CSULB teams go mad

By Eric Boyum, On-Line Forty-Niner

Monday, October 19, 1998

The madness struck 1,862 basketball fans at The Pyramid Friday at midnight. The first ever Midnight Madness basketball practice for the 49ers captured students' school spirit.

"This turnout is much larger than we expected," said Don Dyer, senior assistant athletic director. "Maybe we should play all of our games at midnight."

Player introductions of both men's and women's teams, a three-point shooting contest, slam-dunk exhibition and light scrimmages by both squads kept the crowd entertained.

Highlights included shooting performances of Ramel Lloyd and Mate Milisa for the men's team and Reta Sula and Crystal Hogan of the women's squad. In a mixed-doubles contest, Lloyd and Sula beat Milisa and Hogan.

Food and drinks were provided for those attending, and admission was free.

Men's basketball guard Antrone Lee said the success of the women's volleyball team could help both basketball teams.

"All of our other targeted sports are ranked high," Lee said. "That is where our basketball teams want to be."

The men's team will open its season with an exhibition game against the Next Level All-Stars at The Pyramid Nov. 14. The women's team will open its season with an exhibition game against the Freddie Bass Players Nov. 3.