Scenes from the N.C.A.A. Final Sports Bra Watch Party

“We’re all here to just enjoy women’s sports and have a good time,” said Simi Mann, a 30-year-old occupational therapist. It was her first visit to the bar.

The Sports Bra “is a place where I can watch basketball with other women who know the sport as well,” Sabrina Domingo, a 33-year-old electrical apprentice, said. A place “where there aren’t men there who are trying to explain the game to me” was a rarity, she added.

Seconds before the first half ended, only a handful of fans clapped when L.S.U. nailed a three-pointer, solidifying their lead over Iowa. The staff glided through the bar serving food, including gluten-free and vegan options, and drinks. (Much of the produce, beer and cocktails are sourced from female-owned companies, according to the bar.)

The crowd pounded on the tables and screamed, as the second half kicked off, many hopeful that Iowa would make a comeback. Separate tables merged, creating conversations among strangers when the game paused. Two women kissed at the bar; another couple held hands.

The bar has become as much a haven for the L.G.B.T.Q., feminist and vegan community as it has for women’s sports fans. “When I conceptualized the Sports Bra, I really thought that it was going to draw women’s sports fans,” said Ms. Nguyen, who is a lesbian. “As soon as the doors opened, I realized that that is just the tiniest spec of the people who want to be here.”

Article source: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/04/06/style/sports-bra-oregon-ncaa-womens-sports.html