Entires with the heading Sullivan are columns written by HPU Athletics creative writer and current HPU Student Jillian Sullivan. The following are her takeaways from the opening nights of the Qubein Center for women's and men's basketball that took place against Mount Olive on Nov. 4th and Nov 5th.
Temperatures are starting to drop here in High Point, NC, but the men's and women's basketball teams of High Point University were turning up the heat as they opened their inaugural season in the Nido and Mariana Qubein Arena and Conference Center Thursday and Friday night. (against Mount Olive on Nov. 4th and Nov 5th.)
It was two nights that took years in the making but moments that would last forever in the hearts of High Point University students, fans, alumni, and loved ones.
As waves of purple flocked through the doors, jaws dropped and eyes widened. "It is truly surreal to be here and finally see students come together as one," said Alex Bozek, a High Point senior. "Hopefully it will continue to bring excitement every game moving forward", he added.
Excitement was an understatement as fans were brought to their feet in celebration watching the 16 players rocking the home white jerseys take the court for the first time ever in the arena.
Ellie O'Connor, another High Point University senior, emphasized the job well done to bring out a crowd. She stated, "I have a friend on the team so I am really excited to watch him, but the school also did such a great job marketing this extraordinary event".
Not only was this a monumental moment for the players, but just as much for the legendary Tubby Smith. The appreciation for such a phenomenal and experienced coach was clearly shown with the dedication to him before the start of the game.
From the whimsical marble staircases to the plush purple seats lining down to the court, although it may be a biased opinion, every detailed feature seemed crafted to utter perfection, and the reactions from those walking in proved to agree.
A High Point native in attendance explained how he could "not even put into words how amazed he was at the growth of the university in such a short time". He reminisced on the days when there was only one field and half of the magnificent facilities and buildings that stand today.
As the band played and students tailgated outside prior to tip-off, the overall feeling ignited in the air was of pure joy and excitement. Every student reflected the same overarching opinion that they had never felt so at home and overjoyed to be a part of High Point University.
The enthusiastic ambiance surrounding the weekend showed that the Panthers have not only opened a new arena to admire and enjoy, but they have also internally awakened a new sense of pride in their community as a whole.
I think it is definitely safe to say that the two nights were a huge success and although the cold, winter days are slowly getting darker, the future for High Point University Athletics has never looked so bright.
