For all of you who have patiently waited since March Madness for some college basketball, the time has come. Take a deep breath, because basketball is back.
American University basketball kicked off the season this week with both the men and women’s teams winning their opening home games in Bender Arena.
Here’s a recap of this week’s games if you missed out on the action:
On Tuesday, the women’s team had their first win of the season with a 76-69 victory against University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). This was also the first career win for new head coach Megan Gebbia. The score remained close throughout the game, but the Eagles were able to hold onto their lead with impressive execution and speed. Senior Alexis Dobbs lead the team with 21 points, accompanied by junior Jen Dumiak leading the team in assists and senior Sarah Kiely as top rebounder.
Next home game: Sunday, November 17 at 1 p.m. vs. Massachusetts.
On Thursday, the men’s team defeated University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) with a 63-61 thrilling overtime win. The night started off right with a student tailgate hosted by RHA in the amphitheatre that included a ton of free give a ways for students like Booeymonger sandwiches, drinks, face painting, sign making and even the classic tailgating game—corn hole. Fans were then given early side entrance to the game and started filling the student section. Most of the fans stayed on their feet cheering the entire game, which went back and forth with who had the lead from the very start. Junior point guard Darius Gardner led the team with 22 points, and also made the clutch jump shot with one second left that gave the team a chance to win in overtime. The game was tied with 55 points each and five minutes on the clock for overtime. The Eagles had the lead early on, but UMBC fought back drawing fouls and draining their foul shots. With just 14 seconds on the clock, sophomore Jesse Reed checked in the game and scored the game winning layup. It could not have been a more perfect ending for a season opening home game.
Next home game: Wednesday, December 4 vs. Howard.
AU basketball is the sport to watch this winter. However, one thing that was evident in both games is how important fan support is. Having energy from fans is crucial to keeping spirits up during a game, so get out to the games, collegiates! Even if you’re not into sports most games include free giveaways like pizza, smoothies, T-shirts, Vamoose bus tickets and the chance to win Eagle Bucks, just for showing up. Don’t forget that games are free with a student ID!
Show your school pride at the next basketball game and cheer on your AU Eagles! See you there!
For a full look at the upcoming season check out the women’s schedule, the men’s schedule and “like” AU Blue Crew on facebook to stay updated with latest news.
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