As the crowds gathered into the Intramural Courts around 10 p.m. on an October Saturday night, the air filled with the excitement of Mercer Basketball.

One of the most popular student events each academic year, Mercer Madness, was held on Saturday night, Oct. 22, from 10 p.m. until 1 a.m. in the University Center Intramural Courts. This annual event serves as the official kick-off for the men’s and women’s basketball seasons. The celebration always includes an array of exciting events. This year, unlike the past couple of years, featured a more engaging and party-like atmosphere. One significant difference was the draw of the intramural dodgeball tournament as well as jousting and basketball inflatables commonly featured at other popular events throughout the year. In addition, there was free food, giveaways, music, and a three-point competition between two players from each of the men’s and women’s teams as well as a random boy and girl from the student body.

The event was an overall success. The Pep Band and Cheerleaders ushered in the new basketball season with loud and spirited cheers which were quickly followed by the men’s and women’s basketball teams introducing themselves and inviting the student body to come out, have fun, and cheer on the teams as they begin their exciting season. Come out to support the Bears in the first games of the season; a double header on Thursday, Nov. 4 starting off with the women’s game at 5 p.m., and the men’s game immediately following at 7:30 p.m.