FROM STAFF REPORTS

MONTEVALLO – The University of Montevallo men’s and women’s basketball teams will kick off the 2012-2013 season Tuesday, Oct. 9 with Midnight Madness at BankTrust Arena.

Midnight Madness, set to begin at 7:30 p.m., will include an introduction of the Montevallo men’s and women’s basketball players and coaches, several basketball skills competition events featuring fans in attendance and Montevallo student-athletes and a performance by the Montevallo cheerleaders.

“We’re very excited about the event with basketball season right around the corner,” said Montevallo men’s basketball coach Danny Young, who guided the Falcons to an appearance in the NCAA Division II national championship game a year ago. “Coming off last season’s success, we were very thankful to see everybody support us. We hope everyone will continue to come out and support us again this season.”

The first 400 fans in attendance will receive a t-shirt, tickets for door prizes and free food.

Prizes up for grab during the event include Montevallo athletic apparel and gift cards from Barnes and Noble. The event will conclude with a drawing for a free Apple iPad and an opportunity for a Montevallo student to win textbooks for the spring semester during a half-court shot attempt.

Zach Banks will serve as the event’s DJ. Student Government Association President Ashley Lowe and Vice President Courtney Meadows will serve as the event’s MCs.

Doors open at 7 p.m.

“Midnight Madness is a great way to bring all the fans together to celebrate the start of basketball season,” said Montevallo women’s basketball coach Cindy Hilbrich. “I’m looking forward to a fun night and a great turnout!”

The Montevallo men’s and women’s basketball teams will hold their first official practice sessions Oct. 15.

The Montevallo men’s basketball team opens its season Oct. 30 with an exhibition game against Division I and Big Ten Conference opponent Purdue University in West Lafayette, Ind. The Montevallo women’s basketball team will open its season Oct. 31 with an exhibition game in Huntsville, Ala. against Alabama A&M University, a Division I opponent from the Southwestern Athletic Conference.