Ann Arbor Police Urge Fans to Celebrate Safely During National Championship Game

City officials call for responsible behavior and adherence to local laws and ordinances during anticipated post-game festivities.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 11:35am

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With the University of Michigan men's basketball team playing for the NCAA national championship on Monday night, the Ann Arbor Police Department is asking fans to enjoy the game but be mindful of disruptive behavior, public intoxication, and property damage. The police chief emphasized the importance of following directions from officers, reporting any suspicious activity, and securing personal property. The city also reminded fans to designate sober drivers or use ride services to get home safely after celebrations.

Why it matters

As a prominent college basketball program, the University of Michigan's appearance in the national championship game is a major event for the city of Ann Arbor. However, past championship celebrations have sometimes led to unruly behavior and property damage, prompting the police to take proactive measures to ensure public safety and maintain the city's reputation as a premier destination for major sporting events.

The details

The Ann Arbor Police Department has issued a message to the community, urging fans to celebrate responsibly during the national championship game. The police chief, Andre C. Anderson, emphasized the importance of following directions from officers, reporting any suspicious activity, and securing personal property. The city also reminded fans to designate sober drivers or use ride services to get home safely after celebrations.

  • The University of Michigan men's basketball team is playing for the NCAA national championship on Monday night.
  • Some students were already sleeping outside local bars on Sunday night in order to be among the first inside when the businesses open on Monday.

The players

Andre C. Anderson

The Ann Arbor Police Chief, who issued a message to the community urging fans to celebrate responsibly during the national championship game.

University of Michigan

The college basketball program that has reached the NCAA national championship game, drawing significant attention and anticipated celebrations in the city of Ann Arbor.

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What they’re saying

“Your police department wants you to enjoy each high-stakes moment of the college basketball national championship. All eyes are watching the game, and the nation is paying close attention to our celebratory actions. Once again, we get to showcase our city as a premier destination for extraordinary events.”

— Andre C. Anderson, Ann Arbor Police Chief

“Please follow all directions from uniformed officers and event staff. As always, if you 'see something, say something.' Report any suspicious activity or safety concerns immediately to the nearest officer or by calling 911.”

— Andre C. Anderson, Ann Arbor Police Chief

“Please be mindful of neighbors and local noise ordinances during late-night celebrations and ensure all personal property and vehicles are secured, particularly in high-density fan areas.”

— Andre C. Anderson, Ann Arbor Police Chief

What’s next

The Ann Arbor Police Department will be closely monitoring the situation and enforcing local laws and ordinances to ensure public safety during the anticipated post-game celebrations.

The takeaway

This story highlights the challenges cities face in balancing the excitement and community pride of major sporting events with the need to maintain public order and safety. The proactive measures taken by the Ann Arbor Police Department demonstrate their commitment to creating a welcoming environment for fans while also protecting the city's reputation and quality of life for residents.