By Jordan Favors | Howard Payne University’s men’s and women’s basketball teams are gearing up for a great 2021-2022 season.
Jacket Madness is an annual event which introduces the HPU basketball players and previews their athletic abilities to the student body and Brownwood community. In addition to two performances by the cheer team, various games and other efforts to engage the fans were incorporated.
Myles Brown, junior shooting guard, stated that his favorite aspect of Jacket Madness revolves around crowd involvement.
“I really enjoyed the opportunities to interact with all of the fans that showed up and showcase our team’s talent in front of everybody. Our main focus is to make people want to come watch us play once the season starts,” said Brown.
Amber Mullins, sophomore HPU cheerleader, stated that Jacket Madness has a long lasting effect on the student body.
“I believe that Jacket Madness positively impacts the student body by making students feel like they are a part of a school community. It, also, helps generate pride and school spirit,” said Mullins.
Brown reaffirmed this position by stating that Jacket Madness does help shape the dynamic of the student body.
“Jacket Madness brings us closer together as a University. We are able to build new relationships with one another due to the interactions and boost in morale that this event brings to our campus,” said Brown.
Majority of students are eagerly awaiting the experience of HPU basketball games post-COVID restrictions. After the great turnout at Jacket Madness, there is no doubt that the coliseum will be packed with rowdy fans and a lot of school spirit!
Mullins stated that she is looking forward to being able to be more involved with basketball season than she was while on the cheer squad at her last university.
“I am looking forward to being on the actual floor while cheering for HPU. I love the game of basketball, so I can’t wait to help encourage the players while they take on their opponents,” said Mullins.
Brown stated, on behalf of the entire basketball team, that they are excited to show off all of the hard work they’ve put in during the off season.
“The team is expecting to have a very successful season. I’m looking forward to potentially having a shot at winning the championship,” said Brown.
The HPU Men’s basketball team won their season opener against Southwestern University, on Saturday, Nov. 6. This was Nadir Dalleh’s first win with the HPU Yellow Jackets.
Both the Men’s and Women’s basketball teams will face University of the Ozarks on Thursday Nov. 11, in the Brownwood Coliseum.