This October, South Alabama Athletics presented its second annual “Madness at the Mitch” preseason kickoff.

Fans, students, faculty, and other athletes lined the doors, grabbed their popcorn, and took their seats, waiting for a night full of electrifying moments, incredible skill displays, and an opportunity to win big. The night was a testament to the passion for basketball that courses through the veins of this University. 

The atmosphere was electric as fans were eager to witness their favorite players in a dazzling display of talent. This event was an opportunity for the athletes to showcase their skills in a lighthearted but highly competitive environment, and for fans to build up excitement for this upcoming season. 

One of the highlights of “Madness at the Mitch” was the skills competition, where players demonstrated their finesse, agility, and precision. Their dribbling, passing, and shooting were put to the test throughout this fan-favorite competition. 

The skills competition was run with three teams. Each team consisted of one student-athlete from both the men’s and the women’s teams. The final member was one lucky fan from the crowd. Teaming up, they competed against one another in the fundamental skills of basketball. While fundamental, the skills were no walk in the park. Teams struggled but were resilient, laughing about it the entire way.

Next was the three-point contest. The best sharpshooters from both teams and their lucky fans from the crowd stepped up to the arc, draining threes from all corners of the court. The crowd collectively held their breaths with each shot, and when the net swooshed, the arena erupted in cheers. The 3-point contest displayed pure skill and confidence, leaving the fans in awe. 

Sending the crown into a hyperactive frenzy was the highlight of the night. 6 ‘2” guard Tyrell Jones dunked over 6 ‘9” Marshall Kearing AND 6 ‘6” Judah Brown, claiming the dunk contest crown.

The excitement didn’t stop at the on-court contests. The event organizers understood that what makes this event so special was the chance to win big. Spectators were not only treated with an exhilarating performance of athleticism, but they were given the opportunity to take home prizes of their own. A few lucky students took home $100 gift cards to be used throughout campus and $200 bookstore gift cards.

The head coaches of the men’s and women’s teams understand the crucial role that fans play in the teams’ success throughout the season.

“Mobile is a loud, fun, and rowdy city, and that’s the kind of atmosphere we need for our basketball teams at the Mitch,” said Coach Yolisha Jackson of the women’s basketball team.

Coach Richey Riley of the men’s basketball team reinforced Jackson’s statement. “We need energy like we had in Pensacola last March every night here this season,” said Riley. 

The Lady Jaguars opened up on Thursday, Nov. 2 against West Alabama at the Mitchell Center, and the men’s team opened up Monday, Nov. 4, versus the University of Mobile, also at the Mitchell Center.