BLOOMINGTON, Ind. (WISH) – The Hoosier hysteria is taking over Bloomington.

The IU Hoosiers women’s basketball team has built a strong fanbase over the past few years as head coach Teri Moren’s team have emerged as national title contenders.

As the No. 3 Hoosiers prepare for the Sweet Sixteen game on Saturday, Bloomington fans are gearing up for the big game.

Christopher Conners graduated from IU. He says it’s great to see the team succeed.

“It’s such a crazy state of basketball, so I’m glad that not only the men, but also the women, are doing well,” Conners said. “It’s great to see.”

Current IU students, like Claire Corriston, feel the same way.

“We live next door. [Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall], so we’re still seeing people heading into games,” Corriston said. “I’ve never seen such nasty people show up to the game like the other day.”

Local business owners are also excited about the IU team.

Jay Wilkin is co-owner of Tracks in Bloomington. He says he has been a fan for a long time.

“To see a team that should be in the NCAA Tournament, that really raised their level of play, it’s really fun to watch,” Wilkin said.

Wilkin says it’s the way the team plays the game that makes them so enjoyable.

“This team has a really endearing quality, I think. You know, some teams you watch, and they seem like they don’t like or care about each other. These guys seem like they can really work hard,” Wilkin said. “They love each other, they support each other, they play smart.”

The team’s success has also been good for business, according to Wilkin.

“We’re riding the wave of sporting success, whether it’s the men’s team, the women’s team, the soccer team, swimming and diving, or whatever, you know?” said Wilkins. “Success breeds interest in the university and the program and that’s good for business, that’s for sure.

Hoosiers take on No. 2 Connecticut Saturday at 2 p.m.