Javelina Athletics continues its tradition of launching the basketball season with Javelina Madness. The Steinke Physical Education Center was filled by the Kingsville community this Tuesday, Oct. 15, where attendees enjoyed food, prizes and friendly competitions.
The line stretched outdoors as the first 500 people received T-shirts. Inside, the gym full of community members alike awaited the Men’s and Women’s Javelina Basketball teams.
“We put Javelina Madness on to generate excitement for the basketball season. We want to get as much student body involved in our season, not only for basketball, but athletics in general,” Head Women’s Basketball Coach Michael Madrid said. “It’s a way of us giving back to the student body in terms of gift cards and prizes. Our players enjoy doing it, I think it’s really good for the campus community as a whole.”
The event kicked off with performances by Javelina Cheer and The Sapphires, followed by thrilling introductions of both basketball teams and a three-point competition between the men’s and women’s teams.
“The three-point contest was pretty cool, and I almost won. My favorite part was walking out and seeing everybody here, that’s always super fun,” Abby Bala, senior, said.
Javelina Madness attracts a large crowd every year, largely due to audience participation that is randomly selected for individuals to win prizes
This year, one-on-one games featured common basketball skills like lay-ups, free throws and three-pointers, giving crowd members the chance to showcase their talents. There was even an opportunity for two students to go head-to-head in a half-court shot.
For those who preferred to relax in the stands, prizes such as car washes, gas cards, and sports tickets were given out randomly to attendees who signed in upon arrival
“This is my first time at Javelina Madness, and it actually was really fun. I enjoyed everything down to the cheerleaders and watching the basketball games.
“The event is for more than those with sports interests, I think it caters to all students, parents and kids.” Christina Rangel, winner of the San Antonio Spurs vs. Golden State Warriors tickets, said.
Both teams will have their first official home game on Nov. 4 against North American University.