The Maryland men’s and women’s basketball programs officially kicked off the 2017-18 basketball season with Maryland Madness Saturday night at the XFINITY Center.
Both teams took the floor for a scrimmage as well as a dance-off between the teams and some lucky Maryland fans.
The night included performances by the Mighty Sound of Maryland and the Maryland Cheer and Dance squads, as well as the first look at the basketball teams’ intro videos for the upcoming season. Four lucky fans also had the opportunity to win Maryland prizes during a half court shot contest inspired by men’s basketball coach Mark Turgeon.
“We always enjoy Maryland Madness,” sophomore Justin Jackson said. “It’s a great time for us to let loose and enjoy ourselves in between getting prepared for the season. I’m excited for the season to get started and we’re ready to have a great year.”
Maryland head coaches Mark Turgeon and Brenda Frese addressed the Maryland faithful, expressing their appreciation for their support for the upcoming season.
“What a great night to kickoff our season for our two outstanding programs,” Frese said. “We have a lot of tradition here at Maryland and we always love having our fans join us to begin the season.”
Frese and her team represented the United States this summer at the World University Games and have won three-straight Big Ten regular season and tournament titles.
“You’re going to like this team,” Turgeon said. “I’ve loved coaching them and they’ve been working really hard. We have a lot of really good pieces and a great schedule that should be a lot of fun. We appreciate the fans and our support.”
Turgeon, whose team reached the NCAA Tournament for third consecutive season, is excited for the start of his seventh season in College Park.
The Maryland women’s team opens its exhibition season Oct. 29 against Glenville State at noon. The men’s team faces Randolph-Macon College on Thursday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m.
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