Redshirt freshman Brandon Parks, slam dunks last night in the intrasquad scrimmage at the MAC Center. BRIAN MARKS | DAILY KENT STATER

Credit: John Proppe

Kent State basketball fans caught their first glimpse of 2006-07 men’s and women’s teams last night at M.A.C. Center in the season’s basketball preview.

The night included audience games, player introductions and a brief scrimmage between the men of the reigning Mid-American Conference Championship team.

Defense took a backseat in the informal five-minute scrimmage as the players showed off their offensive skills for the fans.

The first points after the opening tipoff were from a one-handed slam dunk from senior guard Armon Gates. The following two scores were also dunks from freshman guard Chris Singletary and redshirt freshman center Brandon Parks.

The teams were focused on having a good time and trying to one-up each other with fancier shots rather than fiercely competing for a win.

Members of the crowd seemed to enjoy themselves when Flash danced with the cheerleaders as people cheered and beat their noisemakers.

The highlight dunk came from senior guard Omni Smith’s alley-oop off the backboard to Singletary.

In all, about 400 fans attended the event, all of whom were offered free T-shirts and noise makers.

Freshman marketing major Zane Powell, who attended the preview, said he is eager for the season to get underway.

“There’s a lot of school spirit for this team,” Powell said. “I’m just happy to help the team out.”

Gates, and Sarah Burgess from the women’s team, took time after their introductions to thank fans for their support last season.

Freshman education major Jenn Yokley said she attended the preview because she wants to be a part of the team’s season.

“I’m most excited about coming to the games,” Yokley said. “I heard a lot about our basketball team, but I’ve never been to any games.”

The Kent State dance team Destiny treated the audience to dance routines after player introductions and before the game.

The men’s team will get a longer workout with its first preseason game at 2 p.m. Saturday against Northwood at the M.A.C. Center.

The women’s team will begin play against South Dakota in their regular-season debut Nov. 11 at the M.A.C. Center.

Contact assistant sports editor Sean Ammerman at [email protected].