Layout was not the only new aspect of the Fan Jam 2013 in Worthen Arena. In previous years, fans were able to remain on the court and interact with the men’s and women’s basketball teams as they shot around.
This year, fans sat in the stands as the men’s basketball team held a three-point shootout and a short scrimmage.
Brad Altobella, a Muncie resident, said there was a new energy about the team.
“We try to come out to games when we can, and this year, it seems like there is a new energy,” he said. “We’ve got some guys coming back as well as some young talent, so I think it’s going to be a good season.”
First year men’s basketball head coach James Whitford took midcourt to address fans and talk about his team. The team will be one that plays hard in every game, he said.
If his team proves to be as hard working and dedicated as he said, then fans might have something cheer for in the future.
Jauwan Scaife, who graduated last season as Ball State’s all-time leader in three-pointers, said he hopes that fans will latch on to Whitford this season.
“Hopefully, we’ll win some games,” he said. “And we’re getting involved with the community, so hopefully, that will bring the fans in.”
Scaife works as an assistant in the team’s video department. He sits in on coaching meetings often, as he tries to learn the craft he said he hopes to make a career out of in the future.
Austin Omohundro, a freshman, said he plans to come out to most of the game this season. His dad was a basketball referee, so he said he was glad to get out and watch the familiar sport.
“[The three-point contest] was cool,” Omohundro said. “And it was cool to see the guys come out here and work together on the court.”
Scaife said he can’t compare this Fan Jam directly to those in recent seasons because of the change in seating arrangement, but he said he enjoyed the new view of the audience.
“It looks a lot better in here with them in the stands,” he said.
Willie Snead, junior wide receiver on the football team, attended Fan Jam for the first time.
About 10 of his teammates were in attendance, as well. Snead said it’s good to come out and support fellow athletes and friends on the basketball teams.
He recognized the new energy, too.
“It’s exciting,” Snead said. “I’m expecting big things, they’ve got a new coach, and I know he’s bringing big things to the table, so I’m looking forward to seeing what they can do this year.”
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