From a stream of black and gold to chants of the Rowdy Rams, the Siegel Center looked just like it would during any game.



"We are passionate about so many things, and basketball is number one," said VCU student Ben Billmyer.



But this time it wasn't the Rams they were cheering on. It was for Smart. Students, athletes, and parents all gathered with signs, yelling, and singing, all to support Smart in hopes he would stay in Richmond instead of accepting the then-rumored offer to be the new head coach at the University of Texas at Austin.



"He's the best thing that's happened our program and we want him to stay here," said Billmyer.



There was one thing clear at Thursday's rally: they want Shaka to stay. But they're such true fans, they support him either way.



"We just want him to know we love him. No matter what's ahead, we love Shaka, and that's not going to change," said VCU fan Ginny Little.



"If he is to leave or if he is to stay we still care about him and love him," said VCU student Chris Kleppe.



This love and support goes beyond the game.



"He's a fantastic father figure for those players who don't necessarily have that," said Kleppe.



"He's a good man he's a good example for the team members for these young men," said Little.



"We're just hoping that he sees this he sees all the love and support he has at VCU in Richmond and that's he'll choose to stay here," said Billmyer.

