lobos band drew social media buzz before the team’s second-round loss to Michigan State in the NCAA Men’s Tournament on Sunday, March 23, 2025. X/Dave Portnoy
A member of the New Mexico Lobos band drew social media buzz before the team’s second-round loss to Michigan State in the NCAA Men’s Tournament on Sunday, March 23, 2025. X/Dave Portnoy

Another social media user remarked, “There is a lady playing the flute in the New Mexico band who looks to be at least 65 years old,” further questioning, “How is this possible?”


Looking to watch March Madness games? Streaming services like DIRECTV Stream and Hulu + Live TV offer comprehensive coverage and free trial options.


UNM Band Program Inclusivity

The University of New Mexico’s band program encompasses various ensembles catering to diverse musical proficiencies and interests. Notably, the Campus Band is accessible to university faculty, staff, and members of the wider community.

According to the UNM website, the Campus Band provides an opportunity to continue musical performance in a non-competitive environment, without audition requirements.

The New Mexico Lobos were defeated by the Michigan State Spartans on March 23, 2025, during the NCAA tournament’s second round. Getty Images

Community Member Participation Possible

It is plausible that the woman in question is either a university staff member or a community participant with a passion for flute playing who is involved in the Campus Band.

The university has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding this matter.

Game Day Appearance

On Sunday, the woman was observed wearing a red polo shirt bearing the band’s insignia, along with a yellow flag worn as a cape.

Sweet 16 Matchup

Michigan State is scheduled to compete against Ole Miss in the Sweet 16 round on Friday at State Farm Arena.


🕐 Top News in the Last Hour By Importance Score

# Title 📊 i-Score
1 Libya expels aid groups accused of 'African' population plot 🔴 78 / 100
2 Tech firm using quantum physics to spot fake passports and handbags raises £4.8m in London IPO 🔴 75 / 100
3 Anti-abortion campaigner convicted of breaching buffer zone outside UK clinic 🔴 72 / 100
4 Key signs that sudden cardiac death is about to strike – even in totally healthy, fit young people 🔴 72 / 100
5 ‘DoctorEMF’ wants you to unplug your lamps and routers — he even has a dog protect him from radiation 🔴 72 / 100
6 Stock markets LIVE: Trump nightmare as China's 34% tariffs move sends markets in free fall 🔴 65 / 100
7 Fenerbahce accuse Galatasaray boss of acting 'as if he'd been shot' after 'planned provocation' of Jose Mourinho which led to nose pinch 🔵 55 / 100
8 Kevin De Bruyne confirms he is leaving Man City with tear-jerking statement 🔵 52 / 100
9 Tucker Carlson 'immediately' sells his new Chevy truck after startling message appeared on the dash 🔵 45 / 100
10 King Charles and Queen Camilla’s unique living arrangements revealed by former palace staffer 🔵 30 / 100

View More Top News ➡️