The Spring Hill men and women's basketball teams hosted their annual Midnight Madness, which marks the official start of their season.

During this event, from 10 p.m. until midnight on Oct. 21, students and other spectators were invited to meet the basketball team members, participate in games to win prizes, and watch a performance by the dance and cheer team.

In addition to participating in games, spectators  also watched members of the basketball teams compete against one another in a three-point shooting competition. This year, junior women's basketball guard Lindi Debilzan came in first place for the women's team, and freshman men's basketball guard Eli Lenihan came in first place for the men's team.

Midnight Madness was canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and spectators were not allowed to attend games during the last season. The season was also much shorter, and the team was not allowed to travel. The return of this Spring Hill tradition had students and athletes excited.

Junior Lindi Debilzan is most excited for the return of fans this season. Debilzan said, "It was a lot of fun seeing all the fans after not seeing any since my freshman year; it's been about two years because of COVID, so it's good to see everyone out supporting us. The men's and women's teams really appreciate it."

The night's final and most anticipated event was the slam dunk contest between members of the men's basketball team. Freshman Steven Lyles won the slam dunk contest, and he expressed his hope for continued support from the student body as their season begins.

Lyles said, "Midnight Madness was a great event, and it was really awesome to see all the fans and all the students come out to support, and I hope this season we get the same outcome with people coming to support us. Go badgers!"

             The next opportunity to support the badgers is at their first home game on Tuesday, Nov. 16. The women's team plays at 5:30 p.m., and the men's team plays at 7 p.m. For more information about the basketball schedule or roster, visit www.shc badgers.com.