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The University at Albany men's basketball team welcomed fans to an open practice on Thursday (August 7) at the Broadview Center, marking the first time the team has taken advantage of new NCAA rules allowing such events in the summer. This practice offered a chance for fans to see the new roster in action and engage with the team ahead of the upcoming season.
Head coach Dwayne Killings expressed enthusiasm about the event, highlighting its benefits for both the team and the community. "The great thing for us is we have some of the best fans in our league, and I think some of our guys are surprised we can get people out in the summertime," Killings said. "It’s special. It gives you that kind of game day juice of the season already in August, so it’s fun for us."
The open practice not only allowed fans to connect with the team but also served as a valuable opportunity for the players to bond and prepare for the season. Killings emphasized the importance of such events for program and community building, noting that they are "huge moments for our program and honestly for our campus just to get people into the Broadview Center."
The event was a success, drawing in fans eager to see the Great Danes in action and setting a positive tone for the upcoming basketball season.