When people hear the name St. John's University, one of the first things that probably comes to mind is basketball. With such renowned men's and women's teams, it goes without saying that much anticipation exists on campus for the basketball season to start each year, and for the annual Red Storm Tip-Off event that takes place in Carnesecca Arena.
I was really looking forward to the Tip-Off, as it would be my first glimpse of St. John's basketball mania. Things got even better when I found out I'd be playing the event with Pep Band, because now I would feel like I was actually a part of it! The St. John's Cheerleaders and Dance Team, along with D.J. Webstar and mascot Johnny Thunderbird, pumped up the crowd for the moment we had all been waiting for: the introduction of the basketball teams. Cheers filled the air as members of the women's and the men's teams came down to the court amidst roaring music, red lights, and smoke. Women's head coach Kim Barnes Arico put smiles on everyone's face when she walked onto court with her young daughter, and proceeded to address the crowd. Although Men's head coach Steve Lavin was recovering from surgery for prostate cancer and could not be present, the entire arena sent its love and prayers to him, as he could watch the event being broadcast on ESPN3. By giving each team a chance to show off their skills in timed shooting matches, St. John's also gave fans a preview of the exciting things they can look forward to this season!
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| The arena could really be described as a "Red Storm" that night! |
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| St. John's Women's Basketball Team on court with Coach Kim Barnes Arico and her daughter - thanks to fellow Pep Band flute player Stephanie Brown, who took and sent this picture to me! |
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| St. John's Men's Basketball Team being introduced - credit goes to Stephanie for this photo as well. |
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