Michigan State University Athletics
Spartan Basketball Celebrated The Moment at the 2009 Midnight Madness
10/17/2009 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
Oct. 17, 2009
EAST LANSING, Mich. - The Michigan State basketball programs began the 2009-10 season in grand fashion, hosting Midnight Madness in front of a capacity crowd of 14,759 at the Breslin Center on Friday night. The Spartan fans were entertained throughout the night, beginning with autograph and photo opportunities, and ending with the men's and women's scrimmages.
Fans Of Midnight Madness
Photo Gallery
The festivities began with the men's and women's basketball teams scattered across the Breslin concourse signing autographs and taking photos with the loyal fans. Once all the fans made their way to their seats, the Spartan Marching Band, cheerleaders, dance team and drumline performed for the crowd, increasing the excitement.
A video honoring the historical moments in MSU women's basketball history was a prelude to the introduction of the 2009-10 team. Following the theme of the 1990 movie House Party, each player made their way onto the court dressed in 90's attire and danced to a 90's classic hit. Once the team was all on the floor, head coach Suzy Merchant made her surprise entrance, popping out of a box, dressed as a cowgirl. She addressed the crowd as each player donned a pink cowgirl hat. At the conclusion of Coach Merchant's speech, the team performed a country line dance to Cotton Eye Joe, in honor of their quest to San Antonio for the 2010 Final Four.
The men's basketball team followed the women's team act, making its way to the floor through the stands. The anticipation grew as the capacity crowd wondered how head coach Tom Izzo would make his way onto the floor. After his introductory video, an engine roared and Coach Izzo drove onto the court in a mini-Indy racecar. The five recent Final Four teams were recognized with a video feature, capped by a video tribute to the 2009 Final Four and the raising of the 2009 Final Four banner.
The night ended with a 10-minute scrimmage by both teams.
