Temple University Athletics
Midnight Madness Tips Off Basketball Season
10.9.06 | Women's Basketball
Oct. 14, 2006
PHILADELPHIA - The Temple University men's and women's basketball teams officially opened their 2006-07 seasons Friday, October 13 with Midnight Madness at the Liacouras Center. Both Owl teams were ntroduced at the event on a night which featured shooting contests as well as a question and answer session with first-year head men's coach Fran Dunphy and two-time Atlantic 10 Conference Coach of the Year Dawn Staley, now in her seventh season as the women's coach.
Approximately 1,000 students, alumni and fans witnessed the event at the Liacouras Center. The highlight of the night was the slam dunk contest that was won by freshman Ryan Brooks. The Owl newcomer bested senior Dustin Salisbery and sophomore Semaj Inge in a finals which had some "ESPN Top 10" moments.
In one of the many shooting contests, Staley, who retired from her stellar WNBA career this past season, came the closest to draining a halfcourt shot.
The night began with a free interactive "Block Party" for Temple students outside the Liacouras Center at 6:00 p.m. The Block Party featured live music, a barbeque, pizza and games.
The event also featured appearances by the Temple Pep Band, Hooter the Owl, the Temple Cheerleaders and the Diamond Gems Dance Team. A raffle was held during the event with the proceeds benefiting the Dawn Staley Foundation and Coaches vs. Cancer.
Season tickets for both the men's and women's basketball team are currently on sale. Call the Temple ticket office at 215-204-8499.
