Oct. 17, 2008

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COLLEGE PARK, Md. - It started with a student contest and ended with the Terrapin men's and women's basketball teams hitting the Comcast Center court for the first time in the 2008-09 season as Maryland Madness electrified a large crowd on Friday night.

Students participated in a Gary Williams Look-alike Contest to open the evening, then the real Gary Williams arrived in a Lenco Bearcat armored vehicle to fire up the crowd. Williams will be coaching his 20th season at his alma mater in 2008-09.

Women's head coach Brenda Frese also addressed the crowd and thanked the large throng for its support of the Terrapin women's team.

The night also included a men's alumni game and performances from the Maryland Pep Band, the Spirit Squad, Dance Team, three-time defending champion competitive cheer squad and the Maryland Gymkana Troupe. Voice of the Terrapins Johnny Holliday was the master of ceremonies.

Practices for both the men's and women's teams begin on Saturday.