365 Things to Do in Memphis #270: Memphis Madness

In the same way that Black Friday officially begins the Christmas season, so Memphis Madness officially kicks off the most wonderful time of the year in Memphis: basketball season. Assignment #270 in the 365 Things to Do in Memphis is to catch the madness.

The University of Memphis' annual basketball kick off isn't a game – it's a heady, loud blue and gray streaked night of full-tilt hoops insanity.

The diehard will be lined up outside long before the FedExForum opens its doors at 5:30 p.m., but you should follow their lead and get there at early: all of the seats, with the exception of those reserved for the band, U of M students and sponsors, are fair game.

Here's the tenative schedule:

5:30 p.m. – Doors Open/Women's Hoops Practice on Court/K97 FM's Devin Steel on plaza
6:45 p.m. – Men's Basketball Autograph Session
7:30 p.m. – Women's Basketball Player Introductions
7:45 p.m. – Celebration of Tigers Hoops
8:10 p.m. – Men's Basketball Player Introductions
8:47 p.m. – Three-Point Shooting Contest
9:10 p.m. – Dunk Contest

In the past, Memphis Madness has included surprise big-deal musical guests, but I wasn't able to find any information on who (if anyone) is playing this year.

Go there:

Memphis Madness
Friday, Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m.
Admission is free, parking at FedExForum is $5

FedExForum

191 Beale Street
Memphis, TN 38103
(901) 205-2525