Oct. 17, 2008

Photo Gallery 

Providence College Head Coach Keno Davis and his Friars opened the 2008-09 college basketball season on Friday, October 17 at their annual Late Night Madness Celebration at the College's Mullaney Gym. More than 3,000 Friar fans jammed into Alumni Hall to see the Friars hit the court. The fans were treated to a festive atmosphere that included some impressive dunks by the members of the team, including seniors Geoff McDermott and Weyinmi Efejuku.

The evening started at 9:30 p.m. as the fans poured into Mullaney Gym and the Providence College pep band, performed along with rapper Jon Hope until 10:00 p.m. At 10:00 p.m., festivities began with a performance by the dance team and a three-point shooting contest, that featured Efejuku and junior Jeff Xavier. Following the three-point shooting contest, students participated in various basketball contests and enjoyed dance competitions. PC's Student Congress ran the evening with the help of several other student groups.

At 10:50 p.m., the PC women's basketball team was introduced to the crowd. A few minutes later the countdown began. Then, the spotlights flashed around the gym and the team rushed on the court and was greeted by a thunderous applause from the rowdy fans.

The radio voice of the Friars John Rooke introduced the team and they ran through several drills

From there the team played a spirited 10-minute scrimmage.

After the game, the team retired for the evening, signing autographs and talking to the fans and media. The fun was over and the first practice was under their belt.

Fans can catch up with the Friars again on Saturday, October 25 from Noon -2:30 p.m. at Fanfest at Alumni Hall. The event will feature interactive games and the men's team's annual Mal Brown intrasquad scrimmage. Admission to the Fanfest and Mal Brown game is free.

The Friars are looking forward to their first exhibition game on Saturday, November 1 versus Ottawa University at 7:00 p.m. at the Dunkin' Donuts Center.