Dodge’s underground basketball stadium hosted Midnight Mania this Thursday, where students stuffed the stadium to wish the Lions luck in their upcoming season and pick up free merchandise. But what else did Columbia students want to get out of their college pep rally?

"I would like to see some school spirit," said a student. "I don't see any the rest of the year so I'd like to see some today."

Those who attended midnight mania had plenty of spirit in a night filled with dancing and merriment.

The lights were dimmed and the roster for the new men’s and women’s teams were formally introduced.

A slam dunk competition brought fans out of their seats, and a three point shootout kept them on their feet.

Head coach of the women’s team Paul Nixon made his pitch for fans to come out to games.

First-year coach of the men’s team Kyle Smith demonstrated his versatility with a cover of hip-hop group Public Enemy. Students were more than satisfied with the event.

"I got a free t-shirt out of it," said a student displaying it with pride. "It's pretty exciting stuff."

There were many dance numbers at Midnight Mania. The cheerleaders and the marching band performed a collaborative piece set to the Columbia fight song. The Columbia dance team and Raw Elements also gave fans a morsel of what's to come at Lions basketball halftime shows.

Responding to the massive roars of approval from the Columbia Lion faithful, Coach Smith said, "if you guys can bring this kind of energy, this kind of enthusiasm, we'll have a terrific season. It means a lot, I've been a lot of places. You bring this, we'll win you some games."