(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — College basketball fans aren't the only ones cheering for March Madness.
After missing out last year, local sports bars are enjoying the boost in business.
"We're finally able to get closer and closer to breaking even or actually making a profit," Jason Agoston, co-owner of Throwback Sports Bar in St. Charles, said Friday. "We're turning the corner on digging ourselves out of the hole."
Throwback was packed with fans Friday afternoon, eager to see both Loyola and Illinois play in the NCAA tournament's first round.
"We miss it so much, and it's so much fun to be out with friends and family and booze and basketball," Che Cammack said.
Added Chris Melin: "It was kind of a kick in the groin last year, but seeing it back this year and following the Illini, it can't be better right now."
With the Fighting Illini holding the No. 1 seed, Agoston expects an even larger turnout than years past.
"We could see a packed house moving forward for every one of their games," he said.
