It’s been a long few years depaul Loyal. A current senior at the university must have had the following men’s basketball seasons as a freshman: 10–23 (3–17 in Big East play). 3-29 (0-20 Big East) as sophomore. 14-20 as junior (4-16 Big East).
But now, second-year head coach Chris Holtmann feels the Blue Demons are headed in the right direction. And with student support in the stands giving the team some momentum on the court, Holtmann took the opportunity to give back to the student section in a way that most graduates can appreciate: free drinks.
DePaul topped on Friday night Marquette 80-75 at Wintrust Arena, the Blue Demons’ third Big East win of the season and third consecutive Big East home win. the victory that came Record number of students presentThis season is the first since 2014–15 in which DePaul has won three or more conference games on or before January 16 – and the first since 2007 in which it has won three straight conference home games in the same season.
At 9:46 pm CT, the Blue Demons’ official X page confirmed the win. About an hour later, presumably after talking to the media and team in the locker room, Holtmann turned on his X account to repost the team’s post with a message for DePaul students.
“Highest student attendance and one of the largest crowds in Wintrust history!!! Thank you!!!” post startedBefore reaching the kicker. “My first round at Kelly’s Pub near campus. See you in 35 minutes!”
Highest student attendance and one of the largest crowds in Wintrust history!!! Thank you!!!
First round on me at Kelly’s Pub near campus. See you in 35 minutes! https://t.co/L6K4iutecx
– Chris Holtmann (@ChrisHoltmann) 17 January 2026
There was a brief change of plans – the location of the after party Initially moved to HomeslicePhotos posted by a local pizza and drink joint, and DePaul, indicate that Holtmann ended up at the Hook & Ladder on North Lincoln Avenue, about a 10-minute walk from DePaul’s campus. But good things come to those who wait (and keep up with updates on social media), and – regardless of location – fans saw Holtmann in 35 minutes.
Patrons who searched for Holtmann found that, true to his word, he was indeed making the rounds. Then, hoisting himself up on a bar, he reiterated his commitment over the unexpected noise of the crowded venue after the victory.
“If you’re a DePaul student, the first round is on me,” Holtmann shoutedBefore walking back into the crowd to enjoy the rest of the night.
