BATON ROUGE — The second annual “Basketball Block Party” continued the countdown to the start of the 2008-09 season Wednesday afternoon on Tower Drive near the LSU Student Union.
The party started with appearances by members of the men’s and women’s basketball teams and coaches. The Cheerleaders and Tiger Girls also made an appearance, showing lots of enthusiasm for this year’s teams. The people who attended the party were able to get free gear from EA Sports and the LSU Athletic Department.
“This party gave students the opportunity to meet the players in a fun atmosphere,” LSU forward Tasmin Mitchell said, “Today was all about showing appreciation for our fans. So many people came out today to have a great time, and we are so thankful for their support.”
In addition to students and fans, other athletic teams came by to show their support for the teams. Senior baseball player Taylor Davis said, “All athletes support one another. I wanted to attend the party to take advantage of the free food, but more importantly encourage the teams. I have a lot of respect for these two basketball teams, and I wish them all the best this year.”
Fans were also able to show their competitive spirit through several contests. There was a free throw, 2-ball and 3-point contest for those who wanted to play basketball. EA Sports also featured four different video game stations all with different sports titles. The students had an opportunity to challenge the athletes in the EA Sports video games.
The party was a great way to have fun and take advantage of giveaways. Perhaps the best part was that the event allowed fans to be able to relate to these athletes and visit with them on a personal level. It was all about getting to know the players behind the jerseys.
“We had the opportunity to mingle with everyone that stopped by. During a game, we never get this opportunity. It is a great way to kick off the season, get people excited about basketball,” said Mitchell.
The Tigers tip off the 100th anniversary season of LSU basketball on Nov. 15 at 1 p.m. at the Maravich Center against Jackson State. The LSU women will play the first of their two exhibition games on Wednesday, Nov. 5, when they host Loyola-New Orleans, 7 p.m.
Season tickets for both the men’s and women’s basketball teams remain on sale at the LSU Athletics Ticket Office and online at www.LSUsports.net.