Hundreds of Missouri Tigers fans braved the cold on Francis Quadrangle on Friday night to watch the Tigers’ men’s and women’s basketball teams showcase their skills at Mizzou Madness. The men’s team, led by Coach Dennis Gates, and the women’s team, led by Coach Robin Pingeton, were introduced to Tigers fans before playing interactive games with audience members. 

Graduate student and reigning champion Sean East II held onto the three-point contest title for the men’s team, besting sophomore Ashton Judd from the women’s team with a score of 14-7. After a brief acrobatic performance by Volta Wheel, young Tiger fans squared off for the Li’l Tigers Dunk Contest. Celebrities were brought in as well to act as judges, with ESPN journalist and Mizzou graduate John Anderson, former NFL QB Robert Griffin III, and current players Mama Dembele and Aiden Shaw among the group. No winner was called for the contest, as the MC judged it “too close to call,” to the amusement of the crowd. 

Following the dunk contest and a skills competition between the two teams, Coach Pingeton and Coach Gates addressed the Tiger fans and reaffirmed their gratitude before the season.

“We need you here,” Coach Pingeton said to the fans. “We can’t wait to see you at Mizzou Arena.”

“The tradition of our institution begins with each and every one of us here,” Coach Gates said. “I love each and every last one of you.” 

A live performance of “Mr. Brightside” and a laser show closed out the night, as students and fans gathered on the court to celebrate the season’s start.

This marks the second year that the Missouri athletic department has held the pre-season showcase, following its inception in 2022.