UConn’s annual First Night was an incredible kickoff to Basketball season here in Storrs. It was a highly anticipated event, following the excitement of the Dual Championship of last year, and Gampel Pavilion was packed. Students, parents, alumni, and basketball fans from all over the state came to watch Team Geno and Team Kevin battle it out in a friendly game that showed off our team’s talents.
First Night is a free event, and began with performances from the UConn Cheerleading and Dance teams. There were also dance and photo contests where students could win prizes such as a weekend getaway or tickets to a basketball game! The night progressed on with the UConn drum line performing to a lightshow (which from what I hear, is one of the most awaited aspects of First Night by students- they love it!). The Husky glowed on the ceiling above our heads, and our school colors shone as students waved blue lights that were provided at the door.
Dance contest: this young UConn fan won!
Drum line and light show
Once the pre-event was over, the announcers began to describe someone to the audience. Although it was unclear at the beginning who the guest was, when they said “one of the best three- point shooters in NBA history” the crowd rose to their feet in a scene of cheering and jumping. Ray Allen was back at UConn, and deservingly, he stole the show. The basketball superstar strutted to center court in a navy suit (fitting for our university, of course) taking in the moment of thousands of blue lights and applause. Ray Allen was a UConn Husky, just like us. He played basketball here and went on to be an Olympic Champion, and one of the greatest basketball players in the world. He is truly an inspiration to all the students here, and it was an honor to have the opportunity to hear him speak.
Ray Allen speaks to the audience
There were even more former UConn players at the event, and as they were introduced they each carried a national champion trophy to the court. Rebecca Lobo was amongst the group along with other coaches such as Chris Dailey. Next, coaches Geno Auriemma and Kevin Ollie spoke to the audience. Coach Kevin’s inspirational words of hard work held true for the UConn community. However, when Coach Geno went on to state “This has become and always will be the basketball capital of the world,” the crowd roared.
Rebecca Lobo and Ray Allen
Geno Auriemma speaking to the audience
Finally it was time to introduce the teams of the night. With a mix of freshman and returning players, the men and women teams played on coed teams that ended with Team Geno winning with 38 points. First Night definitely got UConn fans thrilled for the upcoming season, and reminded us what a remarkable community we are all a part of.