The college basketball season is just around the corner. In fact the University of Cincinnati mens team has their first exhibition game this Saturday. To help kick off the season a temporary court was placed onto Cincinnati’s Fountain Square last Thursday for what the university called “Midday Madness.”

Fountain Square

Despite the rainy weather, a nice size crowd of fans lined the court for the afternoon event. A few lucky individuals were invited onto the court to participate in free throw and three-point competitions. All participants were given season tickets for the upcoming season!

Free Throw Contest

Some members of the mens and womens basketball teams were also on hand for interviews and even a three-point contest of their own.

Three Point Contest

Members of the marching band, cheer-leading squad, and dance team were also in attendance, though they mostly stayed under cover of the stage. The award-winning dance team did thrill the crowd with a performance at center court.

Band & Cheerleaders On Stage

After hearing from both coaches, the court was opened up to all players present for a quick shootaround. After that anyone in attendance was allowed on to the court to shoot baskets while the players retreated to nearby tables to sign autographs.

Player Shootaround

Even with the less than ideal weather, the event was still cool to see and a great idea to connect the uptown university to the downtown area. I can’t imagine how much better it would have been on a nice warm day, but I guess that is the chance you take when dealing with October weather.

Ge’Lawn Guyn