Captains of Midnight

How did two of the top-ranked teams fare in their opening night contests? Lauren Dellipoali has the scoop on the first moments of the season for UConn and Syracuse.

(Darry2385/Creative Commons)

Midnight Madness began all over the country last night...though most weren't really at midnight, and teams had varying ways of celebrating the start of practice(not sure who really wants to celebrate the start of practice). The Big East had two teams, Syracuse and UConn, who opened up in very different ways.

Syracuse opened up at the Dome in front of about 14,000 people clad in orange. They held player introductions and welcomed back many former players who participated in a legends game against the current roster. Former players who participated in the game included Jonny Flynn, Wes Johnson, Andy Rautins, Hakim Warrick and Gerry McNamaraCarmelo Anthony also made an appearance, butdid not participate in any of the events. Usually Midnight Madness celebrates the current team and gives fans a peek at that is to come, but Syracuse decided to honor its past. Instead of giving fans a glimpse into the future, they got a glimpse into the past.



Over in Storrs, Connecticut, the defending National Champions, the UConn Huskies, had their First Night in front of 10,000 people eager to see what this year’s team had in store for them. They were treated to a show. Both the men and women’s team participated in the festivities, which included a dunk contest and a three-point contest. Former Huskies also showed up, including Ray Allen, Kemba Walker and Hasheem Thabeet. Fans were also able to see their highly touted recruit, Andre Drummond, who received one of the largest ovations from the packed house.

Every team has their own way of doing their MidnightMadness. They have different names, activities and guests. They do whatever they feel will please their fans. So now that Midnight Madness is over, let’s get these practices going so we can watch some Big East Basketball.