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A close look at the Wisconsin and Duke fan bases

Mark Dolejs-USA TODAY Sports

The crowds for Duke and Wisconsin have been with the teams all throughout the tournament and one of the two best college basketball fan bases will be rewarded with a national championship on Monday.

Here's a closer look at the two groups of supporters:

Duke

Duke's fan base is so strong it has its own nickname: the Cameron Crazies. They're one of the most devoted crowds in the nation, doing whatever is needed to make an impact and help the Blue Devils.

The fans get a lot of flak for their behavior, but they are effective at getting in the head of opponents with their hexes and chants.

Love them or hate them, Duke fans don't care about their general perception as long as their Blue Devils remain successful on the court.

Notable Duke supporters this year:

Former president George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush

The team was treated with the presence of the 41st President of the United States and the former first lady during their 66-52 win over Gonzaga to advance to the Final Four.

Having a couple with such influence is a sure sign that the Blue Devils might just be America's team.

The Dallas Cowboys (Tony Romo, Jason Garrett and Jason Witten)

Speaking of America's team - the Dallas Cowboys couldn't hide their support for Duke. 

Starting quarterback Tony Romo, tight end Jason Witten and head Coach Jason Garrett were also at the Elite Eight to enjoy the win over the Bulldogs.

In a case of real recognizing real, the most polarizing football team in history also supports the Blue Devils. 

Notable Duke alumni: 

  • Jay Bilas, ESPN commentator
  • Brian Baldinger, FOX commentator
  • Adam Silver, NBA commissioner
  • Ken Jeong, comedian
  • Seth Davis, CBS analyst

Wisconsin

The traveling clan of Badgers fans have come alive during the NCAA tournament. Their boisterous chants and instances of polka performances make it clear that they're in the building.

The Badgers have not only been the craze inside Lucas Oil Stadium, but outside it, with their tailgates and wave of red clothing.

With the game being so close to Madison, Wis., expect a takeover of Badger fans Monday night.

Notable Wisconsin supporters this year:

Aaron Rodgers and Olivia Munn

The presence of reigning NFL MVP Aaron Rodgers at Badgers games has caused a stir from journalists and even teammate Randall Cobb for his new-found affiliation with the program.

But to the defense of the Green Bay Packers quarterback, who went to California, and his girlfriend, actress Olivia Munn who went to Oklahoma, they have been seen at many of the Badgers games during the tournament.

Expect to see a whole lot of the power couple during Monday's game.

Notable Wisconsin alumni: 

  • Joan Cusack, actress
  • Dick Cheney, former Vice President of the United States 
  • William S. Harley, founder of Harley Davidson
  • Andy Katz, ESPN analyst
  • Bud Selig, former MLB commisioner

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