Last week, the boys basketball program hosted the first annual Midnight Madness to kick off the first practice of the season. The new gym, nicknamed “The Grove,” was filled with students, alumni, parents, teachers, and news reporters ready to support the team in its upcoming season.

During the event, students and coaches participated in a 3-point contest, which was won by sophomore basketball player Scout Denman. There was also a dunk competition, which assistant basketball coach Kody Becnel dominated.

Over 200 people were in attendance at the event and according to head coach Brad Jeffcoat, that number completely surpassed his expectations.

“It’s kind of like having a party,” he said. “Until people start to show up, you’re always anxious about what the turnout is going to be. In the end we were very happy with the attendance and support.”

Jeffcoat said Midnight Madness was an opportunity to showcase the boys basketball program and interact with the students and community.

“We are super excited that basketball season is finally starting,” Jeffcoat said. “Midnight Madness was really about everyone having some fun.”

Before the team started their official midnight practice, the Honey Bears and cheerleaders both performed and the crowd got to witness an intense game of “knock out.” Since the event was so successful, Jeffcoat said it may be something the program continues in the future.

“It went great so I think we’d like to make this an annual thing, but you never know,” he said. “Our current schedule made it a lot easier to pull off than a normal school day.”

The Bears will kick off their first scrimmages of the season next Tuesday when they host New Caney, Barbers Hill and Westlake. The first scrimmage will start at 4:30 p.m. in The Grove.