N.C. A&T bringing the “Midnight Madness”

GREENSBORO – On Thursday, North Carolina A&T director of athletics Wheeler Brown announced the North Carolina A&T men’s and women’s basketball teams will conduct a Midnight Madness 9 p.m., Thursday, October 15 at Corbett Sports Center.

 “The students at North Carolina A&T make the atmosphere at Corbett one of the most intimidating places to play in the country,’’ said Brown. “We are adamant about furthering that tradition while at the same time strengthening the bond between our students and athletics department. Midnight Madness will serve as an opportunity to get our student-athletes and student body excited about the upcoming season.”

 Athletics departments across the country use Midnight Madness celebrations to add a little pizzazz to the first day of basketball practice. The Aggies will do Midnight Madness blue and gold style in two weeks.

 Admission is free. Doors will open at 8 p.m.

 Among the activities will be a 3-point shooting contest between the men’s and women’s basketball teams. There will also be a dunk contest, and the women’s basketball team looks to dazzle the crowd with no-look and behind-the-back passes in a 20-minute scrimmage. Other entertainment includes a dance contest, the Blue and Gold Marching Machine and performances from the Aggies cheer squad and Blue Reign. There will also be giveaways and the players will be available to sign autographs.  

 There will also be a “best dressed” Blue and Gold Aggie contest. The fan who comes to Corbett fully dressed in the best attire using exclusively Aggie Blue and Gold colors will win tickets to the 2010 MEAC Basketball Tournament. A three-judge panel will determine the winner.   

 “Our fans are the best fans in the country,’’ said women’s basketball coach Patricia Cage-Bibbs. “Their support has been a big part of our success. I’m sure they will be excited about getting the season started this way.”

 “We want everyone to come out and have a good time,’’ said men’s basketball coach Jerry Eaves. “Midnight Madness gives our players a chance to have a little fun before the business of going after a championship begins.”