When the clock hit midnight, the excitement for Grand Canyon basketball ignited. It was Midnight Madness, the annual kickoff event for the team’s season. Students filled the Global Credit Union Arena, dressed as their favorite characters, ready to celebrate Lopes basketball.
Those who camped out on the lawn were rewarded for their dedication as the arena energy soared. The night started with fireworks and the crowd singing “The Star-Spangled Banner.” The atmosphere felt electric, reminiscent of seeking thrills at a concert.
“It’s an amazing feeling to be here,” said first-year women’s basketball coach Winston Gandy. He was captivated by the turnout and energy, setting the stage for an exciting new season.
The arena transformed into a vibrant party, pumping out music and energy. The GCU cheerleaders and drumline put on a show before the teams were introduced, adding to the excitement. Each player made their grand entrance, with cheers and cheers reverberating through the crowd.
The night also featured games and contests, with players engaging with fans. Seven-foot freshman Dennis Evans quickly became a crowd favorite, earning cheers for his height. Veteran player Nana Owusu-Anane expressed gratitude, noting, “We have the best student section in the country.”
In a fun twist, coaches Bryce Drew and Gandy made a flashy entrance in a Lightning McQueen-themed car, showcasing their excitement for the new season. Drew emphasized the shift in energy and ambition: “It’s a new team, new staff, and a new conference. We’re aiming for greatness.”
Historically, Midnight Madness has been a way to rally support and build a community around college basketball. This year, GCU is making strides, especially with 11 new faces on the men’s team and 14 on the women’s. The enthusiasm shared connections with past events, where the energy has always been high, but this year felt particularly strong.
As the Lopes prepare for their exhibition game against USC on October 25, the passion from Midnight Madness lays a strong foundation for the season ahead. Fans are ready, and players are determined, echoing a broader trend in college sports where community and support play a huge role in team success.
This year’s kickoff shows that with dedication, excitement, and team spirit, GCU is ready to tackle new challenges and make its mark. The road ahead may be challenging, but with a supportive community behind them, the Lopes aim to soar to new heights.
For more insights into college basketball trends, you can check out NCAA.org for updates and statistics.
