Oct. 17, 2009

Photo Gallery

ROCHESTER, Mich. - The Oakland University athletic department kicked off the basketball season with yet another successful Midnight Madnezz, giving away prizes and introducing all 18 intercollegiate athletic programs on Friday night inside the Athletics Center O'Rena.

"Once again it was a very exciting evening," said Director of Athletics Tracy Huth. "I'd like to thank the entire athletic department for their efforts, along with Oakland University Administration who came over and took part in this tremendous event. We'd also like to thank the Office of the President, which donated prizes for the student body."

Oakland began the Madnezz with a block party at 8:30 p.m. and opened the O'Rena doors at 9:45 p.m. All the collegiate teams were introduced throughout the evening until The Detroit Pistons' Hooper and the Flight Crew showed up around 10:30 p.m. for a little high flying. Then the men's and women's basketball teams were introduced around 11 p.m.

Head Coaches Beckie Francis (11th season) and Greg Kampe (26th season) addressed the crowd briefly and gave the microphone to seniors Johnathon Jones and Hanna Reising, who both asked fans to continue to pack the O'Rena and support them as they try and "Finish It" this season.

Many prizes were given away again, including a pair of free tuition giveaways for the winter semester, along with a 26-inch flat screen television.

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