Buffalo Bandits raise championship banner
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) -- The Buffalo Bandits officially welcomed fans back to Keybank Center Saturday night for their home opener where they won 13-6 against the Rochester Knighthawks.
It was a special night for the Bandits as the team raised their banner, honoring them for their National Lacrosse League title. The energy was through the roof with the Bandits being fresh off of two wins on the road, outscoring their opponents by eight goals or more.
“We are the best team and we've obliterated the two teams that we’ve played previously,” said fan Dennis Gore. “We've given up very few goals, we're scoring like crazy. I don't think anyone's going to stop us, to be honest with you.”
The Bandits are currently undefeated and are looking to keep their win streak going. Before Saturday's game got underway, the 6th NLL Championship banner was officially unveiled and raised to the rafters.
“Being able to kind of see the hard work and dedication that the team puts into it, there's something to show for that,” said fan Sandra Brown.
Acting Buffalo Mayor Chris Scanlon announced Saturday the recognition of Dec. 28 as Buffalo Bandits Day in the city. The proclamation honors the team's legacy.
“The Bandits have brought immense pride, excitement and joy to our city and with every win the Bandits unite our community and inspire young athletes across the City of Buffalo and Western New York,” Scanlon said in a statement.
Fans say the Bandits community is like no other.
“It's just so loving and caring and we’re some of the nicest people out there I think,” said Bandits fan Bee Gore.
“This was a team and a game that embraces our personality, our work ethic, and we love them so much and they love us so much,” Dennis said.
After last season's championship win, the Bandits are striving for their 7th NLL title. Fans are confident the team can get it done.
“We've been ranked at the top of the league in the power this whole time for a reason, it’s because we're the best,” Bee said.
The Bandits’ next game against the Toronto Rock will be at 7:30 p.m. Jan. 10 at Keybank Center.
Trina Catterson joined the News 4 team in 2024. She previously worked at WETM-TV in Elmira, a sister station of WIVB. See more of her work here.