Brian Kimmes

Thunderous dunks and long-distance bombs were just two of the highlights of the beginning of the Jackrabbit basketball season and Midnight Minus Two.

At 10 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 13, the basketball season officially began for Jackrabbit players and fans. As a crowd of approximately 1,500 chanted, “We want the Jacks,” the men’s and women’s basketball teams ran onto the Frost Arena floor.

Midnight Minus Two provides basketball fans with a first look at the teams and a chance to have some fun.

“(I came) to see the teams and support the teams, to have fun,” said senior Tyler Erickson. He said the thing he is looking forward to the most this season is “getting to as many games as I can.”

Sophomore Aaron Fried said he came out Friday night because he likes basketball. He said he went to a couple of games last year.

The event is also fun and important to players.

Addressing the crowd of basketball fans, Head Men’s Basketball Coach Scott Nagy said the night is important to the guys.

“Tonight (Friday) is their night,” he said.

Nagy and Women’s Basketball Head Coach Aaron Johnston thanked everyone for their support of the basketball programs.

Senior basketball player Megan Vogel said the event is a great way to introduce the team to the fans and the fans to the team.

“It helps calm the nerves, especially the freshmen,” she said. “It is easier now than tip-off of a game.”

Red-shirt basketball freshman Cam Hornby said the evening was fun and a good way to start the season.

“The best part for me is getting a start on the season, having a good time. It is mostly for the fans, putting on a show (for them),” he said.

“It’s fun,” Vogel said. “We all like it. It’s a good time for everyone.”

Friday’s start to the season allows Jackrabbit fans to start looking forward to the season.

Senior Laura Jacobs said she is looking forward to “good games and lots of wins.”

#1.884080:3331878552.jpg:midnite03.jpg:Brookings native Nicole Helsper looks to drive around teammate Alison Anderson during Midnight Madness Minus Two on Friday night at Frost Arena in Brookings, SD.:#1.884079:665049538.jpg:midnite02(B1).jpg:Thomas Bassett slams the ball at Midnight Minus Two. Bassett claimed the slam-dunk contest crown.: