There isn’t anything quite like a Friday night game at the CFSB Center as the Murray State Racers’ starting five is being announced, and the home fans are trying to match the loudness of the music played over the arena speakers.
Murray State’s men’s basketball team has earned the award for the Best Sporting Event on Campus. This comes after the submissions of the annual “Best of Murray” ballots. The award was voted on by students and members of the community.
In Murray, one thing that has remained the same throughout the decades: high-level basketball. Year in and year out, Murray State produces a team that can compete with the opposing team on any night. This brand of basketball is one that puts fans in seats.
“The community is very involved in the experience of a Murray State home game, which is exciting to see,” said senior marketing major Jordan Turner. “Everyone comes together to cheer on the Racers.”
No matter the outcome of the game, the CFSB Center is the host of a great time for the entire Calloway County community on a weekly basis. The newly implemented LED lights are just one part of the show that “The Bank” puts on.
“My favorite part of going to the games would have to be the atmosphere,” said junior television production major Lance Montgomery. “Seeing all of the fans and players get hyped up after a big play is one of my favorite things about basketball. Having the fans pack into the arena and cheering on the team is so fun.”
Whether you are yelling “shoes up” before the Racers shoot a free throw, losing your voice as the visiting team has the ball or busting a move on the dance cam during a timeout, there are so many ways to immerse yourself into a Murray State Racers’ home game.
Though the men’s team currently sits at an overall record of 11-16 and a conference record of 8-8, there have been signs that the team is progressing in the right direction.
It is just their second year in the Missouri Valley Conference, and what was once the oldest tradition in the Ohio Valley Conference is now the newest tradition in the MVC. The increase in competition might mean the win-loss column will take a hit, but it also opens the door for more exciting games.
“I think the competition in the MVC is better than what it is in the OVC,” said senior business major Ian Nantz. “So it has the atmosphere that any team can win any game. Which makes every game feel more exciting to watch. The pace definitely looks faster too because of the competition level, which, again, makes the game more exciting. There are more shots to go around.”
As the Racers continue through their 2023-24 campaign, it is certain that the team will have the support of their fans. While some overlook the power of home court advantage, the Racers know just how useful it can be.
The fans’ vote is a symbol of appreciation for Murray State’s biggest tradition.
The Racers can count on their fans to continue to show them love and support for years to come.
