Tradition Pride Champions. Those were the three words displayed on the Inaugural Siena Legends Game logo. These three words define the Siena Basketball program and there was plenty of all three present in the Alumni Recreation Center last night.
An enthusiastic crowd of 2,048 turned out on a warm July night to be a part of what was a truly special event. Legends spanning decades from as far back as the 50’s up to recent times traveled from near and far to reunite on the court. Some were Indians, some were Saints, but they all shared the common bond of being Siena Basketball players.
The evening began with a meet and greet session which allowed fans a time for interaction with the night’s guests. For some it was a chance to reunite with old friends and classmates, for others it was the opportunity to meet their hardwood heroes for the first time. For all it was an element designed for the fans, which have been a major part of what has made the program so special.
Tradition was the foundation for the night’s events. It was a true celebration of the program, and the players which have made it successful. Some have gone on to play professionally while others have risen to the top of other chosen professions but each has played a role in the rich tradition. It was said by many over the course of the evening that few if any mid major programs throughout the country would be able to pull off such a great event with such an amazing outpouring of fan support. The presence of some of the past Cheer, Dance, and Pep band Legends helped make the night complete.
Pride in Siena was overflowing in the nostalgic setting of the ARC. Past players competing in the 3 on 3 games, the 2-Ball competition won by David Ryan and Corey Osinski, and the main event Legends Game won by the Green team and its MVP Tay Fisher, beamed with pride as they laced them up one more time. The fans wore their pride as well in the form of a sea of green and gold apparel, some old, some a bit faded but all a display of their affection for their favorite team.
Champions were the icing on the cake. Those who epitomize the very definition of the word, a person who has surpassed all rivals, were everywhere you looked. From the pregame introductions to the halftime ovation for the program’s three retired number honorees, Billy Harrell, Marc Brown, and Kenny Hasbrouck, recognition was given to the players which have formed this programs winning ways. And with the outpouring of fan support, Siena fans proved they are truly champions as well.
Filed under: Featured Story, Headlines, Siena Legends
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