COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The Maryland men's and women's basketball programs officially began the 2018-19 basketball season with Maryland Madness at the XFINITY Center on Friday night.

Both teams took the hardwood for a scrimmage, dance-off and three-point contest. The night also showcased the two squads dancing to Michael Jackson's "Thriller", as well as performances by the Mighty Sound of Maryland and Maryland Cheer and Dance teams. 

"Tonight was really fun," freshman Aaron Wiggins of the men's basketball team said. "I think the teams were really excited about it and we just wanted to come out and put on a show for everybody who came out." 

Maryland head coaches Mark Turgeon and Brenda Frese addressed the crowd, expressing their excitement for the upcoming seasons of Maryland basketball. 

"We appreciate all the support we get from our fans," Frese said. "Our team has worked relentlessly this offseason and we're looking forward to making you proud and defending our home court this season."

Last season Frese and her team advanced to their eighth-straight NCAA Tournament and their 14th in her 16 years at Maryland. They also played in their fourth-consecutive Big Ten Tournament title game. 

"This group has a lot of fun," Turgeon said. "It's a fun group and you're going to really enjoy them. They're very athletic and it's going to be an exciting group to watch play this season."

Turgeon's 2018-19 team boasts the top freshman class in the Big Ten, featuring the likes of Jalen Smith, who was named to the Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Watch List, and Aaron Wiggins, who was on the Julius Erving Award Watch List. 

The Maryland women's team opens its season with an exhibition against Kutztown on Oct. 28 at 12 p.m. The men's team begins the season with an exhibition against Lynn on Oct. 30. at 7 p.m. Both games will be at the XFINITY Center 

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